Electrochemical AFM/STM with a qPlus sensor: A versatile tool to study solid-liquid interfaces

Area of Science:

• Surface science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) offer high spatial resolution.
• Simultaneous AFM/STM requires specialized instrumentation for complex environments.
• Electrochemical interfaces present unique challenges for nanoscale imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel combined AFM/STM instrument for electrochemical applications.
• To demonstrate atomic resolution imaging at electrochemical interfaces.
• To investigate interfacial water structure and electrochemical interface properties.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a qPlus sensor for AFM/STM tip integration.
• Developed a home-built potentiostat for electrochemical control.
• Performed simultaneous AFM/STM imaging in acidic electrolytes.

Main Results:

• Achieved atomic resolution imaging of graphite in acidic electrolytes.
• Demonstrated precise measurement of interfacial solvent layering.
• Showcased potential-dependent solvent structure analysis.

Conclusions:

• The developed AFM/STM instrument enables unprecedented insights into electrochemical interfaces.
• This technology facilitates detailed studies of interfacial water and surface structure.
• Opens new avenues for understanding electrochemical processes at the nanoscale.