Journal of Applied Electrochemistry, Vol.39, No.10, 1883-1887, 2009
Using a galvanostatic anodization system as a water heater
The aim of this paper is to evaluate the application of valve metal anodization to water heating. The solution heating occurs during the oxide breakdown region, a potential oscillation region where the main process is the electronic current associated with the water oxidation reaction over the oxide surface. It was observed that the heating rate is influenced by the current density since the temperature rise is governed by the spark events during the galvanostatic growth. The heating rate of the galvanostatic heater was compared with some commercial heaters, and found to be 14% higher than a commercial resistance-based heater and 29% higher than a shower element.