elektrodsystem

An elektrodsystem, or electrode system, is an arrangement of electrodes configured to deliver electrical current to or sense electrical signals in a device, instrument, or process. It comprises active electrodes, reference and counter electrodes in electrochemical contexts, along with connecting conductors, insulating supports, electrolytes or gels, and a control unit such as a potentiostat, stimulator, or multichannel amplifier.

Configurations vary by application. In electrochemistry, two-electrode configurations place the workpiece and counter electrode as the source of current, whereas four-electrode configurations separate current and potential measurement to improve accuracy. In medical devices, electrode systems may be skin electrodes for EEG/ECG or implanted arrays for neural stimulation, requiring biocompatible materials and careful impedance management.

In industrial metal finishing and electrolysis, electrode assemblies control deposition and dissolution. In electrical discharge machining, the system includes a shaped tool electrode and a workpiece electrode.

Key design factors include material choice, impedance, stability, and compatibility with electrolytes or tissue; common electrode materials include carbon, platinum, titanium, stainless steel, and specialized polymers. Biocompatibility, sterilization, corrosion resistance, and track record under cycling are important in implantable or wearable systems. The geometry and surface finish influence current distribution and electrode impedance, especially in high-precision or long-term applications.

Performance is often characterized by impedance measurements, charge injection capacity in stimulation applications, and long-term stability tests. Standards and safety guidelines govern isolation, leakage currents, and sterilization for medical use. See also electrode, electrochemistry, neural stimulation.