Concentrically Arranged Electrodes Patents (Class 204/260)
  • Patent number: 11873567
    Abstract: An electrolyzer has an electrolytic cell with a membrane that surrounds an interior channel. The electrolytic cell also has a first electrode positioned in the interior channel such that the membrane surrounds the first electrode. The electrolytic cell also includes a second electrode positioned such that the membrane is located between the first electrode and the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: H2U Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Saul Lewis
  • Patent number: 11814740
    Abstract: An electrolyzer has an electrolytic cell with a membrane that surrounds an interior channel. The electrolytic cell also has a first electrode positioned in the interior channel such that the membrane surrounds the first electrode. The electrolytic cell also includes a second electrode positioned such that the membrane is located between the first electrode and the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: H2U Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan Saul Lewis
  • Patent number: 11608280
    Abstract: An electrical water filter device includes a plurality of porous electrodes and one or more porous separators. Each of the one or more porous separators is interposed between two adjacent porous electrodes. A respective porous electrode includes a connection portion extending outside an edge of a porous separators next to the respective porous electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: EnnoPure, Inc.
    Inventors: Bofei Liu, Yuanqing Li, Sidi Huang, Yi Cui
  • Patent number: 11174562
    Abstract: The invention provides an electrolytic cell and, more precisely, an electrolytic cell for the production of disinfecting liquids and detergents, the cell has a cylindrical tubular construction and wherein the cathode and the anode are arranged coaxially one with respect to the other, and wherein the anode has a conical shape. The invention furthermore also provides the operating method of the aforesaid electrolytic cell for the production of the aforementioned disinfectant and detergent liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Inventors: Mario Pica, Igor But
  • Patent number: 10781140
    Abstract: The invention encompasses equipment used to condition a recirculating gas stream in order to cure a CO2 Composite Material (CCM) and processes that use such equipment to cure the CCM. The gas conditioning equipment allows for a process that controls, reduces or eliminates the rate-limiting steps associated with water removal during the curing of a composite material. The equipment may include, but will not be limited to, control over the temperature, relative humidity, flow rate, pressure, and carbon dioxide concentration within the system; which includes the conditioning equipment, any vessel containing the CCM, and the material itself. Flow rate control can be used as a means to achieve uniformity in both gas velocity and composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: SOLIDIA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Devin Patten, Vahit Atakan, Daniel Castoro, Deepak Ravikumar, John Kuppler, Steven Jensen, Mark Scantlebury, Kenneth Michael Smith, Jorge Mora, Emanuel Rojas, Tom Schuler, Alan Blacklock
  • Patent number: 10577264
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a micro-mini pulsed electric field (PEF) device for point-of-use disinfection of drinking water. The pulsed electric field device comprises micro-engineered electrodes and a low-voltage pulsed electric field generator circuit. A pulsed electric field is generated across a micro-gap between the electrodes to achieve disinfection of drinking water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: THE HONG KONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: King Lun Yeung, Joseph Kai Cho Kwan, Siu Ming Kwan, Ka Wo Lam
  • Patent number: 10415010
    Abstract: A cell observation device is cell observation device for observing a cell held by a microplate having a well holding a sample including the cell and includes a microplate holder for holding the microplate thereon, an electrical stimulation unit including an electrode pair including a first electrode and a second electrode, and a position controller for controlling a position of the electrical stimulation unit in a state in which the first electrode is disposed closer to the center of the well than the second electrode when the electrode pair is disposed in the well of the microplate. The tip of the first electrode extends more than the tip of the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.
