INVESTIGATION OF SUITABLE CATHODES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF HYDROGEN GASBY ELECTROLYSIS

The anodic and cathodic behaviours of aluminium, iron, mercury steel ( HgSt), chrome-nickel steel (CrNiSt) and platinum have been studied in a 2N NaCl electrolyte (pH = 5) by means of electrolysis. The potential s of the cathodes and the theoretical and experimental discharge poten tials of the systems have been determined. The cathodic and anodic ove rpotentials produced on Al, Fe, HgSt, CrNiSt and Pt were predicted aga inst a platinum anode and a platinum cathode, respectively. The amount s of hydrogen gas produced at different times on the cathodes at a con stant potential were measured and the hydrogen yield was calculated. F rom the data obtained, it is suggested that Pt anode and Al or HgSt ca thode, or Al anode and Pt cathode, couples should be employed for the best electrolysis system.