Electrocatalysis: Computational, Experimental, and Industrial Aspects

Electrocatalysis applications are employed in a large number of industries worldwide, ranging from old technologies such as galvanoplasty to the most up-to-date deployments involving ultracapacitators. Recognizing electrocatalysis as a useful interfacial approach to a dynamic interdisciplinary science, Electrocatalysis: Computational, Experimental, and Industrial Aspects focuses on important developments in the field that are the most relevant to new technologies. Gathering the experiences of a collection of experts who have worked on the basic principles of electrocatalysis as it applies to theoretical physics and theoretical chemistry, the book gives readers a clear view of the problems inside electrocatalytic reactions, presenting both the limitations of electrocatalysis in the laboratory along with its possibilities in industry. Topics discussed include: The current uses of electrocatalysis Future perspectives on the field Surface physical properties and surface relaxation on noble and non-noble surfaces The quantum nature of the electron transfer Müller-Calandra, Srinivasan-Gileadi, and instantaneous nucleation-growth overlap models The production, storage, use, and delivery of hydrogen in industrial electrochemistry Theoretical approaches to current distribution on rough surfaces The use of microradiology to study electrodeposition Principles of electrochemical engineering, fuel cell reactors, and electrocatalytic reactor design Electrocatalysis of electroless plating Fundamental aspects of the corrosion of metals The book reviews four main electrochemical processes (hydrogen production, oxygen electrochemistry, energy conversion/production, and fine electroplating). Surface modified non-noble metal substrates and natural minerals as well as noble mineral catalysts are considered. The text goes beyond other books, which merely focus on progress in the application of surface science and ultra high vacuum techniques to electrochemistry. Instead, this volume offers potential industrial applications of these findings, making it a unique reference for professionals and academia alike.