Module overview
Linked modules
Pre-requisites: CHEM2012 AND CHEM2013
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of fundamental physicochemical principles with the ability to apply that knowledge to the solution of theoretical problems related to chemistry at interfaces
- Be fully conversant with major aspects of chemical terminology related to electrode kinetics, heterogenous catalysis and surface science, and reactions at interfaces
- Develop an awareness of issues within chemistry that overlap with other related subjects including environmental impact, sustainability and climate change, in the context electrochemical energy conversion and storage
- Read and engage with scientific literature
Syllabus
The course deals with the nature of surfaces, both real and ideal, the energetics of adsorption at surfaces and adsorption isotherms, and the charge distribution at the liquid/solid interface. The kinetics of reactions at interfaces, including the role of mass transport and applied potential on the overall kinetics are discussed. The role of microscopic structure of the interface in determining the rates of heterogeneous catalysts is discussed along with spectroscopic and scanning probe techniques for the characterisation of gas/solid and liquid/solid interfaces on the molecular scale. Examples of applications to fuel cells, energy storage and conversion and heterogeneous catalysis are discussed in detail.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, workshops
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Revision | 10 |
Practical classes and workshops | 10 |
Follow-up work | 25 |
Wider reading or practice | 51 |
Lecture | 24 |
Preparation for scheduled sessions | 30 |
Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
P. H. Rieger. Electrochemistry. Chapman & Hall.
C. M. A. Brett and A. M. Oliveira Brett. Electrochemistry. Principles and Applications. OUP.
Attard and Barnes. Surfaces. OUP.
D. Pletcher. A First Course in Electrode Processes. RSC.
A. C. Fisher. Electrode Dynamics. OUP Chemistry Primers.
J. O’M. Bockris and A. K. N. Reddy. Modern Electrochemistry. Plenum.
Southampton Electrochemistry Group. Instrumental Methods in Electrochemistry. Ellis Horwood.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Coursework | 30% |
Final Assessment | 70% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Coursework | 30% |
Final Assessment | 70% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External