Abstract

Linear sweep and cyclic voltammetry were used for electrochemical characterization of the Pt/sodium-beta''-Al2O3 system and investigation of the phases formed upon electrochemical pumping of sodium ions to the Pt catalyst-electrode under conditions of propane combustion or under mixtures of O-2 or CO2 with helium, at temperatures between 320 and 480 A degrees C. The number, position and magnitude of the peaks in the obtained voltammograms were found to depend on gas phase composition, temperature, and pre-scan (initial polarization) conditions. The results showed that under conditions of propane combustion more than one sodium phases can be formed as a result of electrochemical pumping of sodium ions to the Pt catalyst. The related electrochemical reactions and the identity of these sodium phases, which correspond mainly to carbonate or bicarbonate phases but also to oxide phases, are discussed on the basis of the obtained results and those of former studies.