Alloys Patents (Class 204/293)
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Patent number: 6017430Abstract: A cathode wherein the electrocatalytically-active outer layer is of substantially uniform thickness and has contours which are at least substantially the same as the contours of the substrate immediately underlying it. The electrode may be prepared by depositing the electrocatalytically-active outer layer by physical vapour deposition. The electrocatalytically-active outer layer comprises (a) cerium and/or cerium oxide and at least one non-noble Group 8 metal or (b) platinum and/or platinum oxide and ruthenium and/or ruthenium oxide.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1997Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLCInventors: David Ronald Hodgson, Francis Rourke
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Patent number: 6013387Abstract: A hydrogen absorbing alloy is disclosed for use as the negative electrode in alkaline batteries. The general formula of the alloy is AB.sub.x M.sub.y, wherein A is selected from the rare earth element La or a mischmetal thereof; B is selected from the group consisting of Ni, Fe, Mn, Cr, Cu, Co, and mixtures thereof; M is selected from the group consisting of Al, In, Zn, Sn, Ga, Si, Ge, Bi, and mixtures thereof; 4.5.ltoreq.x.ltoreq.5.5; and 0.3<y.ltoreq.0.6. This alloy has a longer cycle life, along with larger capacity and better reactivity.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1998Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Assignee: Li-Ho YaoInventors: Li-Ho Yao, Yongchang Huang, Wenhua Liu
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Patent number: 5993637Abstract: An electrode structure is constituted by a first electrode, and at least one second electrode providing a pair of opposite portions with a prescribed spacing therebetween at which the first electrode is disposed. The electrode structure is suitably used for electrolytic etching and is effective in providing an accurate etching pattern without damaging the surface of an etching object.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1997Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masaya Hisamatsu, Akio Hasebe, Tsutomu Murakami, Hirofumi Ichinose, Satoshi Shinkura, Yukie Ueno
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Patent number: 5972182Abstract: The present invention is an oxygen generator including a stabilized bismuth oxide body and a plurality of first and second channels. The first channels receive a first gas containing some oxygen and the second channels are sealed at the input and outlet openings and extend generally in parallel to the first channels. Electrodes are disposed on the channel walls of the first and second channels, the electrode composition includes LXM, wherein L is lanthanum, M is manganate, and X is strontium, calcium, lead or barium. The oxygen generator may further include silver disposed over the LXM which thereby decreases the resistivity of the electrodes without the electromigration of the silver. The silver may be mixed with glass to thereby provide improved adherence of the silver to the LXM. A method of making an oxygen generator includes forming a stabilized bismuth oxide body having channels extending therethrough and forming LXM electrodes in the channels.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1997Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: CeramPhysics, Inc.Inventor: William N. Lawless
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Patent number: 5972181Abstract: An electrode, electrochemical cell, and electrochemical processes are disclosed. The electrode is a porous, multi-layered electrode which can have an element in flexible, strip form wound around a central, usually flat plate core, which core may serve as a current distributor. In any form, each layer can be represented by a very thin, highly flexible metal mesh. This can be a fine, as opposed to a coarse, mesh which has extremely thin strands and small voids. The electrode will have an active coating. For utilizing this electrode, the cell in one form will be a monopolar cell providing upward, parallel electrolyte flow through the porous, multi-layered electrode. A representative cell can have such electrode at least substantially filling an electrode chamber. The cells can be contained in a cell box that will provide the desired flow-through relationship for the electrolyte to the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1998Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: Eltech Systems, Corp.Inventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5968325Abstract: An auto-electrolyte hydrogen generating reactor having a plurality of cells. The cells are stacked in series in an electronically non-conductive housing. Each cell is separate from its neighbour by electronically conductive bipolar walls. Each cell comprises an anode with a metal whose standard oxidation potential is above that of hydrogen in the same electrolyte. There is a solid electrolyte and a cathode. The cathode is an inert electronic conductor with a surface in contact with a solid electrolyte. The surface is electrochemically catalytic for the formation of hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1997Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: A.T.S. Electro-Lube Holdings Ltd.Inventors: Colin William Oloman, Jonathan Wing-Fai Ho, Jielin Song
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Patent number: 5964990Abstract: The device proposed for cleaning metal surfaces consist of pad (12, 34, 91) of insulating material held between a beak-shaped (11, 52, 94) electrode (10, 26, 46) and the metal surface (8) to be cleaned, plus a low-voltage a.c. power supply (2) which is connected via the other electrode to the metal (7). A pump supplies the pad with a highly corrosive, high-density, acid solution. The pad consists of a relatively thick hose or tape. The device has slots (36) into which the gases and vapors produced during cleaning are drawn by an extractor fan (40) and then passed through a washing bottle (41) where they are cleaned. The electrode may have various shapes, and it is possible to replace the tip (28, 94, 98). The electrode is preferably designed with bores through which the acid solution can be fed.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1998Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignees: Nitty-Gritty S.R.L., Nitty-Gritty GmbHInventors: Stefano Muratori, Michele Lapelosa, Alessandro Alboni
