Beyond Imaging: Localized Synthesis, Fabrication, and Surface Modification via Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy.

Abstract

Meniscus-confined electrochemical deposition (MCED) enables highly localized material synthesis, transformation, and surface modification. The Perspective highlights scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) as a highly versatile MCED platform. While primarily developed for electrochemical imaging, SECCM also functions as a direct-write tool capable of producing complex architectures and probing associated localized electrochemical phenomena. We focus on a concise technical overview to position SECCM within a broader MCED landscape. We then examine its application across key material processes: metal and metal alloy deposition, surface functionalization and reagent delivery, and polymer synthesis. In each case, SECCM not only enables material fabrication or dissolution with high spatiotemporal control but is also capable of revealing nanoscale mechanistic insights from the analysis of the electrochemical response and/or the use of integrated capability, such as complementary microscopy. By framing SECCM as a fabrication platform, this work aims to connect the SECCM and MCED communities and encourage interdisciplinary adoption. We discuss emerging opportunities in device integration, materials design, and fundamental electrochemistry as well as key practical challenges while outlining future directions for expanding the capability of SECCM as a nanoscale manufacturing tool.