Electrochemical Process and Energy Technology

The basis for electrochemical energy technology and electrolysis processes. Relation to thermodynamics, electrode potentials and double layer/ion distribution. Electrode kinetics, charge transfer and electrocatalysis. Adsorption and reaction mechanisms. The hydrogen, oxygen, and chlorine electrodes. Introduction to electrochemical methods (potential steps and sweep voltammetry). Basic principles for energy and heat balances of electrochemical cells. Molten salts chemistry and electrochemistry. Electrochemical processes: chlor-alkali and chlorate electrolysis, electroplating, metal production (electrolysis) in aqueous solutions (Zn, Ni, Cu, Co) and molten salts (Al, Mg).

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

Lectures. Compulsory exercises. Laboratory exercise. All learning material is in English. The lectures are given in English but lectures may be given in Norwegian oral language if only Norwegian speaking students are physically attending a specific lecture. The examination papers will be given in English only. Estimated use of time: Lectures. 60 hours. Exercises: 30 hours. Own studies: 85 hours.