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Patent number: 5962156Abstract: A nickel-metal hydride storage battery having a high capacity and excellent cycle life is disclosed. The battery employs, as its material for the negative electrode, a hydrogen storage alloy powder having a composition represented by the general formula Zr.sub.1-x M3.sub.x Mn.sub.a Mo.sub.b Cr.sub.c M1.sub.d M2.sub.e Ni.sub.f, where M1 represents at least one element selected from the group consisting of V, Nb and rare earth elements, M2 represents at least one element selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co and Cu, and M3 represents at least one element selected from the group consisting of Ti and Hf, and where 0.ltoreq.x.ltoreq.0.3, 0.3.ltoreq.a.ltoreq.0.7, 0.01.ltoreq.b.ltoreq.0.2, 0.05.ltoreq.c.ltoreq.0.3, 0.ltoreq.d.ltoreq.0.1, 0.ltoreq.e.ltoreq.0.2, 0.8.ltoreq.f.ltoreq.1.3, and 1.6.ltoreq.a+b+c+d+e+f.ltoreq.2.2, and wherein said hydrogen storage alloy has at least one of a Laves phase having a crystal structure of the MgCu.sub.2 -type (C15) and a Laves phase having a crystal structure of the MgZn.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoichi Izumi, Yoshio Moriwaki, Katsumi Yamashita, Takashi Tokuhiro
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Patent number: 5948223Abstract: A cathode of sufficiently low hydrogen overvoltage is provided which is useful in electrolysis of water or of an aqueous alkali metal chloride solution such as a sodium chloride solution. A process for producing the cathode is also provided. The low hydrogen overvoltage cathode has an electroconductive base material coated with an alloy layer containing nickel and molybdenum, the alloy layer containing the nickel at a content ranging from 35 to 90% by weight and the molybdenum at a content ranging from 10 to 65% by weight. The alloy laser has an X-ray diffraction (CuK.alpha. line) pattern with a main peak at an angle ranging from 42 to 45.degree. with a peak half width ranging from 0.4 to 7.degree.. One process for producing the low hydrogen overvoltage cathode of the present invention involves plating an electroconductive base material by an arc discharge type ion plating method.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1996Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Tosoh CorporationInventors: Hideharu Horikoshi, Kazumasa Suetsugu, Takashi Sakaki, Kanji Yoshimitsu
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Patent number: 5944966Abstract: A novel cathode of low hydrogen overvoltage is provided which is useful for electrolysis of water and electrolysis of an aqueous alkali metal chloride such as sodium chloride. A process for producing the cathode is also provided. The low hydrogen overvoltage cathode comprises an electroconductive base material; and a coating layer containing at least one organic compound selected from the group consisting of amino acids, monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, monoamines, diamines, triamines, and tetramines, and derivatives thereof at a content of from 0.5% to 18% by weight in terms of carbon, and a metal component selected from the group consisting of nickel, nickel-iron, nickel-cobalt, and nickel-indium at an indium content ranging from 1% to 90% by weight.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Assignee: Tosoh CorporationInventors: Kazumasa Suetsugu, Kazuhisa Yamaguchi, Kanji Yoshimitsu, Takashi Sakaki
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Patent number: 5942096Abstract: An apparatus and method for electro-depositing of a material on at least one side of a metal strip. The apparatus includes at least one casing having a first container section adapted to store under pressure a liquid including the material, a second container adapted to receive a portion of the liquid from the first container section, and a panel. The panel includes an active portion that is electrically polarized at a first polarity, at least one first outlet through which the liquid stored under pressure in the first container section is output in a direction toward the metal strip when the metal strip is conveyed past the panel, and at least one second outlet through which the liquid stored in the second container section is output in a direction toward the conveyed metal strip. The first outlet can be a slit which extends at an angle with respect to the direction in which the strip is conveyed, and the second outlets can be slits which extend traverse to the direction in which the strip is conveyed.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1997Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: Andritz-Patentverwaltungs-GesellschaftInventors: Franz Ruzicka, Gerald Maresch, Ortwin Noll, Werner Schuler
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Patent number: 5939220Abstract: A novel catalyst comprising a Pt--M alloy wherein M is one or more metals selected from the transition metal elements or from Groups IIIA or IVA of the Periodic Table in "Handbook of Chemistry and Physics" 64th Edition, CRC Press, and Y wherein Y is a bronze forming element or an oxide thereof, characterised in that the Pt--M alloy is in intimate contact with Y, and provided that M is not Ru if Y is WO.sub.3 is disclosed and which may be used as a poison tolerant catalyst for use in fuel cells, specifically as the anode of a PEM fuel cell.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Johnson Matthey Public Limited CompanyInventors: Alec Gordon Gunner, Timothy Ian Hyde, Robert John Potter, David Thompsett
