Instruments
Potentiostats
In the PyRO labs, there are 3 Autolab PGSTAT302N and 1 VIONIC potentiostats, which enable advance electrochemical measurements in aqueous and molten salt media. Between the 4 potentiostats, a wide array of electrochemical methods and capabilities are provided, including, but not limited to, high-speed voltammetry, multiple (bipot) working electrodes, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, amperometry, coulometry, potentiometry, and other voltametric techniques (CV, NPV, SWV, etc.). These potentiostats are able to interface with cells inside of the glovebox via electrical feedthroughs (i.e., binding posts, epoxy filled fittings with embedded wires).
Gas Analyzers
The PyRO lab is equipped with a gas analyzer and detection system. The gas analyzer is plumbed into the glovebox via a feedthrough to enable the identification and analysis of gas generated in the pyrochemical experiments conducted in the glovebox. Gases as dilute as 1 ppm can be detected using the gas analyzer. Furthermore, the gas analyzer is able to handle corrosive gases, such as chlorine and hydrogen chloride.
The gas detection system is equipped with sensors that can detect dilute concentrations of hydrogen, chlorine and hydrogen chloride gases and signal a warning, if the gases begin to leak into the lab. Furthermore, if the concentrations of the gases begin to approach hazards levels, the gas detectors are integrated into an automatic shut off system, which isolate or eliminate the source of the gas. The gas detection system also monitors the oxygen levels in the lab to ensure that oxygen has not been displaced by inert gases.
Chemical Analysis
Within the PyRO lab an autotitrator and Karl Fischer titrator are availabe for analyzing the oxygen and moisture content of the salts after drying and melting. The PyRO research group also has access to additional chemical analysis tools across campus, including an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS), various microscopes, x-ray diffractometers (XRD), and other analytical instruments. For more details on the instrumentation available on-campus follow the links below: