Preface to the Electronic Version of “<i>100 Episodes of Electrolysis</i> (<i>Denkai Hyakuwa</i>)”

“100 Episodes of Electrolysis (Denkai Hyakuwa)”, written over a span of 13 years by TAKAHASHI Masao and MASUKO Noboru, provides a comprehensive overview of electrochemistry and industrial electrolysis. Published in the bulletin of the Japan Soda Industry Association “Soda & Chlorine”, it consists of about 120 stories including the sequels, covering a broad spectrum from basic concepts to practical applications. The stories explore the development, history, technological advances and challenges of electrochemistry, focusing on key theories such as stoichiometry, equilibrium, mass transfer and kinetics. Practical industry-level examples are used to show how complex problems have been solved in the field. The first two volumes introduce the basics of electrode reactions, while the third volume covers topics such as equilibrium diagrams, electrode potentials and molten salts, including the Monju sodium leak accident. The fourth volume covers advanced technologies related to metal refining, chlorine and caustic soda production, batteries, fuel cells and materials technology. The editor envisions the series of about 120 episodes including the sequels to be a valuable resource for researchers and engineers in electrolysis, as well as those interested in electrochemistry and industrial physical chemistry.