Arbetslektroden

Arbetslektroden, or "work electrode" in English, is a fundamental component in electrochemistry and electroplating processes. It is the electrode where the primary electrochemical reaction of interest takes place. In an electrochemical cell, there are typically two electrodes: the working electrode and the counter electrode. The reference electrode may also be present to provide a stable potential for measurement.

The working electrode's potential is controlled or measured relative to the reference electrode. The electrochemical reactions occurring at the working electrode can involve oxidation (loss of electrons) or reduction (gain of electrons). For instance, in electroplating, the object to be plated is often made the working electrode, and metal ions from the electrolyte are reduced and deposited onto its surface. In analytical electrochemistry, the working electrode is used to detect and quantify specific chemical species by observing the current or potential changes associated with their redox reactions.

The material and surface properties of the working electrode are crucial and are chosen based on the specific application. Common materials include platinum, gold, carbon (like glassy carbon), and various metals. The surface can be smooth or roughened, and its cleanliness is paramount to ensure reproducible and accurate results. The design of the working electrode can vary widely, from simple wires and discs to more complex microelectrodes and screen-printed electrodes, depending on the experimental requirements and the scale of the process. Understanding the role and characteristics of the working electrode is essential for designing and interpreting electrochemical experiments and industrial processes.