Lead dioxide film sonoelectrodeposition in acidic media: Preparation and performance of stable practical anodes

► Practical lead dioxide anodes have been obtained by electrodeposition on titanium substrates in the presence of an ultrasound field. ► Enhanced sonodeposits are obtained, compared with those under mechanical conditions. ► The initial surface state of the substrate is a key factor in the efficient performance of the practical electrode. Practical lead dioxide anodes have been obtained by electrodeposition on glassy carbon and titanium substrates in the presence and in the absence of an ultrasound field. The films obtained by mechanical agitation on glassy carbon are strongly improved when the electrodeposition process is carried out with the ultrasound field, providing adherent deposits free from nodules and stress, but with pores appearing occasionally. These enhanced properties were not achieved by mechanical conditions, even when optimization of temperature, current density, additives and geometrical aspects was attempted. The best practical anodes were obtained by sonoelectrodeposition using specially treated titanium as substrate, providing comparable behavior to commercial electrodes.