Hydrogen Produced Patents (Class 205/637)
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Patent number: 11926233Abstract: A vehicle control device configured to control supply of electric power generated by a solar panel mounted on a vehicle includes a supply destination setting unit configured to set, based on a condition of the vehicle, a target device that is a destination for the supply of the electric power generated by the solar panel, a target setting unit configured to set, depending on the target device set by the supply destination setting unit, target output electric power to be output from the solar panel to the target device, and a power controller configured to control the electric power to be supplied from the solar panel to the target device based on the target output electric power set by the target setting unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2021Date of Patent: March 12, 2024Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yuma Miyamoto, Masahiro Takahashi, Akinori Kawamura, Taisuke Hayashi, Takashi Fukai, Kohki Ohkoshi
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Patent number: 11891709Abstract: The invention relates to a solid-state compressor for electrochemically compressing a fluid, including: a compressor cell stack, including at least one compressor cell having a membrane electrode assembly sandwiched between two cell plates, an enclosure, clamping the compressor cell stack at opposing sides thereof, and at least one contact body, interposed between the compressor cell stack and the enclosure and contacting an outer surface of the compressor cell stack, wherein a space is enclosed between the enclosure and the contact body, which space is configured to contain a hydraulic fluid under pressure. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a solid-state compressor.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2019Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Assignee: HyET Holding B.V.Inventors: Albert Bos, Adriaan Rombout Swanborn
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Patent number: 11883779Abstract: Method and system for electrochemically compressing hydrogen. In one embodiment, the system includes a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) that includes a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM), an anode, and a cathode. First and second gas diffusion media are positioned adjacent the cathode and anode, respectively. A humidifying membrane is positioned next to the second gas diffusion medium on a side opposite the anode. A water supply is connected to the humidifying membrane, and a hydrogen gas supply is connected to the second gas diffusion medium. A hydrogen gas collector including a back pressure regulator is connected to the first gas diffusion medium. Separators, positioned on opposite sides of the MEA, are connected to a power source. In use, hydrogen is electrochemically pumped across the MEA and collected in the hydrogen gas collector. The PEM is kept properly humidified by the humidifying membrane, which releases water into the second gas diffusion medium.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2021Date of Patent: January 30, 2024Assignee: PLUG POWER INC.Inventors: Monjid Hamdan, Cortney Mittelsteadt, Matthew Weaver, Robert Stone
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Patent number: 11859595Abstract: A wind turbine is provided including a generator, an electrolytic unit, a system inlet and a system outlet, wherein the electrolytic unit is electrically powered by the generator to produce hydrogen from an input fluid, in particular water, wherein the hydrogen produced can be taken out of the wind turbine by the system outlet, wherein the wind turbine further includes a safety system controlled by a control unit configured to evacuate the hydrogen out of the wind turbine) by a plurality of gas outlets distributed on a platform of the wind turbine and configured to release the hydrogen to the atmosphere.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2022Date of Patent: January 2, 2024Assignee: SIEMENS GAMESA RENEWABLE ENERGY A/SInventor: Johnny Soerensen
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Patent number: 11846265Abstract: A pressure-regulating buoyant hydrodynamic pump is disclosed that floats adjacent to a surface of a body of water over which waves tend to pass. In response to wave-induced movements of the device, water is drawn into a mouth at a lower end of an injection tube, and water is ejected from a mouth at an upper end of the injection tube. The ejected water is deposited into an interior of the hollow buoy thereby augmenting a water reservoir therein. And water flows from the water reservoir to and through a water turbine, thereby energizing a generator, power electronics, and an electrical load. A novel water-turbine effluent buffering tube, or chamber, smooths pressure variations felt across the water turbine.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2023Date of Patent: December 19, 2023Assignee: Lone Gull Holdings, Ltd.Inventors: Brian Lee Moffat, Garth Alexander Sheldon-Coulson, Ivar Lee Thorson, Daniel William Place, Alexander David Chally
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Patent number: 11746430Abstract: Disclosed are a water electrolysis system and a control method thereof.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2020Date of Patent: September 5, 2023Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Se Yeong Lee
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Patent number: 11731996Abstract: Provided is a high-entropy composite glycerate represented by NiCrFeCoMn(C3H5O4)n and an electrocatalyst thereof, wherein n is a positive integer from 1 to 3, and wherein each of the Ni, Cr, Fe, Co and Mn includes an atom percent of 5 to 35 based on the total amount of the Ni, Cr, Fe, Co and Mn. Each of the metals is homogenously distributed within the high-entropy composite glycerate, and the high-entropy composite glycerate can reduce an overpotential for oxygen evolution reaction by the synergistic effect resulting from the structure formed by the quinary-metal glycerate. The high-entropy composite glycerate is suitable for catalyzing oxygen evolution reaction, and therefore has a prospect for application. Methods for preparing the high-entropy composite glycerate are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2021Date of Patent: August 22, 2023Assignee: National Cheng Kung UniversityInventors: Jyh-Ming Ting, Thi Xuyen Nguyen