    Inventors: Natsumi Saito, Taira Ito, Takuji Kataoka
  • Patent number: 10399871
    Abstract: Provided is an electrolysis apparatus with which the liquid that is to be treated can be continuously electrolyzed with high efficiency under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. The electrolysis apparatus includes a cylindrical container main body including an inner peripheral surface serving as a cathode surface, an anode plate disposed in the container main body along an axis thereof, and end members attached to the respective ends of the container main body with nuts interposed therebetween, respectively. The end members are provided with nozzles, respectively, through which the liquid is passed. The end member is provided with a power supply rod connected to the anode plate which is inserted in the end member. Bipolar electrode plates are disposed in the container main body so as to be parallel to the anode plate. Insulators support the sides of the anode plate and the sides of the bipolar electrode plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: KURITA WATER INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Yukitaka Matsumoto, Hideki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 10294128
    Abstract: A device prepares drinking water by electrolysis, belonging to the technical field of equipment for electrolysis of water. The device includes a water container, at least one pair of a cathode and an anode arranged within the water container, and an electrolysis power source used for supplying electricity to the cathode and the anode; a water-permeable membrane is arranged between the coupled cathode and anode, and the water-permeable membrane covers the anode, the range of the distance ? between the water-permeable membrane and the cathode being 0???10 mm. The device, when electrolyzing water, can prepare water which has a low oxidation reduction potential, is rich in hydrogen and has a certain sterilization capability and is suitable for drinking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: DALIAN SHUANGDI INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Zhibang Xiao
  • Patent number: 9963790
    Abstract: The present invention provides bio-electrochemical systems having various configurations for the treatment of water, wastewater, gases, and other biodegradable matter. In one aspect, the invention provides bio-electrochemical systems configured for treating wastewater while generating multiple outputs. In another aspect, the invention provides bio-electrochemical systems configured for improving the efficiency of electrodialysis removal systems. In yet another aspect, the invention provides bio-electro-chemical systems configured for use in banks and basins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Inventors: Matthew Silver, Justin Buck, Patrick Kiely, Juan J. Guzman
  • Patent number: 9963363
    Abstract: The present invention uses the principles of electrochemical ion absorption (charging) and ion desorption (discharge), and relates to a continuous flow-electrode system, a high-capacity energy storage system, and a water treatment method using the same, in which high-capacity electric energy is stored as electrode materials of a slurry phase and electrolytes simultaneously flow in a successive manner within a fine flow channel structure formed on an electrode. More specifically, the present invention relates to a continuous flow-electrode system, an energy storage system, and a water treatment method, wherein electrode active materials consecutively flow in a slurry state whereby a high capacity is easily obtained without enlarging or stacking electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Energy Research
    Inventors: Dong-Kook Kim, Tae-Hwan Kim, Churl-Hee Cho, Chong-Su Park, Ko-Yeon Choo, Jeong-Ku Yeo
  • Patent number: 9935318
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a SOFC comprised of an electrolyte, anode, and cathode, where the cathode comprises an MIEC and an oxygen-reducing layer. The oxygen-reducing layer is in contact with the MIEC, and the MIEC is generally between and separating the oxygen-reducing layer and the electrolyte. The oxygen-reducing layer is comprised of single element oxides, single element carbonates, or mixtures thereof, and has a thickness of less than about 30 nm. In a particular embodiment, the thickness is less than 5 nm. In another embodiment, the thickness is about 3 monolayers or less. The oxygen-reducing layer may be a continuous film or a discontinuous film with various coverage ratios. The oxygen-reducing layer at the thicknesses described may be generated on the MIEC surface using means known in the art such as, for example, ALD processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: The United States of America Department of Energy
    Inventors: Wayne A. Surdoval, David A. Berry, Travis Shultz
  • Patent number: 9845541
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a modular health gas generator, more particularly, to a modular health gas generator with an automatic circulation and a cooling function. Then, the gas production rate of the hydrogen-oxygen gas can be controlled by a plurality of freely detachable electrolytic tanks. The invention comprises an inner tank and the plurality of detachable electrolytic tanks. In application, a hollow portion of each electrolytic tank can be inputted or supplied the liquid water from the inner tank. The liquid water is electrolyzed in the electrolytic tank to generate the hydrogen-oxygen gas and be output to the inner tank, and then the hydrogen-oxygen gas will be further outputted through a gas outlet of the inner tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2017
