All our anodes used in processes that generate a cathodic product (oxygen evolution) fall within this family, forming a cornerstone of our technology portfolio. In the majority of these applications, the anodic reaction results in the evolution of oxygen, as the electrolyte is commonly based on sulfuric acid and various sulfates. While this might sound like a straightforward process, the reality is far more complex. The conditions under which these reactions occur are often harsh, highly variable, and demanding on electrode materials. It is precisely here that the quality of the anode becomes decisive in determining the efficiency, longevity, and overall viability of the system.
Oxygen evolution is one of the most energy-intensive electrochemical reactions. Achieving it efficiently requires electrodes with catalytic coatings that not only lower the overpotential—the additional energy needed to drive the reaction—but also remain stable under continuous operation. This is no trivial challenge. Aggressive electrolytes such as sulfuric acid can degrade electrode surfaces rapidly if the coating composition and substrate are not engineered with precision. For this reason, we rely on advanced titanium substrates and proprietary mixed metal oxide (MMO) coatings, carefully optimized to deliver both performance and durability.
The range of applications that rely on oxygen evolution anodes is remarkably diverse. They are used in metal electrowinning, where valuable metals such as copper, nickel, or cobalt are extracted from ore solutions. They play a role in electrochemical synthesis, enabling the production of intermediates and specialty chemicals. They are employed in wastewater treatment systems, where oxygen evolution supports advanced oxidation processes for the removal of contaminants. Even in niche industries—such as the recovery of rare earth elements or the recycling of industrial byproducts—these anodes provide the backbone for efficient and sustainable operations.
Each of these applications comes with its own challenges: variations in current density, electrolyte composition, operating temperature, and cell design. Meeting these challenges requires not only robust materials but also specialized know-how. Over the years, we have refined this expertise through dedicated research and development, continuously improving coating formulations, electrode geometries, and manufacturing techniques. This commitment ensures that our clients receive solutions that are not just functional but also optimized for their specific processes.
In essence, our oxygen-evolution anodes represent the convergence of science, engineering, and real-world application experience. By combining proven materials with decades of accumulated knowledge, we provide electrodes that deliver reliable performance across the most demanding industrial environments—helping operators achieve efficiency, stability, and long-term value.
Oxygen Evolution Anodes
We supply MMO-coated titanium anodes designed to deliver superior performance, durability, and efficiency for the following applications:
- Water Treatment
- Copper Foil
- Electro tinning
- Surface Finishing
- Metal electrowinning from Sulphates and/or Nitrates
- Continuous aluminum strip anodising liquid contact
- PCB via fill copper plating
- Steelcord plating for tyres
Development of MMO anodes for trivalent chromium plating processes
Chromium [Cr] plating, which provides a bright, aesthetically pleasant protection from both corrosion and mechanical wear, is certainly among the most widespread surface finishing technologies. The classic process is focused on the electrolytic reduction of hexavalent chromium ions. However, due to the unambiguous recognition of the latter as a toxic and carcinogenic agent, its use is fading away due to stricter regulations. Read more here.
A greener alternative process based on trivalent Cr ions is currently gaining more and more attention from both the scientific and industrial communities. Such a process has promising perspectives howeber it brings up a whole new series of scientific-technological issues.
At Chemical Newtech we are deeply committed in investigating the electrochemical mechanisms which are involved in the Cr(III) plating process. The purpose is that of fine tuning all the single anode manufacturing parameters in order to hinder to the best extent the side reactions that yield the toxic hexavalent ions.
We have developed a specific MMO coating optimised for the purpose which has been tested throughly from large chrome plating bath manufacturers.