
The ODC principle is based on the reduction of oxygen at the cathode. The oxygen then reacts with the hydrogen ions, which migrate through the membrane from the anode side of the cell. This suppresses the generation of hydrogen and forms water (H2O):
Chemical equations:
- Anode (oxidation):
- Cathode (ODC reduction):
- Overall:
2 Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e⁻
O₂ + 4 H⁺ + 4e⁻ → 2 H₂O
4 HCl + O2 → 2 Cl2 + H2O
Compared to the Standard reaction for hydrogen generation, the ODC Process reduces the required operating voltage by approximately 1 volt, resulting in consequent energy savings.
The ODC process find applications in isocyanate plants by recycling HCl from phosgene production, for chlorine recovery from various HCl waste streams, and in integrated chemical complexes where hydrogen is not required.
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