Metal Rod Electrode with PTFE Sheath for Fundamental Electrochemical Research, CFERMRE

A metal rod electrode with a PTFE sheath (often called an insulated electrode or shrouded rod) is a staple in analytical electrochemistry. It consists of a high-purity metal rod—such as Platinum, Gold, Glassy Carbon, or Stainless Steel—permanently embedded within a Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE/Teflon) cylinder. This design is engineered to solve the most common problem in electrochemical measurements: uncontrolled active surface area.

The primary purpose of the PTFE sheath is to provide electrical insulation and chemical protection for the length of the rod, leaving only the circular cross-section (the "disk") at the bottom exposed to the electrolyte. (1) The Metal Core: Typically 1 mm, 3 mm, or 5 mm in diameter. (2) The PTFE Shroud: Usually 6 mm to 15 mm. It is often precision-machined or shrink-fitted to ensure a leak-proof seal at the metal-plastic interface. (3) The Connector: The top of the rod usually features a standard 2 mm or 4 mm gold-plated pin for connecting to potentiostat.