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Patent number: 11712655Abstract: Membrane-based hydrogen purifiers having graphite frame members. The purifiers include a hydrogen-separation membrane module with at least one membrane cell containing at least one hydrogen-selective membrane, which includes a permeate face and an opposed mixed gas face, and a fluid-permeable support structure that physically contacts and supports at least a central region of the permeate face. The membrane cell further includes a permeate-side frame member and a mixed gas-side frame member. The permeate-side frame member is interposed between the hydrogen-selective membrane and the fluid-permeable support structure to physically contact a peripheral region of the permeate face and a peripheral region of the fluid-permeable support structure. The mixed gas-side frame member physically contacts a peripheral region of the mixed gas face. At least one of the permeate-side frame member and the mixed gas-side frame member is a graphite frame member.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2020Date of Patent: August 1, 2023Assignee: H2 PowerTech, LLCInventor: Charles R. Hill
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Patent number: 11655546Abstract: Herein discussed is a method of producing hydrogen comprising: (a) providing an electrochemical reactor having an anode, a cathode, and a membrane between the anode and the cathode; (b) introducing a first stream to the anode, wherein the first stream comprises ammonia or a product from ammonia cracking; (c) introducing a second stream to the cathode, wherein the second stream comprises water; and wherein hydrogen is generated from water electrochemically without electricity input. Systems for producing hydrogen from ammonia are also discussed.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2021Date of Patent: May 23, 2023Assignee: Utility Global, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Dawson, Nicholas Farandos, Jason Dana, Jin Dawson
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Patent number: 11611083Abstract: Methods are provided for tailoring multi-step chemical reactions having competing elementary steps using a strained catalyst. In various aspects, a layered piezo-catalytic system is provided, and may include a metal catalyst overlayer disposed on a piezo-electric substrate. The methods include applying a voltage bias to the piezo-electric substrate of the piezo-catalytic system resulting in a strained catalyst having an altered catalytic activity as a result of one or both of a compressive stress and tensile stress. The methods include exposing reagents for at least one step of the multi-step chemical reaction to the strained catalyst, and catalyzing the at least one step of the multi-step chemical reaction. In various aspects, the methods may include using an oscillating voltage bias applied to the piezo-electric substrate.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2020Date of Patent: March 21, 2023Assignee: Toyota Research Institute, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Harold Montoya, Muratahan Aykol
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Patent number: 11598013Abstract: An electrochemical hydrogen compressor includes: a cell including a proton conductive electrolyte membrane having a pair of principal surfaces, a cathode disposed on a first one of the principal surfaces of the electrolyte membrane, and an anode disposed on a second one of the principal surfaces of the electrolyte membrane; a voltage applicator that applies a voltage between the anode and the cathode; a dew point adjuster that adjusts a dew point of a hydrogen-containing gas to be supplied to the anode; and a controller that, when the temperature of the cell increases, controls the dew point adjuster to increase the dew point of the hydrogen-containing gas.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2020Date of Patent: March 7, 2023Assignee: PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.Inventors: Hidenobu Wakita, Yuuichi Yakumaru, Kunihiro Ukai
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Patent number: 11149355Abstract: A symmetrical hydrogen gas generating device comprising a symmetrical hydrogen generating device, a housing encapsulating the symmetrical hydrogen generating device, and a center-point rod residing directly in a center of the symmetrical hydrogen generating device. Together, the housing and the center-point rod improving workability and efficiency of the symmetrical hydrogen generating device. The center-point rod may be a single-piece center-point rod or a multi-piece center-point rod that resides directly at the longitudinal center of the symmetrical hydrogen generating device.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2018Date of Patent: October 19, 2021Assignee: URIPP LLCInventor: Scott Gotheil-Yelle
