Porous exclusion membranes technology

As mentioned in Section 17.1, the anodic and cathodic compartments of an electrochemical cell can be separated by an ion-exchange membrane or a porous diaphragm. The division of a cell is often practiced in industrial processes, despite the additional costs, the need for additional seals and possible maintenance problems. A separator may indeed allow a more independent choice of anode/anolyte or cathode/catholyte, enable current eftkiency to be maintained due to the exclusion of redox shuttles and help to isolate electrode products or prevent the formation of explosive or toxic mixtures, for example H2-O2. However, if possible, undivided cells are preferred, as they lead to lower ohmic drops and to much simpler technologies. 

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