Involving Measuring, Analyzing, Or Testing During Synthesis Patents (Class 205/335)
  • Patent number: 11629076
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for cleaning materials, such as flooring and upholstery. In some cases, the systems and methods use an electrolytic cell to electrolyze a solution comprising sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium acetate, sodium percarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, and/or any other suitable chemical to generate electrolyzed alkaline water and/or electrolyzed oxidizing water. In some cases, the cell comprises a recirculation loop that recirculates anolyte through an anode compartment of the cell. In some cases, the cell further comprises a senor and a processor, where the processor is configured to automatically change an operation of the cell, based on a reading from the sensor. In some cases, a fluid flows past a magnet before entering the cell. In some additional cases, fluid from the cell is conditioned by being split into multiple conduits that run in proximity to each other. Additional implementations are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2023
    Assignee: Z Intellectual Property Holding Company, LLC
    Inventors: Gaylord M. Karren, James K. Stone, John M. Hopkins, William R. Shupe
  • Patent number: 11105005
    Abstract: A product container is provided. The product container includes a first product and an electrochemistry device configured to convert a portion of the first product into a second product, which is an unstable formulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Patrik Johansson, Venda Porter Maloney, Kelly Duncan
  • Patent number: 11018034
    Abstract: A substrate processing method includes a substrate holding step of holding a substrate by a substrate holding unit, a chemical liquid supplying step of supplying a chemical liquid to a main surface of the substrate while rotating the substrate around a rotational axis passing through a central portion of the substrate, a foreign matter detecting step of detecting foreign matter, contained in the chemical liquid expelled from the substrate, in parallel with the chemical liquid supplying step, and a flow destination switching step of switching, based on the detection of the foreign matter by the foreign matter detecting step, a flow destination of the chemical liquid expelled from the substrate from a drain piping to a recovery piping during the chemical liquid supplying step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Inventors: Toru Endo, Masayuki Hayashi, Nobuyuki Shibayama
  • Patent number: 10557206
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to membranes for use in electrolysis systems. The teachings thereof may be embodied in a method for checking a membrane of an electrolyzer comprises two volumes separated by the membrane and produces two product gases from a starting liquid. The method may include: detecting an electrolysis current strength during electrolysis, measuring a liquid flow rate of the starting liquid between the two electrolyzer volumes, calculating a ratio of the measured liquid flow rate and the detected electrolysis current strength, and using the calculated ratio as an indication of membrane leaktightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Marc Hanebuth, Hagen Hertsch, Michael Sawinsky
  • Patent number: 10457575
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrogen water generator capable of efficiently generating hydrogen with a structure in which anode electrode(s) and cathode electrode(s) are arranged in a container in an approximately vertical direction. The electrode portion 4 which includes two or more of anode electrodes 4A or cathode electrodes 4B is supported by a generator body cover portion 2. The generator body cover portion 2 is held and the electrode portion 4 is immersed in drinking water in a beverage container 12 such as a cup. Then, electrolysis is caused owing to that a controller 11 applies voltage obtained by boosting supply voltage from a battery 8 to the electrode portion 4 for a predetermined time. At this time, since a plurality of energizing paths between the anode electrode(s) and the cathode electrode(s) are formed, hydrogen can be effectively generated in the drinking water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: FUJI KEIKI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Masashi Ito
  • Patent number: 10131555
    Abstract: The method includes a process of (i) and a process of (ii) in this order. In the process of (i), the potential of a first anode and the potential of a first cathode are adjusted in an aqueous solution containing chloride ions so as to increase the concentration of free chlorine in the aqueous solution. In the process of (ii), the potential of a second anode and the potential of a second cathode are adjusted in the aqueous solution so as to decrease the concentration of free chlorine in the aqueous solution. The difference between the potential of the second anode and the potential of the second cathode in the process of (ii) is smaller than the difference between the potential of the first anode and the potential of the first cathode in the process of (i).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Assignees: NIKKISO CO., LTD., TANAH PROCESS, LTD.
