Units

Chemistry of Surfaces, Interfaces and Nanomaterials

Person in charge of the Unit : Oui

The research activities cover various aspects of surface and interfacial chemistry since they focus on the modification, characterization and reactivity of surfaces. These studies carried out at the solid-liquid interface and solis-gas interface deal with the modification of surfaces (metals, metal electroldes and polymers) by chemical or electrochemical reactiond, by self-assembling as well as by plasma techniques. Thin layers,organized monolayers and nanostructured surfaces are designed. The characterization is based on electrochemical, spectroscopic techniques as well as on microscopy and contact angle measurements.The surface properties are examined for electrocatalysis, electrodialysis, biocompatibility, the design of barrier layers and smart materials.

Projetcs

Preparation and characterization of electromembranes.

Electromembranes receive increasing attention for numerous applications (production of potable water, food production, treatment of waste water, fuel cells). Charged sites on the polymer are obtained by a bulk chemical reaction or surface grafting by a chemical reaction or a plasma treatment. Characterization of membranes is based on electrochemical measurements complemented by molecular information provided by vibrational spectroscopy (IR and Raman).

Self-assembled monolayers of organic and bio-molecules on electrodes

Study of the adsorption of organic or biomolecules and investigation of the properties of the monolayers formed at the electrochemical gold-solution interface.

Plasma treatment of surfaces

Treatment of metals and polymers by low pressure plasmas, atmosphéric plasmas and magnetron plasma

Elaboration of nanostructured electrode surfaces for electrocatalysis

Elaboration and characterization of electrocatalysts for the reduction of oxygen, nitrate and carbon dioxyde