A Compact Spectroelectrochemical Flow Cell for In Situ Sum Frequency Generation Investigation of the Electrolyte/Electrode Interface

A compact and enclosed optically transparent spectroelectrochemical flow cell was designed specifically for in situ sum frequency generation (SFG) measurements at the charged solid/liquid interface. This thin-layer analysis cell allows the measurement of films on reflective metallic surfaces through a micrometer layer of solution. The cyclic voltammetry and SFG spectrum from an Au working electrode were used to demonstrate the electrochemical and spectroscopic capabilities of the cell. The potential dependent structural changes of the Au electrode and surface molecules were tested to prove the feasibility of the cell for in situ spectroscopy of the electrode processes. The development of this compact spectroelectrochemical flow cell would facilitate future operando studies employing SFG measurements at solid/liquid interfaces.