1
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Gaudin LF, Funston AM, Bentley CL. Drop-cast gold nanoparticles are not always electrocatalytically active for the borohydride oxidation reaction. Chem Sci 2024; 15:7243-7258. [PMID: 38756820 PMCID: PMC11095372 DOI: 10.1039/d4sc00676c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The next-generation of energy devices rely on advanced catalytic materials, especially electrocatalytic nanoparticles (NPs), to achieve the performance and cost required to reshape the energy landscape towards a more sustainable and cleaner future. It has become imperative to maximize the performance of the catalyst, both through improvement of the intrinsic activity of the NP, and by ensuring all particles are performing at the level of their capability. This requires not just a structure-function understanding of the catalytic material, but also an understanding of how the catalyst performance is impacted by its environment (substrate, ligand, etc.). The intrinsic activity and environment of catalytic particles on a support may differ wildly by particle, thus it is essential to build this understanding from a single-entity perspective. To achieve this herein, scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) has been used, which is a droplet-based scanning probe technique which can encapsulate single NPs, and apply a voltage to the nanoparticle whilst measuring its resulting current. Using SECCM, single AuNPs have been encapsulated, and their activity for the borohydride oxidation reaction (BOR) is measured. A total of 268 BOR-active locations were probed (178 single particles) and a series of statistical analyses were performed in order to make the following discoveries: (1) a certain percentage of AuNPs display no BOR activity in the SECCM experiment (67.4% of single NPs), (2) visibly-similar particles display wildly varied BOR activities which cannot be explained by particle size, (3) the impact of cluster size (#NP at a single location) on a selection of diagnostic electrochemical parameters can be easily probed with SECCM, (4) exploratory statistical correlation between these parameters can be meaningfully performed with SECCM, and (5) outlying "abnormal" NP responses can be probed on a particle-by-particle basis. Each one of these findings is its own worthwhile study, yet this has been achieved with a single SECCM scan. It is hoped that this research will spur electrochemists and materials scientists to delve deeper into their substantial datasets in order to enhance the structure-function understanding, to bring about the next generation of high-performance electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan F Gaudin
- School of Chemistry, Monash University Clayton 3800 VIC Australia
| | - Alison M Funston
- School of Chemistry, Monash University Clayton 3800 VIC Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science, Monash University Clayton 3800 VIC Australia
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2
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Jayamaha G, Maleki M, Bentley CL, Kang M. Practical guidelines for the use of scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM). Analyst 2024; 149:2542-2555. [PMID: 38632960 DOI: 10.1039/d4an00117f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) has emerged as a transformative technology for electrochemical materials characterisation and the study of single entities, garnering global adoption by numerous research groups. While details on the instrumentation and operational principles of SECCM are readily available, the growing need for practical guidelines, troubleshooting strategies, and a systematic overview of applications and trends has become increasingly evident. This tutorial review addresses this gap by offering a comprehensive guide to the practical application of SECCM. The review begins with a discussion of recent developments and trends in the application of SECCM, before providing systematic approaches to (and the associated troubleshooting associated with) instrumental set up, probe fabrication, substrate preparation and the deployment of environmental (e.g., atmosphere and humidity) control. Serving as an invaluable resource, this tutorial review aims to equip researchers and practitioners entering the field with a comprehensive guide to essential considerations for conducting successful SECCM experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunani Jayamaha
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2006 NSW, Australia.
| | - Mahin Maleki
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Cameron L Bentley
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, 3800 VIC, Australia
| | - Minkyung Kang
- School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2006 NSW, Australia.
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3
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Lai Z, Huang F, Wen L, Zhao Z, Jin Y. Study on Microelectrochemical Inhomogeneity of an SA508-309 L/308L Overlay Welded Joint. Anal Chem 2023. [PMID: 38032091 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c02178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The corrosion behavior of the dissimilar metal welded joint (DMWJ) is highly dependent on its heterogeneous microstructures. However, directly measuring the electrochemical properties of microstructures in different heat-affected zones (HAZs) is a formidable challenge, because traditional bulk electrochemistry can only offer an average signal. Herein, the microelectrochemical properties of an SA508-309L/308L DMWJ were measured in 3.5 wt % NaCl solution using lithography and capillary techniques. Specifically, high-throughput microelectrochemical tests, including open circuit potential (OCP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), were conducted on 168 spots (Φ 12 μm). Results revealed five typical EIS responses and seven varieties of PDP curves (different magnitudes of the current density). The maps of thermodynamic and kinetic metrics, such as polarization resistance derived from EIS, corrosion potentials, and corrosion currents extracted from potentiodynamic polarization curves, demonstrated good consistency. The uniform corrosion tendency of the SA508 HAZ subregions during the immersion tests is basically consistent with its Ecorr_avg order of subcritical HAZ (C5, -371 mV) < intercritical HAZ (C4, -546 mV) < fine-grained HAZ2 (C3, -579 mV) < fine-grained HAZ1 (C2, -593 mV). The random presence of inclusions leads to highly heterogeneous microelectrochemical properties of the DMWJ, thereby causing localized corrosion to occur preferentially. Moreover, the macroscopic corrosion behavior is affected by the corrosion products, which display a protective effect that modifies the local electrochemical activity of the SA508 HAZ. The combination of microelectrochemical properties allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the macroscopic corrosion behavior of metals and the galvanic effect between the heterogeneous microstructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaogui Lai
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Feifei Huang
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Lei Wen
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zhao
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ying Jin
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
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4
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Kang M, Bentley CL, Mefford JT, Chueh WC, Unwin PR. Multiscale Analysis of Electrocatalytic Particle Activities: Linking Nanoscale Measurements and Ensemble Behavior. ACS NANO 2023; 17:21493-21505. [PMID: 37883688 PMCID: PMC10655184 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Nanostructured electrocatalysts exhibit variations in electrochemical properties across different length scales, and the intrinsic catalytic characteristics measured at the nanoscale often differ from those at the macro-level due to complexity in electrode structure and/or composition. This aspect of electrocatalysis is addressed herein, where the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity of β-Co(OH)2 platelet particles of well-defined structure is investigated in alkaline media using multiscale scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM). Microscale SECCM probes of ∼50 μm diameter provide voltammograms from small particle ensembles (ca. 40-250 particles) and reveal increasing dispersion in the OER rates for samples of the same size as the particle population within the sample decreases. This suggests the underlying significance of heterogeneous activity at the single-particle level that is confirmed through single-particle measurements with SECCM probes of ∼5 μm diameter. These measurements of multiple individual particles directly reveal significant variability in the OER activity at the single-particle level that do not simply correlate with the particle size, basal plane roughness, or exposed edge plane area. In combination, these measurements demarcate a transition from an "individual particle" to an "ensemble average" response at a population size of ca. 130 particles, above which the OER current density closely reflects that measured in bulk at conventional macroscopic particle-modified electrodes. Nanoscale SECCM probes (ca. 120 and 440 nm in diameter) enable measurements at the subparticle level, revealing that there is selective OER activity at the edges of particles and highlighting the importance of the three-phase boundary where the catalyst, electrolyte, and supporting carbon electrode meet, for efficient electrocatalysis. Furthermore, subparticle measurements unveil heterogeneity in the OER activity among particles that appear superficially similar, attributable to differences in defect density within the individual particles, as well as to variations in electrical and physical contact with the support material. Overall this study provides a roadmap for the multiscale analysis of nanostructured electrocatalysts, directly demonstrating the importance of multilength scale factors, including particle structure, particle-support interaction, presence of defects, etc., in governing the electrochemical activities of β-Co(OH)2 platelet particles and ultimately guiding the rational design and optimization of these materials for alkaline water electrolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minkyung Kang
- School
of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, Camperdown 2006 NSW, Australia
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.
| | | | - J. Tyler Mefford
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford
University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - William C. Chueh
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford
University, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department
of Chemistry, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.