    Inventors: Masakazu Tanahashi, Junichi Watanabe, Masato Fujiwara, Rongfu Lu
  • Patent number: 10040569
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to systems and methods for providing improved aircraft fuel cell systems. In one embodiment, the system provides separate zones, maintaining various equipment components in separate controlled hydrogen concentration zones. In one embodiment, the fuel cell system provided may be simpler such that it functions without a power converter and autonomous such that it functions without need for power from any aircraft supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Zodiac Aerotechnics
    Inventors: Sébastien Filangi, Julien D'Arbigny, Loic Bouillo, Christophe Elleboode, Franck Masset, Guillaume Gager, Claire Marty, Hanane Zraiaa
  • Patent number: 9453286
    Abstract: There is described a method for determining single cell current efficiency in an electrolyzer, the method comprising: measuring voltage of a plurality of single cells in the electrolyzer; measuring electrolyzer current feeding the single cells; detecting one of a shutdown period and a start-up period; and for each single cell: determining a time t taken for a voltage level to reach a predetermined occurrence in a voltage curve after a polarization current has been triggered; and calculating cell current efficiency as a function of the time t.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: RECHERCHE 2000 INC.
    Inventors: Gilles Tremblay, Helmut Lademann, Said Berriah, Michel Veillette
  • Patent number: 9430930
    Abstract: Described herein is a device including a collection element having a base with an upper surface surrounded by one or more raised edges near a perimeter of the base, the upper surface having a concavity. The device has a sensor positioned in fluid communication with the concavity in the upper surface of the base. The sensor is configured to detect moisture and to trigger a notification of a user that moisture has been detected by the sensor. The user can be remote from the device and the notification triggered of the moisture detected can be sent remotely to the user. Related apparatus, system, methods and/or articles are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventor: Patrick H. Finn
  • Patent number: 9399823
    Abstract: An immersion wand device for immersion into a receptacle containing an aqueous metal halide salt solution includes an elongated housing having a handle at a first end and an immersion head at a second end, at least two iridium-coated electrodes each disposed at a distance from one another within the immersion head, a control module to control application of electricity to cause the electrodes to be oppositely charged, and a sensor in communication with the control module for determining a concentration of free available chlorine in the aqueous metal halide salt solution. The control module controls the application of electricity to the electrodes in a manner to perform electrochemical activation (ECA) of the aqueous metal halide salt solution in the receptacle to create an ECA product solution and wherein the distance between the at least two electrodes is automatically adjustable during ECA in response to a measurement by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: GENEON TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventors: John P. Shanahan, Remigio Benavides Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 9222180
    Abstract: A safe and low cost deodorization and sterilization apparatus is provided for continuously deodorizing in a restroom, around a garbage box, in an indoor room and the like for a long period of time, utilizing a deodorization power of a hypochlorous acid, not requiring frequent supplement of water. The deodorization and sterilization apparatus is adapted to control a electric current value ratio or a electric current amount ratio of an electrode with a diaphragm (a salt path with ion conductivity and very slight flow of water) and an electrode without diaphragm or to control a positive/negative electric current amount of the electrodes in electrolysis of an aqueous chloride salt solution, so that a PH value and the hypochlorous acid concentration are adjusted, thereby evaporating and diffusing the generated hypochlorous acid for deodorization and sterilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Inventor: Yoshihisa Ishii
  • Publication number: 20150132675
    Abstract: A circuit applies an electric field to a reforming chamber housing a hydrocarbon-water mixture to cause molecular breakdown and create a feed of hydrogen and carbon and dioxide that can be supplied to fuel cells. The circuit includes a DC-to-DC converter, a DC-to-AC inverter and a transformer to transform available input voltage to a control voltage that can be used to apply the electric field to the mixture in the reforming chamber. The signal supplied to the DC-to-AC inverter is monitored to determine whether enough voltage is supplied to create an electrical discharge in the reforming chamber. If an electrical discharge exists, the variables to the circuit is left alone or decreased until the signal indicates the electrical discharge is no longer present. If no electrical discharge exists, the variable input voltage is increased until an electrical discharge is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: 19th Space Energy, LLC
    Inventor: Babak Fahimi
  • Patent number: 9027342
