Operando Microscopy of Model Electrocatalysts during Oxygen Evolution Reaction

Abstract

In situ characterization of electrochemical processes in model materials are central to fundamental electrochemistry as they provide precise potential-dependent quantities that can be used to accurately assess theoretical models and predictions. As such, structural evolution of materials under highly oxidizing conditions represents a particular challenge. To gain the necessary insight into the surface and bulk behavior, one should combine advanced in situ characterization techniques with well-defined materials that are essential for modeling.In this talk, I will discuss how a combination of in situ microscopy techniques can provide insight into the surface and bulk behavior of electrocatalysts during electrocatalytic water splitting (OER). Specifically, I will show how operando electrochemical atomic force microscopy (EC-AFM) can be used to record nanoscale changes in the surface morphology during anodic corrosion of the perovskite SrIrO3 surface. I will also discuss how operando EC-AFM can be combined with operando transmission X-ray microscopy and scanning electrochemical cell technique to probe the evolution and reactivity of single particles of Co(OH)2.