Application of UV-vis optical spectroscopy in electrochemical processes: case-study of graphite anion intercalation

The possibility of following electrochemical processes in situ and in real time using optical techniques is important in view of shining a light on the chemical processes at the surface. The interest grows if the optical apparatus is compact and can be employed in industrial quality-check protocols. Here, we show how graphite anion intercalation–an important chemical process to massively produce graphene flakes–can be monitored by a UV-vis spectrometer when the graphite works as an electrode immersed inside the electrochemical cell. Important information on the reversibility or quasi-reversibility of the reaction shows a clear visualization in optical color maps.