Simple construction of an infrared optically transparent thin-layer electrochemical cell: Applications to the redox reactions of ferrocene, Mn 2(CO) 10 and Mn(CO) 3(3,5-di-t-butyl-catecholate) −

Abstract

A limited number of IR optically transparent thin-layer electrochemical (OTTLE) cell constructions containing a three-electrode system inside the thin-layer chamber has been reported having the electrodes usually sandwiched between Teflon ® spacers. This design feature, however, does not prevent completely the leakage of oxygen and/or supporting electrolyte. In this paper an alternative construction of the sandwich-type IR OTTLE cell is presented. The working Au- or Pt-mesh, twinned Ag-wire reference and Pt-mesh auxiliary electrodes are melt-sealed into a polyethylene spacer. This IR OTTLE cell design permits; (i) rapid electrolyses of highly air-sensitive compounds without the necessity of surrounding the cell with an inert atmosphere, (ii) ready variation of the electrode and window materials and (iii) ready alignment of the cell in various types of IR, UV-Vis and resonance Raman spectrometers.