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Patent number: 5928810Abstract: Electrode including a paste containing particles of electrochemically active material and a conductive support consisting of a three-dimensional porous material comprising strands delimiting contiguous pores communicating via passages, characterized in that the average width L in .mu.m of said passages is related to the average diameter .O slashed. in .mu.m of said particles by the following equation, in which W and Y are dimensionless coefficients:(W.times..O slashed.)+X.gtoreq.L.gtoreq.(Y.times..O slashed.)+ZwhereinW=0.16Y=1.69X=202.4 .mu.m andZ=80 .mu.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: SaftInventors: Patrick Bernard, Jean-Michel Dauchier, Olivier Simonneau
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Patent number: 5928483Abstract: An electrochemical cell comprises a container; an electrolyte held within e container, a first electrode positioned in the electrolyte; and a second electrode having a beryllium compound coating. The second electrode is positioned in the electrolyte and generally centered within the first electrode. The second electrode is made of a material selected from the group that includes palladium, AB.sub.2 alloys, and AB.sub.5 alloys, where A represents magnesium, zirconium, and lanthanum, and B represents vanadium, chromium, manganese, or nickel. The beryllium compound coating is formed by charging the second electrode in the presence of a beryllium salt.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1997Date of Patent: July 27, 1999Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Stanislaw J. Szpak, Pamela A. Boss
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Patent number: 5922487Abstract: Disclosed is an anode electrocatalyst for a fuel cell comprising an alloy essentially consisting of at least one of tin, germanium and molybdenum, and one or more noble metals selected from platinum, palladium and ruthenium.The tin, germanium and/or molybdenum gas the ability of depressing the poisioning of the noble metal with carbon monoxide so that fuel containing a relatively high content of the carbon monoxide may be supplied to a fuel cell equipped with anode in accordance with the present invention which is otherwise liable to be poisioned.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1995Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignees: Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K., Masahiro Watanabe, Stonehart Associates, Inc.Inventors: Masahiro Watanabe, Yumi Yamamoto
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Patent number: 5919349Abstract: A process for the electrochemical reduction of an organic compound by bringing the organic compound into contact with a cathode, wherein the cathode comprises a support made of an electrically conductive material and an electrically conductive, cathodically polarized layer formed thereon in situ by alluviation.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 1997Date of Patent: July 6, 1999Assignee: BASF AktiengesellschaftInventors: Gunther Huber, Andreas Weiper-Idelmann, Andreas Kramer, Rolf Golombek, Markus Frede, Luise Spiske, Karl-Heinz Schehlmann, Volker Steuer
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Patent number: 5916519Abstract: To provide a hydrogen storage alloy usable as a negative electrode having a long life and good high-discharge characteristics. Hydrogen storage alloy for cell wherein its general expression is as follows:RNi.sub.a Co.sub.b Al.sub.c Mn.sub.d Fe.sub.e(where R is a mixture of rare earth elements and contains 25.about.75 wt. % La; 3.7.ltoreq.a.ltoreq.4.0, 0.1.ltoreq.b.ltoreq.0.4, 0.20.ltoreq.c.ltoreq.0.4, 0.30.ltoreq.d.ltoreq.0.45, 0.2.ltoreq.e.ltoreq.0.4, 0.5.ltoreq.b+c.ltoreq.0.7, and 5.0.ltoreq.a+b+c+d+e.ltoreq.5.0).Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1996Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: Japan Metals & Chemicals Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobuyuki Saito, Masashi Takahashi, Takashi Sasai
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Patent number: 5916702Abstract: The invention is a composition, comprising: a carbon-supported, dispersed platinum-zinc alloy having the formula Pt-Zn.sub.x /C wherein x ranges from greater than 0.05 to less than 1 wherein platinum is in the form of platinum particles ranging in size from about 20 .ANG. to about 30 .ANG. on a carbon support, wherein the carbon is in the form of high surface area carbon having surface area ranging from about 100 to about 500 m.sup.2 /g, and the platinum particles are present in an amount ranging from about 10 to about 40 wt % on the carbon support. The composition is made by the process of depositing on the carbon support a soluble zinc source selected from the group of zinc nitrate, acetate, halides, formates, oxalates, and acetyl acetonates and mixtures thereof; calcining to convert the zinc source to ZnO; and then reducing the zinc oxide at a temperature ranging from about 250.degree. C. to about 600.degree. C.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: Exxon Research and Engineering Co.Inventors: Elise Marucchi-Soos, John Lawrence Robbins, Richard James Bellows, David Terence Buckley
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Patent number: 5910379Abstract: Provided is a hydrogen absorbing alloy suitable for a negative electrode of an Ni--hydrogen storage battery effective at low temperature, more specifically, a R--Ni type of hydrogen absorbing alloy represented by a general formula RNi.sub.a Co.sub.b Al.sub.c M.sub.d, and with Mo content of 50 to 500 ppm wherein R expresses not less than 18 wt % Pr and one or more metals other than Pr, Ni, Co, Al and M, and M expresses one or more metals selected from the group consisting of Fe, Cr, Cu, and Mn, and a to d expresses positive numbers in the specified range Moreover, the above alloy further containing trace amounts of Mg, Ti, Pb, oxygen, carbon, and/or sulfur is provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1998Date of Patent: June 8, 1999Assignee: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaki Kasashima, Noriaki Hamaya, Naofumi Shinya, Satoshi Shima
