An apparatus and a method for electrochemical modification of liquid
streams employing an electrolytic cell which utilizes an oxidation site
defined by an anode, an anode compartment comprising liquid electrolyte
anolyte where oxidation is effected, a cathode compartment comprising
liquid electrolyte catholyte where reduction is effected, a cathode
comprising conducting cathode particulates forming a cathode particulates
bed and a current feeder device in at least intermittent contact with
said cathode particulates where the cathode particulates are in motion
and the particulates motion is substantially independent of bulk
electrolyte flow, a separator which confines the cathode particulates to
the cathode compartment, constrains electrolyte flow through the cathode
particulates bed and permits ionic conduction of current between the
anode and cathode, a cathode particulates conveyance system that
manipulates cathode particulates motion. A separate system circulates the
liquid undergoing modification through the electrolytic cell. An
unidirectional current driving system drives unidirectional electric
current supported by the liquid streams from the anode through the
anolyte and the separator and into the catholyte and to the cathode
particulates and to the current feeder device during the contact between
the cathode particulates and the current feeder device.