    Abstract: A supplementary intercooler cools engine air after it has passed through the turbocharger of a vehicle's turbocharged internal combustion engine, but before it enters the engine. The unit has an inlet for capturing the turbo's air charge and an outlet for routing the air charge to the engine after passing through the intercooler. A container stores water until it is needed and a water pump transfers water from the container to the unit. This loosened bond of water is then sprayed on capacitor plates under turbo pressure to be converted into hydrogen and injected into the air intake stream making it a totally “hydrogen-on-demand” intercooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventors: Nicholas Frederick Foy, Ursula Meta Foy
  • Publication number: 20150114842
    Abstract: An electrochemical reduction device is provided with an electrolyte membrane, an electrode unit, a power control unit, hydrogen gas generation amount measuring unit, and a control unit. The electrolyte membrane has ion conductivity. The electrode unit includes both a reduction electrode that is provided on one side of the electrolyte membrane and contains a reduction catalyst for hydrogenating at least one benzene ring of an aromatic hydrocarbon compound or a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic aromatic compound, and an oxygen evolving electrode. The control unit releases, when the hydrogen gas generation amount F1 is larger than an acceptable upper limit F0 of a hydrogen gas generation amount in the electrode unit, the application of a voltage by the power control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2015
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Yasushi SATO, Kota MIYOSHI, Kojiro NAKAGAWA, Yoshihiro KOBORI
  • Publication number: 20150108005
    Abstract: A high differential pressure water electrolysis system includes a high differential pressure water electrolysis device, a water supply tank, a high pressure gas-liquid separator, a hydrogen outlet line, a drain line, a low pressure gas-liquid separator, a water return line, and a pressure maintaining mechanism. The drain line is to drain a liquid water separated by the high pressure gas-liquid separator. The low pressure gas-liquid separator is disposed in the drain line and has a discharge line via which a gas separated by the low pressure gas-liquid separator is to be discharged. The water return line connects the low pressure gas-liquid separator and the water supply tank. The pressure maintaining mechanism is disposed in the discharge line and configured to maintain a pressure in the low pressure gas-liquid separator to be higher than a pressure in the water supply tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun TAKEUCHI, Aoi MIYAKE
  • Publication number: 20150090603
    Abstract: A water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen production unit for electrolyzing water to generate oxygen and high-pressure hydrogen (the pressure of the high-pressure hydrogen being higher than that of the oxygen), and a gas-liquid separation unit for removing water contained in the high-pressure hydrogen. The gas-liquid separation unit is placed on a hydrogen pipe for discharging the high-pressure hydrogen from the high-pressure hydrogen production unit. In addition, the water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe for transferring dewatered high-pressure hydrogen from the gas-liquid separation unit, a cooling unit, which is placed on the high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe and is capable of variably controlling the temperature of the high-pressure hydrogen to adjust the humidity of the high-pressure hydrogen, and a control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Daisuke KURASHINA, Koji NAKAZAWA, Hisashi NAGAOKA, Hiroyuki ISHIKAWA, Yuji YAMAKAWA, Jun TAKEUCHI
  • Publication number: 20150090602
    Abstract: An electrochemical reduction device comprises an electrode unit including an electrolyte membrane, a reduction electrode, and an oxygen evolving electrode; a power control unit that applies a voltage Va between the reduction electrode and the oxygen evolving electrode; a hydrogen gas generation rate measurement unit that measures a hydrogen gas generation rate F1; and a control unit that controls the power control unit so as to gradually increase the Va within a range that satisfies a relationship of F1?F0 and VCA>VHER?acceptable potential difference (APD), when the potential at a reversible hydrogen electrode is VHER, the potential of the reduction electrode is VCA, the acceptable upper limit of the hydrogen gas generation rate is F0, and the APD is a potential difference that defines an upper limit of a potential difference between VCA and VHER.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Yasushi Sato, Kota Miyoshi, Kojiro Nakagawa, Yoshihiro Kobori
  • Publication number: 20150076082
    Abstract: Systems and methods are described that facilitate generating and storing a concentrated copper and silver ion solution for treating a remote water volume (e.g., a pool, fountain, hot tub, cooling tower, etc.), in accordance with various features described herein. Citric acid and a water-soluble binding polymer are added to a volume of water. The intermediate solution is circulated past an ion generator for a predetermined time period, and copper ions generated thereby are bound by the binding polymer and/or chelated by the citric acid. Once a desired concentration of copper ions has been achieved, the concentrated solution is stored in portable vessels for transport to the remote water volume. Concentrated solution is added to the remote water volume to achieve a concentration therein of approximately 0.2-0.3 ppm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: George Loucaides
