In situ study of electrodeposited thin layers by Mössbauer spectroscopy

New experimental method was developed to study the in situ electrochemical deposition process. The formation of ultra thin and submonolayers were observed and the atomic interaction in the layers and interlayers were determined. 57Co deposited on Ag cathode in the thickness range of 0.2–15 ML showed different atomic interactions depending on the layer thicknesses. No oxide formation on the deposited layers and on submonolayers appeared. The Mössbauer method was first applied for in situ study of the electrolytic deposition of 57Co. Further applications to other Mössbauer active isotopes are possible.