Title: Method for wetting hydrophobic diaphragms for use in chlor-alkali cells

Abstract: Hydrophobic diaphragm material, such as crystalline, highly expanded microporous polytetrafluoroethylene film, may be prepared for installation in a chlor-alkali cell by a process involving the steps of (1) immersing the diaphragm in a solution of acetal-type nonionic surfactant in a suitable non-aqueous solvent, (2) rinsing the diaphragm in deionized water, (3) immersing the diaphragm in an aqueous solution containing an amount of acetal-type nonionic surfactant effective to promote wetting for a suitable period of time, and (4) immersing the diaphragm in a brine solution containing about 100 to 200 grams per liter of sodium chloride and an amount effective to promote wetting of an acetal-type nonionic surfactant for a suitable period of time, such as several hours. In some instances, it is also advantageous to subject the diaphragm while immersed in the solvent solution to the action of a vacuum, to release trapped air.

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Inventors: Hirozawa, Stanley T. (Birmingham, MI, US)

Application Number: 618446
Filing Date: 1975-10-01
Publication_date: 1977-03-15
Assignee: BASF Wyandotte Corporation (Wyandotte, MI)
Primary Class(es): 427/243 204/296, 427/58, 427/296, 427/307, 427/353
Other Classes:
US Patent Ref:

2773114	Dec, 1956	McAuslan	204/296.
3010536	Nov, 1961	Plurien et al.	427/244.
3772072	Nov, 1973	Brown et al.	427/244.
3772269	Nov, 1973	Lew	252/8.
3904496	Sep, 1975	Harke et al.	204/296.
3930979	Jan, 1976	Vallance	204/296.

Other Refs:
Primary Examiner: Hoffman, James R.
Assistant Examiner:
Attorney: Linkhauer; John W., Swick; Bernhard R., Dunn; Robert E.