Porous electrolytic cell for acid and base production
This technology is a membrane-free electrolytic cell that forms acid and base from electrolyte solutions, such as brine.
Unmet Need: Cost effective sustainable production of acid and base from impure brines
Common electro-synthesis processes, such as the chlor-alkali system, which produces chlorine gas and sodium or potassium hydroxide, must continue to improve through more efficient operation of the electrochemical cells. Membrane-free electrolyzers are a low-cost and robust alternative to electrolyzers based on ion-selective membrane electrolyzers, which are highly sensitive to impurities and thus require costly pre-treatment of the brine.
The Technology: Membrane-free electrolyzer for production of acid and base
This membraneless electrolyzer generates basic and acidic effluent streams from feed brines. The electrolyzer consists of multiple cells comprised of porous cathodes, anodes, and separators. Gas generated at one electrode can pass through the integral structure to interact with the opposing electrode, eliminating the need for external processing systems while reducing cell voltages. The system is compatible with both hydrogen and oxygen gases for efficient production of acid and base while allowing fine control of the pH of the product streams.
Applications:
- Critical minerals processing
- Carbon capture and conversion
- Chlor-alkali production
- Electro-synthesis of common acids and bases
- Environmental application
Advantages:
- Membrane-free
- Forms acid and base with high energy efficiency
- Cost-efficient
- Compatible with hydrogen and oxygen gases
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending(WO/2024/155380)
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
- IR CU26056