In-Situ Raman Spectroelectrochemical Cell (Sapphire Window, Serpentine Flow-Field GDE)

This three-chamber cell (gas chamber, working-electrode chamber and counter-electrode chamber) is designed for in-situ Raman measurements on gas diffusion electrodes. The flat sapphire window sits less than 3 mm from the working electrode; the short optical path reduces signal loss in the electrolyte and the cell fits most Raman spectrometers. The reference electrode shares the working-electrode chamber.

In a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) the gaseous reactant (e.g. CO₂) reaches the catalyst layer directly; because the low solubility of the gas in water is bypassed, much higher current densities can be reached than in conventional cells.

The working electrode is normally a gas diffusion electrode (catalyst on carbon paper); metal sheets, glassy carbon plates, ITO and FTO can also be used. Working electrode and membrane are sold separately.

Key Features

• Three compartments – gas, cathode and anode; cathode and anode separated by an ion-exchange membrane
• Optical window: Sapphire, Ø45 mm, transmittance > 95% (manufacturer data), electrode–window distance < 3 mm (manufacturer data)
• Working electrode area 1 cm² (custom on request)
• The cell can be connected to a pump for continuous electrolyte flow or filled with a syringe for static measurements.
• Supplied as standard with an Ag/AgCl reference electrode and a graphite rod counter electrode; an Ag/Ag⁺ reference and Pt wire counter electrode can be chosen at no extra cost.

Technical Specifications

Dimensions, channel sizes and volume can be customised on request; please state special requirements in your quotation request.

Applications

• Operando Raman/SERS of intermediates (*CO, Cu–OH, etc.) in gas-fed CO₂ and CO electroreduction
• Interface studies of gas-involving reactions such as ORR and NRR
• Catalyst reconstruction under high current density