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Patent number: 5908540Abstract: A process and assembly for stabilizing organic additives in an electrolytic solution while electroplating copper. The process includes forming a protective film on a first surface of an anode and minimizing contact between the electrolytic solution and a second surface of the anode which is further from the cathode than the first surface. An anode housing is used to minimize contact between the electrolytic solution and the second surface of the anode. The housing includes two side walls and a bottom wall, each having a groove, and a sealing back plate. The anode is fitted in the grooves such that the first surface of the anode is in contact with the electrolytic solution and the second surface of the anode abuts against the sealing back plate. The anode housing may be used in an electroplating system including the anode housing, a plating tank containing the electrolytic solution, a cathode immersed in the electrolytic solution, and an anode, which preferably is in the shape of a slab.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1997Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Lisa A. Fanti
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Patent number: 5902700Abstract: A hydrogen storage alloy electrode for use in electrochemical hydrogen storage cells, the electrode being in the form of a negative electrode fabricated by sintering a mixture of a hydrogen storage alloy containing manganese and an alloy containing a measured amount of manganese.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1998Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takamichi Hirosawa, Takaaki Ikemachi
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Patent number: 5900334Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrogen occluding alloy exhibiting high hydrogen absorption and desorption rates, and excellent initial activation in practical use, and a method of making it. There is provided a hydrogen occluding alloy having a composition comprising, by wt %, 32 to 38% of rare earth elements essentially consisting of La and/or Ce, 0.5 to 3.5% of Al, 0.5 to 10% of Mn, 0.005 to 0.5% of hydrogen, optionally 0.1 to 17% of Co, and the balance being Ni and unavoidable impurities; wherein the alloy has a microstructure characterized in that fine rare earth element hydride is dispersively distributed in a matrix having a CaCu.sub.5 -type crystal structure in a ratio of 0.5 to 20% by area. There are also provided electrodes and batteries containing such alloys, and methods of making and using such electrodes and batteries.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Assignee: Mitsubishi Materials CorporationInventors: Masahiro Wada, Yoshio Takizawa
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Patent number: 5885378Abstract: This invention provides a hydrogen occluding alloy having a composition comprising, by wt %, 25% to 45% of Zr, 1% to 12% of Ti, 10% to 20% of Mn, 2% to 12% of V, 0.5% to 5% of at least one rare earth element, optionally 0.1% to 4% of Hf, one or more selected from hydrogen, hydrogen+oxygen, and oxygen, and a balance being Ni (25% or more of Ni) and unavoidable impurities, having a structure comprising: a phase made of a hydrogenated-product, dispersedly distributed in a matrix phase made of a Zr--Ni--Mn based alloy. The hydrogenated-product mainly comprises a rare earth element-Ni type alloy and a rare earth element hydride with numerous cracks formed at the time when the hydrogenated-product phase is generated. The hydrogenated-product phase is formed by exposing a hydrogen-containing substance on the surfaces of the cracks. Electrodes made of the alloy are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1996Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: Mitsubishi Materials CorporationInventors: Norikazu Komada, Mitsugu Matsumoto, Shinichiro Kakehashi, Yoshitaka Tamo
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Patent number: 5885427Abstract: A solid high silicon cast iron elongated anode has a midpoint electrical connection keeping the connection as far as possible from the ends to combat the deleterious pencil effect. The anode is made by casting using a hollow or shell core to form a small axial hole extending from one end. The sand or foundry material of the core is removed and the wall of the hole at the blind end of the hole is at least partially finished to receive a diagonally split slug to which a lead wire is connected. Alternatively the hole is formed by a steel pipe which is left in place as a hole liner. The pipe may be supported by one or more chaplets. The slug is fastened in the blind end of the hole by a driving tool rotating a threaded headed bolt with both axial and rotational force to hold the connection in the blind end of the hole as it is secured in place. The hole is filled with a potting compound sealing the connection in the center of the solid cast iron anode.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1997Date of Patent: March 23, 1999Assignee: Corrpro Companies, Inc.Inventors: Ian Pickering, John Chase
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Patent number: 5876867Abstract: An electrocatalyst comprising an alloy of platinum with a base metal selected from the group consisting of gallium, vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel and copper, having a structure of vacant lattice site type lattice defects; the alloy being supported on a conductive carbon powder. The electrocatalyst is useful as a platinum-supported catalyst for an electrode, and has a superior electrochemical oxygen reduction activity and has platinum alloy particles having less base metal component.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1997Date of Patent: March 2, 1999Assignee: N.E. Chemcat CorporationInventors: Takashi Itoh, Katsuaki Katoh, Tuyoshi Hashimoto
