An experimental study of a pilot-scale undivided and quasi-undivided electrochemical reactor

The performance of a pilot-scale (200 cm²) electrochemical reactor of the undivided parallel plate type, is reported, using the Ce⁴⁺ ?Ce³⁺ redox couple as test reaction in a closed loop. The effect of electrode surface texture, anode—cathode area ratio and other parameters are evaluated. Results are also reported for the quasi-divided operational mode, where one electrode is covered with an inert cloth. Such cells are shown to have minimal back-reactions and hence to offer an effective alternative to the traditional divided cell. The results are compared with a simple model in which mass transport is assumed to be due solely to co-evolution of gas.