Question

Which of the following is a disadvantage of membrane cell process?

(a) Asbestos emission

(b) Mercury contamination

(c) High purity of brine

(d) High electrical energy consumption

I had been asked this question in exam.

Question is taken from Inorganic Chemical in section Inorganic Chemical Industries of Chemical Technology

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(b) Mercury contamination

Explanation: The membrane cell process is an electrolytic method used in the chlor-alkali industry to produce chlorine, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), and hydrogen. It is considered more environmentally friendly compared to older methods like the mercury cell process. The mercury cell process, however, has the disadvantage of mercury contamination, as mercury is used as a cathode in the process, which can result in harmful environmental impacts.

In contrast, the membrane cell process avoids the use of mercury, which helps prevent contamination. Therefore, mercury contamination is not a concern in the membrane cell process, but it is a disadvantage of the mercury cell process.