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5
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Lai Z, Liu M, Bi P, Huang F, Jin Y. Perspectives on Corrosion Studies Using Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy: Challenges and Opportunities. Anal Chem 2023; 95:15833-15850. [PMID: 37844123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c02423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) allows for electrochemical imaging at the micro- or nanoscale by confining the electrochemical reaction cell in a small meniscus formed at the end of a micro- or nanopipette. This technique has gained popularity in electrochemical imaging due to its high-throughput nature. Although it shows considerable application potential in corrosion science, there are still formidable and exciting challenges to be faced, particularly relating to the high-throughput characterization and analysis of microelectrochemical big data. The objective of this perspective is to arouse attention and provide opinions on the challenges, recent progress, and future prospects of the SECCM technique to the electrochemical society, particularly from the viewpoint of corrosion scientists. Specifically, four main topics are systematically reviewed and discussed: (1) the development of SECCM; (2) the applications of SECCM for corrosion studies; (3) the challenges of SECCM in corrosion studies; and (4) the opportunities of SECCM for corrosion science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaogui Lai
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 102206, P. R. China
| | - Min Liu
- New Materials Institute, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo 315100, P. R. China
| | - Peng Bi
- Laboratory for Nuclear Materials, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
| | - Feifei Huang
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 102206, P. R. China
| | - Ying Jin
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 102206, P. R. China
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6
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Xu X, Martín-Yerga D, Grant NE, West G, Pain SL, Kang M, Walker M, Murphy JD, Unwin PR. Interfacial Chemistry Effects in the Electrochemical Performance of Silicon Electrodes under Lithium-Ion Battery Conditions. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2303442. [PMID: 37269212 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202303442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation and (de)lithiation phenomena at silicon (Si) electrodes is key to improving the performance and lifetime of Si-based lithium-ion batteries. However, these processes remain somewhat elusive, and, in particular, the role of Si surface termination merits further consideration. Here, scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) is used in a glovebox, followed by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) at identical locations to study the local electrochemical behavior and associated SEI formation, comparing Si (100) with a native oxide layer (SiOx /Si) and etched with hydrofluoric acid (HF-Si). HF-Si shows greater spatial electrochemical heterogeneity and inferior lithiation reversibility than SiOx /Si. This is attributed to a weakly passivating SEI and irreversible lithium trapping at the Si surface. Combinatorial screening of charge/discharge cycling by SECCM with co-located SIMS reveals SEI chemistry as a function of depth. While the SEI thickness is relatively independent of the cycle number, the chemistry - particularly in the intermediate layers - depends on the number of cycles, revealing the SEI to be dynamic during cycling. This work serves as a foundation for the use of correlative SECCM/SIMS as a powerful approach to gain fundamental insights on complex battery processes at the nano- and microscales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdong Xu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Daniel Martín-Yerga
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
- The Faraday Institution, Quad One, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0RA, UK
| | - Nicholas E Grant
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Geoff West
- Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Sophie L Pain
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Minkyung Kang
- School of Chemistry, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Marc Walker
- Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - John D Murphy
- School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
- The Faraday Institution, Quad One, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0RA, UK
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7
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Wahab OJ, Daviddi E, Xin B, Sun PZ, Griffin E, Colburn AW, Barry D, Yagmurcukardes M, Peeters FM, Geim AK, Lozada-Hidalgo M, Unwin PR. Proton transport through nanoscale corrugations in two-dimensional crystals. Nature 2023; 620:782-786. [PMID: 37612394 PMCID: PMC10447238 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06247-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Defect-free graphene is impermeable to all atoms1-5 and ions6,7 under ambient conditions. Experiments that can resolve gas flows of a few atoms per hour through micrometre-sized membranes found that monocrystalline graphene is completely impermeable to helium, the smallest atom2,5. Such membranes were also shown to be impermeable to all ions, including the smallest one, lithium6,7. By contrast, graphene was reported to be highly permeable to protons, nuclei of hydrogen atoms8,9. There is no consensus, however, either on the mechanism behind the unexpectedly high proton permeability10-14 or even on whether it requires defects in graphene's crystal lattice6,8,15-17. Here, using high-resolution scanning electrochemical cell microscopy, we show that, although proton permeation through mechanically exfoliated monolayers of graphene and hexagonal boron nitride cannot be attributed to any structural defects, nanoscale non-flatness of two-dimensional membranes greatly facilitates proton transport. The spatial distribution of proton currents visualized by scanning electrochemical cell microscopy reveals marked inhomogeneities that are strongly correlated with nanoscale wrinkles and other features where strain is accumulated. Our results highlight nanoscale morphology as an important parameter enabling proton transport through two-dimensional crystals, mostly considered and modelled as flat, and indicate that strain and curvature can be used as additional degrees of freedom to control the proton permeability of two-dimensional materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- O J Wahab
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - E Daviddi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - B Xin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - P Z Sun
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - E Griffin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - A W Colburn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - D Barry
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - M Yagmurcukardes
- Department of Photonics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Urla, Turkey
| | - F M Peeters
- Departement Fysica, Universiteit Antwerpen, Antwerp, Belgium
- Departamento de Fisica, Universidade Federal do Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - A K Geim
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
- National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - M Lozada-Hidalgo
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
- National Graphene Institute, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - P R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
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8
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Wang XY, Lv J, Wu X, Hong Q, Qian RC. The Modification and Applications of Nanopipettes in Electrochemical Analysis. Chempluschem 2023; 88:e202300100. [PMID: 37442793 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202300100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Nanopipette, which is fabricated by glasses and possesses a nanoscale pore in the tip, has been proven to be immensely useful in electrochemical analysis. Numerous nanopipette-based sensors have emerged with improved sensitivity, selectivity, ease of use, and miniaturization. In this minireview, we provide an overview of the recent developments of nanopipette-based electrochemical sensors based on different types of nanopipettes, including single-nanopipettes, self-referenced nanopipettes, dual-nanopipettes, and double-barrel nanopipettes. Several important modification materials for nanopipette functionalization are highlighted, such as conductive materials, macromolecular materials, and functional molecules. These materials can improve the sensing performance and targeting specificities of nanopipettes. We also discuss examples of related applications and the future development of nanopipette-based strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yuan Wang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials &, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jian Lv
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials &, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Xue Wu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials &, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Qin Hong
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials &, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Ruo-Can Qian
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials &, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 200237, Shanghai, P. R. China
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9
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Takahashi Y, Takamatsu D, Korchev Y, Fukuma T. Correlative Analysis of Ion-Concentration Profile and Surface Nanoscale Topography Changes Using Operando Scanning Ion Conductance Microscopy. JACS AU 2023; 3:1089-1099. [PMID: 37124299 PMCID: PMC10131198 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.2c00677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Although various spectroscopic methods have been developed to capture ion-concentration profile changes, it is still difficult to visualize the ion-concentration profile and surface topographical changes simultaneously during the charging/discharging of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). To tackle this issue, we have developed an operando scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) method that can directly visualize an ion-concentration profile and surface topography using a SICM nanopipette while controlling the sample potential or current with a potentiostat for characterizing the polarization state during charging/discharging. Using operando SICM on the negative electrode (anode) of LIBs, we have characterized ion-concentration profile changes and the reversible volume changes related to the phase transition during cyclic voltammetry (CV) and charge/discharge of the graphite anode. Operando SICM is a versatile technique that is likely to be of major value for evaluating the correlation between the electrolyte concentration profile and nanoscale surface topography changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasufumi Takahashi
- Department
of Electronics, Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8603, Japan
- WPI
Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
| | - Daiko Takamatsu
- Center
for Exploratory Research, Research &
Development Group, Hitachi, Ltd., Hatoyama-machi, Saitama 350-0395, Japan
| | - Yuri Korchev
- WPI
Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
- Department
of Medicine, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Takeshi Fukuma
- WPI
Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
- Division
of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Kanazawa University, Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
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10
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Tao B, McPherson IJ, Daviddi E, Bentley CL, Unwin PR. Multiscale Electrochemistry of Lithium Manganese Oxide (LiMn 2O 4): From Single Particles to Ensembles and Degrees of Electrolyte Wetting. ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING 2023; 11:1459-1471. [PMID: 36743391 PMCID: PMC9890564 DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.2c06075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) facilitates single particle measurements of battery materials using voltammetry at fast scan rates (1 V s-1), providing detailed insight into intrinsic particle kinetics, otherwise obscured by matrix effects. Here, we elucidate the electrochemistry of lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) particles, using a series of SECCM probes of graded size to determine the evolution of electrochemical characteristics from the single particle to ensemble level. Nanometer scale control over the SECCM meniscus cell position and height further allows the study of variable particle/substrate electrolyte wetting, including comparison of fully wetted particles (where contact is also made with the underlying glassy carbon substrate electrode) vs partly wetted particles. We find ensembles of LiMn2O4 particles show voltammograms with much larger peak separations than those of single particles. In addition, if the SECCM meniscus is brought into contact with the substrate electrode, such that the particle-support contact changes from dry to wet, a further dramatic increase in peak separation is observed. Finite element method modeling of the system reveals the importance of finite electronic conductivity of the particles, contact resistance, surface kinetics, particle size, and contact area with the electrode surface in determining the voltammetric waveshape at fast scan rates, while the responses are relatively insensitive to Li+ diffusion coefficients over a range of typical values. The simulation results explain the variability in voltammetric responses seen at the single particle level and reveal some of the key factors responsible for the evolution of the response, from ensemble, contact, and wetting perspectives. The variables and considerations explored herein are applicable to any single entity (nanoscale) electrochemical study involving low conductivity materials and should serve as a useful guide for further investigations of this type. Overall, this study highlights the potential of multiscale measurements, where wetting, electronic contact, and ionic contact can be varied independently, to inform the design of practical composite electrodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binglin Tao
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Ian J. McPherson
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico Daviddi
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | | | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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11
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Xu X, Valavanis D, Ciocci P, Confederat S, Marcuccio F, Lemineur JF, Actis P, Kanoufi F, Unwin PR. The New Era of High-Throughput Nanoelectrochemistry. Anal Chem 2023; 95:319-356. [PMID: 36625121 PMCID: PMC9835065 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdong Xu
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.
