Electrolysis electrode and methods of manufacture and using same in water purification system

Abstract

A heterojunction anode for electrolysis is disclosed. The anode has a first conductive metal oxide (FCMO) layer, a second semiconductor layer contacting the FCMO layer, and one or more islands of a third semiconductor contacting the second semiconductor layer. The FCMO layer may be formed on a metallic base, such as titanium. The FCMO layer may include iridium, the second semiconductor layer may include titanium oxide, and the third semiconductor may include tin oxide. The anode may be manufactured using spray pyrolysis to apply each semiconductor material. The anode may be configured such that when placed in an electrolyte at least a portion of the second semiconductor layer and the islands are in direct physical contact with the electrolyte. The second semiconductor interlayer and third semiconductor islands enhance the production of reactive chlorine in chlorinated water. A water treatment system and method using the anode are also disclosed.