The filter-press FM01-LC laboratory flow reactor and its applications

The FM01-LC is a laboratory-scale, electrochemical filter-press cell with a projected electrode area of 64 cm2 and a rectangular electrolyte flow channel which was originally based on the larger FM21-SP electrolyser of 2100 cm2 projected electrode area designed for the chlor-alkali industry then diversified to other applications. Many laboratories and industries have utilised this type of controlled flow reactor containing plane parallel electrodes in a rectangular channel for industrial and commercial applications. The diverse range of electrodes possible in such cells is emphasized with examples including 3-D metals and carbon, coated metal electrodes and nanostructured surfaces offering a high surface area. The experimental characterization and computational modelling of its reaction environment are concisely described discussed to appreciate the features of this type of electrochemical reactor. The cell construction and reaction environment are summarized, followed by an illustration of its use for a range of applications that include organic and inorganic electrosynthesis, metal ion removal, energy storage, environmental remediation (e.g., precious metal recycling or anodic destruction of organics) and drinking water treatment. Examples of the cell for energy conversion and storage (flow batteries and proton exchange membrane fuel cells) are briefly illustrated. The use of such a flow cell for the characterization of new electrochemical processes and to provide data enabling scale-up is considered.