Critical current oxygenation effects

The effect of the nature of the cation on the anodic reaction was assumed to be connected with an adsorption of the cation in the double layer. The critical current density was attributed to inhibition of oxygen evolution. It was observed that the critical current was lowered only when the radius of the added cation was larger than that of the cation of the acetate constituting the base solution. The introduction of a cation with a larger radius and, hence, with a larger adsorbability on a given electrode, leads to its preferential adsorption on the electrode. Dickinson and Wynne-Jones also support the view that added ions reduce the activity of acetate ions in the double layer. 

High current densities, together with high carboxylate concentrations favor the formation of dimers. This results from a high radical concentration at the electrode surface that supports the dimerization. Furthermore, at higher current densities a critical potential of 2.4 V (versus the normal hydrogen electrode) is reached, which seems to be a prerequisite for the Kolbe electrolyis, because at and above this potential the oxygen evolution and solvent oxidation is effectively suppressed. - ... 

In acute exposure prompt medical attention is critical. The victim should be immediately removed to fresh air and away from the source of exposure. Oxygen should be provided if there is a respiratory distress. Initial therapy should be directed at stopping the ongoing hemolysis by performing exchange transfusion. Currently there is no other treatment to decrease arsine hemolysis however, studies in vitro have shown that some dithiol chelators (meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid, DMSA 2,3-dimercapto-l-propanesulfonic acid, DMPS and 2,3-butanedithiol) are effective (see Further Reading). This should be followed by aims to restore renal function or compensate for lost renal function (hemodialysis). This process does not remove any formed arsenic from the exposed body. Administration of dimercaprol (British Anti-Lewisite, BAL) has no effect on arsine hemolysis, but it lowers blood arsenic levels resulting from arsine exposure. The use of chelators must be... 

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