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Title: Unravelling the electrochemical double layer by direct probing of the solid/liquid interface

Journal Article · · Nature Communications
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1038/ncomms12695· OSTI ID:1377433
 [1];  [1];  [2];  [3];  [1];  [1];  [1]
  1. Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States). Advanced Light Source (ALS)
  2. Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States). Materials Sciences Division
  3. Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States). Joint Center for Artificial Photosynthesis (JCAP)

The electrochemical double layer plays a critical role in electrochemical processes. Whilst there have been many theoretical models predicting structural and electrical organization of the electrochemical double layer, the experimental verification of these models has been challenging due to the limitations of available experimental techniques. The induced potential drop in the electrolyte has never been directly observed and verified experimentally, to the best of our knowledge. In this study, we report the direct probing of the potential drop as well as the potential of zero charge by means of ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy performed under polarization conditions. By analyzing the spectra of the solvent (water) and a spectator neutral molecule with numerical simulations of the electric field, we discern the shape of the electrochemical double layer profile. In addition, we determine how the electrochemical double layer changes as a function of both the electrolyte concentration and applied potential.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Science (SC), Basic Energy Sciences (BES)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC02-05CH11231; SC0004993
OSTI ID:
1377433
Journal Information:
Nature Communications, Vol. 7; ISSN 2041-1723
Publisher:
Nature Publishing GroupCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English
Citation Metrics:
Cited by: 224 works
Citation information provided by
Web of Science

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