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Patent number: 5872074Abstract: Leached nanocrystalline materials having a high specific surface are particularly useful for storing hydrogen or as catalysts or electrocatalysts in the manufacture electrodes, especially for fuel cells. Such materials can be manufactured by preparing a nanocrystalline material consisting of a metastable composite or alloy of at least two different chemical elements. To be nanocrystalline, this material must have a crystalline structure with the grain size lower than 100 nm. Then, the so prepared nanocrystalline material can be subjected to a leaching treatment in order to eliminate partially or totally one of the elements of the composite or alloy. This leaching results in nanocrystalline materials having a porous structure and, thereby, the requested high specific surface.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: Hydro-QuebecInventors: Robert Schulz, Guy Lalande, Jacques Huot, Marie-Chantal Denis, Guoxian Liang, Andre Van Neste, Daniel Guay, Jean-Pol Dodelet
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Patent number: 5865980Abstract: An inert electrode material is made by reacting at an elevated temperature a mixture preferably comprising iron oxide, at least one other metal oxide, copper and silver. The reaction produces a material having ceramic phase portions and alloy phase portions, wherein the alloy phase portions have copper-rich interior portions and silver-rich exterior portions. Inert anodes made with a reaction mixture containing copper and silver have lower wear rates than inert anodes made with copper and no silver.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1997Date of Patent: February 2, 1999Assignee: Aluminum Company of AmericaInventors: Siba P. Ray, Robert W. Woods, Robert K. Dawless, Robert B. Hosler
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Patent number: 5856036Abstract: A catalyst composition for use in electrochemical reactor devices comprising platinum, ruthenium, and osmium and having a single phase crystal structure comprising a face centered cubic unit cell. In accordance with a particularly preferred embodiment, in atomic percentages, platinum comprises about 65% of the catalyst composition, ruthenium comprises about 25% of the catalyst composition, and osmium comprises about 10% of the catalyst composition.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1997Date of Patent: January 5, 1999Assignee: Illinois Institute of TechnologyInventors: Eugene S. Smotkin, Kevin L. Ley, Cong Pu, Renxuan Liu
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Patent number: 5853553Abstract: A sacrificial anode and method of making a sacrificial anode are provided. The anode includes an extruded galvanically active metal rod and integrally formed end cap which has a cylindrically shaped portion with a threaded exterior surface. The anode is formed by extruding the rod, forging the end cap from the anchoring end portion of the rod, and machining the outer surface of the end cap to provide threads.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 1998Date of Patent: December 29, 1998Assignee: Alumax Extrusions, Inc.Inventor: Richard Twigg
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Patent number: 5843290Abstract: A contactless electrolytic polishing apparatus for manufacturing a lead frame having a smooth polished surface includes a polishing tank containing polishing solution and divided by partitions into a first cathode-containing vessel, a first solution-discharge vessel, a first anode-containing vessel, a second solution-discharge vessel, a second anode-containing vessel, a third solution-discharge vessel and a second cathode-containing vessel. A direct current is applied with ripples having a frequency of 40 to 120 Hz alternately to the anode and cathode in the electrolytic polishing tank filled with an electrolytic polishing solution so that the time for which the blank positioned between both electrodes functions as the anode may be at least 3.3 times longer than that for which it functions as the cathode. The blank is then plated with a metal by employing a customary method.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1997Date of Patent: December 1, 1998Assignee: Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., LimitedInventors: Yoshimaro Tezuka, Katsuhisa Tokunaga, Mitsuyuki Kakimoto, Shigeki Ogawa, Miyuki Tani, Satoshi Kobayashi, Kiyotaka Sasaki, Motoyuki Tomizawa
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Patent number: 5840166Abstract: A rare earth metal-nickel hydrogen storage alloy having a composition represented by the formula (1) (R.sub.1-x L.sub.x) (Ni.sub.1-y M.sub.y).sub.z . . . (1) (R: La, Ce, Pr, Nd; L: Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Y, Sc, Mg, Ca; M: Co, Al, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zr, Ti, Mo, Si, V, Cr, Nb, Hf, Ta, W, B, C; 0.05.ltoreq.x.ltoreq.0.4, 0.ltoreq.y.ltoreq.0.5, 3.0.ltoreq.z<4.5), the alloy including in an amount of not less than 30 volume % and less than 95 volume % thereof crystals each containing not less than 5 and less than 25 antiphase boundaries extending perpendicular to C-axis of a crystal grain of the alloy per 20 nm along the C-axis, not less than 60% and less than 95% of added amount of the element represented by L in the formula (1) being arranged in antiphase areas, and a method for producing the same.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1997Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Santoku Metal Industry Co. Ltd.Inventor: Akihito Kaneko
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Patent number: 5840440Abstract: Disordered multicomponent hydrogen storage material characterized by extraordinarily high storage capacity due to a high density of useable hydrogen storage sites (greater than 10.sup.23 defect sites/cc) and/or an extremely small crystallite size. The hydrogen storage material can be employed for electrochemical, fuel cell and gas phase applications. The material may be selected from either of the modified LaNi.sub.5 or modified TiNi families formulated to have a crystallite size of less than 200 Angstroms and most preferably less than 100 Angstroms.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1995Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Ovonic Battery Company, Inc.Inventors: Stanford R. Ovshinsky, Michael A. Fetcenko, Jun Su Im, Kwo Young, Benjamin S. Chao, Benjamin Reichman
