The transition to climate-neutral and sustainable energy systems depends on our ability to efficiently convert renewable electricity into chemical fuels such as hydrogen or reduced carbon compounds. One of the key limitations in these processes lies at the interface between the electrode and the liquid electrolyte, where gases form and detach during electrolysis. Under normal operation, gas bubbles accumulate on the surface, blocking active sites and disrupting the flow of current. This causes energy losses, uneven performance, and early material degradation, forcing industries to rely on complex mechanical control systems or environmentally persistent chemical additives.
This project set out to overcome these challenges by developing adaptive surface designs that can passively manage how gases form and move along electrode surfaces. Instead of using mechanical stirring or surfactants, the research explored how surface chemistry, texture, and wetting behaviour can be engineered to guide bubble growth, absorption, and release. In doing so, the project aimed to transform the electrode surface from a passive barrier into a self-regulating and energy-efficient component of electrochemical systems.
A particular focus was placed on comparing fluoro-free surfaces, made from environmentally sustainable materials, with high-performance fluoro-optimized surfaces. This comparative approach provided new understanding of how surface molecular structure controls gas repellency, interfacial stability, and durability. In parallel, the project investigated plastrons: microscopic air layers that form on submerged textured surfaces, as potential mediators for smooth gas flow and bubble transport. Together, these insights offer a pathway to design next-generation electrodes coatings that combine high performance with environmental responsibility.
