In situ investigation of electrochemical devices using ambient pressure photoelectron spectroscopy

Heterogeneous chemical reactions at interfaces play an important role in electrochemical devices. Here we discuss the investigation of vapor/solid interfaces using ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (APXPS), which provides the capability to simultaneously measure both the chemical composition and the electrical potential. The technical bases for these measurements are discussed and its application demonstrated for investigations of model solid oxide fuel cell devices and Li-O2 batteries.