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Patent number: 10898875Abstract: A dielectric barrier discharge reactor for catalytic nonthermal plasma production of hydrogen from methane. The dielectric barrier discharge reactor includes two end pieces connected by a dielectric tube, two steam generators, two catalyst cages, two perforated tube center electrodes, a center electrode rod, a grounding electrode. In one aspect, the end pieces and the dielectric tube are fabricated from ceramic and fused quartz respectively. In another aspect, the dielectric barrier discharge reactor further includes catalyst cages. In yet another aspect, the catalyst cages contain catalysts in form of pellets. In an alternate aspect, the dielectric barrier discharge reactor acts to cause a reaction between incoming reactant gases. The reaction is achieved under a plasma which is generated between the perforated tubular center electrode and the ground electrode. In yet another alternate aspect, the dielectric barrier discharge reactor is used at home to generate hydrogen from methane.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2019Date of Patent: January 26, 2021Assignee: CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYInventors: Soon Sam Kim, Gerald E. Voecks, Andras Kuthi, Masih Jorat
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Patent number: 10767271Abstract: This application relates to the production, storage, and controlled release of hydrogen for use in the hydrogen economy. More specifically, it relates to a novel electrolysis system design that utilizes electrolysis of ionized vapors and gasses to produce and store hydrogen in a hydrogen host material and the capability to reverse the electrolysis potential to provide safe, controlled hydrogen release.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2015Date of Patent: September 8, 2020Assignee: Inovi, Inc.Inventors: Frank Edward Gordon, Harper John Whitehouse
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Patent number: 10760167Abstract: An electrolytic cell includes a housing, a first diaphragm, a first electrode, a second electrode, and a first discharge port. The housing held an electrolyte solution. The first diaphragm partitions the interior of the housing into a first cell and a second cell. The first electrode is provided inside the first cell. The first electrode includes a first surface facing the first diaphragm, a second surface different from the first surface, and a first hole. The second electrode is provided inside the second cell adjacent to the first diaphragm. The second electrode includes a third surface adjacent to the first diaphragm, a fourth surface different from the third surface, and a second hole. The first discharge port discharges the electrolyte solution from the second cell. The first cell is configured to supply the electrolyte solution supplied therein to the third surface side of the second cell.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2018Date of Patent: September 1, 2020Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBAInventor: Hirotoshi Murayama
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Patent number: 10590552Abstract: The hydrogen production apparatus includes: a rectifier supplied with first electrical power from outside, and that outputs direct-current second electrical power; an electrolyzer supplied with the second electrical power and that carries out electrolysis of an alkaline aqueous solution; a pure water tank that retains a pure water; a pure water pipe connected between the pure water tank and an electrolyzer, allowing the pure water to be distributed from the pure water tank to the electrolyzer; an inert gas cylinder that contains an inert gas; and a first valve connected between the inert gas cylinder and the pure water pipe, is the first valve being closed when the first electrical power is supplied, and being open when the first electrical power is not supplied. The inert gas is introduced into the pure water pipe by opening the first valve.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2018Date of Patent: March 17, 2020Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Tomomi Harano, Masatoshi Higuchi
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Patent number: 10570012Abstract: A method for making a metal-hydride slurry includes adding metal to a liquid carrier to create a metal slurry and hydriding the metal in the metal slurry to create a metal-hydride slurry. In some embodiments, a metal hydride is added to the liquid carrier of the metal slurry prior to hydriding the metal. The metal can be magnesium and the metal hydride can be magnesium hydride.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2018Date of Patent: February 25, 2020Assignee: Safe Hydrogen, LLCInventors: Kenneth S. Brown, Jr., David D. G. Bowen, Andrew W. McClaine
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Patent number: 10427533Abstract: Provided is a method of providing a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle charging service, performed by a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle charging service providing server connected to a user terminal and a plurality of charging-vehicle terminals, the method including (a) analyzing a fuel usage pattern of a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle related to the user terminal and predicting a fuel charging time of the hydrogen fuel cell vehicle on the basis of the fuel usage pattern; (b) determining a charging location and a charging-performing vehicle terminal at the fuel charging time on the basis of location information of the user terminal, and providing the user terminal with a charging alarm including information regarding the charging location and the charging-performing vehicle terminal; and (c) providing the charging-performing vehicle terminal with the information regarding the user terminal and the charging location when a charging request is received from the user terminal in response to the charging alarm.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2017Date of Patent: October 1, 2019Assignee: Hylium Energy, Inc.Inventor: Seo Young Kim
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Patent number: 9580308Abstract: Among other things, hydrogen is released from water at a first location using energy from a first energy source; the released hydrogen is stored in a metal hydride slurry; and the metal hydride slurry is transported to a second location remote from the first location.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2014Date of Patent: February 28, 2017Assignee: Safe Hydrogen, LLCInventors: Andrew W. McClaine, Kenneth S. Brown, Jr.
