화학공학소재연구정보센터
Journal of Applied Electrochemistry, Vol.43, No.12, 1145-1161, 2013
Experimental investigation of two-phase electrolysis processes: comparison with or without gravity
During two-phase electrolysis, bubble production occurs at one or two electrodes. This yields a large change for the electrolyser electrical and hydrodynamic properties. Under normal Earth gravity, the bubble production at the electrodes induces a macro-convection in the electrolyser. This leads to a modified local current density distribution at the electrodes. When gravity is avoided, bubbles are no longer subject to buoyancy forces and to the induced natural flow friction forces. Electrolysis was performed using a potentiostat, and gas bubble evolution was observed with cameras. Quantitative evolution laws for the electrochemical cell voltage, bubble diameter and population during two-phase electrolysis are established in function of the current density and gravity variation.