Investigating Aggregation Using In Situ Electrochemistry and Small-Angle Neutron Scattering

J Phys Chem C Nanomater Interfaces. 2022 Aug 11;126(31):13427-13432. doi: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.2c03210. Epub 2022 Jul 29.

Abstract

Using small-angle neutron scattering to investigate the aggregation of self-assembling molecules is well established. Some of these molecules are electrochemically useful, for example, in electrochromic devices. Electrochemistry can also be used in some cases to induce aggregation. Here, we describe an approach whereby electrochemistry can be directly carried out on a sample in the neutron beam, allowing us to monitor changes directly in situ. We exemplify with two examples but highlight that there are many other potential opportunities.