Manufacturing Process of MMO Titanium Electrodes

In the modern electrochemical industry, MMO titanium electrodes have become indispensable components due to their excellent performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Also known as Mixed Metal Oxide coated titanium electrodes, these innovative materials are widely used across various industries, including wastewater treatment, metal plating, chlor-alkali production, and cathodic protection. As industries demand more efficient and eco-friendly processes, MMO titanium electrodes provide the optimal balance between performance and sustainability.

What Are MMO Titanium Electrodes?
Definition and Structure
MMO titanium electrodes consist of a titanium substrate coated with a layer of mixed metal oxides (such as IrO₂, RuO₂, Ta₂O₅, or PtO₂). This coating provides high catalytic activity, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity. The titanium base offers mechanical strength and stability, making the electrode ideal for long-term use in aggressive chemical environments.

Core Properties of MMO Titanium Electrodes
High conductivity

Chemical corrosion resistance

Long service life

Low maintenance

Excellent electrochemical performance

Eco-friendly and recyclable

Why Choose MMO Titanium Electrodes Over Conventional Electrodes?
The superior characteristics of MMO titanium electrodes make them a preferred choice over traditional graphite or lead-based electrodes.

1: Durability and Lifespan
MMO-coated titanium electrodes can operate for thousands of hours without significant degradation. The robust oxide coating enhances resistance to wear and corrosion, especially in chloride-rich environments like seawater or industrial effluents.

2: Energy Efficiency
These electrodes require lower overpotential to drive electrochemical reactions, improving energy efficiency and reducing operational costs.

3: Environmental Benefits
Unlike lead-based electrodes, MMO titanium electrodes do not release toxic substances into the environment. This makes them ideal for eco-conscious industries focusing on green manufacturing and water treatment.

Manufacturing Process of MMO Titanium Electrodes
1: Surface Preparation
The titanium surface is first sandblasted or acid-etched to increase roughness and improve adhesion of the oxide coating.

2: Oxide Coating Application
A liquid solution containing metal salts (typically ruthenium, iridium, or tantalum) is applied through brushing, spraying, or dipping.

3: Thermal Decomposition
The electrode is then baked at high temperatures (typically between 400°C to 500°C) to decompose the salts into metal oxides, forming a stable and conductive layer.

4: Layer Repetition
This process is repeated multiple times to build up the desired coating thickness and ensure even distribution of active materials.

Industrial Applications of MMO Titanium Electrodes
1. Water and Wastewater Treatment
MMO titanium electrodes are widely used in electrochemical oxidation systems for treating industrial and municipal wastewater. They facilitate advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) to remove organic pollutants, pathogens, and heavy metals.

Electrochemical Disinfection
These electrodes generate powerful oxidants such as hydroxyl radicals and active chlorine, offering an effective alternative to chemical disinfection.

Electrocoagulation Systems
MMO titanium electrodes promote coagulation and flocculation of suspended solids, reducing chemical consumption and sludge generation.

2. Electroplating and Metal Finishing
In electroplating processes, MMO titanium electrodes serve as anodes in the deposition of metals like copper, nickel, and chromium.

Stable Performance in Acidic Electrolytes
Their resistance to acidic and oxidative environments ensures consistent current distribution and surface quality.

Reduced Anode Sludge
Compared to traditional anodes, MMO electrodes significantly reduce sludge formation, improving bath life and minimizing waste disposal.

3. Cathodic Protection Systems
MMO titanium electrodes are essential in impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) systems used to protect pipelines, offshore platforms, storage tanks, and marine structures.

Long-Term Corrosion Protection
With proper system design, MMO electrodes can last 20+ years, providing continuous protection against corrosion in harsh environments.

Lightweight and Easy to Install
Titanium-based electrodes are lightweight and customizable, making them easier to transport and install compared to other anode types.

4. Electrochlorination and Chlor-Alkali Industry
MMO titanium electrodes are employed in systems that generate sodium hypochlorite or chlorine gas from brine solutions.

On-Site Disinfectant Production
Electrochlorination using MMO titanium electrodes allows facilities to generate disinfectants on demand without transporting hazardous chemicals.

High Current Efficiency
The high catalytic activity of MMO coatings results in efficient chlorine evolution reactions (CER) with low energy losses.

Types of MMO Titanium Electrodes Based on Coating Composition
1. IrO₂-Based Electrodes
Ideal for oxygen evolution in acidic solutions, commonly used in metal recovery and wastewater treatment.

2. RuO₂-Based Electrodes
Suitable for chlorine evolution, widely applied in electrochlorination and swimming pool sanitation.

3. Mixed Coatings (IrO₂ + Ta₂O₅ or RuO₂ + TiO₂)
Balanced properties for multi-functional use, offering durability, conductivity, and cost-effectiveness.

Choosing the Right MMO Titanium Electrode for Your Application
When selecting MMO titanium electrodes, consider the following factors:

Electrolyte composition (acidic, alkaline, or neutral)

Operating current density

Target electrochemical reaction (e.g., chlorine or oxygen evolution)

Required electrode lifespan

System design and geometry

Partnering with a reliable MMO titanium electrode manufacturer ensures that you get tailor-made products optimized for your specific industrial needs.

Technical Specifications Overview
Substrate Material: ASTM Grade 1/2 Titanium
Coating Composition: RuO₂, IrO₂, Ta₂O₅, TiO₂
Coating Thickness：5–10 microns
Service Life：3–20 years (depending on use)
Operating Current Density    :  Up to 1000 A/m²
Max Temperature: 80–100°C

Why MMO Titanium Electrodes Are the Future of Electrochemistry
MMO titanium electrodes represent a breakthrough in industrial electrochemistry. Their combination of durability, high performance, and environmental friendliness makes them the ideal choice for a wide range of applications—from wastewater treatment to metal finishing and cathodic protection.

Whether you are designing a new electrochemical system or upgrading an existing one, choosing MMO titanium electrodes ensures long-term efficiency, reduced operational costs, and improved sustainability.

About Us
Baoji City ShenAo Metal Materials Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of MMO titanium electrodes, titanium anodes, and a wide range of non-ferrous metal products. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to quality, we deliver tailor-made electrode solutions for global customers in over 30 countries.

Contact Us
Interested in sourcing high-quality MMO titanium electrodes for your industrial applications? Get in touch with our sales and technical team today.

Email: zh@baojiti.com.cn
Website: shenaocladplate.com
Phone: +86-18729731603

Let’s power your next innovation — with Grade 1 Titanium Electrodes.