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Patent number: 5827413Abstract: A low hydrogen overvoltage cathode is provided which comprises an electroconductive base material coated with an alloy layer containing cobalt and tin at least at a content of tin ranging from 0.01 to 95% by weight. A process is also provided for producing the low hydrogen voltage cathode, wherein cobalt and tin at least are electrolytically co-deposited onto a surface of an electroconductive base material from a plating bath containing cobalt ions, tin ions, and a complexing agent.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1996Date of Patent: October 27, 1998Assignee: Tosoh CorporationInventors: Kazuhisa Yamaguchi, Kanji Yoshimitsu, Satoshi Yoshida, Kazumasa Suetsugu, Takashi Sakaki
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Patent number: 5824199Abstract: A conductive inflatable member is provided in an electrochemical cell between an electrode and a current for providing uniform contact pressure, and thus uniform electrical contact between the electrode and the current bus. The inflatable member may comprise a pair of flexible plates, where one plate is thinner than the other plate. The cell of the present invention is particularly useful in converting anhydrous hydrogen halide directly to essentially dry halogen gas, such as anhydrous hydrogen chloride to dry chlorine gas, or in converting aqueous hydrogen halide, such as aqueous hydrogen chloride, to wet chlorine gas.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1997Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: Walter John Simmons, Clarence Garlan Law, Jr., James Arthur Trainham, III, John Scott Newman
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Patent number: 5817222Abstract: A rare earth metal-nickel hydrogen storage alloy having a composition represented by the formula (1)RNi.sub.x-y M.sub.y (1)(wherein R stands for La, Ce, Pr, Nd, or mixtures thereof, M stands for Co, Al, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zr, Ti, Mo, Si, V, Cr, Nb, Hf, Ta, W, B, C, or mixtures thereof, x satisfies the formula of 3.5.ltoreq.x<5, and y satisfies the formula of 0<y.ltoreq.2, crystals in the alloy having a LaNi.sub.5 type single phase structure, the alloy including in an amount of not less than 5 volume % and less than 95 volume % thereof crystals each containing not less than 2 and less than 17 antiphase boundaries extending perpendicular to C-axis of a grain of the crystal in the alloy per 20 nm along the C-axis, a method of producing the same, and an anode for a nickel hydrogen rechargeable battery containing as an anode material the above rare earth metal-nickel hydrogen storage alloy and an electrically conductive material.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 1996Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Assignee: Santoku Metal Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Akihito Kaneko
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Patent number: 5817221Abstract: Magnetic composites exhibit distinct flux properties due to gradient interfaces. The composites can be used to improve fuel cells and batteries and effect transport and separation of different species of materials, for example, transition metal species such as lanthanides and actinides. A variety of devices can be made utilizing the composites including a separator, an electrode for channeling flux of magnetic species, an electrode for effecting electrolysis of magnetic species, a system for channeling electrolyte species, a system for separating particles with different magnetic susceptibilities, improved fuel cells, batteries, and oxygen concentrators. Some composites can be used to make a separator for distinguishing between two species of materials and a flux switch to regulate the flow of a chemical species. Some composites can control chemical species transport and distribution. Other composites enable ambient pressure fuel cells having enhanced performance and reduced weight to be produced.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1996Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Assignee: University of Iowa Research FoundationInventors: Johna Leddy, Sudath Amarasinghe, Flavio Tinoco
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Patent number: 5810981Abstract: There is provided a hydrogen occluding alloy exhibiting high absorption and desorption speeds. A hydrogen occluding alloy comprising as an overall composition: 25 to 45 weight % Zr+Hf, wherein the Hf comprises not more than 4%, 1 to 15 weight % Ti, 10 to 20 weight % Mn, 2 to 12 weight % V, 0.6 to 5 weight % rare earth elements, and a balance Ni (of which content is not less than 25 weight %) and unavoidable impurities, and basically having a three-phase structure consisting of: a net-shaped continuous phase which is made of a Ni--Zr type alloy, a main phase (in the net-shaped continuous phase) made of a Zr--Ni--Mn based alloy, and a dispersed granular phase made of a rare earth elements-Ni type alloy distributed along the net-shaped continuous phase.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1996Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: Mitsubishi Materials CorporationInventors: Norikazu Komada, Mitsugu Matsumoto, Shinichiro Kakehashi, Yoshitaka Tamo, Chris N. Christodoulou
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Patent number: 5807468Abstract: An electrode having an excellent corrosion resistance and long service life even in a severe corrosive environment such as in NaCl solutions for anode electrolysis in which chlorine gas or the like is produced at a high potential from the alloy surface. The electrode of the invention is provided using a precious metal-based amorphous alloy which has a good plasticity processibility and is applicable to a large-sized component. The object is implemented by provision of an electrode material for anode electrolysis which utilizes a precious metal-based amorphous alloy which satisfies the general formula NM.sub.100-a-b-c Ni.sub.a Cu.sub.b P.sub.c wherein NM comprises one or two precious metal elements selected from Pd and Pt; a, b and c being atomic percent, satisfy that 30.ltoreq.a+b.ltoreq.45,3.ltoreq.b/a.ltoreq.7, and 18.ltoreq.c.ltoreq.25, respectively; Pt is contained from 10 to 30 atom percent (at. %); and wherein a temperature width .DELTA.Tx in the supercooled liquid region (.DELTA.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1997Date of Patent: September 15, 1998Assignee: Japan Science and Technology CorporationInventors: Takumi Sakamoto, Takeshi Suto, Takahiro Aoki, Nobuyuki Nishiyama, Akihisa Inoue, Hisamichi Kimura, Yasusi Takahagi, Takeshi Kamoshida, Kazuya Saito
