User`s guide

Electrochemistry 15
Agilent 5500 SPM User’s Guide 216
Equipment
The equipment needed to perform electrochemistry experiments can be
as simple as a liquid cell and electrodes, or as complex as a
flow-through pump system with a temperature-controlled sample stage.
The basic components are described below.
Liquid Cell
The liquid cell, described earlier in this manual, enables imaging in a
liquid (Figure 145). The cell is 15 mm (0.59 in) in diameter and seals
over the sample with an o-ring. The sample surface must be very flat
and larger than the diameter of the cell to avoid leakage.
Electrodes
Three electrodes are typically required for electrochemistry
experiments. The experiment being performed will determine the type
of wire to be used for the reference and counter electrodes. The type of
wire will affect the voltage readings. Prepared electrodes may be
purchased from Agilent Technologies, or wires may be formed into
appropriate electrodes using the following approximate dimensions.
Working Electrode and Pogo Electrode
Contact between the working electrode (WE) on the sample plate and
the sample itself is typically accomplished using the L-shaped pogo
electrode included with the system (Figure 147). The pogo contacts the
sample through a separate access hole outside of the liquid cell chamber.
Since it is not in contact with the electrolyte it does not require special
cleaning. A wire made to the same dimensions can be used in place of
the pogo.
Figure 147 Pogo electrode