Dresden 2026 – scientific programme
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O: Fachverband Oberflächenphysik
O 68: Nanostructured surfaces and thin films – Poster
O 68.2: Poster
Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 18:00–20:00, P2
Nitrogen plasma induced surface modification of nickel electrodes for enhanced electrochemical performance — •Karla Siecker1, Christina Meinert1, Christian Marcks2, Timo Wagner1, Nicolas Wöhrl1, and Axel Lorke1 — 1Faculty of Physics, University Duisburg-Essen — 2Electrochemical Reaction Engineering, RWTH Aachen University
Nickel sheets are widely used as electrode materials for electrolyzers due to their low cost and ease of handling. Here, we report on the use of a microwave-induced remote nitrogen plasma to modify the sample surface, adjusting both the electrochemical and mechanical properties of the nickel electrode. The plasma treatment leads to the formation of coral-like nanostructures on the nickel surface and promotes measurable surface nitridation. As a result, the surface roughness and wettability increase, directly affecting the electrochemical activity. For this purpose, contact angle measurements, 3D optical profilometry and electrochemical measurements were conducted to evaluate the catalytic activity of the modified electrodes.
Keywords: Plasma treatment; Nickel; Surface roughness; Wettability; Electrolysis