Treating Electrode, Diaphram, Or Membrane During Synthesis (e.g., Corrosion Prevention, Etc.) Patents (Class 205/350)
  • Patent number: 11028495
    Abstract: Provided is a method for producing a porous copper foil. The method includes forming a release layer on a metal carrier, growing copper islands on the metal carrier formed with the release layer by electroless copper plating, forming a porous copper thin layer by copper electroplating, and peeling off the porous copper thin layer from the release layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: YMT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sung Wook Chun, Ik Beom Kim, Seon Gi Jeon, Dae Hoon Lee, Youn Bong Kang, Jun Mo Hong, Hyeong Gyu Park
  • Patent number: 10975479
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell includes: a cartridge assembly including: a plurality of bipolar electrode plates spaced apart and guide members formed on both sides of the plurality of bipolar electrode plates; a cell body having: a first side; a second side opposite the first side; an opening that extends through the first and second sides to form a housing that receives the cartridge assembly; a first end having an inlet that allows liquid to enter the housing of the cell body and a second end having an outlet that allows liquid to exit the housing of the cell body; a first terminal cap that connects to the first side of the cell body and which has a cathode plate; and a second terminal cap that connects to the second side of the cell body and which has an anode plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: UGSI Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Billie Fritz, Gary Turner, Mark Kushman, Chris Levash
  • Patent number: 10622637
    Abstract: Electrodeposited copper foils having properties suitable for use as current collectors in lithium-ion secondary batteries are disclosed. The electrodeposited copper foils include a drum side and a deposited side. At least one of the deposited side or the drum side exhibits a void volume (Vv) value in the range of 0.17 to 1.17 ?m3/?m2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: CHANG CHUN PETROCHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Huei-Fang Huang, Yao-Sheng Lai, Jui-Chang Chou
  • Patent number: 9546427
    Abstract: A system (10) for generating a chlorine-containing compound includes an anodic chamber (12), a cathodic chamber (20), and a brine chamber (30). The anodic chamber (12) includes an anodic electrode (14) and the cathodic chamber (20) includes a cathodic electrode (22). A membrane (28) separates the anodic and cathodic chambers (12), (20). The brine chamber (30) includes an anodic electrode (32) and a cathodic electrode (34). Concentration and type of the chlorine-containing compound can be selectively and consistently controlled by the system (10) in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Lumetta
  • Patent number: 9163320
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell is provided. The cell includes a housing having a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet outlet, an anode and a cathode positioned within the housing and defining a reaction chamber therebetween, and a liquid flow path, from the liquid inlet to the liquid outlet, which passes through the reaction chamber. A transition duct is positioned at the liquid outlet and has a duct inlet, a duct outlet and a transition section along which internal side walls of the transition section converge along the liquid flow path to define a smooth transition from a first cross-sectional area to a second cross-sectional area of the transition duct. The first cross-sectional area is at least two times greater than the second cross sectional area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: TENNANT COMPANY
    Inventors: Bruce F. Field, Charles W. O'Neil
  • Publication number: 20150008137
    Abstract: In this proposal, we provide a highly original solution to resolve/decompose carbon dioxide into useful by-products which provide industrial values to businesses around the world and meanwhile carbon emission control is the most importance. By taking high energy of light particles from Ultraviolet light, our innovational equation, (uv)+CO2+(AgM)+2H2?2H2O+(4e??)+C4+(AgM)+[4e??]?C+(AgM), is designed to break the quantum effect of electron bond between carbon and oxygen, hence to restore carbon and release oxygen to achieve reduction of green house gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Shu-Chin CHEN, Wei FANG, Yen-Wen LU, Hsun-Yi CHEN
  • Patent number: 8784620
    Abstract: Described is a method for improving the operation of an electrolytic cell having an anolyte compartment, a catholyte compartment and a synthetic diaphragm separating the compartments, wherein liquid anolyte is introduced into the anolyte compartment and flows through the diaphragm into the catholyte compartment, which method involves introducing particulate material comprising halocarbon polymer short fiber, e.g., fluorocarbon polymer short fiber, into the anolyte compartment in amounts sufficient to lower the flow of liquid anolyte through the diaphragm into the catholyte compartment. In the case of an electrolytic cell wherein aqueous alkali metal chloride, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Axiall Ohio, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry W. Schussler, David R. Bush, Craig R. Long
  • Publication number: 20140124380
    Abstract: A method for producing organic liquid fuels and other valuable products in which an organic compound is provided to an anode electrode having a metal oxide catalyst disposed on an anode side of an electrolyte membrane, thereby producing an organic liquid fuel and/or other valuable organic product and electrons on the anode side. The electrons are conducted to a cathode electrode disposed on a cathode side of the electrolyte membrane, thereby transforming water provided to the cathode side to H2 gas and hydroxide ions. The method is carried out at a temperature less than or equal to about 160° C., preferably at room temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: Qinbai Fan
  • Publication number: 20140069819
