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Potassium Persulfate by Electrolysis of Potassium Bisulfate
Potassium persulfate, the initiator that starts emulsion polymerisation (PVA glue), is made by electrolysing a cold, concentrated potassium bisulfate solution at about 1 A/dm² on a platinum anode with a graphite cathode. Sulfate is oxidised to persulfate at the anode, and the sparingly soluble salt crystallises out. It is a strong oxidant: keep it away from organic matter.
The picture: our diagram of the cell.
Intermediate
One to several days
Instructions
1
1
Make a strong, cold solution
Make a strong, cold solution
Dissolve the potassium bisulfate in distilled water to a concentrated solution and keep it cold. A dilute solution gives oxygen instead of persulfate.
Materials for this step:
Potassium Bisulfate400 g
Distilled Water1 literTools needed:
Electrolysis Tank
Digital Kitchen Scale
Thermometer
Chemical-Resistant Gloves
Safety Glasses2
2
Electrolyse at high current density
Electrolyse at high current density
Use a platinum anode and a graphite cathode. Run about 1 A per dm² of anode; hydrogen comes off at the cathode.
Tools needed:
Platinum Wire
Graphite Electrode
DC Power SupplyElectrolysis TankThermometer3
3
Collect the crystals
Collect the crystals
Potassium persulfate crystallises out as it forms. Filter it off, rinse with a little cold distilled water and dry it (our method).
Tools needed:
Buchner Funnel (Porcelain)
Filter Paper
Open Drying TrayChemical-Resistant Gloves4
4
Use as initiator
Use as initiator
For emulsion polymerisation, about 0.1–0.5 % is used, usually at 75–95 °C. Store it apart from organic materials.
Tools needed:
Digital Kitchen Scale5
5
Charge and time
Charge and time
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Materials
2- 400 gPlaceholder
- 1 literPlaceholder
Tools Required
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