Forming PbO2 by Electrolysis: Lead Plates & Battery Experiments

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the formation of lead dioxide (PbO2) through electrolysis using lead plates in a sulfuric acid (H2SO4) solution. Participants explore the mechanisms of battery operation, the methods of coating lead with PbO2, and the implications of these processes for battery design and safety.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes an experiment where lead sheets in H2SO4 were used to form PbO2 through electrolysis, resulting in a functioning battery.
  • Another participant questions the necessity of alternative methods for coating lead with PbO2, suggesting that the electrolysis method should suffice.
  • Concerns are raised about the practicality of using lead electrodes for producing oxygen gas during electrolysis, indicating potential issues with this approach.
  • Some participants note that while PbO2 can be produced during electrolysis, other methods for coating electrodes may be required for specific applications, such as dry battery transport.
  • There is a mention of electrode preparation involving plating PbO2 onto various substrates, which raises questions about the electrolysis process and its byproducts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness and necessity of various methods for forming PbO2 on electrodes. While some agree on the feasibility of electrolysis for PbO2 formation, others highlight the need for alternative techniques under certain conditions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best practices for electrode preparation and the implications for battery design.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of the electrolysis process and the potential limitations of using lead electrodes, particularly in relation to gas production and safety considerations. There are also unresolved questions about the specific mechanisms involved in PbO2 formation and the effectiveness of different coating methods.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those involved in battery technology, electrochemistry, and materials science, particularly in the context of lead-acid batteries and electrode preparation methods.

RayRoc
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A while back I did an experiment, I placed two lead sheets in a H2SO4 solution, exposed it to a charging current and tested the battery there after.

As I understand it, the battery worked by the metal combination of PbO2 and Pb, and through electrolysis I formed the PbO2 directly on the plate.

The result of the experiment was a working battery. Now my question:

If in fact what I understand is correct, why the fuss with coating the lead plated with PbO2, using other less natural ways? Like using a plating solution of lead nitrate, or pressing the powdered lead dioxide right onto the electrode.

On my search for suitable replacements of Platinum electrodes I ran a crossed lead dioxide, and although I am not sure quite yet if lead dioxide would fill my needs, it did raise the question for me.

Thanks.
 
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RayRoc said:
If in fact what I understand is correct, why the fuss with coating the lead plated with PbO2, using other less natural ways? Like using a plating solution of lead nitrate, or pressing the powdered lead dioxide right onto the electrode.

One of the reasons: you can have ready battery, that can be transported dry and filled with an acid on site. Such a battery won't leak even if it is dropped or hit, so it is much safer to move.
 
I thought I understood the mechanism that would produce the lead dioxide on the electrode, but I have read about electrode preparation involving the plating of the PbO2 on a substrate like titanium, carbon, and lead. This doesn’t make sense to me when it comes to lead, as I thought it would be a byproduct of electrolysis.
 
These are different cases. You may produce PbO2 on the lead surface during electrolysis in sulfuric acid; no doubt about it. But when you want to plate PbO2 by dry method on the dry electrode, you have to use tricks. Just pouring dry, powdered PbO2 won't suffice.
 
Borek thank you for your replies, you have answered my intended question, (I think) but for clairification, even though a simple experiment would suffice, I still wonder if I would have problems useing a lead electrode for electrolysis production of oxygen gas.
 

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