  • Publication number: 20150068914
    Abstract: A method of measuring the level of chlorine in a salt water solution and the pH of that solution comprises measuring the UV absorption of a first sample of the first solution to generate a first absorption value, subjecting the solution to electrolysis to generate a catholyte, measuring the UV absorption of the catholyte to generate a second absorption value, and then determining the level of chlorine in the solution and the pH of the solution using the first and second absorption values.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Klaus Brondum
  • Publication number: 20150068913
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for economically, reliably and efficiently controlling electrolytic processes by measuring the conductivity of the product of the electrolysis, and having the process terminate when a specified conductivity value is reached, that value corresponding to a desired pH and/or ORP value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Skyler Guest
  • Patent number: 8940150
    Abstract: A reactor for production of a fluid reaction product includes a reaction chamber, a plurality of fluid connections to supply fluid reactants to the reaction chamber, a reception chamber located directly below the reaction chamber, a transfer device providing a fluid connection between the reaction chamber and the reception chamber so that the reception chamber receives a fluid reaction product produced in the reaction chamber, a control unit and a first device, arranged in the reaction chamber to be in direct contact with the supplied fluids to determine a filling level. The first device includes at least one switching point which is operatively coupled with the control unit such that the supply of the fluid reactants into the reaction chamber is controlled and carried out sequentially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Grundfos Water Treatment GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Gunzinam, Roland Strauch, Wolfgang Ress, Ulrich Stemick
  • Publication number: 20150024298
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a method for tuning the performance of at least one electrochemical cell of an electrochemical cell stack. The method includes supplying power to an electrochemical cell stack. The electrochemical cell stack includes a plurality of electrochemical cells. The method further includes monitoring a parameter of at least one electrochemical cell and determining if an electrochemical cell becomes impaired. The method also includes diverting a fraction of the current flow from the impaired electrochemical cell during operation of the electrochemical cell stack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: Nuvera Fuel Cells, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Blanchet, Wonseok Yoon, Pierre-Francois Quet
  • Patent number: 8936712
    Abstract: A water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen production unit for electrolyzing water to generate oxygen and high-pressure hydrogen (the pressure of the high-pressure hydrogen being higher than that of the oxygen), and a gas-liquid separation unit for removing water contained in the high-pressure hydrogen. The gas-liquid separation unit is placed on a hydrogen pipe for discharging the high-pressure hydrogen from the high-pressure hydrogen production unit. In addition, the water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe for transferring dewatered high-pressure hydrogen from the gas-liquid separation unit, a cooling unit, which is placed on the high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe and is capable of variably controlling the temperature of the high-pressure hydrogen to adjust the humidity of the high-pressure hydrogen, and a control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Daisuke Kurashina, Koji Nakazawa, Hisashi Nagaoka, Hiroyuki Ishikawa, Yuji Yamakawa, Jun Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8927125
    Abstract: A quencher for a flow cell battery is described. The quencher utilizes a quench solution formed from FeCl2 in a dilute HCl solution in order to quench chlorine emissions from the flow cell battery. A quench sensor is further described. The quench sensor monitors the concentration level of FeCl2 in the quench solution and may also monitor the level of the quench solution in the quencher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Imergy Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Majid Keshavarz, Saroj Kumar Sahu, Ge Zu
  • Publication number: 20140367269
    Abstract: A system for dissociating hydrogen from water is disclosed. The system comprises a container having an anode electrode and a cathode electrode disposed therein; a DC voltage source producing a DC voltage; a controller having an input coupled to the DC voltage source, and an output coupled across the anode and cathode electrodes; and an electron extraction circuit arranged to capture the free electrons released from the water molecules. The controller is configured to produce from the DC voltage a pulse voltage having a stepped up voltage and a pulse frequency. The amplitude and frequency of the pulse voltage are sufficient to dissociate hydrogen and oxygen from water molecules of the water in the container and produce free electrons, and the pulse frequency is configured to maximize a rate of hydrogen and oxygen dissociated from the water molecules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: Charles G. Inskeep
