BIOLOGIC VSP-300 WITH BUILT-IN BOOSTER SERVING AS AN INDISPENSABLE TOOL FOR ADVANCED ENERGY SOLUTIONS
The VSP-300 by BioLogic is a research-grade Potentiostat/Galvanostat/FRA. This advanced instrument, designed with BioLogic’s extensive expertise in flexible and modular Potentiostats, incorporates cutting-edge technology to ensure exceptional performance. With its versatile design, the VSP-300 is customisable and expandable, accommodating up to six modules including channel boards and a variety of booster kits, with options for 1 A/48 V, 2 A/30 V, 4 A/14 V, and 10 A/5 V, making it adaptable to a wide range of research needs.
The Biologic VSP-300 excels in various applications, including electrocatalysis research. A notable example is the Falch Electrocatalysis Research Group at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, which utilises the VSP-300 with a built-in 4A booster kit. Their research is focused on developing innovative electrocatalyst systems aimed at advancing energy reactions, with a particular
emphasis on alkaline water splitting, an emerging method for green hydrogen production.
Falch Electrocatalysis Research Group, from left to right: Dr Adam Shnier (Post-doctoral fellow), Dr Anzel Falch (Group leader), Mrs Fariya Moosa (MSc student), Mr Alex le Roux (PhD candidate), and Dr Tarisai Velempini (Post-doctoral fellow)
Developing these electrocatalyst systems, which functions as the working electrode, is a complex process that involves a synergistic relationship between the substrate, support (optional), binder (optional), and active material. Each component of the working electrode requires meticulous research and optimisation.
The team is dedicated to this Fach Decendeavour, focusing on discovering and optimising alternative affordable non-toxic binders, synthesising active nanoparticles composed of non-noble metals, and evaluating the impact of various structured substrates and supports on the overall performance of the working electrode.
The VSP-300 plays a crucial role in these studies, enabling researchers to investigate working electrodes of different sizes and surface areas. When large surface area working electrodes are tested, the built-in booster automatically activates to handle the high currents generated. This capability is essential for the comprehensive analysis and development of effective electrocatalysts, making the VSP-300 an indispensable tool in the pursuit of advanced energy solutions.