Atomic force microscopy

Physics

Nanotechnology

Electrode

Organic chemistry

Characterization (materials science)

Nanoscopic scale

Copper

Biology

Optics

Adsorption

Engineering

Catalysis

Physical chemistry

Chemical physics

Micrometer

Inorganic chemistry

Chemistry

Metallurgy

Materials science

Cathodic protection

In situ

Morphology (biology)

Quantum mechanics

Electrolyte

Single displacement reaction

Chemical engineering

Electrochemistry

Genetics

Biochemistry

Atomic units

Angewandte Chemie International Edition

Electrochemical AFM is a powerful tool for the real-space characterization of catalysts under realistic electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2 RR) conditions. The evolution of structural features ranging from the micrometer to the atomic scale could be resolved during CO2 RR. Using Cu(100) as model surface, distinct nanoscale surface morphologies and their potential-dependent transformations from granular to smoothly curved mound-pit surfaces or structures with rectangular terraces are revealed during CO2 RR in 0.1 m KHCO3 . The density of undercoordinated copper sites during CO2 RR is shown to increase with decreasing potential. In situ atomic-scale imaging reveals specific adsorption occurring at distinct cathodic potentials impacting the observed catalyst structure. These results show the complex interrelation of the morphology, structure, defect density, applied potential, and electrolyte in copper CO2 RR catalysts.

Potential‐Dependent Morphology of Copper Catalysts During CO<sub>2</sub> Electroreduction Revealed by In Situ Atomic Force Microscopy

Potential‐Dependent Morphology of Copper Catalysts During CO2 Electroreduction Revealed by In Situ Atomic Force Microscopy

Potential‐Dependent Morphology of Copper Catalysts During CO₂ Electroreduction Revealed by In Situ Atomic Force Microscopy