In situ FTIR Spectroelectrochemical Studies of Surface Films Formed on Li and Nonactive Electrodes at Low Potentials in Li Salt Solutions Containing CO 2

Surface films formed on Li and noble metal electrodes at low potentials in salt solutions saturated with were investigated using in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIRS). Two methods have been used: subtractively normalized interfacial FTIRS (SNIFTIRS)‐type measurements, external reflectance mode (thin layer cell configuration) and internal reflectance mode. The solutions used included in propylene carbonate, tetrahydrofurane, and methylformate. It was found that is a major surface species formed, and its precipitation suppresses solvent‐related surface reactions on the active electrode surfaces. A coproduct of Li carbonate seems to be gas.