| | | | - Paolo Ciocci
- Université
Paris Cité, ITODYS, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Samuel Confederat
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.
| | - Fabio Marcuccio
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Faculty
of Medicine, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paolo Actis
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,
| | | | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.,
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12
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Lai Z, Li D, Cai S, Liu M, Huang F, Zhang G, Wu X, Jin Y. Small-Area Techniques for Micro- and Nanoelectrochemical Characterization: A Review. Anal Chem 2023; 95:357-373. [PMID: 36625128 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaogui Lai
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Dingshi Li
- Beijing Institute of Space Launch Technology, Beijing 100076, China
| | - Shuangyu Cai
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Min Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China
| | - Feifei Huang
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Guodong Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Space Launch Technology, Beijing 100076, China
| | - Xinyue Wu
- Beijing Institute of Space Launch Technology, Beijing 100076, China
| | - Ying Jin
- National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 102206, China
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13
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Potential Controlled Redox Cycling of 4-aminothiophenol by Coupling Plasmon Mediated Chemical Reaction with Electrochemical Reaction. J Catal 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcat.2023.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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14
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Peng Z, Fiorani A, Akai K, Murata M, Otake A, Einaga Y. Boron-Doped Diamond as a Quasi-Reference Electrode. Anal Chem 2022; 94:16831-16837. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c03923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Peng
- Department of Chemistry, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Yokohama223-8522, Japan
| | - Andrea Fiorani
- Department of Chemistry, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Yokohama223-8522, Japan
| | - Kazumi Akai
- Department of Chemistry, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Yokohama223-8522, Japan
| | - Michio Murata
- Department of Chemistry, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Yokohama223-8522, Japan
| | - Atsushi Otake
- Department of Chemistry, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Yokohama223-8522, Japan
| | - Yasuaki Einaga
- Department of Chemistry, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Yokohama223-8522, Japan
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15
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Li Y, Morel A, Gallant D, Mauzeroll J. Correlating Corrosion to Surface Grain Orientations of Polycrystalline Aluminum Alloy by Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:47230-47236. [PMID: 36206534 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c12813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The study of grain-dependent corrosion behaviors of practical polycrystalline metals remains challenging due to the difficulty in eliminating the influences of other microstructural features, such as intermetallic particles and grain boundaries. In this work, we performed thousands of microscopic potentiodynamic polarization measurements on a polycrystalline aluminum alloy AA7075-T73 using the spatially resolved oil-immersed scanning electrochemical cell microscopy measurement. Data were extracted only from grain interior areas excluding intermetallic particles and grain boundaries. Based on the multiple potentiodynamic polarization measurements, the differences between grains can be revealed. Cathodic currents exhibited a strong grain orientation dependence with a decreasing order of {101} > {001} > {111}, agreeing with the prediction from the order of atomic planar density. By contrast, the dependence of anodic currents on grain orientation was weak, and pitting was independent of grain orientation, which could be due to the limited mass transport of ions within the surface oxide film. This work highlights the capability of oil-immersed scanning electrochemical cell microscopy in resolving small electrochemical differences, which will greatly promote the study of grain-dependent behaviors of practical polycrystalline samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjiao Li
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, H3A 0B8Quebec, Canada
| | - Alban Morel
- Automotive and Surface Transportation Research Centre, Division of Transportation and Manufacturing, National Research Council Canada, Aluminum Technology Center, 501 University Blvd East, Saguenay, G7H 8C3Quebec, Canada
| | - Danick Gallant
- Automotive and Surface Transportation Research Centre, Division of Transportation and Manufacturing, National Research Council Canada, Aluminum Technology Center, 501 University Blvd East, Saguenay, G7H 8C3Quebec, Canada
| | - Janine Mauzeroll
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, H3A 0B8Quebec, Canada
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16
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Scanning gel electrochemical microscopy: Combination with quartz crystal microbalance for studying the electrolyte residue. Electrochim Acta 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2022.141455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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17
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Daviddi E, Shkirskiy V, Kirkman PM, Robin MP, Bentley CL, Unwin PR. Screening the Surface Structure-Dependent Action of a Benzotriazole Derivative on Copper Electrochemistry in a Triple-Phase Nanoscale Environment. THE JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY. C, NANOMATERIALS AND INTERFACES 2022; 126:14897-14907. [PMID: 36110498 PMCID: PMC9465680 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.2c04494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Copper (Cu) corrosion is a compelling problem in the automotive sector and in oil refinery and transport, where it is mainly caused by the action of acidic aqueous droplets dispersed in an oil phase. Corrosion inhibitors, such as benzotriazole (BTAH) and its derivatives, are widely used to limit such corrosion processes. The efficacy of corrosion inhibitors is expected to be dependent on the surface crystallography of metals exposed to the corrosion environment. Yet, studies of the effect of additives at the local level of the surface crystallographic structure of polycrystalline metals are challenging, particularly lacking for the triple-phase corrosion problem (metal/aqueous/oil). To address this issue, scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM), is used in an acidic nanodroplet meniscus|oil layer|polycrystalline Cu configuration to explore the grain-dependent influence of an oil soluble BTAH derivative (BTA-R) on Cu electrochemistry within the confines of a local aqueous nanoprobe. Electrochemical maps, collected in the voltammetric mode at an array of >1000 points across the Cu surface, reveal both cathodic (mainly the oxygen reduction reaction) and anodic (Cu electrooxidation) processes, of relevance to corrosion, as a function of the local crystallographic structure, deduced with co-located electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). BTA-R is active on the whole spectrum of crystallographic orientations analyzed, but there is a complex grain-dependent action, distinct for oxygen reduction and Cu oxidation. The methodology pinpoints the surface structural motifs that facilitate corrosion-related processes and where BTA-R works most efficiently. Combined SECCM-EBSD provides a detailed screen of a spectrum of surface sites, and the results should inform future modeling studies, ultimately contributing to a better inhibitor design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Daviddi
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.
| | | | | | | | - Cameron L. Bentley
- School
of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.
