New reactor design improves plastic feedstock synthesis using oxygen and electricity

edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Alexander Pol

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Add as preferred source Conceptual diagram comparing conditions with large local pH deviations near the electrodes (left) and conditions in which those deviations are mitigated (right). Controlling local pH maintains the supply of reactive oxygen species and reduces product degradation, thereby improving reaction efficiency and selectivity. (Bottom) Reactor design incorporating narrow electrode spacing and electrolyte flow, illustrating how increasing the flow rate reduces local pH deviations near the electrodes. Credit: Journal of the American Chemical Society A "hidden variable" that can determine the success or failure of a chemical reaction has been found in the immediate vicinity of electrodes.