This investigation describes the one step preparation of potassium carbonate by electrolysis of potassium chloride solution in the electrolyzers with various kinds of Nafion membranes. Potassium bicarbonate solution was fed to the cathode compartment

where it was converted into carbonate by reacting with the hydroxide formed at the cathode. Because of the low OH-concentra-tion in the cathode compartment

the back migration of OH-through the membrane was almost negligible

resulting in a higher current efficiency

say 90% or more. In the study

the electroconductivity

the mass transfer through the membrane

current efficiency and the cell voltage were measured

the feasibility was examined

and the optimal electrolytic condition selected.