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18
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Caniglia G, Tezcan G, Meloni GN, Unwin PR, Kranz C. Probing and Visualizing Interfacial Charge at Surfaces in Aqueous Solution. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2022; 15:247-267. [PMID: 35259914 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-121521-122615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Surface charge density and distribution play an important role in almost all interfacial processes, influencing, for example, adsorption, colloidal stability, functional material activity, electrochemical processes, corrosion, nanoparticle toxicity, and cellular processes such as signaling, absorption, and adhesion. Understanding the heterogeneity in, and distribution of, surface and interfacial charge is key to elucidating the mechanisms underlying reactivity, the stability of materials, and biophysical processes. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) are highly suitable for probing the material/electrolyte interface at the nanoscale through recent advances in probe design, significant instrumental (hardware and software) developments, and the evolution of multifunctional imaging protocols. Here, we assess the capability of AFM and SICM for surface charge mapping, covering the basic underpinning principles alongside experimental considerations. We illustrate and compare the use of AFM and SICM for visualizing surface and interfacial charge with examples from materials science, geochemistry, and the life sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Caniglia
- Institute of Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany;
| | - Gözde Tezcan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom;
| | - Gabriel N Meloni
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom;
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom;
| | - Christine Kranz
- Institute of Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany;
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19
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Wahab OJ, Kang M, Daviddi E, Walker M, Unwin PR. Screening Surface Structure-Electrochemical Activity Relationships of Copper Electrodes under CO 2 Electroreduction Conditions. ACS Catal 2022; 12:6578-6588. [PMID: 35692254 PMCID: PMC9171721 DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.2c01650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Understanding how crystallographic orientation influences the electrocatalytic performance of metal catalysts can potentially advance the design of catalysts with improved efficiency. Although single crystal electrodes are typically used for such studies, the one-at-a-time preparation procedure limits the range of secondary crystallographic orientations that can be profiled. This work employs scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) together with co-located electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) as a screening technique to investigate how surface crystallographic orientations on polycrystalline copper (Cu) correlate to activity under CO2 electroreduction conditions. SECCM measures spatially resolved voltammetry on polycrystalline copper covering low overpotentials of CO2 conversion to intermediates, thereby screening the different activity from low-index facets where H2 evolution is dominant to high-index facets where more reaction intermediates are expected. This approach allows the acquisition of 2500 voltammograms on approximately 60 different Cu surface facets identified with EBSD. The results show that the order of activity is (111) < (100) < (110) among the Cu primary orientations. The collection of data over a wide range of secondary orientations leads to the construction of an "electrochemical-crystallographic stereographic triangle" that provides a broad comprehension of the trends among Cu secondary surface facets rarely studied in the literature, [particularly (941) and (741)], and clearly shows that the electroreduction activity scales with the step and kink density of these surfaces. This work also reveals that the electrochemical stripping of the passive layer that is naturally formed on Cu in air is strongly grain-dependent, and the relative ease of stripping on low-index facets follows the order of (100) > (111) > (110). This allows a procedure to be implemented, whereby the oxide is removed (to an electrochemically undetectable level) prior to the kinetic analyses of electroreduction activity. SECCM screening allows for the most active surfaces to be ranked and prompts in-depth follow-up studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Minkyung Kang
- Institute for Frontier Materials Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Enrico Daviddi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Marc Walker
- Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
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20
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Bentley CL, Kang M, Bukola S, Creager SE, Unwin PR. High-Resolution Ion-Flux Imaging of Proton Transport through Graphene|Nafion Membranes. ACS NANO 2022; 16:5233-5245. [PMID: 35286810 PMCID: PMC9047657 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c05872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
In 2014, it was reported that protons can traverse between aqueous phases separated by nominally pristine monolayer graphene and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) films (membranes) under ambient conditions. This intrinsic proton conductivity of the one-atom-thick crystals, with proposed through-plane conduction, challenged the notion that graphene is impermeable to atoms, ions, and molecules. More recent evidence points to a defect-facilitated transport mechanism, analogous to transport through conventional ion-selective membranes based on graphene and h-BN. Herein, local ion-flux imaging is performed on chemical vapor deposition (CVD) graphene|Nafion membranes using an "electrochemical ion (proton) pump cell" mode of scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM). Targeting regions that are free from visible macroscopic defects (e.g., cracks, holes, etc.) and assessing hundreds to thousands of different sites across the graphene surfaces in a typical experiment, we find that most of the CVD graphene|Nafion membrane is impermeable to proton transport, with transmission typically occurring at ≈20-60 localized sites across a ≈0.003 mm2 area of the membrane (>5000 measurements total). When localized proton transport occurs, it can be a highly dynamic process, with additional transmission sites "opening" and a small number of sites "closing" under an applied electric field on the seconds time scale. Applying a simple equivalent circuit model of ion transport through a cylindrical nanopore, the local transmission sites are estimated to possess dimensions (radii) on the (sub)nanometer scale, implying that rare atomic defects are responsible for proton conductance. Overall, this work reinforces SECCM as a premier tool for the structure-property mapping of microscopically complex (electro)materials, with the local ion-flux mapping configuration introduced herein being widely applicable for functional membrane characterization and beyond, for example in diagnosing the failure mechanisms of protective surface coatings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron L. Bentley
- School
of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Minkyung Kang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Saheed Bukola
- Department
of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, United States
| | - Stephen E. Creager
- Department
of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, United States
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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21
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Wahab O, Kang M, Meloni GN, Daviddi E, Unwin PR. Nanoscale Visualization of Electrochemical Activity at Indium Tin Oxide Electrodes. Anal Chem 2022; 94:4729-4736. [PMID: 35255211 PMCID: PMC9007413 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c05168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Indium tin oxide (ITO) is a popular electrode choice, with diverse applications in (photo)electrocatalysis, organic photovoltaics, spectroelectrochemistry and sensing, and as a support for cell biology studies. Although ITO surfaces exhibit heterogeneous local electrical conductivity, little is known as to how this translates to electrochemistry at the same scale. This work investigates nanoscale electrochemistry at ITO electrodes using high-resolution scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM). The nominally fast outer-sphere one-electron oxidation of 1,1'-ferrocenedimethanol (FcDM) is used as an electron transfer (ET) kinetic marker to reveal the charge transfer properties of the ITO/electrolyte interface. SECCM measures spatially resolved linear sweep voltammetry at an array of points across the ITO surface, with the topography measured synchronously. Presentation of SECCM data as current maps as a function of potential reveals that, while the entire surface of ITO is electroactive, the ET activity is highly spatially heterogeneous. Kinetic parameters (standard rate constant, k0, and transfer coefficient, α) for FcDM0/+ are assigned from 7200 measurements at sites across the ITO surface using finite element method modeling. Differences of 3 orders of magnitude in k0 are revealed, and the average k0 is about 20 times larger than that measured at the macroscale. This is attributed to macroscale ET being largely limited by lateral conductivity of the ITO electrode under electrochemical operation, rather than ET kinetics at the ITO/electrolyte interface, as measured by SECCM. This study further demonstrates the considerable power of SECCM for direct nanoscale characterization of electrochemical processes at complex electrode surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwasegun
J. Wahab
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Minkyung Kang
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
- Institute
for Frontier Materials Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Gabriel N. Meloni
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico Daviddi
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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22
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McKenzie ECR, Hosseini S, Petro AGC, Rudman KK, Gerroll BHR, Mubarak MS, Baker LA, Little RD. Versatile Tools for Understanding Electrosynthetic Mechanisms. Chem Rev 2021; 122:3292-3335. [PMID: 34919393 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Electrosynthesis is a popular, green alternative to traditional organic methods. Understanding the mechanisms is not trivial yet is necessary to optimize reaction processes. To this end, a multitude of analytical tools is available to identify and quantitate reaction products and intermediates. The first portion of this review serves as a guide that underscores electrosynthesis fundamentals, including instrumentation, electrode selection, impacts of electrolyte and solvent, cell configuration, and methods of electrosynthesis. Next, the broad base of analytical techniques that aid in mechanism elucidation are covered in detail. These methods are divided into electrochemical, spectroscopic, chromatographic, microscopic, and computational. Technique selection is dependent on predicted reaction pathways and electrogenerated intermediates. Often, a combination of techniques must be utilized to ensure accuracy of the proposed model. To conclude, future prospects that aim to enhance the field are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric C R McKenzie
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Seyyedamirhossein Hosseini
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, 315 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Ana G Couto Petro
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Kelly K Rudman
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Benjamin H R Gerroll
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | | | - Lane A Baker
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - R Daniel Little
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Santa Barbara, Building 232, Santa Barbara, California 93106, United States
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23
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Valavanis D, Ciocci P, Meloni GN, Morris P, Lemineur JF, McPherson IJ, Kanoufi F, Unwin PR. Hybrid scanning electrochemical cell microscopy-interference reflection microscopy (SECCM-IRM): tracking phase formation on surfaces in small volumes. Faraday Discuss 2021; 233:122-148. [PMID: 34909815 DOI: 10.1039/d1fd00063b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
We describe the combination of scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) and interference reflection microscopy (IRM) to produce a compelling technique for the study of interfacial processes and to track the SECCM meniscus status in real-time. SECCM allows reactions to be confined to well defined nm-to-μm-sized regions of a surface, and for experiments to be repeated quickly and easily at multiple locations. IRM is a highly surface-sensitive technique which reveals processes happening (very) close to a substrate with temporal and spatial resolution commensurate with typical electrochemical techniques. By using thin transparent conductive layers on glass as substrates, IRM can be coupled to SECCM, to allow real-time in situ optical monitoring of the SECCM meniscus and of processes that occur within it at the electrode/electrolyte interface. We first use the technique to assess the stability of the SECCM meniscus during voltammetry at an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode at close to neutral pH, demonstrating that the meniscus contact area is rather stable over a large potential window and reproducible, varying by only ca. 5% over different SECCM approaches. At high cathodic potentials, subtle electrowetting is easily detected and quantified. We also look inside the meniscus to reveal surface changes at extreme cathodic potentials, assigned to the possible formation of indium nanoparticles. Finally, we examine the effect of meniscus size and driving potential on CaCO3 precipitation at the ITO electrode as a result of electrochemically-generated pH swings. We are able to track the number, spatial distribution and morphology of material with high spatiotemporal resolution and rationalise some of the observed deposition patterns with finite element method modelling of reactive-transport. Growth of solid phases on surfaces from solution is an important pathway to functional materials and SECCM-IRM provides a means for in situ or in operando visualisation and tracking of these processes with improved fidelity. We anticipate that this technique will be particularly powerful for the study of phase formation processes, especially as the high throughput nature of SECCM-IRM (where each spot is a separate experiment) will allow for the creation of large datasets, exploring a wide experimental parameter landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolo Ciocci
- Université de Paris, ITODYS, CNRS, F-75006 Paris, France.
