The Nonlinear Spectro-EFC is a multifunctional spectral cell developed for nonlinear laser spectroscopy combined with electrochemical methods. Its double cone geometry and selection of window materials make it uniquely suitable for a broad range of spectral and diffraction techniques to obtain in situ chemical information about thin films and adsorbed species during electrochemical reactions. The cell is built from three main elements: the sample mount with tantalum dry electrical contact to the working electrode surface, the chamber in which the electrolyte inlet and outlet together with reference and counter electrodes are mounted, and the lid in which the window is mounted. The oval platinum wire counter electrode assures uniform distribution of field lines along the path to the working electrode. The cell is configured to have a pathlength of 2.25 mm through the electrolyte. The front working distance is equal to the electrolyte pathlength plus the window thickness, typically 3.25 mm. The cell has a 21 mm clear aperture and both the sample holder and lid have conical profiles, allowing a angle of up to 60 deg off normal for incident, transmitted, reflected and scattered/diffracted light. Cell elements are constructed from materials inert to the sample environment (PEEK, Fluorocarbons), and either aqueous (FKM) or organic solvent (FFKM) compatible O-Rings can be installed.

Application note This cell was developed for thin film and film/electrolyte interface analysis by a variety of methods including nonlinear laser (NLS) spectroscopy, in situ x-ray applications including scattering and/or absorption methods at synchrotron facilities, (micro) Raman, advanced microscopy methods, as well as conventional spectroscopy. Suitable methods include SFG, SHG, pump probe spectroscopy, SAXS and WAXS in transmission and grazing angle modes, and grazing angle FTIR.

Product includes

• 1 x chamber
• 1 x Ag/AgCl or non-aqueous Ag/Ag+ 30 mm reference electrode
• 1 x platinum metal wire auxiliary electrode (ST 0.6/190 mm)
• 1 x sapphire window (other materials available on request)
• 1 x lid
• 1 x WE tantalum contact
• 1 x sample mount
• 1 x plug