Pulsed Voltammetry Tools for Advanced Analysis of Electrochemical Power Systems

The overall goal of this SBIR is to develop, verify, validate and deliver an analysis tool enabling researchers to use pulse voltammetry methods for enhanced understanding and accelerated development of electrochemical systems. Pulse voltammetry techniques provide high detection sensitivity, discrimination against charging currents, and information sufficient for mechanism identification and extraction of quantitative kinetic parameters. Model-based analysis tools are needed to make the power of these characterization techniques available to the electrochemical research community. In Phase I, we will utilize established solution methods to provide computational models that predict the response of multistep electrochemical mechanisms during square wave voltammetry. The models will be linked with estimation and optimization techniques to provide the desired kinetic parameters resulting in the best agreement with an entire experimental voltammogram, and their uncertainty. Issues addressed will include data transfer from computer controlled electrochemical instruments, coupled electrochemical and chemical reactions, and square wave scan direction. In Phase II, we will further develop the analysis package to address a broader range of mechanisms and pulse voltammetry techniques. The end result will be a validated software product for pulse voltammetry analysis. The tool will be integrated into commercial electrochemical instrument control software and can also operate independently.