Electrochemical reduction behavior of PO43– ions in molten CaCl2
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This work focuses on the electrochemical reduction behavior of PO43– ions in molten CaCl2 at 1123 K, aiming to develop a next-generation process for producing white phosphorus (P4) through electrolysis of dissolved PO43–. Results from cyclic voltammetry indicate a shift for the electrochemical reduction of PO43– from a reversible reaction to a quasi-reversible one as the potential scan rate increases. The tendencies of peak potential shift are different among the three electrodes, likely due to the variations in the electron transfer rates. The detachment rate of P4 gas was found to be higher at the graphite electrode compared to Mo and W electrodes. The apparent diffusion coefficient of PO43–, determined from chronoamperometry and chronopotentiometry, ranges from 0.91 to 2.26 x 10–4 cm2 s–1. Additionally, an increase in the concentration of O2– was found to decrease the detachment rate of P4 gas, likely due to changes in the melt's physical properties. However, the increase in O2– up to 0.30 mol % does not significantly affect the diffusion of PO43–. This study provides valuable insights into the electrochemistry of PO43– in molten CaCl2 and offers a theoretical guidance for the technology development of P4 production through electrolysis.
Source: Electrochimica Acta
Authors: Yuanjia Ma, Xiao Yang
Institution: Westlake University
Language: English
Subfield: Fluid Flow and Transfer Processes
Field: Chemical Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,870
OpenAlex ID: W4402638996