The reference electrode is a principal component of an anodic protection system. It must maintain a stable potential in the corrosive environment and resist corrosion. Its chemical composition may vary with the environment.
Suitable Reference Electrode Materials for Anodic Protection in Different Environments
| Electrode | Environment |
| Calomel | Sulphuric acid at different concentrations; kraft digester |
| Ag/AgCl | Fresh or spent sulphuric acid; kraft liquors; fertiliser solutions; sulphonation plant |
| Hg/HgSO4 | Sulphuric acid; hydroxylamine sulphate |
| Pt/PtO | Sulphuric acid |
| Au/AuO | Alcohol solution |
| Mo/MoO3 | Sodium carbonate solutions; kraft digester |
| Platinum | Sulphuric acid |
| Bismuth | Ammonium hydroxide |
| Type 316 stainless steel | Sulphuric acid; fertiliser solutions |
| Nickel | Fertiliser solutions; nickel plating solutions |
| Silicon | Fertiliser solutions |
Borna Electronic can design and manufacture anodic protection reference electrodes to meet customer requirements or project needs.