    Inventor: Hsin-Yung Lin
  • Patent number: 9601782
    Abstract: A method of producing a displacement plating precursor, including a deposition step of depositing a Cu layer on a surface of a core particle formed of Pt or a Pt alloy by contacting a Cu ion-containing acidic aqueous solution with at least a portion of a Cu electrode, and contacting the Cu electrode with the core particle or with a composite, in which the core particle is supported on an electroconductive support, within the acidic aqueous solution or outside the acidic aqueous solution, and moreover contacting the core particle with the acidic aqueous solution under an inert gas atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hajime Murata, Tomoyuki Nagai, Yu Morimoto, Toshihiro Ikai
  • Patent number: 9488100
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the oxy-combustion of fuel in an internal combustion engine (ICE) used to power a vehicle converts the free energy available onboard the vehicle in the form of waste heat from the engine exhaust gas stream and coolant system into electrical and/or mechanical energy which energy is used to separate oxygen from air to eliminate or significantly reduce the volume of nitrogen entering the ICE's combustion chamber, and thereby reduce NOx pollutants released into the atmosphere and increase the concentration of CO2 in the engine exhaust stream for capture using an integrated system to compress and increase the density of the captured CO2 for temporary on-board storage until it is discharged at a recovery station, e.g., during vehicle refueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Esam Zaki Hamad, Wajdi Issam Al-Sadat
  • Patent number: 9340883
    Abstract: Exemplary electrolytic methods are disclosed relating to preparation of useful products, e.g., disinfectants, from aqueous solutions of electrolytes. Disinfectant production with a capacity of a single electrolyzer may amount to 1200 liters per hour and up to 600 grams of active chlorine per hour by utilizing 3-7 gram sodium chloride (NaCl) for the production of 1 gram of active chlorine on the basis of a reliable and safe hydraulic structure. A fresh water supply may initially be directed into an internal tubular cathode chamber for cathode cooling purposes, before the participation in final disinfectant production process. A coolable cathode may increase the hold-up time of the electrolyte in the electrode chamber without application of circulation circuits, improving significantly the efficiency of sodium chloride utilization. The simplicity of the method makes it possible to increase both the productivity of a single electrolyzer and the efficiency of the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventors: Valeri Iltsenko, Nikolay Nayda
  • Patent number: 9227862
    Abstract: Process and apparatus to remove colloids and nitrogen compounds from contaminated water by coagulating the colloids and separating them from the water. The water is then continuously oxidized with chlorine electrolytically to destroy the nitrogen compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Potable Water Systems Ltd.
    Inventors: Luisa Kling Miller, Jorge Miller
  • Patent number: 8999120
    Abstract: An energy-saving ionized water production device and a production method are provided that are capable of producing strongly alkaline ionized in a short period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Alone World
    Inventors: Kazunori Osamura, Takao Kawajiri, Yutaka Nakamura, Noboru Kudo, Masae Shimizu
  • Patent number: 8961750
    Abstract: The invention relates to the production of different chemical products by the electrochemical processing of electrolyte solutions of different concentrations. A cylindrical electrochemical cell for processing solutions comprises an inner, hollow, tubular anode, an outer, cylindrical cathode, and a permeable, tubular, ceramic diaphragm that is arranged between said anode and cathode and divides the interelectrode space into anode and cathode chambers so that a working section of the cell is formed. The cell comprises units for mounting, securing and sealing the electrodes and the diaphragm, which are located at the end sections of the cell, and devices for supplying and removing the processed solutions. The cathode and anode of the cell are made of titanium tubes; furthermore, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the cathode chamber to the total cross-sectional area of the anode chamber and the diaphragm ranges from 0.9 to 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventors: Vitold Mikhailovich Bakhir, Yury Georgievich Zadorozhny, Yury Ivanovich Komolikov, Vadim Gennadievich Panichev, Taras Borisovich Barabash
  • Publication number: 20150047985
