GB408819A - Improvements in or relating to methods of electrolyzing compounds of alkali metals and alkaline earth metals - Google Patents

Abstract

<PICT:0408819/III/1> A fused hydroxide, chloride or other compound or compounds of an alkali or alkaline earth metal is passed through a defined zone separating the cathode 5 and anode 6 at a uniform controlled rate in excess of the rate of decomposition so as to deliver beyond the zone a substantially uniform mixture of free metal and undecomposed compound. The mixture passes to a reaction zone where ammonia may be introduced from a perforated annular pipe 17 for the production of an amide, the product being withdrawn by an overflow 3. A gauze partition 7 is mounted between the electrodes. Electrolyte from the anode side may be withdrawn by an outlet not shown. Gaseous products are removed at 12, 14. A cooling or heating jacket 19 is provided to which mercury or other control liquid or vapour may be supplied. The conditions may be controlled to produce a 14 per cent solution of sodamide in sodium hydroxide. A mixture of hydroxides or salts of sodium and potassium may be treated, the sodium being liberated preferentially. Hydrogen may be supplied at 17 for the production of hydrides. Oil may be purified by removal of sulphur compounds and compounds containing phenol carboxyl, ketone and aldehyde groups. It may be included in the electrolyte for treatment or may be supplied to the reaction zone as vapour. The fused compound is preferably dehydrated before electrolysis. Sodium hydroxide may be dehydrated by addition of a 10 per cent solution of sodamide in sodium hydroxide. The undecomposed electrolyte or the product from the reaction zone may be subjected to further electrolysis to yield free metal.ALSO:Impurities such as sulphur are removed from gaseous hydrocarbons by contact with a fused hydroxide, chloride or other compound of an alkali or alkaline earth metal containing a proportion of the free metal uniformly mixed therewith. The fused compound is passed continuously through an electrolytic cell for partial decomposition and then through the reaction chamber.