Mini Photoelectrochemical (PEC) Single-Chamber Test Cell (10 mL), CMPECSCTC

A mini photoelectrochemical (PEC) test cell is a compact, high-precision reactor designed to evaluate the solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency of semiconductor films while using minimal amounts of electrolyte and catalyst material. In research areas like CO2 reduction (CO2RR) or solar water splitting, the "mini" form factor (typically 5–25 mL) is strategically used to concentrate reaction products, making them easier to quantify via Gas Chromatography (GC) or HPLC. This setup is the primary tool for measuring Photocurrent Density, Mott-Schottky plots, and Photostability of thin-film semiconductors like TiO2, WO3, or BiVO4 deposited on FTO/ITO glass.

The cell is designed to place the photo-working electrode as close to the optical window as possible while maintaining a standard three-electrode electrochemical environment. (1) Optical Window: A flat Quartz (Fused Silica) window is essential. It ensures high transmission (>90%) of UV light, which is necessary for wide-bandgap semiconductors, and eliminates the "lensing effect" found in curved glass cells. (2) Single-Chamber Geometry: Unlike an H-cell, all three electrodes share the same electrolyte volume. This is ideal for fundamental studies where product crossover is not a primary concern (e.g., initial catalyst screening). (3) "Thin-Gap" Concept: These cells often feature an adjustable internal volume, allowing the electrode to sit within 1–5 mm of the quartz window. This minimizes "solution shielding," where the electrolyte absorbs or scatters photons before they reach the catalyst.