RESEARCH AREAS
The Sundaresan Lab investigates electrochemical processes at the level of individual nanoparticles, nanostructures, droplets, and bubbles. We combine electrochemistry with advanced optical microscopy to visualize reactions that are often hidden in conventional ensemble measurements. By developing new imaging platforms, nanoscale electrodes, and correlated measurement strategies, our research seeks to understand how individual structures behave, why their activity varies, and how nanoscale phenomena can be used to improve electrocatalysis, sensing, environmental analysis, and advanced manufacturing.
ELECTROCHEMICAL CLocK MICROSCOPY
We visualize the dynamic change in the morphology, size, and orientation of individual nanoparticles during electrochemical reactions.
ELECTROCHEMICAL ZERO-MODE WAVEGUIDES
We develop optically addressable nanoscale electrode platforms to study confined ion transport, local pH, mass transfer, and electrocatalytic reactions.
MAGNETO-ELECTROCHEMISTRY
We explore how magnetic fields influence ion transport, nanoparticle growth, gas evolution, and electrodeposition to enable selective separation of critical materials.
IMAGING MICRO- and NANOBUBBLES
We investigate how individual electrogenerated gas bubbles nucleate, grow, displace, and detach from electrode surfaces during electrochemical reactions.
MICROPLASTICS-METAL ION INTERACTION
We quantify metal-ion adsorption on microplastics using electrochemical techniques to determine how surface chemistry affects contaminant uptake and transport.
LABORATORY TECHNIQUES
AFM SYSTEM
Atomic force microscopy for nanoscale topography and mechanical mapping at the single-entity level.
ELECTROCHEMISTRY
Advanced electrochemical platforms for studying charge transfer and redox processes at the nanoscale.
OPTICAL MICROSCOPY
High-resolution optical microscopy for real-time imaging of single entities and dynamic processes.
SPECTROSCOPY
Advanced spectroscopic tools for molecular analysis and optical characterization of nanomaterials.