Potential and Current Distribution in an Electrochemical Cell- a Simulation Study

One of the prerequisites in all electrochemical processes is to achieve uniform distribution in potential and current acoss the electrodes and the cell. Although parallel plate electrodes encompass a preferable uniformity in distribution, it tends to get attenuated based on the geometric variables like electrode spacing and width of electrrodes. The purpose of this paper is to analyse underlying aspects associated with these distributions and to indicate how they can be visually represented. A mathematic treatment is carried out to generate an expression for electrolyte potential at the electrode surface with varying ratio of width of electrode to electrode spacing (L/H). Segregation of L/H, where improved uniformity could be attained, is evaluated based on a graphical study. In the latter part, simulation studies were conducted to examine the profile of both current and potential in a typical parallel plate electrochemical cell so as to get a visual representation. This study is proposed to be a cornerstone for practicing electrochemical engineers in designing electrodes and electrochemical cells for various applications.