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A Teaching Experiment on Contact Electrification: Understanding the Chemistry of Solid-Liquid Interfaces

Junyi Liu1, Jingyi Jiang3, Youjia Lin3, Weixin Li1, Jinmei Zhou2, Shunliu Deng2, Yonghong Ruan2, Feng Ru Fan1   

  1. 1 College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian Province, China;
    2 National Demonstration Center for Experimental Chemistry Education (Xiamen University), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian Province, China;
    3 College of Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian Province, China
  • Received:2025-11-20 Accepted:2025-12-26
  • Contact: Yonghong Ruan, Feng Ru Fan E-mail:ruanyh@xmu.edu.cn;frfan@xmu.edu.cn

Abstract: Solid-liquid contact electrification describes the phenomenon of charge transfer occurring at the interface between solids and liquids during contact-separation processes, resulting in surface charging that enables both energy conversion and chemical catalysis. This study designs two innovative educational experiments—a droplet-based nanogenerator and contact-electro-catalysis for hydrogen peroxide production—to demonstrate the fundamental principles and practical applications of this phenomenon. The experiments elucidate the chemical mechanisms underlying charge transfer, electric double layer formation, and catalytic reactions, incorporating interdisciplinary knowledge spanning contact electrification, sonochemistry, and chemiluminescence. Key demonstrations include powering light-emitting diodes (LEDs) through droplet-induced contact electrification, and ultrasound-triggered hydrogen peroxide generation at solid-liquid interfaces, verified by luminol-based chemiluminescence exhibiting characteristic blue emission. Featuring straightforward materials and procedures with visually striking results, these hands-on experiments effectively engage public audiences while enhancing understanding of chemistry-physics interdisciplinary concepts. This work addresses a critical gap in public science education regarding contact electrification chemistry, promotes awareness of cutting-edge chemical technologies, and showcases chemistry’s pivotal role in energy and environmental applications.

Key words: Frontier chemical technologies, Contact electrification, Contact-electro-catalysis, Sonochemistry, Chemiluminescence