In-Situ SEM Bulk Liquid ElectrochemistryFeatured Research

Quantitatively tracking electrodeposition of catalyst particles in SEM in real-time

Researchers at the Fritz-Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society used Hummingbird’s bulk liquid electrochemistry specimen holder in the SEM to demonstrate an accurate and consistent way to deposit copper oxide catalysts in various shapes and sizes. The study made use of the reliable reference electrode system incorporated in the bulk liquid system to quantitatively track the electrodeposited copper cubes with different facets and sizes over many (repeatable) cycles. For example, the growth starts from nucleation during the first cycle and deposition and dissolution of selective crystals occurs in the third and subsequent cycles. The work provides critical insights into developing catalysts to convert carbon dioxide into useful chemicals and fuels.

Figure: Current-voltage curve tracking oxidation and reduction peaks of copper oxide in different concentrations of KCl solution in 5 mM copper sulfate. Growth of Cu cubes and generation/dissolution of noncubic particles.

Image Copyright © 2021 American Chemical Society

Reference: Grosse et al. J. Phys. Chem. C 2020, 124, 49, 26908–26915.  DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.0c09105