Enrique Fatás

Bio: Enrique Fatás is an academic researcher from Autonomous University of Madrid. The author has contributed to research in topics: Thin film & Dielectric spectroscopy. The author has an hindex of 19, co-authored 58 publications receiving 1355 citations. Previous affiliations of Enrique Fatás include Spanish National Research Council.

Mechanical and structural properties of electrodeposited copper and their relation with the electrodeposition parameters

Abstract: Thin copper-electrodeposited films have been prepared on steel substrates from an additive-free copper sulfate bath by applying different current signals such as rectangular and square wave pulses, triangular waveform and also by direct current with variation of its magnitude. Mechanical properties of these films have been studied by means of dynamic microindentation measurements known as the universal microhardness test. Values of the hardness, plastic component, Young's modulus and percent of elastic recovery have been measured. In order to obtain the preferential orientation and grain size of the electrodeposits, X-ray diffraction studies have been made as well as scanning electron microscopy to evaluate their morphology. All the deposits showed a preferential orientation but without a simple correlation with the mechanical features of the films. The influence of current density on microhardness through its effect on grain size has been found to obey the Hall–Petch relationship in the nanometer range. Finally, correlations between the mechanical properties of the electrodeposits and the electrodeposition parameters have been made. These kinds of studies raise the possibility of tailoring films with good mechanical performance for different technological applications just by selecting the appropriate electrodeposition conditions.

Performance Study of Zn / ZnCl2, NH 4Cl / Polyaniline / Carbon Battery

Abstract: A secondary battery of the type , carbon is described. The polymer was electrodeposited on porous carbon rods, in the form of consistent, rather thick, highly porous, and low‐resistance layers. The battery was assembled in a configuration similar to that of the classical R‐6 dry cell. The performance of the battery has been studied, and it shows characteristics comparable to those of conventional systems: moderate specific energy (50–100 Wh kg−1), very good coulombic efficiency (70–100%), low self‐discharge rate (<1% day), and excellent cyclability at high current densities.

Electrochemically Active Polymers for Rechargeable Batteries.

Abstract: Electrochemical energy storage systems (batteries) have a tremendous role in technical applications In this review the authors examine the prospects of electroactive polymers in view of the properties required for such batteries Conducting organic polymers are considered here in the light of their rugged chemical environment: organic solvents, acids, and alkalis The goal of the present article is to provide, first of all in tabular form, a survey of electroactive polymers in view of potential applications in rechargeable batteries It reviews the preparative methods and the electrochemical performance of polymers as rechargeable battery electrodes The theoretical values of specific charge of the polymers are comparable to those of metal oxide electrodes, but are not as high as those of most of the metal electrodes normally used in batteries Therefore, it is an advantage in conventional battery designs to use the conducting polymer as a positive electrode material in combination with a negative electrode such as Li, Na, Mg, Zn, MeH{sub x}, etc 504 refs

Label-Free Impedance Biosensors: Opportunities and Challenges.

Abstract: Impedance biosensors are a class of electrical biosensors that show promise for point-of-care and other applications due to low cost, ease of miniaturization, and label-free operation. Unlabeled DNA and protein targets can be detected by monitoring changes in surface impedance when a target molecule binds to an immobilized probe. The affinity capture step leads to challenges shared by all label-free affinity biosensors; these challenges are discussed along with others unique to impedance readout. Various possible mechanisms for impedance change upon target binding are discussed. We critically summarize accomplishments of past label-free impedance biosensors and identify areas for future research.

Cucurbiturils: from synthesis to high-affinity binding and catalysis

Abstract: In the wide area of supramolecular chemistry, cucurbit[n]urils (CBn) present themselves as a young family of molecular containers, able to form stable complexes with various guests, including drug molecules, amino acids and peptides, saccharides, dyes, hydrocarbons, perfluorinated hydrocarbons, and even high molecular weight guests such as proteins (e.g., human insulin). Since the discovery of the first CBn, CB6, the field has seen tremendous growth with respect to the synthesis of new homologues and derivatives, the discovery of record binding affinities of guest molecules in their hydrophobic cavity, and associated applications ranging from sensing to drug delivery. In this review, we discuss in detail the fundamental properties of CBn homologues and their cyclic derivatives with a focus on their synthesis and their applications in catalysis.

Recent advances in catalysts for direct methanol fuel cells

Abstract: Over the past few decades, direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) have been intensively developed as clean and high-efficiency energy conversion devices. However, their dependence on expensive Pt-based catalysts for both the anode and the cathode make them unsuitable for large-scale commercialisation. The essential solution to addressing this shortfall is the development of low-Pt and non-Pt catalysts. Regarding this issue, considerable advances have been made with low-Pt alloys and core-shell-like catalysts, as well as non-platinum Pd–Me, Ru–Se and heat-treated MeNxCy-based catalysts. This perspective reviews potential pathways for increasing the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of these catalysts. Fundamental understanding of the composition–activity and structure–activity relationships, innovative synthesis, and promising developmental directions are highlighted. Regarding durability, the main degradation mechanism of these catalysts and the corresponding mitigating strategies are presented.