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In situ electrochemistry inside a TEM with controlled mass transport
Anne France Beker1, Hongyu Sun, Mathilde Lemang
1DENSsolutions B.V., Informaticalaan 12, 2628 ZD, Delft, The Netherlands. hugo.perez@denssolutions.com.
Nanoscale
|November 2, 2020
Summary
This study presents a new in situ platform for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) enabling precise control over liquid environments for electrochemical studies. This breakthrough enhances reproducibility and allows for atomic-level imaging of electrodeposition processes.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Electrochemistry offers solutions for energy and environmental challenges through batteries, fuel cells, and catalysts.
- In situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is crucial for observing functional and structural changes.
- Current limitations include poor reproducibility in controlling liquid environments during TEM analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel platform for in situ electrochemical studies within a TEM.
- To enable precise control over liquid flow and electric potential for enhanced reproducibility.
- To achieve atomic resolution imaging and elemental mapping of electrochemical processes.
Main Methods:
- A pressure-driven flow system integrated into a TEM.
- Capability to control liquid flow direction and ensure consistent passage through the region of interest.
- Electrodeposition of copper dendrites with controlled electric potential and mass transport.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated reliable electric potential control during copper dendrite electrodeposition.
- Successfully modified copper dendrite morphology by tuning mass transport conditions.
- Achieved atomic resolution (2.15 Å) and elemental mapping at a liquid thickness of approximately 100 nm.
Conclusions:
- The developed platform significantly improves reproducibility in in situ electrochemical TEM studies.
- Precise control over mass transport and electric potential provides access to full redox reaction kinetics.
- The system enables high-resolution imaging and elemental analysis of nanoscale electrochemical phenomena.
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