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Patent number: 5804055Abstract: An electrode, electrochemical cell, and electrochemical processes are disclosed. The electrode is a porous, multi-layered electrode which can have an element in flexible, strip form wound around a central, usually flat plate core, which core may serve as a current distributor. In any form, each layer can be represented by a very thin, highly flexible metal mesh. This can be a fine, as opposed to a coarse, mesh which has extremely thin strands and small voids. The electrode will have an active coating. For utilizing this electrode, the cell in one form will be a monopolar cell providing upward, parallel electrolyte flow through the porous, multi-layered electrode. A representative cell can have such electrode at least substantially filling an electrode chamber. The cells can be contained in a cell box that will provide the desired flow-through relationship for the electrolyte to the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1997Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Edward M. Halko, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5792369Abstract: Apparatus and processes for non-chemical disinfection of a wide variety of biologically contaminated water streams include a canister with flow control means built therein such that a small portion of a water stream is exposed to disinfecting salts and returned to the principal stream to be treated. An ionized oxidizing gas plasma is also added, together with streams of metallic ions. Improved compositions of sacrificial electrodes for providing disinfectant metallic ions to a flow stream are also disclosed. The invention is described in connection with disinfecting recirculated water as used in cooling tower recirculated water air conditioning plants, commercial laundries, and aircraft head flush water, among other industrial water reclamation uses.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1996Date of Patent: August 11, 1998Inventor: Dennis E. J. Johnson
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Patent number: 5783050Abstract: An electrode, electrochemical cell, and electrochemical processes are disclosed. The electrode is a porous, multi-layered electrode which can have an element in flexible, strip form wound around a central, usually flat plate core, which core may serve as a current distributor. In any form, each layer can be represented by a very thin, highly flexible metal mesh. This can be a fine, as opposed to a coarse, mesh which has extremely thin strands and small voids. The electrode will have an active coating. For utilizing this electrode, the cell in one form will be a monopolar cell providing upward, parallel electrolyte flow through the porous, multi-layered electrode. A representative cell can have such electrode at least substantially filling an electrode chamber. The cells can be contained in a cell box that will provide the desired flow-through relationship for the electrolyte to the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1995Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: Richard J. Coin, Lynne M. Ernes, Andy W. Getsy, Kenneth L. Hardee, Marilyn J. Niksa
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Patent number: 5783058Abstract: An existing, usually used radial lead anode in an electroplating cell is machined to a specific radius. This provides a curved, machined surface for the lead anode to serve as a support structure. A thin gauge, dimensionally stable sheet anode of a multitude of side-by-side strip anodes is formed, with each strip anode being typically formed to a larger radius then the radius of the support structure. The sheet anode strips may be precurved into a series of chords. The strip anodes are flexed into place onto the surface of the lead support structure. Fastening these strips and the support structure together can be accomplished by a series of fastening means attached to the back of each strip anode, which means can project into or through holes in the lead support structure. Electrical connection can be provided, such as through the fastening means, with the lead support structure serving as a current distributor member.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 1996Date of Patent: July 21, 1998Assignee: Eltech Systems CorporationInventors: H. Kirk Fowler, Gerald R. Pohto, Zane A. Wade
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Patent number: 5779866Abstract: An electrolyzer, including a lower electrolyte chamber for receiving liquid electrolyte flux and having disposed therein anode and cathode electrodes for producing anodic and cathodic gases. A first barrier is disposed in the lower electrolyte chamber between the anode and cathode electrodes having a plurality of V-shaped passageways for allowing the passage of electrons but for preventing the recombination of anodic and cathodic gases. The electrolyzer also includes an upper gas chamber having an anodic gas compartment and a cathodic gas compartment for receiving therein the anodic and cathodic gases produced in the lower electrolyte chamber. The upper gas chamber includes a second barrier disposed between the anodic and cathodic gas compartments having no passageways in order to prevent the recombination of anodic and cathodic gases. The second barrier is connected to the first barrier.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1996Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Assignee: Florida Scientific Laboratories Inc.Inventor: Gregorio Tarancon
