ELECTROCHEMICAL SCANNING SYSTEMS

An electrochemical scanning system is designed for spatial measurements in electrochemical and materials experiments. Traditional electrochemical experiments measure an average response across the entire electrode/electrolyte interface. However, samples are not always homogenous – often there are areas of passivate/active nature or anodic/cathodic character. This is where scanning probe electrochemistry is ideal.

Our electrochemical scanning systems consist of a high resolution, long-travel, closed-loop positioning system mounted to a vibration-resistant optical base. Auxiliary pieces are then added, each with its own functionality for specific scanning probe experiments. These auxiliary pieces include electrometers, piezo vibration units and laser sensors.

Each system uses a different measurement probe that is positioned close to, but not in contact with the sample. After measurement, its position is incremented. A data map is created by plotting the recorded parameter against the probe position. Depending on the technique, this map represents local electrochemical current, impedance, relative work function or topography.