ABSTRACT
The major electrochemical processes in the world to date are the chlor-alkali and aluminium industries, with production of tens of millions of tonnes per year. A long way behind are the production of sodium chlorate and the only major electro-organic synthesis, the production of adiponitrile. However, membrane and electrochemistry breakthroughs will almost certainly add to this list as understanding and the interests in research and development in this area continue. In view of the dominant position of chloralkali in the commodities chemicals business and its very rapid movement towards membrane technology, it is appropriate that a paper should be given on this particular approach to the topic of the membrane alternative.
