Process for preparing alkali metal alkoxides in a three-chamber electrolysis cell

US12291787B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Evonik Operations GmbH · DE

Inventors

• Philip Heinrich Reinsberg · Bonn, DE
• Michael Horn · Noblesville, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 9, 2022
• Grant date: May 6, 2025
• Expiry date: Sep 21, 2043

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02E50/10
• WIPO field: Surface technology, coating
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A process can be used for electrochemical preparation of an alkali metal alkoxide solution. The process is performed in an electrolysis cell having three chambers, where the middle chamber is separated from the cathode chamber by a solid-state electrolyte permeable to cations, for example NaSICON, and from the anode chamber by a diffusion barrier, for example a membrane selective for cations or anions. The process solves a problem where a concentration gradient forms in the middle chamber of the electrolysis cell during the electrolysis, which leads to locally lowered pH values and damage to the solid-state electrolyte used. This is prevented where a gas is introduced into the middle chamber during the electrolysis, which results in better mixing of the electrolyte solution in the middle chamber and prevents the formation of a concentration gradient.