    Abstract: A solar-driven apparatus is provided having: a cavity having at least one optical window for collecting electromagnetic radiation associated with solar energy impinging on said at least one optical window; a reaction assembly located inside the cavity and adapted to enable carrying out electrolysis process of at least one raw fluid utilizing energy derived partially from the solar radiation and partially from an electric source; one or more ingress units operative to allow introduction of the raw fluid into the apparatus; and one or more egress units operative to allow exit of the electrolysis process' products from the solar driven apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Jacob Karni, Yury Alioshin, David Banitt, David Scheiner, Roi Harpaz, Baruch Finarov
  • Publication number: 20150041311
    Abstract: An electrolysis cell, in particular for producing an electrochemically activated sodium chloride solution, includes an anode chamber provided with an anode and a cathode chamber separated therefrom by a membrane and provided with a cathode. The membrane is designed as a hollow ceramic cylinder surrounded by an outer housing and is intended to make it possible to produce a particularly high-quality, electrochemically activated sodium chloride solution. The ends of the hollow ceramic cylinder and the outer housing surrounding the cylinder are each mounted in a closure cap, which has a central hole forming an entry channel to the interior of the hollow ceramic cylinder and an annular chamber that extends around the central hole and, on the media side, is connected to the intermediate chamber between the membrane and the outer housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Hans-Georg Mathé
  • Publication number: 20150027879
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to point of service devices and methods of treating aqueous solutions to help remove or otherwise reduce levels, concentrations or amounts of one or more contaminants. The present disclosure relates to a system including an apparatus including a substantially self-contained housing or container which is adapted to receive components including at least one counterelectrode (e.g. cathode) and at least one photoelectrode (e.g. anode) provided or arranged around at least one UV light source, and/or receive, contain and/or circulate fluid or aqueous solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: JAKE MYRE, Terence P. Barry, Edward Andrews, Craig Doolittle, Alan Carlson, Anton Asmuth
  • Publication number: 20140360867
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell for the generation of a plasma field in an electrolyte that heats the electrolyte forms part of a closed-loop heat transfer device, the electrolytic cell fluidly connected to a heat exchanger. A plasma electrode and a second electrode form part of the flow path of electrolyte from the tank to the heat exchanger. The electrolyte must flow through or along the electrodes when flowing from the tank to the heat exchanger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: David Michael Tierney, Richard A. Hoffman, SR., John E. Hoffman, JR., James J. Pagliaro, II
  • Publication number: 20140353145
    Abstract: Apparatus for producing dissolved hydrogen water and providing sterilization is disclosed. Hydrogen radicals are dissolved in water and converted to weak alkaline hydrogen water, and particles of the water passing through media become smaller and softer in reaction to the modifying magnetic field impulse and thus can be easily absorbed to the body of a user, thereby providing dissolved hydrogen water with antioxidant effects and sterilized drinking water. A solenoid pipe is arranged outside a cartridge (10) formed into a container, a coil (20) is spirally wound on the solenoid pipe, and metal alloy media (30) fill the inside of the cartridge (10) and an internal filter (13). The cartridge (10) has an inlet (10a) and an outlet (10b). Emission and absorption of electrons between the metal media (30) and the drinking water are performed to generate active hydrogen, thus generating hydrogen water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventor: Hyun Duk Jang
  • Publication number: 20140311919
    Abstract: A device for treating liquid carbonous fuel having external and internal electrodes having a dielectric insert positioned between and coaxially arranged to form a treatment chamber. The chamber is connected to a fuel line by an-outlet channel located along the longitudinal axis of the electrodes and at least one inlet channel disposed in the external electrode, wherein the inlet and outlet channels are embodied according to a relationship (1), wherein Siin is the cross-section area of an i-th inlet channel, n is the number of inlet channels and Sout is the cross-section area of the outlet channel. ? i = 1 n ? ? S iin = ( 0.1 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: EKOM USA
    Inventors: Sergei Vladimirovich Tuev, Viktor Mihailovich Mamchenko, Aleksei Valer'evich Bagryancev
  • Publication number: 20140246307
    Abstract: The electrochemical cell consists of hollow tube and centralized copper rod. The tubes have first and second ends. The first end cap is used to close the first open end. The anolyte inlet is extended through the first end cap in anolyte compartment and catholyte inlet is extended through the first end cap in catholyte compartment. The anolyte and catholyte compartments are separated by ion exchange membrane fixed over inner hollow tube having holes on the surface. A first Teflon gasket has provision for inlet of anolyte and catholyte tube is secured between first tubes end and first end cap. The copper rod is placed at the centre of the tubes acts as cathode. The circular ring works as scrapper to take out deposited copper is provided. A second end cap is used to close the second open. A second Teflon gasket is secured between second tubes end and second end cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Inventors: Yadav Ganapati Dadasaheb, Parhad Prakash Santoshrao, Nirukhe Ashwini Bhagavan, Parvatalu Damaraju, Bhardwaj Anil, Prabhu Bantwal Narayana, Thomas Nuzhath Joeman, Kale Dilip Madhusudan