    Abstract: A method for preparing leaf like ZnO nanoflakes by anodization of zinc foil in a mixture of ammonium sulfate and sodium hydroxide electrolytes is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventors: Muhammad Akhyar Farrukh, Rohana Adnan
  • Publication number: 20130341202
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrode for electrolytic synthesis of a fluorine compound, including: an electrode substrate having at least a surface thereof formed of a conductive carbon material; a conducting diamond layer formed on a part of the surface of the electrode substrate; and a metal fluoride-containing coating layer formed on an exposed part of the electrode substrate that is uncovered by the conducting diamond layer. It is possible for the electrolytic synthesis electrode to limit the growth of a graphite fluoride layer on the electrode surface, prevent decrease in effective electrolysis area and allow stable electrolysis in an electrolytic bath of a hydrogen fluoride-containing molten salt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: Central Glass Company, Limited
    Inventors: Isamu Mori, Akifumi Yao, Akiou Kikuchi, Masaaki Yonekura, Hiroshi Horiuchi
  • Patent number: 8608935
    Abstract: One embodiment of the invention includes an electrochemical cell and an externally applied electrical potential used to drive a direct synthesis reaction to produce alane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: John J. Vajo, Ping Liu
  • Publication number: 20130313126
    Abstract: An electrolysis method for electrolytic cells having an electrode-membrane-electrode assembly includes two porous electrode having a porous membrane located therebetween and filled with electrolyte or having an ion exchange membrane located therebetween, one or more liquids being led directly into the membrane of the electrode-membrane-electrode assembly. The one or more liquids are guided in a channel structure arranged in the membrane. An electrolytic cell includes porous electrode, between which a porous membrane is arranged. A liquid electrolyte is fixed in the pore of electrodes and membrane, a product gas chamber adjoining the cathode, a further product gas chamber adjoining the anode, and an arrangement for feeding a liquid to the electrode. A channel structure, in which distribution of the liquid is provided, is arranged in the membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: ASTRIUM GMBH
    Inventors: Willigert Raatschen, Joachim Lucas, Walter Jehle, Helmut Funke
  • Publication number: 20130280609
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed at an electrode for a battery wherein the electrode comprises clathrate alloys of silicon, germanium or tin. In method form, the present disclosure is directed at methods of forming clathrate alloys of silicon, germanium or tin which methods lead to the formation of empty cage structures suitable for use as electrodes in rechargeable type batteries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: SOUTHWEST RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Candace K. CHAN, Michael A. MILLER, Kwai S. CHAN
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20120325674
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for improving the performance of nickel electrodes in alkali chloride electrolysis by adding water-soluble platinum compounds to the catolyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Bayer Material Science AG
    Inventors: Andreas Bulan, Rainer Weber, Richard Malchow, Rolf Spatz, Hermann-Jens Womelsdorf
  • Patent number: 8206571
    Abstract: The present invention claims a method for forming [18F] fluoride complexes suitable for performing radio-labelling reactions to generate [18F] fluorinated species. The present invention also provides for an apparatus for forming [18F] fluoride complexes suitable for performing radio-labelling reactions to generate [18F] fluorinated species. Kit claims for formation of [18F] fluoride complexes suitable for performing radio-labelling reactions to generate [18F] fluorinated species are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: GE Healthcare Limited
    Inventor: Alan Peter Clarke
  • Publication number: 20120111733
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a porous copper foil. The method of the present invention includes the steps of forming an oxide film by providing a chromium-containing compound to a metal surface of a cathode; forming a copper foil on the oxide film by performing electrolysis of copper; and removing the copper foil from the metal surface of the cathode. The method of the present invention is simple and time-saving, and the porous copper foil of the present invention has reduced roughness difference between both sides of the porous copper foil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: CHANG CHUN PETROCHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chen-Ping Tsai, Jui-Chang Chou, Kuei-Sen Cheng
  • Publication number: 20120097549
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrochemical cell and a method for separating carrier-free radionuclides from a solution on an electrode. 18F? is precipitated in an electrochemical cell from an aqueous solution on an anode, which is diamond-coated. Subsequently, the electrochemical cell is dried and supplied with a liquid containing a transfer catalyst, the anode is preferably switched to serve as the cathode, and 18F? is transferred to the liquid phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: Forschungszentrum Juelich GmbH
    Inventor: Kurt Hamacher
  • Publication number: 20120061252
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for production of alkali metal chlorate, and to a method of activating a cathode comprising electrolyzing an electrolyte comprising alkali metal chloride in an electrolytic cell in which at least one anode and at least one cathode are arranged wherein a) said electrolyte comprises chromium in any form in an amount ranging from about 0.01-10?6 to about 500-10?6 mol/dm3 b) said electrolyte comprises molybdenum, tungsten, vanadium, manganese and/or mixtures thereof in any form in a total amount ranging from about 0.1-10?6 mol/dm3 to about 0.5-10?3 mol/dm3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: AKZO NOBEL CHEMICALS INTERNATIONAL B.V.
