ELECTROGENERATIVE AND VOLTAMEIOTIC PROCESSES

Electrogenerative processes are explained and reviewed and compared with conventional electrochemical and heterogeneous catalytic processes. These processes exploit favorable reaction thermodynamics to recover byproduct electric energy while a useful chemical is produced. Factors and considerations involved in the design and operation of electrogenerative reactors are also discussed. Electrochemical operation often is extended to previously unexplored electrochemical potential regions and selectivity may be altered. Ready control of reaction rate with the removal of energy, in a useful form, and creation of favorable reaction conditions make the electrogenerative mode attractive for some highly exothermic reactions. Related voltameiotic processes for endothermic changes also are defined and their advantages explained and illustrated. © 1979, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.