What are the characteristics of the Iridium-Tantalum-Titanium Oxygen Evolution Electrode? High-Performance Anodes

The Iridium-Tantalum-Titanium Oxygen Evolution Electrode is a high-performance anode designed specifically for demanding electrolytic environments. It is distinguished by exceptional anti-corrosion properties and high electrocatalytic oxidation activity, capable of handling large current densities. Specifically, it operates with an oxygen evolution overpotential of ≤1.5V (relative to a saturated calomel electrode), ensuring high current efficiency without contaminating the processing medium.

Core Takeaway This electrode is engineered for stability in systems containing oxyanions (like sulfates and carbonates), balancing energy efficiency with operational durability. Its primary value proposition lies in its reusable titanium substrate and its ability to maintain high production efficiency in aggressive media where other anodes might fail or contaminate the electrolyte.

Performance and Electrochemical Efficiency

Optimized Oxygen Evolution

The core strength of this electrode is its low overpotential for oxygen evolution. While the general oxygen evolution potential is greater than 1.45V, the overpotential remains low (≤1.5V relative to SCE).

This specific range indicates high electrocatalytic activity, meaning less energy is wasted driving the reaction compared to less catalytic materials.

High Current Density Handling

Industrial efficiency often depends on throughput. This electrode is capable of operating under applicable current densities of less than 15,000 A/m².

This capacity allows for high production rates in compact cell designs, making it suitable for intensive industrial electrolysis.

Environmental and Process Purity

Unlike graphite or lead anodes, which can dissolve and pollute the electrolyte, the Iridium-Tantalum-Titanium electrode is chemically stable.

It does not cause contamination of the medium, ensuring the purity of the final product and the safety of the wastewater or electrolyte being treated.

Physical Specifications and Durability

Coating Composition and Structure

The electrode consists of a high-purity titanium substrate (plate, mesh, tube, or rod) coated with a mixed metal oxide layer.

The active coating is a composite of Tantalum Pentoxide (Ta₂O₅), Iridium Oxide (IrO₂), and other modifiers. This coating typically ranges from 8 to 15μm in thickness.

Substrate Reusability

A critical economic feature is the reusability of the titanium base. Once the electrode eventually loses its catalytic activity, the coating can be stripped and re-applied.

This significantly lowers long-term operational costs, as the expensive titanium structural component does not need to be replaced.

Operational Lifespan

The electrode is rated for an enhanced lifespan, generally cited in testing conditions between 300 to 400 hours.

While this metric varies heavily based on the harshness of the electrolyte and current density, the presence of Tantalum specifically serves to stabilize the Iridium, extending service life in corrosive environments.

Understanding the Trade-offs

Application Specificity

It is vital to distinguish this electrode from Chlorine Evolution electrodes (like Ruthenium-Iridium).

The Iridium-Tantalum-Titanium configuration is specifically optimized for Oxygen Evolution environments containing oxyanions like SO₄²⁻ (sulfate) and CO₃²⁻ (carbonate). Using it in the wrong electrolytic medium may result in suboptimal performance.

Precious Metal Costs

The coating contains significant amounts of precious metals (15 to 40 g/m²).

While the substrate is reusable, the initial investment and recoating costs are higher than non-precious metal anodes. This cost must be weighed against the gains in energy efficiency and product purity.

Making the Right Choice for Your Goal

To determine if this electrode fits your specific engineering requirements, consider your primary constraints:

• If your primary focus is high purity: This electrode is essential, as it eliminates the risk of electrolyte contamination common with lead or graphite anodes.
• If your primary focus is handling high throughput: Choose this electrode for its ability to maintain stability at current densities up to 15,000 A/m².
• If your primary focus is long-term asset management: Leverage the reusable titanium substrate to amortize the cost of the hardware over multiple coating lifecycles.

Select the Iridium-Tantalum-Titanium electrode when your process demands a balance of high oxidation activity and strict resistance to corrosion.

Summary Table:

Feature	Specification / Detail
Substrate Material	High-purity Titanium (Plate, Mesh, Tube, or Rod)
Coating Composition	Ta₂O₅, IrO₂, and specific metal oxide modifiers
Coating Thickness	8 – 15μm
Oxygen Evolution Overpotential	≤ 1.5V (Relative to SCE)
Max Current Density	< 15,000 A/m²
Primary Application	Oxygen Evolution in sulfate/carbonate environments
Key Advantage	Reusable substrate & zero electrolyte contamination

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• Energy Savings: Low overpotential reduces power consumption.
• Process Purity: Eliminate contamination common with lead or graphite anodes.
• Cost-Efficiency: Extend the life of your assets with our reusable titanium substrates.

Ready to optimize your production throughput and product quality? Contact KINTEK today to discuss your specific electrochemical requirements with our technical experts!