Electrochemical potential determination

Electrochemical potential analysis is essential for evaluating the redox stability and electrochemical behavior of a material, solution, or technical formulation. This measurement allows us to understand how a system reacts to oxidation and reduction phenomena, data that is crucial in the polymer, materials, packaging, battery, technical fluid, and functional coatings sectors. The analysis is integrated into R&D processes as well as quality control and failure analysis.

Dosage principle

The electrochemical potential represents the energy required to transfer electrons within a redox system. It is highly dependent on the chemical composition, ionic concentration, microstructure of the material, and environmental conditions. The assay involves recording the electrochemical response of the sample in a cell consisting of a working electrode, a reference electrode, and an auxiliary electrode.

The goal is to measure a characteristic value that allows for the anticipation of reactions such as oxidation, corrosion, or reduction. This approach is particularly useful for materials susceptible to premature aging, performance loss, or undesirable interactions with other components in an assembly.

Techniques used

Potentiometric techniques

Potentiometry is based on measuring the resting potential between two electrodes. This technique does not require the passage of a current and is perfectly suited to ionic media, aqueous formulations, and technical solutions. It is commonly used for chemicals, industrial liquids, electrolytes, and aggressive environments.

Voltammetry and voltammetry

Voltammetry involves applying a variable voltage to the sample and recording the current response. Cyclic scanning is particularly informative for analyzing electrochemical reversibility, detecting redox couples, studying reaction kinetics, or evaluating the degradation of conductive materials. This technique is recommended for conductive polymers, technical inks, coatings, and materials used in energy devices.

Surface electrochemistry

For bulk or thin-film materials, electrochemical analysis can be complemented by microstructural analysis. Surface observation using scanning electron microscopy allows for the examination of localized oxidation or cracking phenomena. You can find this analysis here: scanning electron microscopy

Industrial applications

Electrochemical potential analysis is used in numerous fields. In polymers and plastics, it helps predict oxidation, aging, and degradation mechanisms. In packaging, it aids in evaluating ion migration, the stability of barrier layers, and interaction with acidic or saline formulations. In energy technologies, it is used to characterize electrodes, conductive inks, electrolytes, and active materials. The technical coatings sector uses it to verify a film's ability to resist chemical attack or maintain its conductive properties over time.

In ionic solutions, liquid formulations, and chemicals, measuring electrochemical potential helps prevent undesired reactions, control purity, and ensure stability during storage. When necessary, this analysis can be combined with metal assays by ICP-OES or ICP-MS.

Analytical interest and complementarities

Electrochemical potential analysis is a powerful tool for anticipating corrosion, oxidation, and reduction phenomena. It helps define a material's durability, optimize a formulation, or understand the origin of a failure in an industrial product. This approach makes it possible to compare multiple batches, adjust a design, or validate a new material before its industrialization.

For a complete characterization, this measurement can be coupled with other techniques such as FTIR thermogravimetric analysis to understand the effects of thermal aging.

These combined methods provide a comprehensive view of the factors influencing electrochemical stability and performance.

YesWeLab Services

YesWeLab relies on a specialized network of expert laboratories in electrochemistry, materials, and polymers. Depending on your matrices and objectives, our teams select the most suitable method and ensure comprehensive handling of your samples. Whether you are engaged in development, qualification, or technical expertise, we support you at every stage, from the initial request to the interpretation of the results.

For any specific request or quote, contact our team now.