Course content

The basis for electrochemical energy technology and electrolysis processes. Relation to thermodynamics, electrode potentials and double layer. Electrode kinetics, charge transfer and electrocatalysis. Adsorption and reaction mechanisms. The hydrogen, oxygen, and chlorine electrodes. Porous electrodes. Introduction to electrochemical methods (potential steps and sweep voltammetry). Basic principles for energy and heat balances of electrochemical cells. Electrochemical processes; chlor alkali and chlorate electrolysis, metal production in aqueous solutions (zinc, Ni, Cu, Co). Theory for molten salts chemistry and electrochemistry, aluminium- and magnesium electrolysis, new electrolysis methods (iron and titanium).

Learning outcome

After completed the course the students should know how to:
- Account for the structure and properties of the electrochemical double layer.
- Account for the electrocatalytic effect and influence of adsorption and heterogenous reactions on kinetics for electrochemical processes.
- Account for a selection of processes relevant within electrochemical energy conversion and industrial electrochemistry.
- Account for activities in molten salts.
- Figure out the capacitance, charge and surface tension from electrocapillary curves.
- Know how to put up rate expressions for an arbitrary reaction mechanism, including electrode processes where heterogeneous and homogeneous reactions are involved.
- Calculate current yield and current efficiency.
- Know how to put up mass and heat balances for industrial electrochemical processes.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and compulsory exercises. The lectures will be given in English. If the teaching is given in English the Examination papers will be given in English only. Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for written assessments.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

TMT4252 Electrochemistry or similar background.

Course materials

Hamann, Vielstich, Hamnett; "Electrochemistry", 2nd edition, Wiley-VCH.
Jomar Thonstad, Elektrolysis processes, Compendium.