| | - Gabriel N Meloni
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | - Peter Morris
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | | | - Ian J McPherson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
| | | | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
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24
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Liu DQ, Kang M, Perry D, Chen CH, West G, Xia X, Chaudhuri S, Laker ZPL, Wilson NR, Meloni GN, Melander MM, Maurer RJ, Unwin PR. Adiabatic versus non-adiabatic electron transfer at 2D electrode materials. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7110. [PMID: 34876571 PMCID: PMC8651748 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27339-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
2D electrode materials are often deployed on conductive supports for electrochemistry and there is a great need to understand fundamental electrochemical processes in this electrode configuration. Here, an integrated experimental-theoretical approach is used to resolve the key electronic interactions in outer-sphere electron transfer (OS-ET), a cornerstone elementary electrochemical reaction, at graphene as-grown on a copper electrode. Using scanning electrochemical cell microscopy, and co-located structural microscopy, the classical hexaamineruthenium (III/II) couple shows the ET kinetics trend: monolayer > bilayer > multilayer graphene. This trend is rationalized quantitatively through the development of rate theory, using the Schmickler-Newns-Anderson model Hamiltonian for ET, with the explicit incorporation of electrostatic interactions in the double layer, and parameterized using constant potential density functional theory calculations. The ET mechanism is predominantly adiabatic; the addition of subsequent graphene layers increases the contact potential, producing an increase in the effective barrier to ET at the electrode/electrolyte interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan-Qing Liu
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK ,grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XSchool of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310007 China
| | - Minkyung Kang
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK ,grid.1021.20000 0001 0526 7079Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217 Australia
| | - David Perry
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Chang-Hui Chen
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Geoff West
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Xue Xia
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Shayantan Chaudhuri
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK ,grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Centre for Doctoral Training in Diamond Science and Technology, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Zachary P. L. Laker
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Neil R. Wilson
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Gabriel N. Meloni
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Marko M. Melander
- grid.9681.60000 0001 1013 7965Department of Chemistry, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, (YN) FI-40014 Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Reinhard J. Maurer
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL UK
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25
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Martín‐Yerga D, Kang M, Unwin PR. Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy in a Glovebox: Structure‐Activity Correlations in the Early Stages of Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase Formation on Graphite. ChemElectroChem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/celc.202101161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Martín‐Yerga
- Department of Chemistry University of Warwick Coventry CV47AL United Kingdom
- The Faraday Institution Quad One, Harwell Campus Didcot OX11 0RA United Kingdom
| | - Minkyung Kang
- Department of Chemistry University of Warwick Coventry CV47AL United Kingdom
- Institute for Frontier Materials Deakin University Burwood VIC 3125 Australia
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department of Chemistry University of Warwick Coventry CV47AL United Kingdom
- The Faraday Institution Quad One, Harwell Campus Didcot OX11 0RA United Kingdom
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26
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Abstract
Scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) has emerged as a versatile tool for studies of interfaces in biology and materials science with notable utility in biophysical and electrochemical measurements. The heart of the SICM is a nanometer-scale electrolyte filled glass pipette that serves as a scanning probe. In the initial conception, manipulations of ion currents through the tip of the pipette and appropriate positioning hardware provided a route to recording micro- and nanoscopic mapping of the topography of surfaces. Subsequent advances in instrumentation, probe design, and methods significantly increased opportunities for SICM beyond recording topography. Hybridization of SICM with coincident characterization techniques such as optical microscopy and faradaic electrodes have brought SICM to the forefront as a tool for nanoscale chemical measurement for a wide range of applications. Modern approaches to SICM realize an important tool in analytical, bioanalytical, biophysical, and materials measurements, where significant opportunities remain for further exploration. In this review, we chronicle the development of SICM from the perspective of both the development of instrumentation and methods and the breadth of measurements performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhu
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Kaixiang Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Natasha P Siepser
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
| | - Lane A Baker
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, United States
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27
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Tetteh EB, Banko L, Krysiak OA, Löffler T, Xiao B, Varhade S, Schumacher S, Savan A, Andronescu C, Ludwig A, Schuhmann W. Zooming‐in – Visualization of active site heterogeneity in high entropy alloy electrocatalysts using scanning electrochemical cell microscopy. ELECTROCHEMICAL SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/elsa.202100105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Batsa Tetteh
- Analytical Chemistry – Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Lars Banko
- Chair for Materials Discovery and Interfaces, Institute for Materials Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Olga A. Krysiak
- Analytical Chemistry – Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Tobias Löffler
- Analytical Chemistry – Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
- Chair for Materials Discovery and Interfaces, Institute for Materials Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
- ZGH Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Bin Xiao
- Chair for Materials Discovery and Interfaces, Institute for Materials Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Swapnil Varhade
- Analytical Chemistry – Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Simon Schumacher
- Technical Chemistry III and CENIDE Center for Nanointegration Faculty of Chemistry University of Duisburg‐Essen Carl‐Benz‐Straße 199 Duisburg Germany
| | - Alan Savan
- Chair for Materials Discovery and Interfaces, Institute for Materials Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Corina Andronescu
- Technical Chemistry III and CENIDE Center for Nanointegration Faculty of Chemistry University of Duisburg‐Essen Carl‐Benz‐Straße 199 Duisburg Germany
| | - Alfred Ludwig
- Chair for Materials Discovery and Interfaces, Institute for Materials Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
- ZGH Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
| | - Wolfgang Schuhmann
- Analytical Chemistry – Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry Ruhr University Bochum Universitätsstraße 150 Bochum Germany
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28
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Walker NL, Dick JE. Leakless, Bipolar Reference Electrodes: Fabrication, Performance, and Miniaturization. Anal Chem 2021; 93:10065-10074. [PMID: 34263595 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c00675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Reference electrodes must maintain a well-defined potential for long periods of time to be useful. The silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) reference electrode is arguably the most widely used reference electrode, but it leaks silver and chloride ions into the sample solution through the porous frit over time. Further, the porous frit makes miniaturization to the micro- and nanoscale challenging. Here, we present an alternative, where the traditional Ag/AgCl reference electrode porous frit is replaced by a conductive wire, preventing ion leakage and allowing miniaturization to the microscale. Charge balance is maintained through a closed bipolar electrochemical mechanism, where faradaic processes occur on each end of the sealed wire. Using the above design, we demonstrate the efficacy of the leakless, bipolar reference electrode (BPRE) and miniaturize it to the microscale (μ-leakless BPRE). Importantly, we demonstrate that leakless and μ-leakless BPREs behave the same as commercial reference electrodes during potentiometric measurements and leakless BPREs perform similarly during voltammetric measurements on ultramicroelectrodes. We demonstrate that the drift during voltammetry using a leakless BPRE on a macroelectrode is slightly more appreciable compared to the drift seen with a commercial reference electrode. We detail design principles for the use of leakless BPREs in nonaqueous solvents and in sealing other conductive materials (e.g., gold and carbon). Using mass spectrometry, we show that the maximum leakage of methylene blue is 0.36 fmol/s, at least 2 orders of magnitude smaller than that of commercial reference electrodes. Finally, we demonstrate the efficacy of using leakless BPREs in potentiometric glucose sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole L Walker
- Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599 Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
| | - Jeffrey E Dick
- Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599 Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States.,Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599 Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
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29
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Li Y, Morel A, Gallant D, Mauzeroll J. Ag + Interference from Ag/AgCl Wire Quasi-Reference Counter Electrode Inducing Corrosion Potential Shift in an Oil-Immersed Scanning Micropipette Contact Method Measurement. Anal Chem 2021; 93:9657-9662. [PMID: 34236831 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c01045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative scanning micropipette contact method measurements are subject to the deleterious effects of reference electrode interference. The commonly used Ag/AgCl wire quasi-reference counter electrode in the miniaturized electrochemical cell of the scanning micropipette contact method was found to leak Ag+ into the electrolyte solution. The reduction of these Ag+ species at the working electrode surface generates a faradaic current, which significantly affects the low magnitude currents inherently measured in the scanning micropipette contact method. We demonstrate that, during the microscopic corrosion investigation of the AA7075-T73 alloy using the oil-immersed scanning micropipette contact method, the cathodic current was increased by the Ag+ reduction, resulting in positive shifts of corrosion potentials. The use of a leak-free Ag/AgCl electrode or an extended distance between the Ag/AgCl wire and micropipette tip droplet eliminated the Ag+ contamination, making it possible to measure accurate corrosion potentials during the oil-immersed scanning micropipette contact method measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjiao Li