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Patent number: 9574274Abstract: Methods for simultaneous syngas generation by opposite sides of a solid oxide co-electrolysis cell are provided. The method can comprise exposing a cathode side of the solid oxide co-electrolysis cell to a cathode-side feed stream; supplying electricity to the solid oxide co-electrolysis cell such that the cathode side produces a product stream comprising hydrogen gas and carbon monoxide gas while supplying oxygen ions to an anode side of the solid oxide co-electrolysis cell; and exposing the anode side of the solid oxide co-electrolysis cell to an anode-side feed stream. The cathode-side feed stream comprises water and carbon dioxide, and the anode-side feed stream comprises methane gas such that the methane gas reacts with the oxygen ions to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The cathode-side feed stream can further comprise nitrogen, hydrogen, or a mixture thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: University of South CarolinaInventors: Fanglin Chen, Yao Wang
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Patent number: 9518331Abstract: A system is disclosed for providing hydrogen that includes a first PEM electrochemical cell or stack including a membrane electrode assembly that includes an inlet for a first gas that comprises hydrogen in fluid communication with the anode side of the first electrochemical cell or cell stack, and an outlet in fluid communication with the cathode side of the first electrochemical cell or stack. A second electrochemical cell or cell stack includes a water inlet in fluid communication with the anode side of the second electrochemical cell or cell stack, and an outlet in fluid communication with the cathode side of the second electrochemical cell or cell stack. A controller is configured to operate the first electrochemical cell or cell stack as a primary hydrogen source and to controllably operate the second electrochemical cell or cell stack as a secondary hydrogen source.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2014Date of Patent: December 13, 2016Assignee: SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS, LLCInventors: Joshua S. Preston, Trent M. Molter, Mark E. Dristy, Vyas Krishnamurthy, Gregory Hesler
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Patent number: 9478822Abstract: An electrochemical cell stack system may include a plurality of cell stacks fluidly connected by a plurality of first conduits to form a loop of cell stacks. At least one first valve may be located on each first conduit and may be capable of a closed configuration and an open configuration. Each of the cell stacks may have an input end for receiving a first fluid and an output end for discharging a second fluid. The system may deliver the first fluid from the fluid source to the input end of a first cell stack of the plurality of cell stacks via a first input line of a plurality of input lines and may receive the second fluid from the output end of a second cell stack of the plurality of cell stacks via a first output line of a plurality of output lines.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2014Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: Nuvera Fuel Cells, LLCInventor: Scott Blanchet
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Patent number: 9464010Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for producing hydrogen and capturing CO2 from emissions combine both H2 production and CO2 capture processes in forms of thermochemical cycles to produce useful products from captured CO2. The thermochemical cycles are copper-chlorine (Cu—Cl) and magnesium-chlorine-sodium/potassium cycles (Mg—Cl—Na/K—CO2). One system comprises a Cu—Cl cycle, a CO2 capture loop, and a hydrogenation cycle. Another system comprises an Mg—Cl—Na/K—CO2 cycle and a hydrogenation cycle. Devices for hydrogen production, CO2 capture, hydrogenation, and process and equipment integration include a two-stage fluidized/packed bed, hybrid two-stage spray-fluidized/packed bed reactor, a two-stage wet-mode absorber, a hybrid two-stage absorber, and a catalyst packed/fluidized bed reactor.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2013Date of Patent: October 11, 2016Assignee: UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYInventors: Greg Naterer, Zhaolin (Forest) Wang
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Patent number: 9463415Abstract: A method of operating an electrochemical cell stack is provided. The method includes feeding a reactant gas to the cell stack. The flow of the reactant gas is halted to at least one cell in the cell stack. The voltage applied to the at least one cell is increased. The flow of reactant gas to the at least one cell is initiated in response to the voltage increasing above a threshold for a predetermined amount of time.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2014Date of Patent: October 11, 2016Assignee: SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS, LLCInventor: Joshua S. Preston
