Multilayer Graphene—A Promising Electrode Material in Liquid Cell Electrochemistry

Abstract

The combination of imaging with electrochemical quantification in liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provides opportunities for visualizing material processes in liquid with good spatial and temporal resolution in a way that is inaccessible in bench-top electrochemical experiments. The electrode material used in liquid cell TEM determines the reliability and consistency of the electrochemical measurements and also influences the resolution when imaging processes on the electrode. Here, the opportunities arising from the use of 2D materials in liquid cell electrochemistry are explored. Through electrochemical imaging and modeling, it is demonstrated that the use of graphene electrodes enables quantitative study of electrochemical metal deposition and it is suggested that the minimal electron scattering and electric-field enhanced wettability are advantageous in obtaining interpretable and higher resolution data. It is anticipated that incorporation of 2D materials into electrode design will present new opportunities for investigating problems in crystal growth, energy storage, and electrocatalysis.