For quantitative electro-chemical analysis in laboratories, Platinum Electrodes of various types are used. Generally, Electrodes are made of platinum 10% Iridium alloy for added mechanical strength which ensure long period of trouble free service. Electrode cylinders are usually made of wire gauze having wire diameter 0.15 mm*360 mesh per cm2. This provides greater surface than area equal weight of plain or perforated platinum sheet and allows the electrolyte to circulate much more freely. Wherever agitation of electrolyte is required in order to save time of deposition, one of the rotating type of electrode is used.
For most electro-chemical analysis, wire gauze cathode is most satisfactory while a small size of similar anode is used if an anode deposit is required.
A simple helix of wire with stem is an adequate anode where there is no anodic deposit or when determining is not more than 0.2 percent lead as lead peroxide.
If desired, we can manufacture Platinum 10% Iridium electrodes to customers'own specifications to meet their special needs.
Specification
For best results, we recommend the use of the anodes and cathodes listed here. The paddle form anode is recommended where considerable agitation is required. The loop anode is made of No. 16 platinum iridium wire insuring the rigidity required for successful rotation at high speed. When making copper and lead determinations simultaneously, the gauze anode is recommended, as it offers a larger surface for deposition. The cathode is made of 52-mesh wire gauze 1 3/8 inches diameter. Cathodes of smaller diameter are impractical. The gauze cathode has been found superior to the perforated type as it allows freer circulation.
Platinum Wire—Loop form, made of No. 16 platinum iridium wire, 4½ inches long, loop 1½ inches by 3/8 inches, Approximate weight, 4.5 grams.
PLATINUM ANODE
Platinum Gauze—Made of 52 mesh wire gauze 2 inches high by ½ inch diameter, with stem made of No. 16 platinum wire measuring 4½ inches over all.
Approximate weight, 4.5 grams.
PLATINUM CATHODE
Platinum Gauze—Made of 52 mesh wire gauze, 2 inches high by 1 3/8 inches diameter, with stem of No. 18 platinum wire, measuring 7inches over all. Approximate weight, 10 grams.