Hydrogen peroxide

How is H2O2 produced by the old electrolytic process?

An anodic oxidation of sulfate radicals pccurs to form peroxydisulfate intermediates. Sulfuric acid electrolyte has a low current efficiency, but the use of ammonium sulfate causes crystallization problems so a mixture is used to obtain a currebt efficiency of 80% or higher and yet not block the cell with crystal formation. The electrolyte is fed into a typical cell held at 35°C or below with platinum metal for the anode. The cell product and sulfuric acid in water are subjected to hydrolyses at 60-100°C to yield hydrogen peroxide.

Why cant the electrolytic process compete with the anthraquinone oxidation process?

Because the electrolytic process requires the electrolyte to be continuously purified and also has very high capital and power requirements.

What is the advantage of using H2O2 in bleaching?

The advantage of using H2O2 in bleaching is that it leaves no residue and generally results in an excellent product whiteness, with little or no deterioration of the organic matter that is bleached.

How is H2O2 manufactured using liquid isopropyl alcohol?

The liquid isopropyl alcohol is pxidized at moderate temperatures and pressures to hydrogen peroxide and an acetone coproduct. After distillation of the acetonr and unreacted alcohol, the residual hydrogen perpxide is concentrated.

How is H2O2 manufactured using the autooxidation of anthraquinone?

The quinone is hydrogenated to the hydroquinonr using either Raney nickel or palladium as a catalyst. Subsequent oxidation with air produces hydrogen peroxide and regenerates the quinone. The hydrogen peroxide is then water extracted and concentrated and the quinone is recycled for reconversion to the hydroquinone.