Rhodium electrodeposition on nickel electrodes used for urea electrolysis

A procedure for the constant potential electrodeposition of rhodium onto nickel electrodes, the subsequent surface characterizations, and electrochemical evaluation is presented. The resulting Ni/Rh electrodes were evaluated for their activity as anode catalysts for the electro-oxidation of urea. A detailed procedure for the electrodeposition of Rh onto Ni foil is provided. It is shown that the electrocatalytic performance of Ni/Rh electrodes on the oxidation of urea in alkaline medium is primarily influenced by two electrodeposition parameters: the applied electrodeposition potential and the loading of Rh (mg cm(-2)). An optimization for electrocatalytic performance based on the electrodeposition potential and Rh loading is demonstrated. The effect of these parameters on visual finish, surface morphology, and crystal structure was also studied.