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Patent number: 9416457Abstract: System and method for sustainable economic development which includes hydrogen extracted from substances, for example, sea water, industrial waste water, agricultural waste water, sewage, and landfill waste water. The hydrogen extraction is accomplished by thermal dissociation, electrical dissociation, optical dissociation, and magnetic dissociation. The hydrogen extraction further includes operation in conjunction with energy addition from renewable resources, for example, solar, wind, moving water, geothermal, or biomass resources.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2014Date of Patent: August 16, 2016Assignee: McAlister Technologies, LLCInventor: Roy Edward McAlister
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Patent number: 9343770Abstract: A microbial fuel cell is provided that includes a cell housing, a membrane dividing an internal chamber of the cell housing into an anode compartment and a cathode compartment, an anode including a graphite and first microorganisms contained in the anode compartment, a cathode including graphite and a second microorganisms contained in the cathode compartment, and a watercourse communicating the anode compartment and the cathode compartment with one another. A system including at least one microbial fuel cell and methods of operating the microbial fuel cell and system are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2013Date of Patent: May 17, 2016Assignee: Livolt, LLCInventor: Nathan Winkler
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Patent number: 9186624Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a method of producing hydrogen gas meeting a predetermined threshold of purity may include transferring a quantity of a hydrogen gas mixture through an electrochemical hydrogen pump, wherein the electrochemical hydrogen pump includes an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte membrane located between the anode and the cathode; separating a quantity of hydrogen gas from the hydrogen gas mixture by transferring the hydrogen gas from the anode, through the electrolyte membrane, to the cathode; collecting the hydrogen gas from the cathode, wherein the collected hydrogen gas at least meets the predetermined threshold of purity; and producing a certificate that the collected hydrogen gas has a purity that is at least substantially equal to the predetermined threshold of purity.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2013Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: NUVERA FUEL CELLS, INC.Inventor: Scott Blanchet
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Patent number: 9067263Abstract: This invention relates generally to novel methods and novel devices for the continuous manufacture of nanoparticles, microparticles and nanoparticle/liquid solution(s) (e.g., colloids). The nanoparticles (and/or micron-sized particles) comprise a variety of possible compositions, sizes and shapes. The particles (e.g., nanoparticles) are caused to be present (e.g., created and/or the liquid is predisposed to their presence (e.g., conditioned)) in a liquid (e.g., water) by, for example, preferably utilizing at least one adjustable plasma (e.g., created by at least one AC and/or DC power source), which plasma communicates with at least a portion of a surface of the liquid. At least one subsequent and/or substantially simultaneous adjustable electrochemical processing technique is also preferred. Multiple adjustable plasmas and/or adjustable electrochemical processing techniques are preferred. Processing enhancers can be utilized alone or with a plasma. Semicontinuous and batch processes can also be utilized.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2010Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Inventors: David Kyle Pierce, Mark Gordon Mortenson, David Andrew Bryce, Adam Robert Dorfman, Mikhail Merzliakov, Arthur Maxwell Grace
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Publication number: 20150140632Abstract: System and method for sustainable economic development which includes hydrogen extracted from substances, for example, sea water, industrial waste water, agricultural waste water, sewage, and landfill waste water. The hydrogen extraction is accomplished by thermal dissociation, electrical dissociation, optical dissociation, and magnetic dissociation. The hydrogen extraction further includes operation in conjunction with energy addition from renewable resources, for example, solar, wind, moving water, geothermal, or biomass resources.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2014Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
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Patent number: 9027342Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 20, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Inventors: Nicholas Frederick Foy, Ursula Meta Foy
