An auxiliary electrode is an electrode used in a three-electrode electrochemical cell for voltammetric analysis. It provides a pathway for current flow in the electrochemical cell without passing a significant current through the reference electrode. The most commonly used material for the auxiliary electrode is platinum, due to its inertness. It can be isolated from the working electrode using a glass frit to prevent byproducts generated from contaminating the main test solution. The work of the auxiliary electrode is to pass all the current so that the current at the working electrode can be controlled.
Toggle Categories
Get Instant Support
Choose your preferred way to connect with our team
-
Get Free Quote Fill out form for detailed pricing
-
Send Email Detailed inquiry support
-
WhatsApp Quick mobile chat
Response Time
Within 8 hours on working days, 24 hours on holidays
auxiliary electrode
Multifunctional Electrolytic Electrochemical Cell Water Bath Single Layer Double Layer
Item Number: ELCM
$159.00
Lab Electrochemical Workstation Potentiostat for Laboratory Use
Item Number: KT-CHIP
Reference Electrode Calomel Silver Chloride Mercury Sulfate for Laboratory Use
Item Number: ELERA
$19.90
Platinum Sheet Electrode for Battery Lab Applications
Item Number: BC-09
We have the best Auxiliary Electrode solutions for your electrochemical cell needs. Our extensive range of materials includes electrochemically inert materials such as graphite, gold, carbon, and platinum. The auxiliary electrode is responsible for passing all the current so that the current at the working electrode can be controlled. Our auxiliary electrodes are fabricated from high-quality materials to ensure the accuracy and precision of your electrochemical measurements. We also offer bespoke designs for more unique applications to meet almost any customer requirements.
Applications of Auxiliary Electrode
- Used in a three-electrode electrochemical cell for voltammetric analysis
- Provides a pathway for current flow in the electrochemical cell without passing a significant current through the reference electrode
- Provides a means of applying input potential to the working electrode
- Used to make a connection to the electrolyte for the purpose of applying a current to the working electrode
- Functions as a cathode whenever the working electrode is operating as an anode and vice versa
- Passes all the current so that the current at the working electrode can be controlled
- May be isolated from the working electrode using a glass frit to prevent byproducts generated at the auxiliary electrode from contaminating the main test solution
- Often fabricated from electrochemically inert materials such as gold, platinum, or carbon
- Material used to make an auxiliary electrode must be an inert material like graphite or a noble metal such as gold, carbon, or platinum
- Used to balance the removed or added charge by the working electrode
- Swings to extreme potentials at the solvent window edges where the oxidation or reduction of the solvent occurs
- Divides the role of supplying electrons as well as referencing the potential between two different electrodes
- Does not pass any current in reference electrode
Advantages of Auxiliary Electrode
- Enables controlled current flow in electrochemical cells
- Provides a pathway for current flow without passing a significant current through the reference electrode
- Allows for applying input potential to the working electrode
- Isolates the working electrode from byproducts generated at the auxiliary electrode
- Prevents contamination of the main test solution
- Functions as a cathode whenever the working electrode is operating as an anode and vice versa
- Made from electrochemically inert materials such as gold, platinum, or carbon
- In sealed cell design, it protects the cell against destructive pressure rise during charging
- Allows the potential of the working electrode to be measured against a known reference electrode without compromising the stability of that reference electrode by passing current over it
Our Auxiliary Electrode is a cost-effective solution for your electrochemical testing needs. We offer a wide range of materials, including graphite, gold, platinum, and carbon, to suit your specific requirements. Our custom design service allows you to tailor the electrode shape and size to fit your testing set-up, ensuring accurate and reproducible results.
FAQ
What Is The Function Of Auxiliary Electrode?
The auxiliary electrode, also known as the counter electrode, is an electrode used in a three-electrode electrochemical cell for voltammetric analysis or other reactions where an electric current is expected to flow. Its primary function is to provide a pathway for current flow in the electrochemical cell without passing a significant current through the reference electrode. It provides a means of applying input potential to the working electrode. The auxiliary electrode may be isolated from the working electrode to prevent any byproducts generated from contaminating the main test solution. It is often fabricated from electrochemically inert materials such as gold, platinum, or carbon.
What Is The Difference Between Auxiliary And Reference Electrode?
The main difference between auxiliary and reference electrode lies in their function in an electrochemical cell. The auxiliary electrode, also known as the counter electrode, is used to facilitate charge transfer to and from the analyte and pass all the current so that the current at the working electrode can be controlled. On the other hand, the reference electrode is used to reference when measuring and controlling the potential of the working electrode and does not pass any current. The reference electrode has a fixed potential, while the potential of the auxiliary electrode can change.
What Materials Are Commonly Used For Auxiliary Electrodes?
The choice of materials for auxiliary electrodes depends on the specific electrochemical system and the desired reaction. Common materials for auxiliary electrodes include platinum, graphite, stainless steel, and certain metal alloys. These materials are typically inert and do not participate in the desired electrochemical reaction, ensuring that the auxiliary electrode's role remains solely as a conductor for current flow.
How Do Auxiliary Electrodes Affect The Performance Of An Electrochemical Cell?
Auxiliary electrodes play a crucial role in the performance of electrochemical cells. They help maintain a balanced electrical potential, minimizing side reactions or unwanted reactions at the working electrode. The choice of appropriate materials for the auxiliary electrode is essential to prevent contamination or interference with the desired electrochemical process. Additionally, the design and positioning of the auxiliary electrode within the cell can impact overall efficiency and uniformity of current distribution. Proper selection and placement of auxiliary electrodes can enhance the performance, accuracy, and reproducibility of electrochemical measurements or processes.
