The performance of Nafion®424 in the membrane electrolysis of borax solution

The aim of the study was to investigate the performance of a monolayer cation exchange membrane (Nafion®424) in the membrane electrolysis of aqueous borax solution. Membrane cell was basically composed of a hydrogen evolving cathode, oxygen evolving anode and Nafion®424. Boric acid solution, sodium hydroxide solution, oxygen and hydrogen gases were produced by continuous electrolysis process. The effects of different catholyte concentrations (10, 20, 30 and 35% NaOH) on the current efficiency were investigated. The electrical power consumption per ton for the production of sodium hydroxide (100%) and boric acid were calculated and the qualities of boric acid products were determined.