Skip main navigation

New offer! Get 30% off one whole year of Unlimited learning. Subscribe for just £249.99 £174.99. T&Cs apply

Further reading on electrochemical application examples

A written text summarizes the lecture and provides further learning resources.

Writing Effective Introduction for an Electrochemical Research Article

Introduction sections of scientific papers are crucial as they set the stage for the entire research study. In this article, we will examine the introduction section of an electrochemical research paper titled “Engineering of electrospun polyimide separators for electrical double-layer capacitors and lithium-ion cells” published in the Journal of Power Sources. Our aim is to understand the structure and moves of the introduction section and how to write an effective one. The paper follows the CARS (Creating a Research Space) model, which involves three major moves, and we will discuss each move in detail.

Move 1a: Establishing a Territory

The first move is to establish the territory by providing the general background knowledge of the research topic. In this paper, the authors introduce the importance of separators in lithium-ion batteries and their application. The first paragraph begins with this background and general knowledge of the topic. In the second paragraph, the authors provide more specific references and language, narrowing down to a more specific description of the idea with some basic requirements, illustrations, and the purposes of separators.

Move 1b: Reviewing Literature

In this move, the authors provide a review of the literature related to the topic. They establish the connection between separators and their applications by using relevant literature and in-text citations. The next paragraph is even more specific, discussing the specific functions required for separators and providing more explanations of their causes. The authors emphasize the need to review the literature of this topic and inform the readers about the current development of the technology.

Move 2: Establishing a Niche

The second move involves establishing a niche by pointing out what is missing or not achieved yet about the topic. In this paper, the authors point out the current design of separators and its limitations. They argue that there is a growing need for other demands and requirements of separators, and the current commercial product cannot meet those needs. The authors emphasize the missing piece in the field, which is the gap that needs to be filled.

Move 3a: Occupying the Niche

The final move is to occupy the niche by introducing the research question or hypothesis. In this paper, the authors aim to develop a better-performing separator for growing demands. This move aims to propose a new material that can bring better performance. The authors argue that this study is worthwhile doing and fits the interests of the readers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the introduction section of an electrochemical research article follows a specific structure and moves. By using the CARS model, the authors of the paper were able to establish a territory, review the literature, establish a niche, and occupy it by introducing their research question. Writing an effective introduction section is crucial for setting the tone of the research paper and convincing the readers of the importance of the research question. Following this structure and using the appropriate language can help in creating an effective and informative introduction section for a scientific paper.

This article is from the free online

Deconstructing Research Articles: How to Read and Write a Research Paper

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now