Electrolysis of Brine

Brine is a solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) and water (H₂O). The process of electrolysis involves using an electric current to bring about a chemical change and make new chemicals. The electrolysis of brine is a large-scale process used to manufacture chlorine from salt. Two other useful chemicals are obtained during the process, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrogen (H₂).

It is important that the chlorine and sodium hydroxide produced in the process are separated they react when they come into contact with each other.

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Uses in industry

Product of electrolysis of brine

• Chlorine - disinfectant and purifier, manufacture of hydrochloric acid and making plastics
• Sodium Hydroxide - processing food products, removing pollutants from water and manufacture of paper
• Hydrogen - manufacture of hydrochloric acid and potential as a pollution-free fuel

Environmental impacts of the electrolysis of brine on a large scale must be considered. The process uses a lot of electricity that is mainly produced by the burning of fossil fuels. During the actual process of electrolysis, metal must be in contact with the solution of brine. A metal commonly used is mercury which is toxic. Some mercury escapes into the solution and into the environment.

This video explain more about Electrolysis