Method and apparatus for imaging electrochemical cell electrodes

A method for imaging a working electrode through a transparent window during at least part of an electrochemical process, the method comprising:

• monitoring a reflection at a partially reflective layer in mechanical communication with the working electrode;
• imaging a portion of the working electrode during at least part of an electrochemical process with an imaging apparatus;
• determining a change in the reflection at the partially reflective layer;
• and
• adjusting the image focus of the imaging apparatus in response to determining the change,
• wherein monitoring the reflection comprises directing a reference beam at one of one or more regions of the partially reflective layer configured to reflect electromagnetic radiation and imaging the portion of the working electrode comprises imaging through one or more regions of the partially reflective layer configured to transmit electromagnetic radiation;
• and
• wherein the working electrode is substantially in continuous contact with either the transparent window or the partially reflective layer.