Oscillating heterogeneous reaction with oxalic acid

Abstract

Catalysed oxidation of oxalic acid with bromate ions at constant flow of nitrogen was investigated. Oscillations of the catalyst and bromine and the stepwise decrease of the concentration of bromate ions were followed by the polarographic method. Optimum conditions for the oscillations are at the stoichiometric ratio of the reactants. Oscillations of the concentration of bromine are enabled by the Ce(III) or Mn(II) catalyst. The oscillating behaviour of oxalic and malonic acids at heterogeneous conditions is compared.