Simultaneous topographical and amperometric imaging of surfaces in air: towards a combined scanning force–scanning electrochemical microscope (SF–SECM)

Abstract

The first simultaneous images of electrochemical activity and surface topography of a substrate in air are reported using a combined scanning force microscope (SFM) and scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM): SF–SECM. In the SF–SECM, the amperometric response of a Pt-coated SFM tip connected as a working electrode is monitored as the probe is scanned over the surface, in contact mode, enabling topographical and electrochemical maps of the surface to be generated simultaneously. This methodology is illustrated through studies of the surface of a track-etched porous membrane (pore diameter 100 nm), hydrated with a solution containing 5×10 −3 mol dm −3 potassium hexachloride iridate(III) (electroactive mediator) in excess supporting electrolyte. The optimal conditions for the preparation of the most effective and durable Pt thin film-coated probe, essential for the production of a long-lasting conducting tip, are also determined.