<i>In situ</i> lattice tuning of quasi-single-crystal surfaces for continuous electrochemical modulation
Biao‐Feng Zeng, Junying Wei, Xia‐Guang Zhang, Qing‐Man Liang, Shu Hu, Wang Gan, Zhi‐Chao Lei, Shiqiang Zhao, Hewei Zhang, Jia Shi, Wenjing Hong, Zhong‐Qun Tian, Yang Yang
Abstract
The ability to control the atomic-level structure of a solid represents a straightforward strategy for fabricating high-performance catalysts and semiconductor materials. Herein we explore the capability of the mechanically controllable surface strain method in adjusting the surface structure of a gold film. Underpotential deposition measurements provide a quantitative and ultrasensitive approach for monitoring the evolution of surface structures. The electrochemical activities of the quasi-single-crystalline gold films are enhanced productively by controlling the surface tension, resulting in a more positive potential for copper deposition. Our method provides an effective way to tune the atom arrangement of solid surfaces with sub-angstrom precision and to achieve a reduction in power consumption, which has vast applications in electrocatalysis, molecular electronics, and materials science.