The condition for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) is typically carried out in an electrochemical cell, specifically a three-electrode setup. The main components and conditions for ORR include:
Electrolyte: A suitable electrolyte, such as an aqueous solution of an alkaline or acidic salt, is used to provide the medium for ion transport.
Working electrode: The working electrode is typically made of a catalyst material capable of promoting the ORR. Common catalyst materials include platinum (Pt) and its alloys, as well as non-precious metal catalysts like transition metal oxides.
Counter electrode: A counter electrode, usually made of an inert material like graphite or noble metal, serves as a site for other electrochemical reactions to balance the overall charge.
Reference electrode: A reference electrode, such as a saturated calomel electrode (SCE) or a silver/silver chloride electrode (Ag/AgCl), is used to establish a fixed reference potential.
Potential control: The electrochemical cell is operated under controlled conditions, applying a specific potential to the working electrode with respect to the reference electrode. Typically, the potential range is around 0.2 to 1.0 V vs. the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) under ambient conditions.
Oxygen supply: A continuous flow of oxygen gas or air is required for the reaction to occur at the cathode (working electrode).
Under these conditions, the ORR proceeds through a series of reduction steps, ultimately converting oxygen molecules (O2) and water (H2O) into hydroxide ions (OH-) in an electrochemical process.