In situ transmission electron microscopy of lead dendrites and lead ions in aqueous solution.
An ideal technique for observing nanoscale assembly would provide atomic-resolution images of both the products and the reactants in real time. Using a transmission electron microscope we image in situ the electrochemical deposition of lead from an aqueous solution of lead(II) nitrate. Both the lead deposits and the local Pb(2+) concentration can be visualized. Depending on the rate of potential change and the potential history, lead deposits on the cathode in a structurally compact layer or in dendrites. In both cases the deposits can be removed and the process repeated. Asperities that persist through many plating and stripping cycles consistently nucleate larger dendrites. Quantitative digital image analysis reveals excellent correlation between changes in the Pb(2+) concentration, the rate of lead deposition, and the current passed by the electrochemical cell. Real-time electron microscopy of dendritic growth dynamics and the associated local ionic concentrations can provide new insight into the functional electrochemistry of batteries and related energy storage technologies.
Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States.
Edward R
ER
White
Scott B
SB
Singer
Veronica
V
Augustyn
William A
WA
Hubbard
Matthew
M
Mecklenburg
Bruce
B
Dunn
Brian C
BC
Regan
D002413:Cations, Divalent; D011211:Electric Power Supplies; D055664:Electrochemical Techniques; D007854:Lead; D053768:Metal Nanoparticles / Q000737:chemistry / Q000648:ultrastructure; D017348:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning Transmission; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; D036103:Nanotechnology; D012996:Solutions; D014867:Water
D002413:Cations, Divalent; D012996:Solutions; D014867:Water; D007854:Lead