Nanostructured transition metal oxide (TMO) for electrochemical devices

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the reaction mechanism and kinetic study of electrochemical reactions in transition metal oxide, which include electrical double layer (EDL), surface charge transfer reaction and diffusion controlled redox reaction. Modifications on the oxide have been designed to study the effect on the reactions and hence the electrochemical performances. These modifications include the variation in oxide morphology and dimension, conductive metal doping and altering of oxide lattice structure. The key parameters governing the electrochemical reactions in transition metal oxides are the oxide-electrolyte interface, electronic conductivity, ion diffusion distance, ion diffusion pathway and ion intercalation site. With detailed studies in the optical and electrochemical performances of the modified oxide, the effects of altering these parameters were evaluated. The increase in oxide-electrolyte interfacial area was achieved through controlling the oxide morphology and dimension. This has