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0B8, Canada
| | - Alban Morel
- Automotive and Surface Transportation Research Centre, Division of Transportation and Manufacturing, National Research Council Canada, Aluminum Technology Center, 501 University Blvd. East, Saguenay, Quebec G7H 8C3, Canada
| | - Danick Gallant
- Automotive and Surface Transportation Research Centre, Division of Transportation and Manufacturing, National Research Council Canada, Aluminum Technology Center, 501 University Blvd. East, Saguenay, Quebec G7H 8C3, Canada
| | - Janine Mauzeroll
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0B8, Canada
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30
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Tian Y, Zhao J, Han D, Zhao S, Zhang Y, Cui G. Study of a novel fabrication method of 3D Ag-based nanoporous structures for electrochemical detection. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2021.114990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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31
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Daviddi E, Shkirskiy V, Kirkman PM, Robin MP, Bentley CL, Unwin PR. Nanoscale electrochemistry in a copper/aqueous/oil three-phase system: surface structure-activity-corrosion potential relationships. Chem Sci 2020; 12:3055-3069. [PMID: 34164075 PMCID: PMC8179364 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc06516a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Practically important metal electrodes are usually polycrystalline, comprising surface grains of many different crystallographic orientations, as well as grain boundaries. In this study, scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) is applied in tandem with co-located electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) to give a holistic view of the relationship between the surface structure and the electrochemical activity and corrosion susceptibility of polycrystalline Cu. An unusual aqueous nanodroplet/oil (dodecane)/metal three-phase configuration is employed, which opens up new prospects for fundamental studies of multiphase electrochemical systems, and mimics the environment of corrosion in certain industrial and automotive applications. In this configuration, the nanodroplet formed at the end of the SECCM probe (nanopipette) is surrounded by dodecane, which acts as a reservoir for oil-soluble species (e.g., O2) and can give rise to enhanced flux(es) across the immiscible liquid–liquid interface, as shown by finite element method (FEM) simulations. This unique three-phase configuration is used to fingerprint nanoscale corrosion in a nanodroplet cell, and to analyse the interrelationship between the Cu oxidation, Cu2+ deposition and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) processes, together with nanoscale open circuit (corrosion) potential, in a grain-by-grain manner. Complex patterns of surface reactivity highlight the important role of grains of high-index orientation and microscopic surface defects (e.g., microscratches) in modulating the corrosion-properties of polycrystalline Cu. This work provides a roadmap for in-depth surface structure–function studies in (electro)materials science and highlights how small variations in surface structure (e.g., crystallographic orientation) can give rise to large differences in nanoscale reactivity. Probing Cu corrosion in an aqueous nanodroplet/oil/metal three-phase environment revealed unique patterns of surface reactivity. The electrochemistry of high-index facets cannot be predicted simply from the low-index {001}, {011} and {111} responses.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Daviddi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL UK
| | | | | | | | - Cameron L Bentley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL UK .,School of Chemistry, Monash University Clayton Victoria 3800 Australia
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL UK
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32
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Sequential Photodamage Driven by Chaotic Systems in NiO Thin Films and Fluorescent Human Cells. Processes (Basel) 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/pr8111377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A laser ablation process assisted by the feedback of a sensor with chaotic electronic modulation is reported. A synchronous bistable logic circuit was analyzed for switching optical signals in a laser-processing technique. The output of a T-type flip-flop configuration was employed in the photodamage of NiO films. Multiphotonic effects involved in the ablation threshold were evaluated by a vectorial two-wave mixing method. A photoinduced thermal phenomenon was identified as the main physical mechanism responsible for the nonlinearity of index under nanosecond irradiation at 532 nm wavelength. Comparative experiments for destroying highly transparent human cells were carried out. Potential applications for developing hierarchical functions yielding laser-induced controlled explosions with immediate applications for biomedical photothermal processes can be contemplated.
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33
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Bentley CL, Agoston R, Tao B, Walker M, Xu X, O'Mullane AP, Unwin PR. Correlating the Local Electrocatalytic Activity of Amorphous Molybdenum Sulfide Thin Films with Microscopic Composition, Structure, and Porosity. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:44307-44316. [PMID: 32880446 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c11759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Thin-film electrodes, produced by coating a conductive support with a thin layer (nanometer to micrometer) of active material, retain the unique properties of nanomaterials (e.g., activity, surface area, conductivity, etc.) while being economically scalable, making them highly desirable as electrocatalysts. Despite the ever-increasing methods of thin-film deposition (e.g., wet chemical synthesis, electrodeposition, chemical vapor deposition, etc.), there is insufficient understanding on the nanoscale electrochemical activity of these materials in relation to structure/composition, particularly for those that lack long-range order (i.e., amorphous thin-film materials). In this work, scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) is deployed in tandem with complementary, colocated compositional/structural analysis to understand the microscopic factors governing the electrochemical activity of amorphous molybdenum sulfide (a-MoSx) thin films, a promising class of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst. The a-MoSx thin films, produced under ambient conditions by electrodeposition, possess spatially heterogeneous electrocatalytic activity on the tens-of-micrometer scale, which is not attributable to microscopic variations in elemental composition or chemical structure (i.e., Mo and/or S bonding environments), shown through colocated, local energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. A new SECCM protocol is implemented to directly correlate electrochemical activity to the electrochemical surface area (ECSA) in a single measurement, revealing that the spatially heterogeneous HER response of a-MoSx is predominantly attributable to variations in the nanoscale porosity of the thin film, with surface roughness ruled out as a major contributing factor by complementary atomic force microscopy (AFM). As microscopic composition, structure, and porosity (ECSA) are all critical factors dictating the functional properties of nanostructured materials in electrocatalysis and beyond (e.g., battery materials, electrochemical sensors, etc.), this work further cements SECCM as a premier tool for structure-function studies in (electro)materials science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron L Bentley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Roland Agoston
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
| | - Binglin Tao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Marc Walker
- Department of Physics, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Xiangdong Xu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Anthony P O'Mullane
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
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34
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Yule LC, Daviddi E, West G, Bentley CL, Unwin PR. Surface microstructural controls on electrochemical hydrogen absorption at polycrystalline palladium. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2020.114047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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35
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Li Y, Morel A, Gallant D, Mauzeroll J. Oil-Immersed Scanning Micropipette Contact Method Enabling Long-term Corrosion Mapping. Anal Chem 2020; 92:12415-12422. [PMID: 32786459 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This work reports the development of an oil-immersed scanning micropipette contact method, a variant of the scanning micropipette contact method, where a thin layer of oil wets the investigated substrate. The oil-immersed scanning micropipette contact method significantly increases the droplet stability, allowing for prolonged mapping and the use of highly evaporative saline solutions regardless of ambient humidity levels. This systematic mapping technique was used to conduct a detailed investigation of localized corrosion taking place at the surface of an AA7075-T73 aluminum alloy in a 3.5 wt % NaCl electrolyte solution, which is typically challenging in the conventional scanning micropipette contact method. Maps of corrosion potentials and corrosion currents extracted from potentiodynamic polarization curves showed good correlations with the chemical composition of surface features and known galvanic interactions at the microscale level. This demonstrates the viability of the oil-immersed scanning micropipette contact method and opens up the avenue to mechanistic corrosion investigations at the microscale level using aqueous solutions that are prone to evaporation under noncontrolled humidity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjiao Li
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, H3A 0B8 Quebec, Canada
| | - Alban Morel
- Automotive and Surface Transportation Research Centre, Division of Transportation and Manufacturing, National Research Council Canada, 75 de Mortagne Blvd, Boucherville, J4B 6Y4 Quebec, Canada
| | - Danick Gallant
- Automotive and Surface Transportation Research Centre, Division of Transportation and Manufacturing, Aluminum Technology Center, National Research Council Canada, 501 University Blvd East, Saguenay, G7H 8C3 Quebec, Canada
| | - Janine Mauzeroll
- Department of Chemistry, McGill University, 801 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, H3A 0B8 Quebec, Canada
