摘要 |
An electrolytic cell employing a hydraulically impermeable membrane having a spacing means interposed between the anode and the membrane, is operated by providing a positive pressure differential between the cathode compartment and the anode compartment. The pressure differential is sufficient to maintain contact between the spacer and the membrane to provide uniform spacing between the anode and the membrane. In addition, this process provides sufficient spacing between the membrane and the cathode to provide efficient release of any gas formed and to prevent gas blinding at the cathode. Employing the positive pressure differential enables the cell to be operated at reduced energy costs when producing, for example, concentrated solutions of sodium hydroxide by careful control of the spacing between the membrane and the electrodes. |