Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis
2NaCl + 2H2O → Cl2 + 2NaOH + H2
Aperçu
Electrolysis of concentrated brine (NaCl solution) produces three essential industrial chemicals simultaneously: chlorine gas at the anode, sodium hydroxide solution at the cathode, and hydrogen gas as a byproduct. Modern membrane cells use ion-exchange membranes to separate products and achieve 95%+ current efficiency.
Participants
| Rôle | Substance | Coefficient | État |
|---|---|---|---|
| Réactif | Sodium Chloride NaCl | 2 | (aq) |
| Réactif | Water H₂O | 2 | (l) |
| Produit | Sodium Hydroxide NaOH | 2 | (aq) |
Exemple du quotidien
The chlorine in your tap water and the lye in drain cleaner both come from this single electrochemical process.
Importance industrielle
The chlor-alkali industry produces about 75 million tonnes of NaOH and 65 million tonnes of Cl₂ annually, consuming about 1% of global electricity.
Propriétés
- Type
- Electrochemical
- Réversible
- Non
- Énergie
- Endothermique
- ΔH
- 422,0 kJ/mol
Réactions associées
Electrorefining of Copper
Alkaline Battery Discharge
Anodizing of Aluminum
Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery
Daniell Cell (Zinc-Copper Galvanic Cell)
Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process)
Lead-Acid Battery Discharge
Hall-Héroult Process (Aluminum Smelting)
Electrowinning of Zinc
Electrolysis of Water
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis?
The balanced equation is: 2NaCl + 2H₂O → Cl₂ + 2NaOH + H₂.
What type of reaction is Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis?
Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis is a electrochemical reaction.
Is Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis exothermic or endothermic?
Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 422.0 kJ/mol.