Project Title:

Electrochemical Water Recovery Process for Direct Removal of Impurities

12.03-5201
NAS9-18336
Electrochemical Water Recovery Process for
	Direct Removal of Impurities
Umpqua Research Company
	P.O. Box 791
	Myrtle Creek, OR 97457
		David F. Putnam
(503-863-5201)

Abstract:

	In this concept for water reclamation in space, organic impurities are removed by
electrolysis; inorganic impurities by electrodialysis. In previous reclamation work
a problem was caused by the relative insolubility of potassium perchlorate, which
precipitated within the electrodialysis membranes causing them to cease functioning.
Efforts to overcome the problem by preventing the formation of perchlorates in the
electrolysis step were unsuccessful. In this project a regenerable cation exchange
resin bed will remove the troublesome potassium ions and replace them with sodium
ions, which form a more soluble perchlorate salt. Regeneration will be achieved with
the concentrated sodium-rich brine from the electrodialysis step. No expendable materials
will be required.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications: This process would be useful in sewage treatment
for boats and ships and treatment of toxic organic wastes.