  • Publication number: 20140224649
    Abstract: The present invention provides a membrane-electrode assembly which includes: at least one rod-form or tubular electrode; a tubular diaphragm disposed around the periphery of the electrode; and a wire-form counter electrode disposed around the periphery of the diaphragm, the diaphragm being fixed to the rod-form or tubular electrode with the wire-form counter electrode to thereby form an electrode chamber having a gas/liquid passage between the diaphragm and the rod-form or tubular electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicants: PERMELEC ELECTRODE LTD., Institute of National Colleges of Technology, Japan
    Inventors: Noriyuki KITAORI, Kota SEKIDO, Tomoyasu SHIBATA, Tomohisa SUZUKI, Masashi TANAKA, Tsuneto FURUTA, Yoshinori NISHIKI
  • Patent number: 8795483
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to an electrochemical treatment of liquids and production of gases. Increased operating efficiency of an electrochemical device is achieved through the combination of measures: (1) sealing of the device on an element-by-element basis; (2) transfer of the liquid and gaseous phase interface into a passive extension of an anode chamber; (3) utilization of a tubular cathode as an inner wall and a cylindrical anode with an external coating as an outer wall; (4) positioning of channels and determining their dimensions so as to maintain helicity of electrolyte movement combined with the increase of the production output; (5) positioning and design of terminals, which provide for the reduction of their heating; and (6) ability of the device to operate under the conditions, when its longitudinal axis deviates from the vertical line by an angle of ??85° and under pumping conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventors: Valeri Ilt{hacek over (s)}enko, Nikolay Naida
  • Publication number: 20140131217
    Abstract: The electrochemical reactors disclosed herein provide novel oxidation and reduction chemistries and employ increased mass transport rates of materials to and from the surfaces of electrodes therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: CLEAN CHEMISTRY, LLC
    Inventor: Wayne Buschmann
  • Publication number: 20140030577
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode unit for an electrochemical device, comprising a solid electrolyte (3) and a porous electrode (7), the solid electrolyte (3) dividing a compartment for cathode material and a compartment for anode material and the porous electrode (7) being extensively connected to the solid electrolyte (3), with a displacer (23) being accommodated in the anode material compartment, where the displacer (23) is manufactured from a stainless steel or from graphite foil and bears resiliently against the internal geometry of the solid electrolyte (3) in such a way that the displacer (23) does not contact the solid electrolyte over its full area, or with the displacer comprising an outer shell (62) of stainless steel or graphite, and a core (64) of a nonferrous metal, the nonferrous metal being thermoplastically deformable at a temperature which is lower than the temperature at which the stainless steel is thermoplastically deformable, and where for production the shell (62) of stainless steel
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Inventors: Günther Huber, Jesus Enrique Zerpa Unda, Michael Lutz, Peter Heidebrecht, Domnik Bayer, Wolfgang Jabczynski, Anna Katharina Dürr, Katrin Freitag
  • Patent number: 8608915
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention an electrolytic cell is provided comprising a containment vessel; a first electrode; a second electrode; a source of electrical current in electrical communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; an electrolyte in fluid communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; a gas, wherein the gas is formed during electrolysis at or near the first electrode; and a separator; wherein the separator includes an inclined surface to direct flow of the electrolyte and the gas due to a difference between density of the electrolyte and the combined density of the electrolyte and the gas such that the gas substantially flows in a direction distal to the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: McAlister Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Publication number: 20130299354
    Abstract: An electrochemical processor may include a head having a rotor configured to hold a workpiece, with the head moveable to position the rotor in a vessel. Inner and outer anodes are in inner and outer anolyte chambers within the vessel. An upper cup in the vessel, has a curved upper surface and inner and outer catholyte chambers. A current thief is located adjacent to the curved upper surface. Annular slots in the curved upper curved surface connect into passageways, such as tubes, leading into the outer catholyte chamber. Membranes may separate the inner and outer anolyte chambers from the inner and outer catholyte chambers, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory J. Wilson, Paul R. McHugh