    Inventors: Magnus Rosvall, Kristoffer Hedenstedt, Annicka Sellin, Johan Gustavsson, Ann Cornell
  • Patent number: 8088262
    Abstract: Provided are a low impedance gold electrode, which has increased surface area, and can improve a bonding force with other materials, an apparatus for and a method of fabricating the low impedance gold electrode, and an electrolyte solution for use in the fabrication of the low impedance gold electrode. The gold electrode has a surface roughness that is increased through electrolysis using an acid electrolyte solution, has an impedance that is less than 1/10 of an impedance before the electrolysis and is higher than 0? when the low impedance gold electrode is disposed in the acid electrolyte solution or another electrolyte solution, and has a single-layered structure whose thickness is less than that before the electrolysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Marveldex, Inc.
    Inventors: Seh Jin Choi, Myung Ki Choi
  • Patent number: 8038865
    Abstract: Describes a diaphragm for an electrolytic diaphragm cell, e.g., a chlor-alkali cell, in which the diaphragm comprises fibrous material substantially resistant to the environment within the electrolytic cell and spheroidal ceramic microspheres at least partially resistant to the environment within the electrolytic cell associated with said diaphragm. Also describes a diaphragm for an electrolytic cell in which the diaphragm comprises a base mat of fibrous material chosen from asbestos fibers, resin-modified asbestos fibers, synthetic fibers, or mixtures of such fibers on which base mat is applied a coating comprising spheroidal ceramic microspheres. Further describes a synthetic diaphragm for an electrolytic cell, e.g., a chlor-alkali cell, on which is applied a coating comprising substantially water-insoluble inorganic particulate material, e.g., clay material, and spheroidal ceramic microspheres.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Ohio Inc.
    Inventor: Henry W. Schussler
  • Publication number: 20110168567
    Abstract: A threshold agent composition and methods of using the same to produce hypochlorite and other effluent streams from an electrochemical cell without the detrimental effects of hard water scaling are disclosed. The invention further discloses use of chemistries to prevent hard water scale formation in various electrochemical cells to enhance cell longevity without decreasing chlorine, hypochlorite or other effluent production.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Kim R. Smith, Jenna M. Johnson, Erik C. Olson, Patrick H. Kilawee
  • Patent number: 7951281
    Abstract: Described herein are methods for diminishing or preventing in electrochemical operating systems the deposition of a metal oxide on an electrode surface. The metal oxide is formed by electrochemically assisted reduction of volatile metal oxides formed from a metallic component exposed to oxidative environments. In one example, described herein are methods for diminishing or preventing poisoning of a cathode by applying a negative protection potential to the metallic component. In another example, described herein are methods for diminishing or preventing the deposition of a metal oxide on a cathode surface by removing oxygen from the metallic component itself and thereby decreasing the amount of released volatile oxide from the metallic component by use of an auxiliary oxygen pump cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventor: Monika Backhaus-Ricoult
  • Publication number: 20110108433
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for activating a diamond-based electrode, which includes a step consisting in subjecting, in the presence of an aqueous solution containing an ionic electrolyte, said electrode to an alternately cathodic and anodic polarization potential, of increasing amplitude so as to obtain an anodic and cathodic current density of between 10 ?A/cm2 and 1 mA/cm2. The present invention also relates to a diamond-based electrode activated by said process and to the uses thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventors: Jacques De Sanoit, Emilie Vanhove
  • Publication number: 20110094892
    Abstract: An electrolyser comprising a stack of electrolysis plates, the plates being maintained in substantial alignment to comprise an electrolysis cell, and a press for applying a compressive force to opposed ends of the cell whereby the press maintains the electrolysis plates in substantial alignment when the electrolyser is in operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Zdenek Cerny, Francis Michael Burke
  • Publication number: 20110024303
    Abstract: An electrolyser comprising a stack of electrolysis plates, the plates being maintained in substantial alignment to comprise an electrolysis cell, and a press for applying a compressive force to opposed ends of the cell whereby the press maintains the electrolysis plates in substantial alignment when the electrolyser is in operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Zdenek Cerny, Francis Michael Burke
