Abstract: An electrode for effective ozone production in an electrochemical cell uses a modified electrode design which adopts a novel catalytic component. The catalytic component has a number of elements selected from various metals and metalloids, and is applied to a substrate in multiple coatings or layers. The catalytic component forms a catalytic surface which is at least partially disrupted by the presence of an element which is relatively inactive with respect to oxygen evolution.

Abstract: An electrochemical device including: (a) a semiconductor layer, wherein the semiconductor is silicon or silicon carbide, and where the layer has a thickness from 1 to 1000 ?m; (b) a TiO2 layer on the semiconductor layer, where the layer may include an alkaline earth oxide MO up to an amount where the layer is MtiO3, and where the layer has a thickness from 5 nm to 1 mm; (c) a grid of inert metal on the TiO2 layer, arranged so as to be able to apply a electric field across the TiO2 layer; and (d) an ohmic contact on the semiconductor layer.

Abstract: An electrode for effective ozone production in an electrochemical cell uses a modified electrode design which adopts a novel catalytic component. The catalytic component has a number of elements selected from various metals and metalloids, and is applied to a substrate in multiple coatings or layers. The catalytic component forms a catalytic surface which is at least partially disrupted by the presence of an element which is relatively inactive with respect to oxygen evolution.

Abstract: The present invention relates to direct and reformate methanol fuel cells containing an anode comprising semiconductor layers. A semiconductor layer, preferably silicon or silicon carbide, is overlaid with a TiO2 layer. An open metal over-layer, preferably platinum optionally applied over a layer of inert metal such as gold, is deposited on the TiO2 layer, optionally in the form of a grid. It has been found that the active OH species generated in the presence and absence of light irradiation at the TiO2 surface in this device eliminates the need for ruthenium to be present. Furthermore, studies have unexpectedly shown that an electric field applied via an electrode on the surface of the TiO2 appears not to be required for the benefits to occur. This invention is thought to be particularly applicable to micro fuel cells.