Use of Zr/ZrO2 as a counter electrode for the minimization of loss reactions in single-compartment electrolysis cells

The use of ZrO2 membrane on counter electrodes (e.g. Zr) is proposed for controlling the mass transfer rates to the electrode and therefore the extent of possible loss reactions. A comparative study was undertaken to examine the influence of the prepn. technique of the Zr/ZrO2 electrode on its electrochem. properties using the Ce(IV)/Ce(III) redox couple as test reaction. The obtained results showed that the rate of Ce(IV) redn. is strongly decreased on Zr/ZrO2 cathodes, prepd. by the thermal oxidn. of metallic Zr. A model is also proposed for the quasi-divided operation mode, where the counter electrode is covered with an inorg. membrane (ZrO2). Such electrochem. reactors offer an effective alternative to the traditional divided electrochem. reactor. [on SciFinder (R)]