Computer-aided design and experimental investigation of a hydrodynamic device: the microwire electrode
The development and application of a new electrochemical device using a computer-aided design strategy is reported. This novel design is based on the flow of electrolyte solution past a microwire electrode situated centrally within a large duct. In the design stage, finite element simulations were employed to evaluate feasible working geometries and mass transport rates. The computer-optimized designs were then exploited to construct experimental devices. Steady-state voltammetric measurements were performed for a reversible one-electron-transfer reaction to establish the experimental relationship between electrolysis current and solution velocity. The experimental results are compared to those predicted numerically, and good agreement is found. The numerical studies are also used to establish an empirical relationship between the mass transport limited current and the volume flow rate, providing a simple and quantitative alternative for workers who would prefer to exploit this device without the need to develop the numerical aspects.
Fulian
Q
Department of Chemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, UK.
Gooch
KA
Fisher
AC
Stevens
NP
Compton
RG