  • Publication number: 20140346052
    Abstract: Provided are a reaction vessel for Raman spectrophotometry and a Raman spectrophotometry method using the same, which are suitable for observing an electrochemical reaction at a solid surface in an electrolyte solution. The reaction vessel for Raman spectrophotometry includes: a housing portion including a transparent window portion, in which a hollow portion for storing an electrolyte solution is formed; and a working electrode portion configured from a conductive material that is electrochemically inactive in the electrolyte solution, the working electrode portion including one part arranged facing the window portion in the hollow portion to hold a sample, and another part extended to outside the housing portion to be connected to an external power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventors: Jun-ichi Ozaki, Naokatsu Kannari, Yuta Horikawa, Rieko Kobayashi, Naoto Saito
  • Publication number: 20140332399
    Abstract: A Low Capacity Sodium Hypochlorite Generation (LCHG) system uses batching rather than the conventional continuous flow method in the production of sodium hypochlorite. Batching eliminates the need for metering pumps for brine and dilution water, as well as their associated controls and maintenance/servicing demands. Batching also precisely controls the ratio of brine to dilution water in the electrolyzer to produce a consistent strength sodium hypochlorite solution. Consequently, the LCHG system has fewer components, greater reliability and simpler maintenance than the continuous-flow on-site electrolytic chlorination systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Mario D. Cabrera
  • Publication number: 20140141347
    Abstract: A device for producing and storing dioxygen and/or dihydrogen is provided. The device includes a source of dioxygen and dihydrogen, and a high pressure tank to store the dioxygen, respectively dihydrogen, at high pressure, in fluid communication with the source. The device further includes a bypass line connecting an outlet of dioxygen, respectively of dihydrogen, of the source with an outlet of dioxygen, respectively of dihydrogen, of the production and storage device, bypassing the high pressure tank, the bypass line being fed through a pressure regulator to reduce the pressure in the bypass line; and a device for measuring the concentration of dihydrogen, respectively of dioxygen, in the dioxygen respectively in the dihydrogen produced by the source, the measuring device being arranged on the bypass line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: AREVA Stockage d'Energie
    Inventor: Olivier Verdu
  • Publication number: 20140124377
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for electrolyzing a source liquid in an electrolytic device. The electrolytic device includes a first cathode in a cathode chamber; and an anode and a second, auxiliary cathode in an anode chamber. The anode chamber and cathode chamber are separated by a barrier, and the anode and the auxiliary cathode are separated by a gap that lacks a barrier. While electrolyzing the source liquid with the electrolytic device, a level of current applied to the auxiliary cathode is adjusted in response to pH of an anolyte liquid produced from the source liquid by the anode chamber to maintain the pH within a desired range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: TENNANT COMPANY
    Inventor: Daniel L. Joynt
  • Publication number: 20140106007
    Abstract: The methods, systems, and apparatus disclosed herein employ natural, common salts, that are electrochemically activated (ECA) in an aqueous solution to result in an ECA product solution that is safe and non-toxic. Various implementations include a portable table top design having a portable receptacle that includes electrodes. The receptacle fits on a base which provides power for the electrochemical activation. Continuous flow designs receive input water, mix the water with reactants then pass the solution between electrodes to electrochemically activate the solution. Using a metal halide salt, such as NaCl with citric acid may produce a sanitizer or disinfectant. Using a metal carbonate salt, such as K2CO3, as the reactant may result in a cleaning or degreasing solution. Another implementation is that of an immersion wand that can be placed in a reservoir to produce the ECA product solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: GenEon Technologies LLC
    Inventors: John P. SHANAHAN, Remigio Benavides Gonzalez
  • Publication number: 20140102911
    Abstract: A high pressure water electrolysis system includes a high pressure water electrolysis device, a hydrogen storage device, a high pressure hydrogen pipe, a branch pipe, a non-return valve, a pressure detector, and a controller. The controller includes a threshold storage device, a threshold determination device, and a solenoid valve opening/closing operation device. The threshold storage device is configured to store a first threshold of a pressure value detected by the pressure detector and a second threshold lower than the first threshold. The threshold determination device is configured to determine whether or not the pressure value detected by the pressure detector has reached the second threshold. The solenoid valve opening/closing operation device is configured to open and close a solenoid valve if it is determined that the pressure value detected by the pressure detector has reached the second threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Daisuke KURASHINA, Hisashi NAGAOKA, Jun TAKEUCHI
