Abstract
The effect ofgermanium on the electrowinning of zinc from industrial acid sulphate electrolyte was studied using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry techniques. Germanium concentrations > 0.1 mgl−1 results in severe re-solution of the zinc deposit and hence decreased the zinc deposition current efficiency. Extreme fluctuations in the current efficiency occurred as a function of electrolysis time. Cyclic voltammograms obtained for Ge-containing electrolytes were characterized by a shoulder in the reverse scan prior to the cross-over potential. Vigorous hydrogen gassing occurred at the shoulder. These results are interpreted in terms of the formation of local Zn-Ge galvanic cells. Germanium concentrations to 0.2 mgl−1 had no effect on the morphology of the 1-h zinc deposits but the preferred orientation changed from [1 1 4] [1 1 2] for Ge-free electrolyte to [1 1 2] [1 1 0] for electrolytes containing Ge.
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Mackinnon, D.J., Fenn, P.L. The effect of germanium on zinc electrowinning from industrial acid sulphate electrolyte. J Appl Electrochem 14, 467–474 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00610811
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00610811