  • Publication number: 20110015449
    Abstract: A dialkyl or diaryl ether is produced by reacting carbon dioxide with a metal alcoholate having the formula, M(RO)x, where “M” is a Group 1, Group 2, or Group 3 metal; “x” is the valence of the metal M; “R” is a C1 to C6 lower alkyl or aryl, wherein the reaction produces a dialkyl or diaryl ether having a formula, R—O—R, and a metal carbonate having a formula M2CO3 where M is a Group 1 metal, MCO3 where M is a Group 2 metal, and M2(CO3)3 where M is a Group 3 metal. The metal carbonate may be removed by conventional means, such as filtration. The dialkyl or diaryl ether may be recovered and used as a fuel, fuel additive, propellant, or building block for other fuels or petrochemicals. In some cases the metal alcoholate is in an alcohol solution and the alcohol and metal carbonate are recycled to regenerate the metal alcoholate. A specific example of dimethyl ether production is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Justin Pendleton, Sai Bhavaraju
  • Patent number: 7837852
    Abstract: The reaction of halo-boron compounds (B—X compounds, compounds having one or more boron-halogen bonds) with silanes provides boranes (B—H compounds, compounds having one or more B—H bonds) and halosilanes. Inorganic hydrides, such as surface-bound silane hydrides (Si—H) react with B—X compounds to form B—H compounds and surface-bound halosilanes. The surface bound halosilanes are converted back to surface-bound silanes electrochemically. Halo-boron compounds react with stannanes (tin compounds having a Sn—H bond) to form boranes and halostannanes (tin compounds having a Sn—X bond). The halostannanes are converted back to stannanes electrochemically or by the thermolysis of Sn-formate compounds. When the halo-boron compound is BCl3, the B—H compound is B2H6, and where the reducing potential is provided electrochemically or by the thermolysis of formate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Los Alamos National Security, LLC
    Inventors: David L. Thorn, William Tumas, Daniel E. Schwarz, Anthony K. Burrell
  • Publication number: 20100276297
    Abstract: Electrowinning methods and apparatus are suitable for producing elemental deposits of high quality, purity, and volume. Respective cathodes are used during electrowinning for bearing the elemental product, segregating impurities, dissolving morphologically undesirable material, and augmenting productivity. Silicon suitable for use in photovoltaic devices may be electrodeposited in solid form from silicon dioxide dissolved in a molten salt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicant: METAL OXYGEN SEPARATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Adam C. Powell, IV, Steve J. Derezinski, III
  • Publication number: 20100196767
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for optimising the conductivity provided by the displacement of H+ protons and/or OH? ions in a conductive membrane made of a material permitting the insertion of steam into said membrane, wherein said method comprises the step of inserting under pressure gaseous flow containing the steam into said membrane in order to force said steam into said membrane under a certain partial pressure so as to obtained the desired conductivity at a given temperature, said partial pressure being higher than or equal to 1 bar, a drop in the operational temperature being compensated by an increase in said partial pressure in order to obtain the same desired conductivity. The invention can be used in particularly interesting applications in the fields of high-temperature water electrolysis for producing hydrogen, of the manufacture of fuel cells using hydrogen fuel, and of hydrogen separation and purification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: Béatrice Sala, Olivier Lacroix, Stéphanie Willemin, Kamal Rahmouni, Hisasi Takenouti, Arie Van Der Lee, Philippe Colomban, Patrice Goeuriot, Baroudi Benjeriou-Sedjerari
  • Patent number: 7618527
    Abstract: Describes a method for lowering the flow of liquid anolyte through perforations in the diaphragm of a diaphragm electrolytic cell, e.g., a chlor-alkali diaphragm electrolytic cell, comprising introducing ceramic fiber into the anolyte compartment of the electrolytic cell, e.g., during cell operation. The benefits described for lowering the flow of anolyte liquor through the diaphragm of a chlor-alkali diaphragm electrolytic cell are increasing the concentration of alkali metal hydroxide, e.g., sodium hydroxide, and decreasing the concentration of hypochlorite ion, e.g., sodium hypochlorite, in the catholyte liquor. Also describes introducing dopant material and/or fibers comprising halogen-containing polymer, e.g., fluorocarbon polymer fibers, into the anolyte compartment of the electrolytic cell in conjunction with the addition of ceramic fiber into the anolyte compartment, e.g., during cell operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry W. Schussler, Joseph R. Cimini, Robert A. Fast, Berry G. Garrard, Steven T. Richardson
