Dependence of Electrolyzer Voltage on the Structure of Cathode Deposits of PMS1 and PMLO Powders

Abstract

The structure of copper dendritic deposit changes during electrolysis: the upper thin prolonged branches are finally replaced by coarse globules. Therefore, it is important to determine the duration of deposit growth period without forming coarse globular particles. The duration of this period may be established by analyzing the deposit growth dynamics and change in cathode overpotential, which is a contributor to electrolyzer voltage drop and may be used to monitor the structure of cathode deposit. Copper powders of PMSll and PMLO grades are used to calculate variation in electrolyzer voltage and evaluate change in deposit structure. The calculations have determined a period for growing homogenous deposits of the copper powders.