MICROSCOPIC REACTION SITE MODEL FOR CATHODIC REDUCTION OF LEAD SULFATE TO LEAD

The cathodic reduction of lead sulfate to lead was investigated by using the potential sweep method. A microscopic reaction site model was proposed in order to discuss the current-potential curves of the cathodic reduction of lead sulfate to lead. In this study it was assumed that the reaction occurred at the interface between the lead and the lead sulfate crystals. The electrochemical kinetics of the cathodic reduction of the lead sulfate at the reaction site was assumed to be controlled by the diffusion of lead ion. The current-potential curve was explained by the change of the reaction site area and the diffusion of lead ion. The electrochemical behavior of a lead/lead sulfate electrode is in good agreement with the model proposed in this study. The effects of crystal size, solubility, diffusion coefficient, and length of diffusion path on the reduction of lead sulfate to lead were examined.