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Patent number: 5776626Abstract: Disclosed are a hydrogen-occluding alloy electrode comprising an alloy powder wherein the alloy comprises a Ti-V solid solution mother phase and a secondary phase predominantly containing a Ti-Ni phase or an AB.sub.2 Laves phase in which the secondary phase forms a three-dimensional reticulate skeleton in the alloy; said hydrogen-occluding alloy powder surface-treated with hydrofluoric acid, to provide a titanium hydride surface and surface-coated with at least one metal of Ni, Cu and Co.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 1997Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Assignees: Imra Material R&D Co., Ltd., Agency of Industrial Science and TechnologyInventors: Makoto Tsukahara, Kunio Takahashi, Takahiro Mishima, Akihito Isomura, Tetsuo Sakai, Hiroshi Miyamura, Itsuki Uehara
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Patent number: 5759384Abstract: A halogen generator produces a halogen sanitizing agent to sanitize water in a spa or other water feature. A coaxial wall fitting desirably couples the halogen generator to the water feature. The halogen generator desirably includes a bipolar electrolytic cell in which a center electrode plate rotates between stationary anode and cathode plates. The bipolar electrode includes a plurality of vanes which motivate water flow between the anode and the cathode. The vanes on the rotating electrode also produce a flow of water through the generator. In this manner, the bipolar electrode functions as a impeller to pump water through the halogen generator. The vanes are positioned between the electrode and cathode, and are sufficiently spaced from the cathode to inhibit scale formation on the cathode. The vanes, however, generally do not contact the cathode when rotating.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1996Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: BioquestInventor: Michael A. Silveri
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Patent number: 5759944Abstract: An electrocatalyst material for use in an acid electrolyte environment, comprising platinum or a platinum alloy supported on a conductive support, and gold, gives unexpectedly improved performance over similar electrocatalysts without gold.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1997Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: Johnson Matthey Public Limited CompanyInventors: Jeffrey S Buchanan, Robert J Potter, Thomas R Ralph
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Patent number: 5759362Abstract: An electrode (2) for electrochemically machining electroconductive workpieces (1), which is provided with electrically insulating layers (4, 4') of a hybrid inorganic polymeric material on the basis of silicon oxide and zirconium oxide obtained by means of a sol-gel process. The insulating layers (4, 4') can be provided on the electrode at a low temperature and exhibit a small leakage current.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1996Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: U.S. Philips CorporationInventors: Roland P. Van Kessel, Petrus A. Rensing, Franciscus H. M. Sanders, Cornelis G. Visser
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Patent number: 5753098Abstract: An electrolyzer assembly has an outer, cylindrical dielectric electrolyzer housing member having a top, bottom, and cylindrical side wall. In one embodiment, the housing member has a sealed top, an open bottom for electrolyte entry, and apertures through the side wall near the sealed top permitting flow of electrolyte through the apertures. A cylindrical anode and cathode pair is situated inside the housing member. The cathode is positioned concentrically within the anode. Electrolyte flows in the space between anode and cathode. The anode is spaced apart from the side wall, providing an electrolyte flow path through the resulting cylindrically-shaped space. Electrical connections through the top of the housing member extend downwardly therein to electrical connection elements projecting upwardly from the electrode pair. The assembly provides for ease of cleaning, as well as ease of refurbishing, and operates efficiently and economically in both forced and unforced flow conditions.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1996Date of Patent: May 19, 1998Assignee: Excel Technologies International Corp.Inventors: James W. Bess, Jr., Charles W. Clements, Sr., John F. Newman, III
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Patent number: 5736029Abstract: An amperometric dual-electrode sensor having an operating electrode inside a passivable metal electrode used as the counter electrode is provided by the invention. A method for measuring the concentration of a compound or ions in a sample is also provided by this invention. In particular, a method of measuring hydrogen peroxide in a sample is described.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1996Date of Patent: April 7, 1998Assignee: Prominent Dosiertechnik GmbHInventor: Alexander Pinkowski
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Patent number: 5733425Abstract: This invention relates to a titanium alloy anode for the electrolytic production of manganese dioxide, wherein the alloy anode is made of titanium as a base metal, and comprises at least three other metals selected from the group consisting of manganese, chromium, iron, silicon, aluminum, cerium, neodymium and mischmetal; the addition of which may be within the range of 8 to 20 weight percent based on the weight of the total composition. The alloy anode, being easy to manufacture and having irregular sectional profiles, is free from severe passivation during electrolytic production using high current density due to its combined properties. The alloy anode, being highly resistant to corrosion by the electrolysis solution, requires no activation treatment during the electrolytic process. The purposefully-designed shapes of the anode permit good attachment of the deposited product layer and prevent the deposition from cracking and peeling-off.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1996Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Shanghai Iron & Steel Research InstituteInventors: Pingwei Fang, Wuyu Hu