Introduction to Electrochemical Energy Systems

As the world transitions to renewable energy, understanding how we store and convert electricity chemically is one of the most critical engineering skills of our time. This course delivers a clear, conceptual foundation in electrochemical systems without requiring advanced prior knowledge. You will start by mastering foundational thermodynamics, kinetics, and transport phenomena before exploring how these principles apply to real-world technologies. By the end of this course, you will be able to evaluate, model, and analyze electrochemical devices with confidence. You will transition from understanding basic chemical equations to evaluating complex energy storage systems. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational electrochemical thermodynamics, including half-cell potentials and the Nernst equation - Analyze electrode kinetics and charge transfer processes using the Butler-Volmer model - Evaluate mass transport mechanisms, focusing on diffusion, migration, and convection in electrolytes - Compare the design, operation, and performance of modern lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells - Model electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and interpret basic equivalent circuit models - Explore modern sustainability challenges, including state-of-health estimation and thermal runaway prevention This course begins with key terminology and basic chemical principles before guiding you through mathematical modeling and practical system design. You will explore the engineering trade-offs between energy density, power density, and lifetime across different technologies. This course is designed for engineering students, researchers, and technical professionals looking for a structured, text-based introduction to electrochemical energy storage. No prior background in electrochemistry is required, though a basic understanding of general chemistry and calculus is helpful. Start reading today to build a strong foundation in modern energy storage engineering.