Effect of irradiation on electrode processes. Part 2.—Diffusion currents associated with radiolytic products

Abstract

The rate of diffusion of radiolytic products to electrode surfaces under steady state conditions is discussed. Account is taken not only of the diffusion coefficients and the bulk concentrations but also of the rates of generation and reaction of products within the diffusion layer. The diffusion current under irradiation is up to two orders of magnitude greater than that calculated classically from Fick's diffusion law. Its value can be estimated from the correlation with a dimensionless quantity which is a function of the dose rate, the diffusion layer thickness, the diffusion coefficient and the rate of reaction of the intermediates. Experimental evidence is outlined.