Electrolytic Hydrogenation of Diacetyl

A selective hydrogenation of diacetyl to acetoin can also be carried out in an electrolytic cell using a cathode with a high hydrogen overvoltage [83], It is recommended to start with a solution consisting of 

Cathode Nickel with nickel shot. The latter was found to greatly increase the rate of diacetyl conversion. 

From a reservoir, the solution is pumped through the cells and through a cooler. The latter must be designed to keep the temperature in the reservoir at 25 C. Complete conversion of the diacetyl is obtained after 24 hours. 

Although the electrolytic process is very simple, complications arise by the fact 

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Figure 90. Plant for the Electrolytic Hydrogenation of Diacetyl to Acetoin.

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