A batch electrochemical cell was constructed to remove lead(II) ions from aqueous solutions at a 3-D reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) cathode under acidic pH conditions. When a RVC cathode was coupled with a Zn anode in the presence of Pb(II) species, an impulsive deposition of lead on the RVC surface occurred with a free energy change of -214.20 kJ mol(-1) under standard conditions. The system removed 95-99% Pb(II) with a cell performance of 73% under an inert atmosphere. The system exhibited the best performance when the ionic strength of electrolytes was 1.11. The impulsive process was influenced by pH of the medium and dissolved oxygen. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.