Non-Standard State Thermodynamic Analysis of Electrodeposition

Abstract

High-temperature electrolysis shows promise as a greener alternative for extraction of metals. Unfortunately, development of such new processes is hindered by lack of information on electrolytes, and how these solutions influence the reaction taking place. Current models of electrolytes are unable to accurately predict the behavior of these complex liquids, and gathering sufficient experimental data for a full analysis can be lengthy and expensive.By innovatively revisiting traditional thermodynamic models, one can realize the conditions necessary to successfully produce metal from a high-temperature electrolyte. This talk will describe new methods to visualize how the chemistry of the electrolyte influences the composition of the metal. Requiring only a fraction of the experimental data needed for other methods and far less calculations than first-principles models, this method is a fast, efficient, and accurate way to quickly probe new materials systems.