Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Electrode that won't dissolve for electromagnetic propulsion system

Currently, I am doing an experiment on electromagnetic propulsion system for ships for my final year project. in the experiment, we need to pass the current through the water. However, we found that the electric copper wire will tend to oxidise when the current is passed through the immersed copper wire. Just in a very short time, the copper wire is dissolved. From our knowledge, we need a effective electrode to be immersed into the water to prevent oxidation. My question is, what time of metal can be used for the electrode. If possible, please help me to quote the electrode which is quite easily can be obtained in the market. Thanks.

Yours Sincerely,

Jonny
Ngee Ann Polytechnic - Singapore
2003

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Hi, Jonny. The electrode should be platinum. If it is too big, so this is prohibitively expensive, it can be platinum-clad titanium. Such electrodes are widely used in plating and refining and are available from companies like Technic. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2003