Redox Pair Mediated Acid and Base Coproduction

Case ID:
C17305

Value Proposition:

·       Efficient Acid and Base Coproduction: This electrochemical system enables simultaneous production of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide, increasing efficiency and reducing waste.

·       Sustainable and Green Chemistry Approach: Utilizes renewable electricity and achieves high atom efficiency by using water as the source of both protons (H⁺) and hydroxyl ions (OH⁻).

·       Integrated Hydrogen Utilization: The system effectively separates, transfers, and reuses hydrogen in an innovative cycle, improving overall energy efficiency.

·       Scalable and Customizable Design: Modular system design allows for adaptation to various acid and base production needs across industries.

 

Unmet Need:

 

The chemical industry relies heavily on acids and bases, which are typically produced in separate facilities using energy-intensive processes. Conventional methods have inefficiencies in atom utilization and often depend on fossil fuels or non-renewable energy sources. There is a need for a more sustainable, energy-efficient, and scalable approach to acid and base production that aligns with green chemistry principles.

 

Technology Description:

 

This product is an innovative electrochemical system for the coproduction of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The components include:

 

·       Electrolyzer Unit: Responsible for base production and oxidation of redox pairs. Water is reduced to generate hydroxide and hydrogen. Utilizes ion-exchange membranes to enhance reaction efficiency.

·       Hydrogen Separation and Transfer Unit: Facilitates the movement and controlled release of hydrogen for further reactions.

·       Redox Pair Storage and Transfer Unit: Stores and transfers redox mediators, enabling efficient electron exchange. Redox mediators such as Fe(II)/Fe(III) chloride improve electron transfer and minimize energy losses.

·       Fuel Cell Unit: Converts hydrogen into water while generating acid in a controlled process. Achieves over 70% current efficiency at operational densities of 200 mA/cm². Fuel cell integration also allows for immediate or stored electricity compensation.

 

Stage of Development:

·       The molecule has been validated in lab settings.

 

Data Availability:

·       Data available upon request.

 

Publications:

N/A

Patent Information:
Title App Type Country Serial No. Patent No. File Date Issued Date Expire Date Patent Status
ELECTROLYZERS ORD: Ordinary Utility United States 18/360,326 TRACK ONE!!!!!!! 7/27/2023     Pending
ELECTROLYZERS PCT: Patent Cooperation Treaty United States 19/036,604   1/24/2025     Pending
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For Information, Contact:
Lisa Schwier
lschwie2@jhu.edu
410-614-0300
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