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36
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Shkirskiy V, Kang M, McPherson IJ, Bentley CL, Wahab OJ, Daviddi E, Colburn AW, Unwin PR. Electrochemical Impedance Measurements in Scanning Ion Conductance Microscopy. Anal Chem 2020; 92:12509-12517. [PMID: 32786472 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a versatile tool for electrochemistry, particularly when applied locally to reveal the properties and dynamics of heterogeneous interfaces. A new method to generate local electrochemical impedance spectra is outlined, by applying a harmonic bias between a quasi-reference counter electrode (QRCE) placed in a nanopipet tip of a scanning ion conductance microscope (SICM) and a conductive (working electrode) substrate (two-electrode setup). The AC frequency can be tuned so that the magnitude of the impedance is sensitive to the tip-to-substrate distance, whereas the phase angle is broadly defined by the local capacitive response of the electrical double layer (EDL) of the working electrode. This development enables the surface topography and the local capacitance to be sensed reliably, and separately, in a single measurement. Further, self-referencing the probe impedance near the surface to that in the bulk solution allows the local capacitive response of the working electrode substrate in the overall AC signal to be determined, establishing a quantitative footing for the methodology. The spatial resolution of AC-SICM is an order of magnitude larger than the tip size (100 nm radius), for the studies herein, due to frequency dispersion. Comprehensive finite element method (FEM) modeling is undertaken to optimize the experimental conditions and minimize the experimental artifacts originating from the frequency dispersion phenomenon, and provides an avenue to explore the means by which the spatial resolution could be further improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viacheslav Shkirskiy
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Minkyung Kang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Ian J McPherson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Cameron L Bentley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Oluwasegun J Wahab
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico Daviddi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Alex W Colburn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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37
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Bentley CL, Kang M, Unwin PR. Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy (SECCM) in Aprotic Solvents: Practical Considerations and Applications. Anal Chem 2020; 92:11673-11680. [PMID: 32521997 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c01540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Many applications in modern electrochemistry, notably electrosynthesis and energy storage/conversion take advantage of the "tunable" physicochemical properties (e.g., proton availability and/or electrochemical stability) of nonaqueous (e.g., aprotic) electrolyte media. This work develops general guidelines pertaining to the use of scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) in aprotic solvent electrolyte media to address contemporary structure-electrochemical activity problems. Using the simple outer-sphere Fc0/+ process (Fc = ferrocene) as a model system, high boiling point (low vapor pressure) solvents give rise to highly robust and reproducible electrochemistry, whereas volatile (low boiling point) solvents need to be mixed with suitable low melting point supporting electrolytes (e.g., ionic liquids) or high boiling point solvents to avoid complications associated with salt precipitation/crystallization on the scanning (minutes to hours) time scale. When applied to perform microfabrication-specifically the electrosynthesis of the conductive polymer, polypyrrole-the optimized SECCM set up produces highly reproducible arrays of synthesized (electrodeposited) material on a commensurate scale to the employed pipet probe. Applying SECCM to map electrocatalytic activity-specifically the electro-oxidation of iodide at polycrystalline platinum-reveals unique (i.e., structure-dependent) patterns of surface activity, with grains of specific crystallographic orientation, grain boundaries and areas of high local surface misorientation identified as potential electrocatalytic "hot spots". The work herein further cements SECCM as a premier technique for structure-function-activity studies in (electro)materials science and will open up exciting new possibilities through the use of aprotic solvents for rational analysis/design in electrosynthesis, microfabrication, electrochemical energy storage/conversion, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron L Bentley
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Minkyung Kang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K
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38
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Jiao Y, Zhuang J, Zheng Q, Liao X. A High Accuracy Ion Conductance Imaging Method Based on the Approach Curve Spectrum. Ultramicroscopy 2020; 215:113025. [PMID: 32485394 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2020.113025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM), as an emerging non-contact in situ topography measurement tool with nano resolution, has been increasingly used in recent years in biomedicine, electrochemistry and materials science. In the conventional measurement method of SICM, the sample topography is constructed according to the position of the probe at the feedback threshold of the ion current. Nevertheless, for different structures, a constant threshold cannot maintain a constant probe-sample distance. This phenomenon makes the measurement topography inconsistent with the real sample surface. In order to solve this problem and improve the measurement accuracy of SICM, a new ion conductance imaging method based on the approach curve spectrum is proposed in this work. In the new method, the local feature around the measurement point is firstly evaluated according to the change rate of ion current. Secondly, based on the local feature, the corresponding approach curve is searched from the prior approach curve spectrum to accurately evaluate the distance between the probe and the sample. Finally, the sample topography is constructed by the probe position subtracting the probe-sample distance. In this paper, we verify the feasibility of the new imaging method by combining finite element theory and experiments. To examine the measurement accuracy, the standard strip silicon and cylindrical polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) samples are tested, and the improved imaging method can obtain the topography closer to the real samples and reduce the volumetric measurement error by 5.4%. The implementation of the new imaging method will further promote SICM application in related research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangbohan Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Modern Design Rotor-Bearing System, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Jian Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Modern Design Rotor-Bearing System, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Qiangqiang Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Modern Design Rotor-Bearing System, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Xiaobo Liao
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Modern Design Rotor-Bearing System, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China; School of Manufacturing Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Testing Technology for Manufacturing Process, Ministry of Education, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China
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39
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Gao R, Edwards MA, Qiu Y, Barman K, White HS. Visualization of Hydrogen Evolution at Individual Platinum Nanoparticles at a Buried Interface. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:8890-8896. [DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c02202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Gao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Martin A. Edwards
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Yinghua Qiu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Koushik Barman
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
| | - Henry S. White
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah 84112, United States
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40
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Daviddi E, Chen Z, Beam Massani B, Lee J, Bentley CL, Unwin PR, Ratcliff EL. Nanoscale Visualization and Multiscale Electrochemical Analysis of Conductive Polymer Electrodes. ACS NANO 2019; 13:13271-13284. [PMID: 31674763 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b06302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Conductive polymers are exceptionally promising for modular electrochemical applications including chemical sensors, bioelectronics, redox-flow batteries, and photoelectrochemical systems due to considerable synthetic tunability and ease of processing. Despite well-established structural heterogeneity in these systems, conventional macroscopic electroanalytical methods-specifically cyclic voltammetry-are typically used as the primary tool for structure-property elucidation. This work presents an alternative correlative multimicroscopy strategy. Data from laboratory and synchrotron-based microspectroscopies, including conducting-atomic force microscopy and synchrotron nanoscale infrared spectroscopy, are combined with potentiodynamic movies of electrochemical fluxes from scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) to reveal the relationship between electrode structure and activity. A model conductive polymer electrode system of tailored heterogeneity is investigated, consisting of phase-segregated domains of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) surrounded by contiguous regions of insulating poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), representing an ultramicroelectrode array. Isolated domains of P3HT are shown to retain bulk-like chemical and electronic structure when blended with PMMA and possess approximately equivalent electron-transfer rate constants compared to pure P3HT electrodes. The nanoscale electrochemical data are used to model and predict multiscale electrochemical behavior, revealing that macroscopic cyclic voltammograms should be much more kinetically facile than observed experimentally. This indicates that parasitic resistances rather than redox kinetics play a dominant role in macroscopic measurements in these conductive polymer systems. SECCM further demonstrates that the ambient degradation of the P3HT electroactivity within P3HT/PMMA blends is spatially heterogeneous. This work serves as a roadmap for benchmarking the quality of conductive polymer films as electrodes, emphasizing the importance of nanoscale electrochemical measurements in understanding macroscopic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Daviddi
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , United Kingdom
| | - Zhiting Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering , University of Arizona , Tucson , Arizona 85721 , United States
| | - Brooke Beam Massani
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , University of Arizona , Tucson , Arizona 85721 , United States
