Metrohm Hyphenated EC-Raman solutions for corrosion

Significance of the topic

Corrosion is a pervasive challenge in materials science and industry, leading to significant economic losses and safety concerns. Combining electrochemical methods with Raman spectroscopy enables real-time, non-invasive investigation of corrosion processes, offering both functional and structural insights on evolving interfaces and coatings.

Objectives and overview

This summary describes Metrohm’s hyphenated EC-Raman solutions designed for corrosion research. Two ready-to-use configurations (Explorer and Starter) integrate potentiostats/galvanostats with in situ Raman spectroscopy, synchronized through dedicated trigger cables and controlled via NOVA and BWSpec software environments.

Methodology

The approach synchronizes electrochemical measurements (potentiodynamic scans, linear sweep voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy) with Raman spectral acquisition. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) can be employed to boost sensitivity. Standardized procedures in NOVA software facilitate reproducible, automated protocols for corrosion monitoring.

Instrumentation

Explorer package:

• Autolab PGSTAT302N potentiostat/galvanostat with Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) module (10 nA–1 A, ±10 V range, 10 µHz–1 MHz).
• B&W Tek i-Raman Plus 532H (532 nm laser, 30 mW, cooled CCD detector, 65–3400 cm⁻¹ range, <3.5 cm⁻¹ resolution).
• BAC151 Raman video microsampling system (20× & 50× objectives, sample observation camera, fiber-optic probe).

Starter package:

• Autolab PGSTAT204 with EIS module (10 nA–100 mA, ±10 V range, 10 µHz–1 MHz).
• B&W Tek Raman video microsampling system (532 nm excitation, fiber-optic probe, video alignment).

Main results and discussion

These integrated systems allow simultaneous recording of electrochemical parameters and Raman spectra under operating conditions. Key advantages include precise time alignment of signals, high compliance voltage for broad potential windows, and modular expandability (electrochemical noise, low-current amplifiers, pX1000 sensors). The synchronized data reveal correlations between electrochemical events and molecular transformations in coatings or metal surfaces.

Benefits and practical applications

• Non-destructive, in situ monitoring of corrosion processes.
• High sensitivity via SERS and extended spectral coverage.
• Modular hardware enables tailored upgrades as research demands evolve.
• User-friendly turnkey setup reduces training and synchronization challenges.

Future trends and applications

Emerging directions include integration with digital-twin models, AI-driven spectral interpretation, microfluidic flow-cell adaptations for dynamic environments, and combined optical-electrochemical imaging. Further miniaturization and higher time resolution will expand real-world monitoring capabilities in industrial pipelines and structural health monitoring.

Conclusion

Metrohm’s hyphenated EC-Raman solutions offer researchers a powerful platform for comprehensive corrosion analysis. By uniting electrochemical control with molecular-level spectroscopic information, these systems enhance understanding of degradation mechanisms and support the development of improved anti-corrosion strategies.