Sonoelectrochemical studies of the ethanol oxidation in alkaline medium

Ethanol oxidation to acetaldehyde, subjected both to ultrasonic and simultaneously to electric and ultrasonic action has been studied by using voltammetric techniques. We conclude that ultrasonic field does not significantly influence the oxidation electrochemical process. The active electrochemical species is complex. The mass transfer controls the overall electro-oxidation process. The electrochemical process is reversible, with a two-electron transfer in a single step and soluble product formation in the electrolyte. Atomic oxygen, generated on the platinum electrode, where oxyplatinum redox couples are acting as catalysts, is the real oxidation agent.