  • Patent number: 8568574
    Abstract: A method for obtaining a disinfectant from an aqueous solution of sodium chloride by using a diaphragm electrolyser is disclosed. The method comprise channeling a fresh water flow inside a tubular cathode, separating 0.4-0.8% of the quantity of the fresh water flow and channeling the separated fresh water flow into the cathode chamber. Next, 16-20% of sodium chloride at the concentration of 0.02-1.2% is channeled to the anode chamber after a sodium chloride mixer. Fresh water flow is channeled from inside the cathode to a branch of an anode chamber in a cover-mixer of an electrolyser. The flow, originating from the cathode chamber, is discharged for utilization, wherein an anolyte flow from the anode chamber is channeled to the branch of the anode chamber. The concentration of active chlorine in the anolyte is reduced by employing a water supply to a predetermined level required of a disinfectant and the disinfectant with a pH level of 5.5-7.5 is discharged from the electrolyser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventors: Valeri Iltsenko, Nikolay Nayda
  • Patent number: 8551303
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of an electroplating system and an associated electroplating method that allow for depositing of metal alloys with a uniform plate thickness and with the means to alter dynamically the alloy composition. Specifically, by using multiple anodes, each with different types of soluble metals, the system and method avoid the need for periodic plating bath replacement and also allow the ratio of metals within the deposited alloy to be selectively varied by applying different voltages to the different metals. The system and method further avoids the uneven current density and potential distribution and, thus, the non-uniform plating thicknesses exhibited by prior art methods by selectively varying the shape and placement of the anodes within the plating bath. Additionally, the system and method allows for fine tuning of the plating thickness by using electrically insulating selectively placed prescribed baffles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Charles L. Arvin, Raschid J. Bezama, Harry D. Cox, Krystyna W. Semkow
  • Publication number: 20130256149
    Abstract: A microbial electrolysis cell having a brush anode is described. A method of producing products, such as hydrogen, at the cathode of the microbial electrolysis cell is also provided. The microbial electrolysis cell is configured in a cylindrical shape having an anode, cathode and anion exchange membrane all disposed concentrically. A brush anode spirally wound around the outside of the cylindrical microbial electrolysis cell is described. The method may include sparging the anode and/or cathode with air in some cases. In addition, CO2-containing gas may be injected into a cathode chamber to reduce pH is some cases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Arizona Science and Technology Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Sudeep Popat, Prathap Parameswaran, Cesar Torres, Bruce Rittmann
  • Patent number: 8540856
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating hydrogen. The hydrogen generator of the present invention includes a closed body having a sidewall and two end plates defining a cavity therein. A plurality of electrodes and a plurality of proton exchange membranes are disposed within the cavity. Each proton exchange membrane is sandwiched between two electrodes thereby creating a plurality of hydrogen generating cells disposed along the inner wall of the sidewall. An inflated bladder insures intimate contact between the electrodes and proton exchange membranes. The hydrogen generating cells are operated in series by applying a DC voltage of opposite polarity to electrodes at opposing ends of the cells. Applying the voltage and admitting water into the generator enables hydrogen generation at 12 volts or higher while limiting the potential on each proton exchange membrane to 2 volts thereby protecting the proton exchange membranes from damage or failure by voltage overload.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventors: Fred T. Mayers, Sr., Edward N. Miller, Fred T. Mayers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8518270
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for improving water quality by reducing chlorine demand, decreasing disinfection by-products and controlling deposits in drinking water distribution systems include adding low concentrations of supplemental oxidants, for example, RE-Ox® to the systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Blue Earth Labs, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas R. Vineyard, Eric W. Christensen, Jason Peters
  • Patent number: 8518224
    Abstract: The present invention provides a plating apparatus with multiple anode zones and cathode zones. The electrolyte flow field within each zone is controlled individually with independent flow control devices. A gas bubble collector whose surface is made into pleated channels is implemented for gas removal by collecting small bubbles, coalescing them, and releasing the residual gas. A buffer zone built within the gas bubble collector further allows unstable microscopic bubbles to dissolve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: ACM Research (Shanghai) Inc.
