Some theoretical considerations on the design of a practical anode in an electrochemical reactor

Abstract

A theoretical analysis of the membrane current distribution is carried out for a typical three-compartment electrolyser in order to point out the effects of geometry on the design of mesh anodes. The factors considered here include the introduction of an insulated border, the perforation of the anode, the finite conductivity of the substrate, and the introduction of a bus bar connection between the anode and the current lead. It is recommended that no insulated border be introduced, since, while reducing the anode area and consequently its cost, it leads to a nonuniform membrane current distribution and hence decreases membrane efficiency. Also, titanium is found to be a suitable substrate for the anode in spite of its relatively low conductivity.