Voltammetry of iron in molten lithium fluoride-potassium fluoride-sodium fluoride

Abstract

The voltammetry of iron (II) in molten LiF—NaF—KF was investigated over the temperature range 470–545‡. The current—voltage curves were recorded using a controlled-potential polarograph and a stationary platinum micro-electrode coupled with a platinum quasi-reference electrode. A third Platinum electrode, which was isolated, served as the counter electrode. The reduction of iron (II to the metal and the oxidation of iron (II), to iron (III) appeared to proceed reversibly under the existing experimental conditions. The limiting current (wave height) of the cathodic wave was proportional to the concentration of iron in the melt. An activation energy of about 12 kcal/mole was calculated for the current limiting process which corresponded to the reduction of iron(II) to the metal.