    Inventors: Yue Ma, Xi Wang, Yunwen Huang, Zhenxu Pang, Voha Nuch, David Wang
  • Patent number: 8496790
    Abstract: An electrochemical processor may include a head having a rotor configured to hold a workpiece, with the head moveable to position the rotor in a vessel. Inner and outer anodes are in inner and outer anolyte chambers within the vessel. An upper cup in the vessel, has a curved upper surface and inner and outer catholyte chambers. A current thief is located adjacent to the curved upper surface. Annular slots in the curved upper curved surface connect into passageways, such as tubes, leading into the outer catholyte chamber. Membranes may separate the inner and outer anolyte chambers from the inner and outer catholyte chambers, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: APPLIED Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory J. Wilson, Paul R. McHugh
  • Patent number: 8496789
    Abstract: An electrochemical processor may include a head having a rotor configured to hold a workpiece, with the head moveable to position the rotor in a vessel. Inner and outer anodes are in inner and outer anolyte chambers within the vessel. An upper cup in the vessel, has a curved upper surface and inner and outer catholyte chambers. A current thief is located adjacent to the curved upper surface. Annular slots in the curved upper curved surface connect into passageways, such as tubes, leading into the outer catholyte chamber. Membranes may separate the inner and outer anolyte chambers from the inner and outer catholyte chambers, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: APPLIED Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul R. McHugh, Gregory J. Wilson, Kyle M. Hanson
  • Patent number: 8465631
    Abstract: A device for the purification of a polluted gas, for example an exhaust gas from a diesel or gasoline engine, comprising, in combination: A honeycomb structure, comprising at least one porous electron-conductive material forming the walls (1) of said structure and an electrochemical system for treating said gas, comprising a layer (7) of an ionically conductive and electronically insulating material D, a reduction catalyst A (9) for reducing the polluting species of the NOx type and an oxidation catalyst B (4) for oxidizing the polluting species of the soot, hydrocarbon HC, CO or H2 type, said electrochemical system being configured in the form of an electrode W and a counterelectrode CE; and means for applying a voltage or a current between said electrode W and said counterelectrode CE.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Centre de Recherches et d'Etudes Europeen
    Inventors: Philippe Vernoux, Abdelkader Hadjar, Ahmed Marouf
  • Patent number: 8465630
    Abstract: An electrically driven oxygen separation assembly and method for applying an electrical potential in which the assembly has one or more tubular membrane elements. The potential is applied at two central spaced locations of a tubular membrane element and at least at opposite end locations thereof. As a result the electric current flow through the tubular membrane element is divided into two parts flowing between the two central spaced locations and the opposite end locations. Additionally, the present invention also provides an end seal to be used in connection with tubular membrane elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Reed, David Frisbee Suggs, Michael J. Collins, Richard Martin Kelly, Gervase Maxwell Christie
  • Publication number: 20130146474
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method of employing an electrolysis cell assembly for producing simultaneously various diluted Hypochlorous Acid solutions and simultaneously a diluted Sodium Hydroxide solution for usage as cleaning and sanitation by electrolysis of an aqueous saline solution. The apparatus comprising a cylindrical three chamber electrolysis cell consisting of an inner chamber, a middle chamber and an outer chamber having two middle mesh-electrodes in the middle chamber wherein ion-selective exchange membranes are sealed around or on the inside of the middle mesh-electrodes to separate the middle chamber from the inner and outer chamber. The method allows production of different concentrations of Sodium Hydroxide and Hypochlorous Acid solutions isolating a Sodium Hydroxide solution having a negative redox potential ranging from ?600 to ?1200 mV and isolating a diluted Hypochlorous Acid solution having a positive redox potential ranging from +700 to +1200 mV.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: AQUAOX INC.
    Inventor: AQUAOX INC.