  • Publication number: 20090277799
    Abstract: Liquid phase processes for producing fuel in a reactor comprising the step of combining at least one oxidizable reactant with liquid water and at least one electrolyte to form a mixture and conducting a fuel-producing reaction in the presence of an electron transfer material, wherein the mixture permits the movement or transport of ions and electrons to facilitate the efficient production of the fuel. An alternative embodiment produces fuel in an electrochemical cell, the reaction characterized by an overall thermodynamic energy balance according to the half-cell reactions occurring at the anode and cathode. Energy generated and/or required by the system components is directed according to the thermodynamic requirements of the half-cell reactions, thereby realizing improved fuel production efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: GRDC, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick G. Grimes, Maureen A. Grimes
  • Publication number: 20090242422
    Abstract: In an electrolyzer comprising an anode compartment provided with porous anodes, a cathode compartment, and a membrane providing a partition between the anode compartment and the cathode compartment, wherein a solution containing sulfide ions is introduced into the anode compartment, and an aqueous solution containing caustic soda is introduced into the cathode compartment, thereby producing a polysulfide containing polysulfide sulfur through electrolytic oxidation, wherein the anode compartment of the electrolyzer is cleaned with the use, of an aqueous solution containing at least either one of an inorganic acid, a chelating agent, and a scale-cleaning agent, thereby recovering performance of the electrolyzer. Further, when the contents of the anode compartment are replaced with an alkaline aqueous solution containing not more than 0.1 mass % of sulfide ions and not more than 0.1 mass % of carbonate ions upon stopping the electrolytic oxidation, thereby maintaining the performance of the electrolyzer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Kurosu, Keigo Watanabe, Junji Tanaka
  • Publication number: 20090242421
    Abstract: The present invention claims a method for forming [18F] fluoride complexes suitable for performing radio-labelling reactions to generate [18F] fluorinated species. The present invention also provides for an apparatus for forming [18F] fluoride complexes suitable for performing radio-labelling reactions to generate [18F] fluorinated species. Kit claims for formation of [18F] fluoride complexes suitable for performing radio-labelling reactions to generate [18F] fluorinated species are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Alan Peter Clarke
  • Publication number: 20090183995
    Abstract: A ceramic material (20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20C?, 20D, 20E, 20E1, 20E2, 20E3, 20E4, 20F) comprises a structural mass made of at least one refractory compound selected from refractory borides, aluminides and oxycompounds, and combinations thereof. This structural mass has an open microporosity that is impregnated with colloidal and/or polymeric particles of iron oxide and/or a precursor of iron oxide. These particles promote wetting of the structural mass by molten aluminum and/or form upon heat treatment a sintered barrier against oxygen diffusion through the structural mass. The ceramic material can be used on cathodes (15), carbon or metal-based anodes (5,5,?), sidewalls (16) and other parts (26) of aluminum electrowinning cells, on electrodes (15A) of arc furnaces, and on stirrers (10) or vessels (45) of aluminum purification apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Thinh T. Nguyen, Vittorio De Nora
  • Patent number: 7557069
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods for synthesizing arrays of polymers. A barrier to a reaction is applied to select features of the array thereby limiting the reaction to the remaining features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Paul Strathmann
  • Publication number: 20080283412
    Abstract: A PEM based water electrolysis stack consists of a number of cells connected in series by using interconnects. Water and electrical power (power supply) are the external inputs to the stack. Water supplied to the oxygen electrodes through flow fields in interconnects is dissociated into oxygen and protons. The protons are transported through the polymer membrane to the hydrogen electrodes, where they combine with electrons to form hydrogen gas. If the electrolysis stack is required to be used exclusively as an oxygen generator, the hydrogen gas generated would have to be disposed off safely. The disposal of hydrogen would lead to a number of system and safety related issues, resulting in the limited application of the device as an oxygen generator. Hydrogen can be combusted to produce heat or better disposed off in a separate fuel cell unit which will supply electricity generated, to the electrolysis stack to reduce power input requirements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
