A titanium anode is a type of electrode in electrochemical systems, where titanium (or titanium alloy) serves as the substrate for the anode. Thanks to its unique material properties and the use of advanced coatings, titanium anodes are widely used in industries such as water treatment, electroplating, chlor-alkali production, cathodic protection, and more.
In an electrochemical system, the anode is the electrode at which oxidation occurs (loss of electrons). In many industrial applications, the anode must conduct current, resist corrosion, catalyze or support electrochemical reactions, and maintain structural integrity under harsh conditions.
A titanium anode is an anode that uses titanium metal or a titanium alloy as the base substrate. Often, the titanium substrate is coated with a mixed metal oxide (MMO) or noble-metal coating to provide better catalytic performance, corrosion resistance, and longevity. Thus, a titanium anode typically comprises a substrate of commercially-pure titanium (often Grade 1 or 2) or a titanium alloy, and a surface coating such as ruthenium oxide, iridium oxide, platinum, or iridium-tantalum oxide. Because of this combination, titanium anodes are sometimes referred to as “dimensionally stable anodes (DSA)” when coated with MMO.
Titanium offers several key advantages: excellent corrosion resistance, good mechanical strength, light weight, and the ability to serve as a durable electrode substrate when properly coated. Commercially pure titanium is readily available, has excellent adherence when properly surface-prepared, and maintains high chemical resistance.
The substrate is usually commercially pure titanium, typically Grade 1 or Grade 2. These grades offer a good combination of conductivity, corrosion resistance, and processability. Sometimes titanium alloys may be used; however, pure titanium is most common for anode substrates.
Because bare titanium substrate can form an insulating oxide or degrade in some environments, coatings are applied. Key types include:
These coatings provide high electrocatalytic activity, reduce overpotential for gas evolution, and enhance lifetime and stability.
The coating acts as the active catalytic surface for the electrochemical reaction, protects the titanium substrate from direct electrolytic attack, and maintains electrical conductivity. It also ensures dimensional stability so that the anode does not change shape or dissolve significantly over time.
When used in an electrolytic system, the titanium anode acts as the positive electrode. At the anode surface, oxidation reactions occur, such as chlorine or oxygen evolution, depending on the process. The substrate provides the structural and conductive foundation, while the coating provides the catalytic surface and protection. Current flows from the power supply to the anode, through the electrolyte, to the cathode.
The coating lowers the overpotential required for the desired reaction, improving efficiency. It also prevents degradation or passivation of the titanium substrate, enhancing longevity and reliability.
Used in electrochlorination, electrocoagulation, and electro-oxidation systems to generate oxidants that remove organics and disinfect water.
Titanium anodes provide stable current and resist corrosion, avoiding contamination of plating baths compared with graphite or dissolving anodes.
Standard electrodes in the production of chlorine, caustic soda, and related chemicals due to high corrosion resistance and long lifetime in brine environments.
Used in cathodic protection systems for pipelines, tanks, and offshore structures, offering long-lasting corrosion resistance.
Titanium mesh or plate anodes are used in the electrowinning of metals like copper or nickel, providing improved efficiency and reduced by-products.
Applied in organic electrosynthesis, advanced oxidation processes, and seawater electrolysis for hydrogen production.
A titanium anode uses a titanium substrate, often coated with mixed metal oxides or noble metals, to serve as a durable and efficient anode in electrochemical systems. It combines the corrosion resistance of titanium with the catalytic and stability benefits of coatings. Titanium anodes are used in water treatment, electroplating, chlor-alkali, cathodic protection, and electrowinning. Proper selection and design ensure optimal performance, long service life, and cost-effectiveness.
Titanium anodes represent the next generation of high-performance, environmentally friendly electrode materials. Their strength, efficiency, and adaptability make them indispensable across modern electrochemical industries.