  • Patent number: 8419906
    Abstract: Electroplating systems that include a plurality of electrodes, a power supply operably coupled to the plurality of electrodes, a platen for bearing a substrate on which metal features are to be formed, and an electrode support are disclosed. The electrode support may be configured for suspending the electrode assembly over an upper surface of the substrate disposed on the platen in spaced relation to and in alignment with the substrate or for supporting the electrode assembly in a stationary position over the substrate when the voltage is applied across the plurality of electrodes. The electrodes may be adjacent, mutually spaced and electrically isolated and connected in series so as to be oppositely polarized when the voltage is applied thereacross or may be connected so as to have alternating polarities when the voltage is applied thereacross.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Suresh Ramarajan, Whonchee Lee
  • Publication number: 20130089806
    Abstract: Provided is a gas decomposition component that employs an electrochemical reaction and can have high treatment performance, in particular, an ammonia decomposition component. The gas decomposition component includes a MEA 7 including a solid electrolyte 1 and an anode 2 and a cathode 5 that are disposed so as to sandwich the solid electrolyte; Celmets 11s electrically connected to the anode 2; a heater 41 that heats the MEA; and an inlet 17 through which a gaseous fluid containing a gas is introduced into the MEA, an outlet 19 through which the gaseous fluid having passed through the MEA is discharged, and a passage P extending between the inlet and the outlet, wherein the Celmets 11s are discontinuously disposed along the passage P and, with respect to a middle position 15 of the passage, the length of the Celmets disposed is larger on the side of the outlet than on the side of the inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Chihiro Hiraiwa, Masatoshi Majima, Tetsuya Kuwabara, Tomoyuki Awazu, Toshio Ueda, Toshiyuki Kuramoto
  • Patent number: 8389180
    Abstract: Electrolytic/fuel cell bundles and systems including such bundles include an electrically conductive current collector in communication with an anode or a cathode of each of a plurality of cells. A cross-sectional area of the current collector may vary in a direction generally parallel to a general direction of current flow through the current collector. The current collector may include a porous monolithic structure. At least one cell of the plurality of cells may include a current collector that surrounds an outer electrode of the cell and has at least six substantially planar exterior surfaces. The planar surfaces may extend along a length of the cell, and may abut against a substantially planar surface of a current collector of an adjacent cell. Methods for generating electricity and for performing electrolysis include flowing current through a conductive current collector having a varying cross-sectional area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Grant L. Hawkes, James S. Herring, Carl M. Stoots, James E. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 8366939
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for improving water quality by reducing chlorine demand, decreasing disinfection by-products and controlling deposits in drinking water distribution systems include adding low concentrations of supplemental oxidants, for example, RE-Ox® to the systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Blue Earth Labs, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas R. Vineyard, Eric W. Christensen, Jason Peters
  • Publication number: 20120292181
    Abstract: An electrochemical processor may include a head having a rotor configured to hold a workpiece, with the head moveable to position the rotor in a vessel. Inner and outer anodes are in inner and outer anolyte chambers within the vessel. An upper cup in the vessel, has a curved upper surface and inner and outer catholyte chambers. A current thief is located adjacent to the curved upper surface. Annular slots in the curved upper curved surface connect into passageways, such as tubes, leading into the outer catholyte chamber. Membranes may separate the inner and outer anolyte chambers from the inner and outer catholyte chambers, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Paul R. McHugh, Gregory J. Wilson, Kyle M. Hanson
  • Patent number: 8298383
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to the area of electrochemical processing of liquids and production of gases, and is used for anolyte and catholyte synthesis. The electrolytic cell comprises an assembled anode and a diaphragm. Elements of the anode and the diaphragm are assembled in axial alignment with help of sleeves, and free ends of the anode and the diaphragm are fixed in a coaxial manner with solid of electrolyte input and output covers. The cathode is made solid from a single pipe with current terminals on each side. The cathode is the internal electrode of the electrolytic cell, while the anode is the external one. The anode is may be provided with a visual indicator as a positive electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Valeri Iltsenko, Nikolay Naida
  • Patent number: 8236147
    Abstract: An electrolysis cell is provided, which includes an inlet, an outlet, and coaxial, cylindrical inner and outer electrodes. A cylindrical ion-selective membrane is located between the inner and outer electrodes and forms respective first and second electrolysis reaction chambers on opposing sides of the membrane. Fluid flow paths along the first and second chambers join together as a combined inlet flow path through the inlet and a combined outlet flow path through the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Tennant Company
    Inventor: Bruce F. Field