Galvanisches

Galvanisches refers to phenomena and devices related to galvanic, or electrochemical, processes that produce electrical energy from chemical reactions. The term is linked to Luigi Galvani, whose experiments on bioelectricity inspired later work by Alessandro Volta, who developed the voltaic pile. In general usage, galvanic describes both the operation of electrochemical cells and the electrochemical techniques and coatings that rely on such reactions.

A galvanic cell consists of two electrodes of different materials immersed in electrolyte solutions and connected by an external circuit. Oxidation occurs at the anode, reduction at the cathode, and electrons flow through the external circuit from anode to cathode, delivering electrical energy. Each half-reaction has a potential, and the overall cell potential is the difference between the half-cell potentials. The galvanic series ranks metals by their tendency to corrode in a given electrolyte, assisting material selection and corrosion prevention.

Applications of galvanic principles include batteries, where chemical energy is converted into electricity, including primary (non-rechargeable) and secondary (rechargeable) cells such as alkaline, lithium-ion, and lead-acid types. The galvanic concept also underpins electroplating and electrogalvanizing, where metal ions are deposited onto a surface to provide coatings or corrosion protection. A related phenomenon is galvanic corrosion, which occurs when two dissimilar metals in electrical contact share an electrolyte, causing preferential corrosion of the more active metal.

Understanding galvanic systems informs design choices in energy storage, coatings, and corrosion control, highlighting the interplay between chemistry, materials, and electrical performance.