Constant-distance mode SECM as a tool to visualize local electrocatalytic activity of oxygen reduction catalysts

Abstract

Multidimensional shearforce-based constant-distance mode scanning electrochemical microscopy (4D SF/CD-SECM) was utilized for the investigation of the activity distribution of oxygen reduction catalysts. Carbon-supported Pt model catalyst powders have been immobilized in recessed microelectrodes and compared to a spot preparation technique. Microcavities serve as platform for the binder-free catalyst sample preparation exhibiting beneficial properties for constant-distance mode SECM imaging concerning modified surface area and catalyst loading. The integration of the redox competition mode of SECM into the detection scheme of the 4D SF/CD mode is demonstrated for specifically adapting high-resolution SECM experiments to powder-based catalyst preparations.

Keywords

• electrocatalysis
• oxygen reduction
• recessed microelectrodes
• redox-competition SECM
• SECM
• scanning electrochemical microscopy
• shearforce-based constant-distance mode