Electrolytic flow-cell apparatus and process for effecting sequential electrochemical reaction

An electrolytic flow-cell apparatus suitable for effecting sequential electrochemical reactions of redoxidative compounds in a liquid electrolysis medium comprising such redoxidative compound, solvent, and supporting electrolyte, which apparatus comprises:

• a. a container for holding the electrolysis medium;
• b. a porous working electrode dividing the container into a first compartment and a second compartment, the electrode having a first face in the first compartment and a second and opposite face in the second compartment, at which faces the sequential reactions are conducted;
• c. at least one first secondary electrode located in the first compartment and spaced from the first face of the working electrode;
• d. at least one second secondary electrode located in the second compartment and spaced from the second face of the working electrode;
• e. a first means for establishing a selectible electrical potential at the first face of the working electrode;
• f. a second means for establishing a selectible electrical potential at the second and opposite face of the working electrode;
• g. inlet means for admitting the electrolysis medium to the first compartment;
• h. means for effecting flow of the electrolysis medium into the first compartment, through the working electrode, and thence into the second compartment;
• and
• i. outlet means for withdrawing the sequentially electrolyzed electrolysis medium from the second compartment.