| | - Jaemin Lee
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , United Kingdom
| | - Cameron L Bentley
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , United Kingdom
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , United Kingdom
| | - Erin L Ratcliff
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering , University of Arizona , Tucson , Arizona 85721 , United States
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41
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Local electrochemistry of nickel (oxy)hydroxide material gradients prepared using bipolar electrodeposition. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2019.06.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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42
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Martín-Yerga D, Costa-García A, Unwin PR. Correlative Voltammetric Microscopy: Structure-Activity Relationships in the Microscopic Electrochemical Behavior of Screen Printed Carbon Electrodes. ACS Sens 2019; 4:2173-2180. [PMID: 31353890 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.9b01021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) are widely used for electrochemical sensors. However, little is known about their electrochemical behavior at the microscopic level. In this work, we use voltammetric scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM), with dual-channel probes, to determine the microscopic factors governing the electrochemical response of SPCEs. SECCM cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements are performed directly in hundreds of different locations of SPCEs, with high spatial resolution, using a submicrometer sized probe. Further, the localized electrode activity is spatially correlated to colocated surface structure information from scanning electron microscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy. This approach is applied to two model electrochemical processes: hexaammineruthenium(III/II) ([Ru(NH3)6]3+/2+), a well-known outer-sphere redox couple, and dopamine (DA), which undergoes a more complex electron-proton coupled electro-oxidation, with complications from adsorption of both DA and side-products. The electrochemical reduction of [Ru(NH3)6]3+ proceeds fairly uniformly across the surface of SPCEs on the submicrometer scale. In contrast, DA electro-oxidation shows a strong dependence on the microstructure of the SPCE. By studying this process at different concentrations of DA, the relative contributions of (i) intrinsic electrode kinetics and (ii) adsorption of DA are elucidated in detail, as a function of local electrode character and surface structure. These studies provide major new insights on the electrochemical activity of SPCEs and further position voltammetric SECCM as a powerful technique for the electrochemical imaging of complex, heterogeneous, and topographically rough electrode surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Martín-Yerga
- Department of Physical and Analytical Chemistry, University of Oviedo, Julián Clavería, Oviedo 33006, Spain
| | - Agustín Costa-García
- Department of Physical and Analytical Chemistry, University of Oviedo, Julián Clavería, Oviedo 33006, Spain
| | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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An ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical platform for quantifying photoinduced electron-transfer properties of a single entity. Nat Protoc 2019; 14:2672-2690. [PMID: 31391579 DOI: 10.1038/s41596-019-0197-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the photoinduced electron-transfer process is of paramount importance for realizing efficient solar energy conversion. It is rather difficult to clarify the link between the specific properties and the photoelectrochemical performance of an individual component in an ensemble system because data are usually presented as averages because of interplay of the heterogeneity of the bulk system. Here, we report a step-by-step protocol to fabricate an ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical platform for real-time detection of the intrinsic photoelectrochemical behaviors of a single entity with picoampere and sub-millisecond sensitivity. Using a micron-thickness nanoparticulate TiO2-filmed Au ultramicroelectrode (UME) as the electron-transport electrode, photocurrent transients can be observed for each individual dye-tagged oxide semiconductor nanoparticle collision associated with a single-entity photoelectrochemical reaction. This protocol allows researchers to obtain high-resolution photocurrent signals to quantify the photoinduced electron-transfer properties of an individual entity, as well as to precisely process the data obtained. We also include procedures for dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging and collision frequency-concentration correlation to confirm that the photoelectrochemical collision events occur at an unambiguously single-entity level. The time required for the entire protocol is ~36 h, with a single-entity photoelectrochemical measurement taking <1 h to complete for each independent experiment. This protocol requires basic nanoelectrochemistry and nanotechnology skills, as well as an intermediate-level understanding of photoelectrochemistry.
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Daviddi E, Gonos KL, Colburn AW, Bentley CL, Unwin PR. Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy (SECCM) Chronopotentiometry: Development and Applications in Electroanalysis and Electrocatalysis. Anal Chem 2019; 91:9229-9237. [PMID: 31251561 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.9b02091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) has been applied for nanoscale (electro)activity mapping in a range of electrochemical systems but so far has almost exclusively been performed in controlled-potential (amperometric/voltammetric) modes. Herein, we consider the use of SECCM operated in a controlled-current (galvanostatic or chronopotentiometric) mode, to synchronously obtain spatially resolved electrode potential (i.e., electrochemical activity) and topographical "maps". This technique is first applied, as proof of concept, to study the electrochemically reversible [Ru(NH3)6]3+/2+ electron transfer process at a glassy carbon electrode surface, where the experimental data are in good agreement with well-established chronopotentiometric theory under quasi-radial diffusion conditions. The [Ru(NH3)6]3+/2+ process has also been imaged at "aged" highly ordered pyrolytic graphite (HOPG), where apparently enhanced electrochemical activity is measured at the edge plane relative to the basal plane surface, consistent with potentiostatic measurements. Finally, chronopotentiometric SECCM has been employed to benchmark a promising electrocatalytic system, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), where higher electrocatalytic activity (i.e., lower overpotential at a current density of 2 mA cm-2) is observed at the edge plane compared to the basal plane surface. These results are in excellent agreement with previous controlled-potential SECCM studies, confirming the viability of the technique and thereby opening up new possibilities for the use of chronopotentiometric methods for quantitative electroanalysis at the nanoscale, with promising applications in energy storage (battery) studies, electrocatalyst benchmarking, and corrosion research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Daviddi
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , U.K
| | - Katerina L Gonos
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , U.K
| | - Alex W Colburn
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , U.K
| | - Cameron L Bentley
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , U.K
| | - Patrick R Unwin
- Department of Chemistry , University of Warwick , Coventry CV4 7AL , U.K
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Patrice FT, Qiu K, Ying YL, Long YT. Single Nanoparticle Electrochemistry. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2019; 12:347-370. [PMID: 31018101 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-061318-114902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Experimental techniques to monitor and visualize the behaviors of single nanoparticles have not only revealed the significant spatial and temporal heterogeneity of those individuals, which are hidden in ensemble methods, but more importantly, they have also enabled researchers to elucidate the origin of such heterogeneity. In pursuing the intrinsic structure-function relations of single nanoparticles, the recently developed stochastic collision approach demonstrated some early promise. However, it was later realized that the appropriate sizing of a single nanoparticle by an electrochemical method could be far more challenging than initially expected owing to the dynamic motion of nanoparticles in electrolytes and complex charge-transfer characteristics at electrode surfaces. This clearly indicates a strong necessity to integrate single nanoparticle electrochemistry with high-resolution optical microscopy. Hence, this review aims to give a timely update of the latest progress for both electrochemically sensing and seeing single nanoparticles. A major focus is on collision-based measurements, where nanoparticles or single entities in solution impact on a collector electrode and the electrochemical response is recorded. These measurements are further enhanced with optical measurements in parallel. For completeness, advances in other related methods for single nanoparticle electrochemistry are also included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fato Tano Patrice
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; ;
| | - Kaipei Qiu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; ;
| | - Yi-Lun Ying
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; ;
| | - Yi-Tao Long
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; ;
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
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Yule LC, Bentley CL, West G, Shollock BA, Unwin PR. Scanning electrochemical cell microscopy: A versatile method for highly localised corrosion related measurements on metal surfaces. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.12.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Lobo CM, Gomes BF, Bouzouma H, Danieli E, Blümich B, Colnago LA. Improving in operando low field NMR copper electrodeposition analyses using inductively coupled coils. Electrochim Acta 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2018.12.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Walmsley JD, Hill JW, Saha P, Hill CM. Probing Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction at Individual Cu Nanostructures via Optically Targeted Electrochemical Cell Microscopy. JOURNAL OF ANALYSIS AND TESTING 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41664-019-00090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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49
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Auer A, Kunze-Liebhäuser J. A universal quasi-reference electrode for in situ EC-STM. Electrochem commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.elecom.2018.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Bentley CL, Edmondson J, Meloni GN, Perry D, Shkirskiy V, Unwin PR. Nanoscale Electrochemical Mapping. Anal Chem 2018; 91:84-108. [PMID: 30500157 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.8b05235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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