Electrochemical Study of H₂O₂ Decomposition on the Magnetite Bulk Electrode

Abstract

The high operating temperature and pressure in the heat transport system of Supercritical Water Reactors (SCWRs) can induce fouling in coolant tubes. Magnetite as a major component of foulants has large impacts on the water chemistry and corrosion of these systems since it is known as a catalyzer for decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. This study aimed to investigate the electrochemical kinetics of hydrogen peroxide decomposition on bulk magnetite electrodes using open circuit potential measurement, potentiodynamic and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy methods. Tafel slope and diffusion coefficient were estimated for different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide at pH=9.5 in the 0.1M NaClO₄ solution containing 0.01M Na₂B₄O₇ as a buffer.