Process for preparing alkali metal alkoxides in a three-chamber electrolysis cell

Abstract

A process can be used for electrochemical preparation of an alkali metal alkoxide solution. The process is performed in an electrolysis cell having three chambers, where the middle chamber is separated from the cathode chamber by a solid-state electrolyte permeable to cations, for example NaSICON, and from the anode chamber by a diffusion barrier, for example a membrane selective for cations or anions. The process solves a problem where a concentration gradient forms in the middle chamber of the electrolysis cell during the electrolysis, which leads to locally lowered pH values and damage to the solid-state electrolyte used. This is prevented where a gas is introduced into the middle chamber during the electrolysis, which results in better mixing of the electrolyte solution in the middle chamber and prevents the formation of a concentration gradient.