Regeneration of hemofiltrate by anodic oxidation of urea.
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.
D001769:Blood; D004572:Electrolysis / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D006997:Hypochlorous Acid / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology*; D007676:Kidney Failure, Chronic / Q000378:metabolism / Q000628:therapy; D007700:Kinetics; D010084:Oxidation-Reduction; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D012965:Sodium Chloride / Q000378:metabolism; D013696:Temperature; D014462:Ultrafiltration / Q000295:instrumentation; D014508:Urea / Q000378:metabolism*
D012965:Sodium Chloride; D006997:Hypochlorous Acid; D014508:Urea