Abstract
Organic electrochemistry offers a sustainable and efficient way to synthesize complex molecules. However, the approach faces challenges, particularly in its accessibility to non-specialists. The need for specialized and often expensive electrochemical equipment poses a significant barrier, as machining and customizing electrodes and reactors can be costly yet crucial for successful reactions. Additionally, electrosynthesis involves numerous variables, such as electrode and reactor design, which are not yet fully understood. Traditional manufacturing methods limit the exploration of these variables due to their constraints, hindering the ability to quantitatively assess their impact on reactions.In this context, three-dimensional (3D) printing presents an accessible and cost-effective solution. Its versatility in rapid prototyping allows for detailed investigation into how design influences reaction outcomes. While finding suitable materials for 3D-printed reactor bodies is not difficult, identifying conductive materials for electrode fabrication is more challenging. To overcome this, we have developed 3D-printable composites with high conductivity, chemical resistance, and affordability, making them ideal for electrodes. We have explored various polymer matrices, with polypropylene (PP) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) being the most promising, and found extra-conductive carbon black (ECB), graphene nanoplatelets (GnP), and nickel (Ni) to be the most effective conductive additives. Different mixing techniques were tested, and the composites' dispersion and conductivity were evaluated.
Using 3D-printing, we've rapidly prototyped a range of electrochemical setups, including batch reactors, screening setups, rotating electrodes, and flow cells. This broadened access to electrochemical systems has facilitated a comprehensive analysis of how design impacts on electrochemical efficiency. Notably, these bespoke electrochemical systems can surpass the performance of traditional configurations, all while being rapidly produced on-demand at a fraction of the cost of commercial alternatives.
| Date of Award | 18 Jun 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Charl F J Faul (Supervisor) & Alastair J J Lennox (Supervisor) |