Abstract: An O/W type emulsion was made from mixing of oleic acid kerosene solution, NaOH aqueous and CTAB aqueous. It was found that addition of the emulsion could make some Daniell cells, including Cu-Mg, Cu-Al, Cu-Zn, Cu-Fe cell; produce evident electrochemical oscillations which could last more than 4 h in both cell and electrode reactions. Reversible oscillations in the cell were also found after electrified with 2 V, 50 Hz or 100 Hz alternating current for 4 h. The oscillatory mechanism was explained by the adsorption of surfactant on the surface of electrode and emulsion structure changes according to observe under a microscope. The mixing energy of emulsion takes part in the electrochemical reaction.

Key words: Emulsions, Daniell cell, Oscillations, Reversible