Stationary spatial patterns during bulk CO electrooxidation on platinum.

We present experimental studies and mathematical modeling on pattern formation during bulk CO electrooxidation on Pt ring electrodes. Profiles of the interfacial potential drop in front of the working electrode were recorded with a potential probe. Stationary self-organized potential patterns were observed under potentiostatic conditions in dilute acidic and basic supporting electrolytes. The amplitude and shape of these potential patterns can be modified by an appropriate local perturbation of the interfacial potential drop. A mathematical model of the formation of these patterns reveals that the homogeneous state becomes unstable through a subcritical Turing-like bifurcation and that several patterned electrode states coexist in wide parameter ranges.