  • Patent number: 8647821
    Abstract: Described are devices and methods for detecting binding on an electrode surface. In addition, devices and methods for electrochemically synthesizing polymers and devices and methods for synthesizing and detecting binding to the polymer on a common integrated device surface are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Hernan A. Castro, Gordon D. Holt, Brandon C. Barnett, Handong Li, Narayanan Sundararajan, Wei Wang
  • Publication number: 20140001035
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell includes a positive electrode disposed in an electrolytic compartment, a negative electrode disposed in another electrolytic compartment, and a cell membrane positioned between the electrolytic compartment and the other electrolytic compartment. An electrolyte solution is disposed inside the electrolytic compartment and inside the other electrolytic compartment. The electrolyte solution is also in contact with the cell membrane. A transducer, which is directly attached to any of the negative electrode or the positive electrode, is capable of selectively transmitting vibrational energy to the negative electrode and/or the positive electrode. The vibrational energy selectively transmitted to the negative electrode and/or the positive electrode causes bubbles to form and to separate i) hydrogen gas bubbles from a surface of the negative electrode, ii) oxygen gas bubbles from a surface of the positive electrode, or iii) both i and ii.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Nelson A. Kelly, Andrew M. Mance
  • Patent number: 8614086
    Abstract: Described are quality control methods and devices for the reproducible manufacturing and integrity monitoring of polymers on electrochemical synthesis and detection chips. The devices and methods allow for simultaneous manufacturing and synthesis of polymers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Gordon Holt, Ghadeer Antanius, Brandon Barnett
  • Publication number: 20130319875
    Abstract: An electrolysis apparatus comprising: an electrolytic cell in which a sulfuric acid solution is fed and discharged; a conductive anode and cathode electrode of diamond composition; a feeding unit for feeding the sulfuric acid solution to the electrolytic cell; a power supply unit for applying a voltage between the anode and cathode electrodes; and a power control unit for controlling the power supply unit such that a forward voltage is applied between the anode and cathode during normal electrolysis with the polarity applied between the anode and cathode inverted under predetermined conditions during intervals between normal operation to dissolve precipitates of sulfur generated in the electrolytic cell for stabilizing the electrolysis operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: KURITA WATER INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventor: MINORU UCHIDA
  • Publication number: 20130319874
    Abstract: System, method and apparatus for measuring electrolysis cell operating conditions and communicating the same are disclosed. The system includes a selectively positionable member coupled to an analytical apparatus, wherein the selectively positionable is configured to move the analytical apparatus into and out of physical communication with a bath. The system may also include a crust breaker for breaking the surface of a bath and an electronic device for measuring bath level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Alcoa Inc.
    Inventors: Xiangwen Wang, Robert Hosler, Gary Tarcy
  • Publication number: 20130317959
    Abstract: An electrolyser operates within an energy system, for example to provide grid services, energy storage or fuel, or to produce hydrogen from electricity produced from renewable resources. The electrolyser may be configured to operate at frequently or quickly varying rates of electricity consumption or to operate at a specified power consumption. In one process of operating an electrolyser, a series of dispatches is received indicating a specified power consumption for a period of time. The dispatches may occur at least once every 30 minutes. The electrolyser is operated according to the dispatches. Hydrogen produced by the electrolyser is discharged to a natural gas system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventors: Nathaniel Ian JOOS, Joseph CARGNELLI
  • Patent number: 8551318
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for detecting current or potential generated in a liquid sample suitable for use in a chromatography or other liquid sample analytical system. One embodiment is an electrolytic ion transfer device with a signal detector in communication with the electrodes of the transfer device. Another is a combination ion transfer device/electrolyte generator. Another substitutes a detector for the ion transfer device in the combination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignees: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System, Dionex Corporation
    Inventors: Purnendu K. Dasgupta, Bingcheng Yang, Kannan Srinivasan
