The preparation of ferrate(VI) by the anodic dissolution of an iron wire gauze in concentrated NaOH solution is described. An anolyte of 0.35-0.48 M Na2FeO4 can be produced during 3-6 h electrolysis in initial 16 M NaOH solution at 35 degrees C. The experimental results indicate that the Fe(VI) concentration variation rate during electrolysis is close related to the factors such as current density, alkaline concentration, the ratio of effective surface area to anolyte volume, the passivation of iron anode and the decomposition of ferrate(VI), etc., and the relevant empirical equation is given. The alkalinity of anolyte has large effect on the electrogeneration of ferrate(VI), especially during an interval electrolysis. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.