Dip-and-pull ambient pressure photoelectron spectroscopy as a spectroelectrochemistry tool for probing molecular redox processes

Ambient pressure x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (APXPS) can provide a compelling platform for studying an analyte's oxidation and reduction reactions in solutions. This paper presents proof-of-principle operando measurements of a model organometallic complex, iron hexacyanide, in an aqueous solution using the dip-and-pull technique. The data demonstrates that the electrochemically active liquid meniscuses on the working electrodes can undergo controlled redox reactions which were observed using APXPS. A detailed discussion of several critical experimental considerations is included as guidance for anyone undertaking comparable experiments.

Automated summary

This paper presents a proof-of-principle study on the oxidation and reduction reactions of a model organometallic complex, iron hexacyanide, in an aqueous solution using Ambient Pressure X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (APXPS). The study demonstrates that controlled redox reactions can occur on the working electrode's electrochemically active liquid meniscuses, which were observed using APXPS. The paper also includes a detailed discussion on critical experimental considerations as guidance for similar experiments.