Electrochemical Kinetics

This lecture covers the fundamentals of electrochemical kinetics, focusing on fuel cells at equilibrium and non-equilibrium conditions. It explains the open-circuit potential, net reactions, and sign conventions for electron flow. The derivation of the Butler-Volmer equation is detailed, along with analytical expressions for current-voltage curves. The lecture also discusses net current production under non-equilibrium conditions and simplifications of the Butler-Volmer equation for different scenarios, such as small and large overpotentials. Analogies between chemical reactivity and electrochemistry are explored, emphasizing the dependence on applied potential. Various approaches to determine current density and charge transfer resistance are presented, along with the significance of Tafel plots in characterizing electrode reactions.