Slip and friction of liquid flow over solid surfaces: On the validity of the no slip condition in hydrodynamic systems

In the first chapter a review is presented of the existing ideas on surfactant dynamics, and irreversible thermodynamics is introduced as a tool of reference for different models. The two examples of lubrication and detergency are used to survey the implications of specific boundary conditions in dissipative processes. The second chapter gives a...

Nano LEGO®

Self-Assembly has predominantly been nature's unique tool for building remarkable entities. This thesis shows how this versatile tool can be utilised for building devices that are useful to mankind. Starting with advanced fuel cells which produce clean energy in a highly efficient way; continuing on to carbon nano networks which are one of the...

Conductive Graphitic Networks: From Atoms to Fuel Cells

Graphitic materials have attracted a great interest in the field of sustainable energy production and storage because of their excellent electrical, mechanical and chemical properties. This thesis modestly contributes to this global research by investigating new interconnected carbon nanostructures, here called Carbon Nano-Networks (CNNs). The...

Towards low-cost PEM fuel cells: Interfacial effects and material dynamics of a non-PGM electrocatalyst

In this thesis several aspects of PEM fuel cells are discussed. From an atomic scale, e.g. crystal and electronic structure of a non-noble metal material, e.g. (H)zLiMn2O4 (protonated spinel lithium manganese oxide) for electrocatalysis and its dynamics, to meso-macro scale effects such as those concerning transport resistances at the membrane...

Low Noble Metal Content Catalysts for Hydrogen Fuel Technology

The increasing energy demand of the world population in combination with tangible climate change effects stemming from rising carbon dioxide emissions is currently characterizing a large portion of the political and societal debate. Despite huge technological advancement in the field of renewable energy resulting in energy prices lower than that...