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