MODIFIED SURFACES OF TECHNOLOGICAL AND INDUSTRIAL RELEVANCE

This Ph.D. thesis focuses on modified surfaces of technological and industrial interest. Specially functionalised electrodes and coatings for potential use in renewable energy applications and innovative processes for electroplating industries. This exploring electrodeposition processes (both of metals and organic molecules) and the possibility of obtaining modified electrodes with low precious metal content, possibly obtained by recovering metals from waste materials. To achieve these goals, the thesis focuses on three main strategies: (i) reducing the use of critical materials, (ii) recovering and utilising process waste, and (iii) exploring non-metallic alternatives. This thesis also exploits an integrated theoretical-experimental approach, combining ab initio quantum calculations with practical experimentation to enhance the understanding of the results.