This proposal aims at training young researchers to a new speciality: the electrochemical promotion of catalysis (EPOC). EPOC or Non-faradaic Electrochemical Modification of Catalytic Activity (NEMCA) effect is an innovative concept which can be used to modify both the activity and the selectivity of a catalyst.

This process is based on the control, by an applied potential, of the work function due to electrochemical pumping of ions between a solid electrolyte and the surface of a porous catalyst. The main advantage of EPOC is that the observed enhancement of the activity is much higher than that predicted by the Faraday’s law.

Therefore, EPOC requires low currents or potentials. Processes and devices capable of utilizing the unique characteristics of EPOC have potentially large, favourable economic, social and environmental impacts.

For the European chemical and related industries, EPOC-enabled gains in the productivity, efficiency and control of catalytic-chemical processes promise new opportunities for maintaining or increasing competitiveness. For instance, for European automobile manufacturers and their suppliers, EPOC-enabled, more efficient and lower-cost devices for control of critical pollutant emissions can be expected to increase their lead in diesel passenger vehicle technology and market position.

Equally, with respect to the manufacture of both commodity and fine chemicals, EPOC makes possible step changes in technology across a very wide range of processes, embracing both solid/gas and solid/liquid catalytic systems. The timely development and commercial introduction of the novel multifunctional materials and structures required for EPOC applications can be expected to enhance the leadership position of European catalyst and chemicals manufacturers and create new business opportunities for SMEs specialized in the development of such materials and structures.

Widespread applications of successful EPOC-based processes and devices can be expected to result in major reductions of carbon dioxide, helping Europe meets its obligations under the Kyoto protocol and benefiting society in the longer run.