Synchrotron X-ray Diffraction Monitoring of the Operation of an Inert Anode Utilised in a Cambridge FFC-Cell

摘要

In this work, we have used synchrotron X-ray diffraction phasemappingcombined with electrochemistry to examine the operationof an inert anode in a Cambridge-FFC type laboratory cell. Inertanodes usually function via interaction of the anode with theelectrolyte (CaCl_2) and the anode product (O_2). Upon immersion ofan anode in the bath, there is dynamic formation of an insulatingoxide film at the anode surface. Such films must be thin enough toallow electronic conduction, but thick enough to protect the surfacefrom further reaction. Utilising an in-situ energy dispersive X-raydiffraction technique on a custom-built furnace for synchrotronmeasurements incorporating the FFC-type cell, the group is able tomonitor the evolution of such films on the anode and elucidate theeventual failure mechanism of this anode.