Direct electrochemical reduction of solid bismuth oxide in urea–1-methylimidazolium trifluoromethylsulfonate low-temperature molten salt

The conversion of solid Bi 2 O 3 to bismuth in a urea–1-methylimidazolium trifluoromethylsulfonate (urea–MIMTfO) electrolyte is studied for the first time. The electrochemical reduction behavior of solid Bi 2 O 3 was studied using a home-made graphite cavity working electrode. Cyclic voltammetry of the graphite cavity electrode confirms that solid Bi 2 O 3 is converted to metallic bismuth via a one-step process. Electrolysis experiments were carried out under constant voltages of 2.4 V, 2.6 V, and 2.8 V for various periods of time. Experimental results indicate that the urea–MIMTfO solution is a useful electrolyte for the electrochemical conversion of solid Bi 2 O 3 to metallic bismuth. This approach offers a green and straightforward method for the conversion of oxides to metals.