Electrochemical In Situ Characterization Techniques in the Field of Energy Conversion

Abstract With the proposal of the “carbon peak and carbon neutrality” goals, the utilization of renewable energy sources such as solar energy, wind energy, and tidal energy has garnered increasing attention. Consequently, the development of corresponding energy conversion technologies has become a focal point. In this context, the demand for electrochemical in situ characterization techniques in the field of energy conversion is gradually increasing. Understanding the microscopic electrochemical reactions and their mechanisms in depth is a common concern shared by both academia and industry. Therefore, the development of electrochemical in situ characterization techniques holds critical significance. This paper comprehensively reviews electrochemical in situ characterization techniques in the field of energy conversion from three aspects: spectral characterization techniques of electrochemical reactions, characterization techniques for the spatial distribution of electrochemical reactions, and optical characterization techniques for the surface refractive index associated with the spatial distribution of electrochemical reactions. These characteristics are described in detail, and the future development direction of in situ characterization technology is prospected, with the aim of promoting the advancement of electrochemical in situ characterization technology in the field of energy conversion, facilitating energy transformation, and thus advancing the goals of “carbon peak and carbon neutrality.”