All electrochemical energy, from fuel cells to batteries, is derived from the transfer of electrons and ions at interfaces and phase boundaries. Using the layer-by-layer technique I create fuzzy interfaces with soft matter to enhance reaction kinetics and transport. Understanding the role of the organic-inorganic interface is paramount to designing state-of-the art electrodes and electrolytes for minimizing thermodynamic irreversibilities like charge transfer resistance and iR loss – irreversibilities that detract from ideal performance.

This poster will review advances and future directions for the electrochemistry of layer-by-layer (LBL) thin films. This technique harnesses the power of non-covalent interactions like hydrogen bonding or electrostatics to fabricate ultrathin films with nanometer scale control. By simply changing assembly parameters like pH or ionic strength, the film structure and morphology may be finely tuned according to the desired application. Though ionomers, or charged polymers, are commonly used, the LBL technique has been adapted to incorporate dendrimers, clays, and proteins.

Besides applications in electrochemical energy, these nanocomposites are ideal for immobilizing delicate proteins on surfaces to create amperometric biosensors. The LBL technique allows for the selective detection of species like DNA or glucose, even in the presence of interference.