Electrochemistry

Electrochemistry – an important interdisciplinary discipline

The GDCh Division of Electrochemistry has been active since 1960 and has over 700 members from universities, research institutes and industry – 40% of whom are students and early-career members. The Division aims to promote all areas of electrochemistry, from fundamentals to applications.

Electrochemistry deals with all processes that take place at the interface between an ion-conducting phase and another conducting phase. As an interdisciplinary discipline, it plays an important role in many applications and in fundamental research across various fields. In particular, it offers numerous solutions and opportunities for addressing the challenges of sustainable and efficient chemistry. Selected examples include:

• Electrosynthesis: Sustainable hydrogen production and electrochemical conversion of small molecules such as CO₂; electrocatalysis; production of chlorine, aluminium, copper and organic chemicals
• Energy storage and conversion: Lithium-ion and redox-flow batteries, polymer-electrolyte and solid-oxide fuel cells
• Analysis and sensor technology: Electrochemical in-situ, ex-situ and in-vivo investigation methods, applications in environmental technology, medical technology and industrial processes
• Biochemistry: Metabolism and nerve conduction, medical monitoring sensors, biotechnological applications
• Electroplating: Surface finishing and functionalisation, metallisation of computer chips, coating of semiconductor structures and electronic, decorative and functional components
• Corrosion protection: Protective and sacrificial coatings, inhibitors, passivation

Short link to this page: www.gdch.de/elektrochemie

Where is research and production in the field of electrochemistry carried out in Germany? Find out more on the Electrochemistry Map, which lists companies and research groups at universities, universities of applied sciences and non-university research institutions involved in research, development and/or production in the field of electrochemistry. Although the focus is on Germany, companies and research groups based abroad are also very welcome to participate.

Annual conferences take place in odd-numbered years as part of the GDCh Science Forum. In even-numbered years, the Division organises the international conference "Electrochemistry" with the participation of several other societies.

The Division awards a Young Scientist Award annually, as well as grants for active participation in conferences (poster/lecture).