Why Are Auxiliary Electrodes Necessary In Electrochemical Systems?
Auxiliary electrodes are necessary in electrochemical systems to maintain electrical neutrality and ensure the flow of current. In many electrochemical reactions, the desired reaction occurs at the working electrode, while the auxiliary electrode acts as a counterbalance. It helps to complete the circuit by providing a path for the flow of electrons or ions, thereby allowing the continuous movement of charge and ensuring the overall electrochemical reaction proceeds smoothly and efficiently.
Are There Any Limitations Or Considerations When Using Auxiliary Electrodes?
When using auxiliary electrodes, several limitations and considerations should be taken into account. The choice of materials for the auxiliary electrode is critical to prevent any unwanted reactions or contamination that could affect the desired electrochemical process. Compatibility between the auxiliary electrode and the electrolyte or reactants should be considered to ensure stability and long-term performance. Additionally, the design and positioning of the auxiliary electrode should be carefully optimized to minimize current distribution issues or potential interference with the working electrode. It is also essential to regularly monitor and maintain the auxiliary electrode to prevent degradation or contamination that could impact its performance. Finally, the size and shape of the auxiliary electrode should be considered to ensure compatibility with the specific electrochemical cell or system being used.
REQUEST A QUOTE
Our professional team will reply to you within one business day. Please feel free to contact us!
Related Articles
The Thermal Paradox: Preserving Precision in Electrolytic Cells
Sterilizing an electrolytic cell is a conflict of materials. Learn why treating the cell as a single unit leads to failure and how to master the disassembly protocol.
Read more
The Thermodynamics of Restraint: Precision, Entropy, and the Art of the Five-Port Cell
The line between routine maintenance and catastrophic failure is often defined by ego. Learn when to clean, when to stop, and when to call a professional.
Read more
The Fidelity of Light: Preserving the Quartz Interface in Spectroelectrochemistry
The quartz window is the critical interface between your sample and your data. Learn why protecting it from oils, scratches, and solarization is vital for optical accuracy.
Read more
Escaping the Black Box: The Architecture of Insight in Electrochemistry
Unlock the correlation between visible phenomena and electrical data. A deep dive into the engineering and application of side-window optical electrolytic cells.
Read more
The Architecture of Invisibility: Deconstructing the "All-Quartz" Cell
An engineering deep dive into the construction of electrolytic cells. Why material interfaces matter, and how to choose between quartz and glass for data integrity.
Read more
The Glass Heart: Why Good Science Dies in Dirty Cells
The reliability of your electrolytic cell isn't just about chemistry; it's about discipline. Learn the systemic protocols for quartz and electrode maintenance.
Read more
The Architecture of Precision: Mastering Electrolytic Cell Maintenance
Reliable data starts with disciplined maintenance. Discover the psychological and technical approach to preserving electrolytic cells for peak performance.
Read more
The Vessel of Truth: Why the Container Matters More Than the Chemistry
The success of an electrolytic experiment often hangs on the material of the cell body. Discover the trade-offs between Borosilicate, Quartz, and PTFE.
Read more
The Symphony of Coefficients: Why Your Electrolytic Cell Cannot Be a Monolith
Glass withstands heat; PTFE does not. Understanding the thermal conflict in five-port electrolytic cells is key to preventing equipment failure.
Read more
The Anchor of Truth: Why Physical Stability Defines Electrochemical Success
In electrochemistry, data integrity begins with physical stability. Discover why securing your electrolytic cell is the most critical step in your experiment.
Read more
The Transparency Paradox: Mastering the Fragile Art of Electrolytic Cells
Glass electrolytic cells are precision instruments, not simple containers. Learn the systematic approach to handling glass to ensure safety and data integrity.
Read more
The Thermodynamics of a Perfect Seal: A Component-Level Approach to Sterilization
Learn why autoclaving your entire electrolytic cell destroys the seal. A guide to understanding material properties and protecting your experiments.
Read more
The Art of the Shutdown: Engineering Reliability in Electrochemical Cells
Post-experiment procedures are not chores; they are the foundation of future accuracy. Learn the disciplined protocol for maintaining double-layer electrolytic cells.
Read more
The Invisible Variable: Why Electrolytic Cell Hygiene Defines Data Integrity
Master the art of electrolytic cell maintenance. Discover how a strict cleaning protocol prevents cross-contamination and secures reproducible electrochemical results.
Read more
The Silent Deformation: Why Good Intentions Break Precision Glassware
Discover the critical thermal limits of double-layer electrolytic cells. Learn why heating the assembly destroys precision and how to ensure experimental integrity.
Read more
The Thermodynamics of Patience: Mastering the Five-Port Cell
Precision in electrochemistry requires balancing thermal control with material limits. Learn to manage heat without compromising your PTFE seals or data integrity.
Read more
The Geometry of Control: Inside the Super-Sealed Electrolytic Cell
Why the 10-100ml volume and 5-aperture design became the gold standard for electrochemical precision, and how to choose the right setup.
Read more
The Geometry of Truth: Why the Electrolytic Cell Dictates Experimental Success
Precision in electrochemistry relies on the vessel as much as the reaction. Explore the 50-500ml standard, the three-electrode system, and the art of cell design.
Read more
The Invisible Architecture of Accuracy: Optimizing the Five-Port Electrolytic Cell
Master the critical pre-use protocols for five-port water bath electrolytic cells. Learn how meticulous preparation ensures reproducible electrochemical data.
Read more
The Invisible Variable: Why Electrolytic Cell Hygiene Defines Your Data
Proper electrolytic cell maintenance prevents dangerous reactions and ensures data integrity. Learn the critical "no metal brush" rule and safety protocols.
Read more