Electrochemical Instrumentation Development: From High-end to Low-cost

• Grant number: 24/14586-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: November 01, 2024
• End date: October 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Analytical Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Gabriel Negrão Meloni
• Grantee: Rafael Silva Santos
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/00800-3 - Functional nanoscale imaging of biological interfaces, AP.JP

Abstract

This project proposes the development of new electrochemical instrumentation using accessible manufacturing tools, such as 3D printers and electronic components, with the integration of the Arduino microcontroller. Using this approach will enable freedom of design, and equipment will be designed to accomplish the intended application, and not the other way around, as usually seen in academia, where the experimental goal is adapted to the instrumental limitations. This proposal will enable high-quality SEPM experiments in Brazil, particularly when combined with optical microscopy techniques, which will be fundamental for biological experiments with SEPM, but will also be used for materials science, employing techniques such as IRM (Interference Reflection Microscopy). In addition to creating high-end equipment to support other SEPM research projects, the project aims to develop low-cost instruments for analytical and educational applications, aiming at easy manufacturing and access. This approach seeks to democratize access to science, broadening participation in citizen science programs. An initial example is the development of an autonomous and portable potentiostat, which non-specialists can operate and manufacture. One of the proposals is to continue improving and expanding the possibilities of the equipment for the quantification of analytes using various electrochemical techniques. The project aims to promote advances in electrochemical instrumentation and SEPM and democratize access to science, broadening participation in citizen science programs.