MEMBRANE CELLS A HIT WITH CHLORINE PRODUCERS.

This paper reports on a quiet technological revolution which is underway in the chlor alkali business worldwide. The two principal electrolytic processes - mercury cell and diaphragm cell - used for making chlorine and caustic soda are being challenged by a versatile new contender, the membrane cell. Membrane-cell technology may revolutionize the structure of the industry because it offers the possibility of decentralizing the production of these vital bulk materials via small but economically viable units at individual consumers' sites. This pares transport costs and bypasses the hazards of moving these commodities via public transportation. Design details of commercially available membranes are given along with their performances. Forecast for the future developments is included.