Research

The Nano Electrochemistry Laboratory (NEL) at Gyeongsang National University focuses on the fundamental and applied aspects of electrochemical processes at the nanometer scale. We leverage advanced analytical platforms to observe and control molecular behavior in confined geometries, aiming to solve critical challenges in environmental sustainability and bio-sensing.

⚡ 1. Single-Entity & Nanopore Electrochemistry

Our lab is at the forefront of observing electrochemical events at the single-molecule or single-nanoparticle level, a field known as single-entity electrochemistry. By utilizing nanopore electrode arrays (NEAs) and attoliter-volume nanopores, we study the complex interplay between ion transport and electron transfer.

● Redox Cycling : We employ redox cycling in confined geometries to achieve ultra-sensitive detection of chemical species.

● Nanoparticle Collisions : We investigate the stochastic behavior of individual nanoparticles as they interact with electrode surfaces, providing insights into electrocatalytic mechanisms.

● Single-Molecule Dynamics : Using spectroelectrochemical methods, we track the fluorescence and potential-dependent behavior of single enzymes and catalysts.

⚡ 2. Multi-modal Operando Analysis for Sustainable Chemistry

A major pillar of our current research is the development of a Multi-modal Operando Analysis Platform to address environmental pollutants.

● Advanced Microscopy : Our research integrates scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM), differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS), Raman microscopy, and AFM to monitor electrochemical processes in real-time.

● CO2 & Nitrate Conversion : We explore supramolecular photo-electrochemical catalysts for the efficient reduction of CO2 and the conversion of nitrates into valuable compounds.

⚡ 3. Stimuli-Responsive Nanofluidics

We manipulate mass transport at the nanoscale using external stimuli. A key area of interest is potential-induced wetting and dewetting in hydrophobic nanochannels.

● Active Mass Transport Control : By applying electrical potential to pH-responsive or block copolymer membranes, we can "gate" the movement of ions and molecules through nanopores.

● Electrochemical Transistors : These principles allow us to create electrochemical transistor-like actions in nanochannel arrays, providing a foundation for advanced fluidic logic.

⚡ 4. Bio-mimetic Nanofluidics & Iontronic Systems

Inspired by the complex, precise, and highly efficient transport behavior of biological systems, we develop artificial aqueous circuits and highly selective separation platforms. We leverage our expertise in fabricating solid-state nanopores and advanced nanopore electrode arrays (NEAs) to create functional solid-state analogs of biological structures.

● Advanced Ionic Circuits (Iontronics) : Rather than using external ionic power sources, we design artificial ionic components by engineering the fundamental nonlinear transport and switching behavior within single nanopores and nanopore electrode arrays (NEAs). By manipulating potential-induced wetting/dewetting or surface charge in these confined geometries, we create fundamental building blocks such as ionic diodes, transistors, memristors, and switches. These components enable the construction of aqueous-phase logic circuits that process information using ionic current, paving the way for new fields like soft robotics or neural interfaces.

● Bio-mimetic Selective Transport : By precisely functionalizing the interior surfaces of artificial nanochannels with specific molecular recognition moieties (e.g., crown ethers, peptides) or stimuli-responsive polymers, we create platforms for exquisitely selective ion or molecular transport. We study the dynamics and rejection rules of these channels, aiming to achieve specificity comparable to natural biological channels, such as potassium/sodium channels or the nuclear pore complex. This research has direct applications in efficient water desalination, specific biomarker separation, and advanced drug delivery systems.

● Integrated Smart Systems : We integrate these iontronic devices and selective channels with advanced sensing technologies, such as electrochemical luminescence (ECL) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). By optimizing the system's response, we develop integrated, smart analysis systems for complex biological and environmental samples.

Key Research Keywords

Single-Entity Electrochemistry | Nanopore Electrode Arrays | Operando Analysis | Iontronics | Potential-induced Wetting | CO2 Reduction