Chemical Derivatization and Reconstruction of CVD Diamond Electrode Surfaces

Old Dominion University, Norfolk VA

Investigators

Abstract

The understanding of the electrochemical behavior of structurally characterized diamond thin films is the focus of this research project. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, Professors John B. Cooper and Sacharia Albin and their coworkers at Old Dominion University are using CVD methods to grow diamond thin films. These films, characterized using scanning tunelling microscopy and other spectroscopic methods, are used to investigate the relationship between surface structure and inner and outer sphere electron transfer reactions. Chemical modification of the diamond surface is carried out using covalently bound molecular species, and the effect of this modification on the electrochemical behavior explored. Diamond thin films have promising applications in electrochemical and materials science systems. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, Professors Cooper and Albin are exploring the connection between the structure of these films and their electrochemical properties. A series of probe reactions are being examined, for a range of carefully characterized diamond thin film materials. The information obtained from these studies will be very useful in developing improved and longer lasting electrocatalytic and sensor devices.