Abstract
The properties of codeposited Ni-Se and Ni-Te cathodes were investigated in order to develop cathodes with low hydrogen overvoltage for chlorine electrolytic cells.
The surface morphorogy, by SEM, EPMA, ESCA, BET, and electrochemical techniques analysis, chemical composition and electrochemical properties of the cathodes were examined. Hydrogen overvoltage decreased with increasing amounts of Se or Te. The over voltage potential of an Ni-Se codeposited electrode (Se 12.8%) was 200mV lower than that of Ni at a current density of 1A dm-2 in 2.5N NaOH solution at 25°C. These results suggest that the codeposited Se or Te catalyzes the hydrogen evolution electrochemically and reduces the overpotential.
