Urea can be oxidized electrochemically in a chloride solution to carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen. The microkinetics of this hypochlorite-mediated urea oxidation are elucidated. Based on this kinetic information, the optimal conditions and construction principles for an electrochemical reactor are deduced. The construction of a cheap, disposable oxidation cell and necessary auxiliary equipment are described. In vitro data are reported for urea removal. A 36-L volume was used to simulate a 60-kg patient; 18 L was recirculated through a 0.12-m2 oxidation cell. Within 3 h, 35 g urea could be removed from the system. The technical and economic possibilities as well as safety requirements for hemofiltrate regeneration to a reinfusable substitution solution by anodic urea oxidation are discussed critically. Although the process does not appear to be economically practical for discontinuous hemofiltration, it might be desirable for continuous (24 h/day) treatment.

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Urea can be oxidised electrochemically in chlorine solution to carbon dioxide, water and nitrogen. The microkinetics of this hypochlorite-mediated urea oxidation are elucidated. Urea destruction by hypochlorite is a relatively slow reaction and needs either high reactor volumes or a high stationary temperature to proceed with a high degree of conversion. Based on this kinetic information, the optimal working conditions and construction principles of a cheap disposable oxidation cell as well as necessary auxiliary equipment are described. Data in vitro are reported for urea removal simulating a 3 h treatment of a 60 kg kidney patient. The technical and economical possibilities for haemofiltrate regeneration are discussed.

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