This investigation evaluated the applicability of a molybdenum sulfide reference electrode (MSRE) as an internal reference electrode for use in alkaline sulfide solutions over a range of pulp digester liquors at 170°C. The electrode remained stable during the exposure period of two weeks. The experimentally determined half cell potential of the MSRE is E = -0.91 VSHE. The surface of the MSRE was examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) to verify the chemical composition of the thin surface film. Based on ESCA studies, the surface film contained molybdenum disulfide and sodium disulfide. During storage of the specimens, sulfide was partly oxidized to sodium sulfite in air. Next to the metallic molybdenum, a mixed molybdenum disulfide and molybdenum hydroxide layer was detected.
