Advances in Analysis and Tuning of Solid-Liquid Interfaces: From Adhesion, to Electrocatalysis, to Ion Adsorption and Wetting

In electrochemical systems, the role of solid-liquid interfaces is critical to the effectiveness of energy conversion and storage solutions, central to a net-zero economic transition in response to climate change. These interfaces are where essential processes such as adsorption, charge transfer, and desorption occur, greatly influencing the efficiency of electrochemical reactions. While the composition and structure of the electrode are traditionally seen as primary factors, recent research highlights the significance of the electrolyte in these interactions. The electric double layer model provides a foundational insight into ionic arrangements, yet it does not fully account for complex effects like ion correlation and molecular aggregation.

This Research Topic aims to foster the exploration and dissemination of novel insights into the analysis and optimization of solid-liquid interfaces. With the advent of advanced in situ and operando microscopy and spectroscopy techniques, researchers can now effectively analyse interfacial interactions under environmentally pertinent conditions. Additionally, computational methods such as molecular modelling offer a detailed atomic-level understanding, facilitating the design of interfaces with enhanced properties. Coupled with fabrication and synthesis methodologies, such as nanoporous material production, these tools lay the groundwork for innovative approaches to interface tuning that could lead to step-changes in electrochemical technology.

To gather further insights into the mechanics and applications of solid-liquid interfaces in electrochemical systems, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Charges at solid-liquid interfaces and related physical-chemical interactions
- Electrochemical impedance
- Electrochemical sensing
- Electrodeposition and electrostatic self-assembly
- Electroreduction or electro-oxidation for energy conversion
- Electrowetting
- Hydration and ion adsorption in aqueous electrolytes
- Lubricated friction in the presence of ions or surface charges
- Modelling and simulation of fundamental interactions at electrified interfaces
- Nanofabrication approaches for patterning electrode or catalyst surfaces
- Spatially resolved analysis of electrochemical or force interactions by microscopy
- Spectroscopic analysis of interfacial interactions
- Synthesis of porous nanostructures for increased surface area or improved adsorption

In this Research Topic, we welcome original research articles, review or perspective articles concerning these areas.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Mini Review
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• Mini Review
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review

Keywords: Electrochemical sensing, electrodeposition, electrocatalysis, electric double layer, in situ / operando microscopy, lubrication, solid-liquid interface, Lubricated friction and adhesion in the presence of ions or surface charges

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.