  • Publication number: 20130248375
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for adjusting the salinity and/or hardness of a process waste stream so that the stream may be electrolyzed to form an oxidant or disinfectant. Also an electrolytic cell having certain features such as widely spaced electrodes, flushing capabilities, and insulating dividers that can accommodate waste streams that have varying salinity, hardness, and dissolved solids content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Justin Sanchez, Craig Andrew Beckman, Thomas Edward Muilenberg
  • Patent number: 8541121
    Abstract: A quencher for a flow cell battery is described. The quencher utilizes a quench solution formed from FeCl2 in a dilute HCl solution in order to quench chlorine emissions from the flow cell battery. A quench sensor is further described. The quench sensor monitors the concentration level of FeCl2 in the quench solution and may also monitor the level of the quench solution in the quencher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Deeya Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Majid Keshavarz, Saroj Kumar Sahu, Ge Zu
  • Publication number: 20130213818
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting a liquid level in an electrolytic cell are disclosed herein, the apparatus comprising a level tube in fluid contact with the electrolytic cell; a proximity sensor positioned to detect the presence or absence of liquid at a predetermined level in the level tube; and a control system responsive to the proximity sensor, wherein the control system is in communication with the liquid level sensor via a communication system. The proximity sensor detects the presence or absence of fluid in the level tube and sends a signal to the control system via the communication system; and the control system provides an indication of liquid level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: SABIC INNOVATIVE PLASTICS IP B.V.
    Inventor: SABIC INNOVATIVE PLASTICS IP B.V.
  • Publication number: 20130186762
    Abstract: An in situ method for detecting alpha particles contained in a liquid medium, which uses a system which includes a counter-electrode and an alpha particle detector including a substrate made of an intrinsic semiconductor material sandwiched between two electrical contacts, wherein the contact intended to be in contact with the liquid medium is made of boron-doped diamond. By forming a particular electrolyte 8 and by causing a current to flow between counter-electrode and the boron-doped diamond contact in contact with the liquid medium, actinides or polonium present in the liquid medium may be concentrated on the boron-doped diamond contact, and by this means the detection limit of the alpha emitters may be lowered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: Commissariat A L'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives
    Inventors: Jacques De Sanoit, Christine Mer-Calfati, Michal Pomorski
  • Publication number: 20130186862
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell and a method of electrochemical oxidation of manganese(II) ions to manganese(III) ions in the electrolytic cell are described. The electrolytic cell comprises (1) an electrolyte solution of manganese(II) ions in a solution of at least one acid; (2) a cathode immersed in the electrolyte solution; and (3) an anode immersed in the electrolyte solution and spaced apart from the cathode. Various anode materials are described including vitreous carbon, reticulated vitreous carbon, woven carbon fibers, lead and lead alloy. Once the electrolyte is oxidized to form a metastable complex of manganese(III) ions, a platable plastic may be contacted with the metastable complex to etch the platable plastic. In addition, a pretreatment step may also be performed on the platable plastic prior to contacting the platable plastic with the metastable complex to condition the plastic surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: MACDERMID ACUMEN, INC.
    Inventor: MACDERMID ACUMEN, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130168260
    Abstract: An electrolytic device for the generation of hypohalous acid in aqueous solutions includes at least a single liquid chamber for receiving an aqueous solution containing halide ions therein, the single liquid chamber having an exterior wall and a solid anode contained within to provide for the oxidation of the halide ions, which, in turn, provides for the formation of hypohalous acid in aqueous solution, and a gas permeable cathode forming a portion of the exterior wall of the single liquid chamber, the cathode providing for the reduction of oxygen to provide hydroxyl ions in solution within the single liquid chamber to mix with the products generated at the anode. An embodiment of the electrolytic device including an anolyte chamber and a catholyte chamber separated by an ionomeric membrane is also described, whereby the anolyte chamber further includes an outlet including a pH control for determining and regulating the pH of the exiting anolyte effluent to between about 4 and 9.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: GOJO INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel A. Scherson, Jackson W. Weglin, Wilfred J. Hemker
  • Publication number: 20130068627
