Electrochemical Oxidation of C. I. Reactive Orange 4 Using Bimetallic Composite Electrodes

Bimetallic composite electrode prepared from mixture of argentums (Ag) and carbon (C) powder (known as AgC-PVC) becomes the best electrode to decolorize C. I. Reactive Orange 4 (RO4) solution without sludge formation in the end of electrolysis process. Three ratios of Ag:C powder (30:70, 50:50 and 70:30) have been used for preparation of electrode to investigate the effect of electrode composition toward decolorization of RO4 solution. From Tafel equation obtained, the value of exchange current density, io for Ag28.5C66.5-PVC5 prepared from 30% Ag and 70% C is 3.555 mA/cm2 becomes the highest than other electrodes. This electrode gives the best electrocatalytic activity compared to others. The clear solution produced after electrolysis of RO4 was analyzed by UV-VIS spectrophotometer to identify the level of decolorization. The UV-Vis spectrum shows that degradation of azo group occurs in RO4 structure to produce clear solution after electrolysis process.