    Inventors: Sarbjit Singh Giddey, Fabio T. Ciacchi, Sukhvinder P.S. Badwal
  • Publication number: 20080257749
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for improving the performance of nickel electrodes in alkali chloride electrolysis by adding water-soluble platinum compounds to the catolyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: Bayer Material Science AG
    Inventors: Andreas Bulan, Rainer Weber, Richard Malchow, Rolf Spatz, Hermann-Jens Womelsdorf
  • Publication number: 20080251392
    Abstract: The purpose of the invention is a process for changing an anode of a cell for the production of aluminium by fused bath electrolysis (2) on which at least one anode handling tool (13) is used, comprising a positioning device (13b) and a gripping device (13a), and characterised in that during replacement operations of a determined spent anode (20?) by a replacement anode (20?), the position of the replacement anode (20?) is determined from a determined set of measurements of a fixed point position Po located on at least one anode handling tool (13) with respect to a determined set of reference points P located on determined objects separate from the anode handling tool. Another purpose of the invention is a pot tending machine used to implement the process. The invention significantly limits the handling operations required to determine the position of the replacement anode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2005
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: E.C.L.
    Inventor: Alain Van Acker
  • Patent number: 7329332
    Abstract: Describes a cathode assembly for electrolytic cells, e.g., chlor-alkali electrolytic cells, comprising a foraminous cathode substrate, a deposited erodible mat comprising synthetic (man-made) fibers, e.g., polyamide (nylon) fibers, on the foraminous surface of said cathode substrate, and a synthetic diaphragm on said erodible mat. Also described is a method for preparing the cathode assembly that comprises depositing a mat of erodible synthetic fibers on the active surface of the foraminous cathode, e.g., by drawing an aqueous slurry of the erodible synthetic fibers through the foraminous cathode, and subsequently forming, e.g., by vacuum deposition, a synthetic diaphragm on the erodible mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry W. Schussler
  • Patent number: 7285194
    Abstract: A conductive diamond electrode including a conductive substrate comprising a carbonaceous material, a conductive diamond catalyst layer formed on a surface of the conductive substrate, and a carbon fluoride formed on an exposed portion present on the surface of the conductive substrate. The formed carbon fluoride prevents the conductive substrate from contacting with an electrolytic solution, thereby suppressing corrosion of the substrate. A long life of the electrode can be attained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignees: Permelec Electrode Ltd., Toyo Tanso Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaharu Uno, Yoshinori Nishiki, Tsuneto Furuta, Miho Ohashi, Tetsuro Tojo, Hitoshi Takebayashi, Tateki Kurosu
  • Patent number: 7135396
    Abstract: Methods of making a semiconductor structure are disclosed. A refractory metal layer containing W, TiW, Ta, or TaN and semiconductor layer are formed on a substrate that contains copper in, for example, a via therein. A portion of the refractory metal layer and semiconductor layer is removed by etching using a fluorine-containing compound. By using W, TiW, Ta, or TaN as the refractory metal layer material and employing fluorine-based etching, the copper portion in the substrate is not substantially etched, thus preventing corrosion of the copper portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignees: Spansion LLC, Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Calvin T. Gabriel, Jeffrey Shields
  • Patent number: 7118665
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a surface treatment process for enhancing both the release rate of metal ions from a sacrificial electrode, and the working life of the electrode. A high density of micro pores are formed on the surface of the sacrificial electrode. Chlorine ions are then implanted into the pores. The chlorine ions prevent a passive film from forming on the sacrificial electrode during use, in which an electric current flows through the sacrificial electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Kon-Tsu Kin, Hong-Shiang Tang, Shu-Fei Chan, Wen-Tsang Chen
  • Patent number: 6939611