    Abstract: A control device receives an output signal from a liquid level sensor disposed in an anode chamber. This output signal indicates whether the liquid level of the electrolytic bath in the anode chamber is higher than a reference level. When the liquid level of the electrolytic bath in the anode chamber is higher than the reference level, the control device increases, by a prescribe value, the frequency of a compressor driving voltage that is generated in an inverter circuit. This increases the rotational speed of a motor in the compressor, increases the discharge pressure of hydrogen gas being discharged from the compressor, and decreases the pressure inside the cathode chamber. As a result, the liquid level of the electrolytic bath in the cathode chamber rises, and the liquid level of the electrolytic bath in the anode chamber falls below the reference level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: TOYO TANSO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshio Shodai, Osamu Yoshimoto, Noriyuki Tanaka, Yasuhiro Yano
  • Publication number: 20130062215
    Abstract: In a method of stopping an operation of a water electrolysis system, an on-off valve disposed in a pressure release line communicating with a cathode side of an electrolytic membrane is opened while an electrolytic current is applied between power feeders to electrolyze water for generating oxygen on an anode side of the electrolytic membrane and high pressure hydrogen having a higher pressure than a pressure of the oxygen on the cathode side. A value of the electrolytic current is reduced in a predetermined cycle or continuously. One of a specific resistance and conductivity of water to be supplied to the high pressure hydrogen producing apparatus is detected. The value of the electrolytic current is increased if the specific resistance is equal to or lower than a first predetermined value, or if the conductivity is equal to or higher than a second predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Daisuke KURASHINA, Nobuyuki KAWASAKI, Hiroyuki ISHIKAWA
  • Publication number: 20130048507
    Abstract: A water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen production unit for electrolyzing water to generate oxygen and high-pressure hydrogen (the pressure of the high-pressure hydrogen being higher than that of the oxygen), and a gas-liquid separation unit for removing water contained in the high-pressure hydrogen. The gas-liquid separation unit is placed on a hydrogen pipe for discharging the high-pressure hydrogen from the high-pressure hydrogen production unit. In addition, the water electrolysis system includes a high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe for transferring dewatered high-pressure hydrogen from the gas-liquid separation unit, a cooling unit, which is placed on the high-pressure hydrogen supply pipe and is capable of variably controlling the temperature of the high-pressure hydrogen to adjust the humidity of the high-pressure hydrogen, and a control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Daisuke KURASHINA, Koji NAKAZAWA, Hisashi NAGAOKA, Hiroyuki ISHIKAWA, Yuji YAMAKAWA, Jun TAKEUCHI
  • Patent number: 8323462
    Abstract: A device for adjustment of the pH of a target liquid includes a working electrode (10), an electrolyte chamber (16) which holds an electrolyte (14), a counter electrode (12) in electrical contact with the electrolyte, a junction (18) which spaces the electrolyte from a target liquid (20) when the working electrode is in contact therewith, and a source of current (22), for supplying current to the working electrode for electrolysis of water at the working electrode, whereby the pH of the target solution is adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Case Western Reserve University
    Inventors: Miklos Gratzl, Gautam Nithyanand Shetty
  • Publication number: 20120298520
    Abstract: A water electrolysis system includes a water electrolysis device, a gas-liquid separator, a water-amount detector, a hydrogen storage device, a hydrogen storage device, a decompressing device, and a control device. The control device includes a residual capacity calculator, a hydrogen production amount calculator, and an electrolysis termination determiner. The residual capacity calculator is configured to calculate a residual capacity of the hydrogen storage device. The hydrogen production amount calculator is configured to calculate an amount of hydrogen produced by the water electrolysis device in a drainage period in which the amount of water in the gas-liquid separator increases to an upper limit from a lower limit. The electrolysis termination determiner is configured to terminate the water electrolysis process when the amount of hydrogen calculated by the hydrogen production amount calculator is greater than the residual capacity calculated by the residual capacity calculator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jun TAKEUCHI
  • Publication number: 20120181182
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell and system used for making nitrogen trifluoride consisting of a computer and an electrolytic cell having a body, an electrolyte, at least one anode chamber that produces an anode product gas, at least one cathode chamber, and one or more fluorine adjustment means to maintain fluorine or hydrogen in the anode product gas within a target amount by adjusting the concentration of fluorine in said anode product gas, and the process that controls the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: James Joseph Hart, Reinaldo Mario Machado, Howard Paul Withers, JR., Sai-Hong A. Lo, Edward Jay Cialkowski, Krishnakumar Jambunathan