chlor-alkali process
Also known as: chlorine-alkali-electrolysis
Quick Summary
The chlor-alkali process is a method used in the chemical industry to produce chlorine and sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) simultaneously through the electrolysis of salt (sodium chloride) in a brine solution. This process has become the primary source for chlorine production.12
There are two main versions of the electrolytic process:
- Diaphragm cells: These cells use a diaphragm to separate the chlorine and caustic soda, preventing them from mixing and reacting.
- Mercury cells: In this method, a layer of mercury acts as the cathode. Sodium dissolves in the mercury, forming an amalgam, which is then reacted with water to produce sodium hydroxide and hydrogen. This process yields a purer sodium hydroxide product, free of salt.1
The chlor-alkali process is significant because elemental chlorine produced has numerous applications, including the manufacturing of plastics like polyvinyl chloride.2
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