Magnetic field effects on electrochemical reactions have been studied and shown to influence kinetics and dynamics. Recently, our group has introduced a novel method to establish magnetic field effects by incorporating inert, magnetic microparticles onto the electrode structure. This modification improved several electrochemical systems including modified electrodes, alkaline batteries, and fuel cells. This dissertation describes the applicability of magnetic microparticles and the understanding of magnetic field effects in modified electrodes, alkaline batteries, and paste electrodes.

Magnetic effects are studied on electrodes that are coated with an ion exchange polymer that embeds chemically inert, commercial, magnetic microparticles. The flux (electrolysis current) of redox probe to the magnetically modified system is compared to a similar non-magnetic electrode. Flux enhancements of 60% are achieved at magnetically modified electrode as compared to non-magnetic controls. In addition to modifying electrode surfaces, the incorporation of magnetic microparticles into the electrode material itself establishes a 20% increase in flux. Possible magnetic field effects are evaluated.

Study of samarium cobalt modified electrolytic manganese dioxide, EMD electrodes further establish a magnetic effect on alkaline cathode performance. Magnetic modification improves alkaline battery performance in primary and secondary applications. The reaction mechanism is examined through voltammetric methods.

This work also includes coating protocols to produce inert magnetic microparticles with high magnetic content. Magnetite powders are encapsulated in a polymer matrix by dispersion polymerization. Composite particles are examined in proton exchange membrane fuel cells to study carbon monoxide tolerance.