Urea removal by anodic oxidation from saline‐simulating haemofiltrate

Abstract

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.