Conductivity Measurements

Chemical reactions can be accompanied by changes in the electrochemical conditions (REDOX) present. This can be used to guide whether a reaction has taken place and to what extent. Conductance measurement can also be used to help characterise unknown samples as part of wider sample characterisation studies.

We have a range of potentiostats to assess the electrical properties of solids and liquids. These operate using the principle of Ohm’s law which states that the resistance of a material is inversely proportional to the current flowing through it and directly proportional to the voltage applied. By controlling the voltage between a working electrode and a reference electrode the electrical properties of the sample under consideration can be determined.

Both solid and liquid samples can be assessed. Electrochemical measurements are of particular interest to chemical reactions whereby changes in oxidation states occur (Redox chemistry). Corrosion reactions for example, such as saline induced pitting corrosion, is characterised by the formation of localised electrochemical cells

For solid samples a minimum working distance of around 5mm is required. Ideally solid samples should be provided in compressed form though we can press samples using a KBr press if required. The typical working volume for analysis of liquid samples is ≥20ml.