Visualization of two-phase mass transport using a prism-embedded operando cell in membrane-electrode assembly-based electrochemical devices

초록

Recent operando characterization techniques for electrochemical devices often rely on complex, costly systems such as synchrotron X-ray imaging and neutron radiography. While effective for studying bubble dynamics, these methods are limited by high costs, restricted accessibility, and a lack of real-time cross-sectional imaging. Conventional 2D techniques fail to capture through-plane phenomena, such as bubble penetration into porous transport layers (PTLs), which significantly impact mass transport. In this study, we present a prism-embedded acrylic visualization cell that enables simultaneous in-plane and through-plane monitoring under ambient conditions. The integrated prism redirects the through-plane view into the microscope's focal plane, allowing real-time visualization of bubble nucleation, growth, and detachment within channel/rib regions and inside the PTL. This low-cost, adaptable platform offers valuable insights into bubble-induced transport, PTL durability, and wettability in next-generation membrane-based electrochemical devices.

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