    Abstract: A titanium dioxide film (2) having at least photocatalytic activity, whose light linear transmittance corresponding to light having a wavelength of 550 nm is not less than 50% and whose thickness is 0.1 to 5 ?m or so, is formed on a transparent substrate (1) constituted by a glass plate or the like. Preferably, a precoat film (3), which has optical transmissivity and is constituted by a SiO2 film having a thickness of 0.02 to 0.2 ?m or so, is provided between the transparent substrate (1) and the titanium dioxide film (2). Thereby, excellent photocatalytic action and optical transmissivity can be obtained. Moreover, members composing various structures such as a glass window, which are especially required to have optical transparency, can be further provided with photocatalytic activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignees: Kanagawa Academy of Science and Technology, Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Fujishima, Kazuhito Hashimoto, Tomokazu Iyoda, Shigemichi Fukayama, Tetsuo Yoshimoto, Tokuyoshi Saitoh
  • Patent number: 6846392
    Abstract: A plating tool cell anode for venting unwanted gases from a fluid plating solution. In a first embodiment, the solution is introduced into a chamber, defined by the plating tool cell (10), by fluid inlet (12) and contacts the anode (50). The fluid encounters a hydrophobic membrane (14) and a hydrophilic membrane (15) spaced from the hydrophobic membrane. A driving force, such as a vacuum, is applied to the gap (16) between the membranes to remove unwanted gases therein. In a second embodiment, a single membrane is used that is both hydrophobic and hydrophilic. Preferably, the hydrophobic portion of the membrane is located at or near the perimeter of the chamber and gas to be vented is directed toward the hydrophobic portion(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Mykrolis Corporation
    Inventor: David W. Stockbower
  • Patent number: 6503385
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell (10) comprises a plurality of cathodes (12) interspersed among a plurality of anodes (16). The plurality of cathodes and plurality of anodes form a plurality of electrodes spaced and suspended in parallel fashion in an electrolyte solution (35). The electrolytic cell further comprises a plurality of scrapers (14). Each scraper of the plurality of scrapers is placed between each of the plurality of electrodes in parallel fashion and the scraper moves a minimal distance relative to the plurality of electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Metals Investment Trust Limited
    Inventor: Robert Chorzempa
  • Patent number: 6245209
    Abstract: An electro-refining system in which the deposited metal is harvested without the need to remove the cathode from the slurry bath. The cathode has a hollow cavity permitting steam or hot water to be introduced to heat the cathode. During the deposition process, the heating of the cathode encourages the deposition process. When the deposited material is to be harvested, the cathode is heated to “melt” the bonds between the cathode and the deposited metal. Using a bracket which was installed before the deposition process and into which the deposited metal has been formed, the now-released sheet of deposited metal is easily removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Jacobs Bill
  • Patent number: 5919348
    Abstract: The flow resistance of a diaphragm based on a fiber material is modified by treating the diaphragm during or after preparation thereof with a dispersion comprising a fluorine-containing component and optionally with a solution comprising a precursor of ZrO.sub.2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Holger Friedrich, Klaus-Dieter Hoppe, Bernd Leutner, Dieter Schlafer, Kurt Hecky
  • Patent number: 5630930
    Abstract: Describes adding an anolyte soluble amphoteric material, e.g., an aluminum compound, to the anolyte of a chlor-alkali diaphragm cell having a synthetic diaphragm during the start-up period of the cell to reduce the permeability of the diaphragm. Complementary inorganic porosity modifying materials, e.g., magnesium materials such as magnesium chloride, and clays are also added to the anolyte during the start-up period of the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard A. Maloney
  • Patent number: 5567298
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved method of making chlorine and alkali metal hydroxide, e.g., sodium hydroxide, in an electrolytic cell of the type wherein a liquid permeable diaphragm separates the anolyte from the catholyte, said method comprising adding to the anolyte, while the cell is operating, a hydrated aluminum silicate containing clay mineral, followed by lowering the pH of the anolyte by the addition of an inorganic acid and maintaining the anolyte at said lowered pH for a time sufficient to restore the cell to a predetermined current efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald W. DuBois, Bernard A. Maloney, Stanley R. Pickens