Electrochemical Reduction of Nitrate in the Presence of an Amide

Abstract
The electrochemical reduction of nitrates in aqueous solutions thereof in the presence of amides to gaseous nitrogen (N2) is described. Generally, electrochemical reduction of NO3- proceeds stepwise, from NO3- to NO2-, and subsequently in several consecutive steps to ammonia (NH3) as a final product. Addition of at least one amide to the solution being electrolyzed suppresses ammonia generation, since suitable amides react with NO2- to generate N2. This permits nitrate reduction to gaseous nitrogen to proceed by electrolysis. Suitable amides include urea, sulfamic acid, formamide, and acetamide.

Application(s)
Nitrate-containing solutions are used extensively in the steel, mining, chemical, and agriculture industries. These applications generate nitrate wastes that contaminate natural waters if released into the environment. The strong oxidizing power of nitrates causes detrimental effects in the environment. Nitrate contamination in drinking water can cause methemoglobinemia. The applications of this technology are therefore widespread in reducing nitrate contamination.

Advantages

Lower cost than alternatives
Higher efficiency than alternatives
Only simple, robust apparatus required
Moderate temperature operation
Moderate pressure operation

IP Status: Available Exclusively

Reference Number: 261

S Number: DOE reference no.(s): 94,654

Patents & Applications:
United States National Patent Number 6436275 Issued on 08/20/2002

Posted: 09-22-2004

Contact
Laura Barber
Technology Transfer Division
Los Alamos National Laboratory
P.O. Box 1663, MailStop C334
(505) 667-9266
ljbb@lanl.gov

Licensing, TT

CONTACTS

Electrochemical Reduction of Nitrate in the Presence of an Amide