Graphite/β-PbO2 Composite Inert Anode Synthesis Using Electrochemical Methods

Abstract

The anode material is one of the determining factors for the success of the electrowinning process. This study aims to coat the graphite substrate with β-PbO2 to produce an inert graphite/β-PbO2 composite material with low cost and good quality. The graphite/β-PbO2 synthesis is expected to be used as an anode for inert composites for electrowinning processes. The β-PbO2 deposition layer was prepared on the surface of the graphite substrate by an electrodeposition process using a sulfuric acid electrolyte. The effect of electrolyte concentration and voltage on graphite/β-PbO2 synthesis was investigated using a potentiodynamic polarization test through Tafel analysis. Experimental data have shown that there is an increase in the current density value at the beginning of the process and then a decrease due to passivation; this is due to anodic polarization in the graphite/β-PbO2 synthesis process. Suitable conditions can effectively increase the rate of formation of β-PbO2. The results of scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic analysis of the formed crystal structure showed that the β-PbO2 deposition layer obtained had a well-formed tetragonal structure at a voltage of 9 V.