Electrochemical studies on glassy carbon electrodes: II. Oxygen reduction in solutions of high pH (pH>10)

On the basis of measurements using rotating disc, rotating ring disc and stationary glassy carbon electrodes, together with polarization curves, reaction order and stoichiometric number determinations, a mechanism for the reduction of oxygen in aqueous solution at pH>10 is proposed. This involves an initial electron transfer, followed by rate-determining surface migration of O₂^? ions to active sites on the electrode surface. Differences between our interpretation of the experimental results and the conclusions of other investigators are discussed.