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Publication number: 20150101936Abstract: This invention relates to an iron-sulfur complex that is capable of efficiently catalyzing formation of hydrogen, and a method for producing hydrogen using the complex as a catalyst. The iron-sulfur complex provided herein comprises: a structure of formula (I) wherein the ligands L1 to L3, L5 and L6 and the groups X1 to X3 are each selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and aryl that are substituted or unsubstituted, hydroxyl, carbonyl, aldehyde, and so on; L4 is a bridging ligand selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl, carbonyl, and so on; and the symbol “z” means the charge, which is an integer with the range of ?3 to +2. X1 and X2 may join together to form a bridging group between the two sulfur atoms. X3 may alternatively be a vacant site.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2014Publication date: April 16, 2015Inventors: MING-HSI CHIANG, YU-CHIAO LIU, KAI-TI CHU
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Patent number: 9005411Abstract: An electrochemical compressor includes one or more electrochemical cells through which a working fluid flows, and an external electrical energy source electrically connected to the electrochemical cell. Each electrochemical cell includes an anode connected to the electrical energy source; a cathode connected to the electrical energy source; an ion exchange membrane disposed between and in electrical contact with the cathode and the anode to pass an electrochemically motive material of the working fluid from the anode to the cathode, the ion exchange membrane comprising polar ionic groups attached to nonpolar chains; and a non-aqueous solvent comprising polar molecules, the polar molecules of the non-aqueous solvent being associated with and electrostatically attracted to the polar ionic groups of the ion exchange membrane.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2013Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Xergy IncInventors: Bamdad Bahar, Walther Grot, William Parmelee
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Patent number: 8992760Abstract: An electro-catalytic membrane system for preparing fuel gas from water operates at normal levels of pressure and temperature. The system includes a high frequency power source, a power supply system, a programmable control unit, an electro-catalytic membrane module, and a module for processing the fuel gas. The electro-catalytic membrane module includes metallic electrodes in a concentric arrangement. The space between the concentric electrodes includes granular carbon and metallic particles. A fixed membrane is arranged at a lower end of the space while a mobile membrane is arranged at an upper end of the space. The electro-catalytic membrane module is further provided with sensors for measuring process parameters, conduits, and valves for supplying and removing liquids. A system for cooling the metallic electrodes is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: S. C. Centrul de Cercetare Pentru Materiale Macromoleculare Si Membrane S.A. (S. C. Comm S. A.)Inventors: Marin Radu, Florica Radu, Valentin Radu, Daniela Radu, Florian Cioroianu, Mariana Cioroianu
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Patent number: 8986531Abstract: A system includes an ionic exchange conduit through which a flow of photosynthetic biomass is drawn capturing an electrical charge which is used to alternately power a photonic activated reservoir housing a living photosynthetic biomass suspended in a flowing liquid medium which self generates an electrical charge as it migrates towards and through a cathode separated from an anode by a membrane. Upon electrical transfer through the circuit an electrolysis process begins and releases hydrogen and oxygen into enclosed atmosphere chambers where these separated gases can be captured for use in a fuel cell.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2011Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Ennesys SASInventors: Nicholas Eckelberry, Michael Green
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Patent number: 8986518Abstract: The present aspects of an embodiment make more efficient use of hydrogen on-demand (hereinafter “HoD”) systems, thereby improving fossil-fuel-powered systems on the market. One main aspect uses a disposable cartridge in which the electrolytic process takes place to separate gas molecules from a solution that uses a substantially dry-cell design. Generally, the aspects include a replaceable and reusable cartridge for the flow of electrolyte solution using a pump, which may include a variety of safety features. A HoD cartridge generator has a plurality of staggered conductive material members that require electrolyte solution to flow between them, from one or more inlets to one or more outlets, using one or more specified paths. A conventional or specially-formulated electrolyte solution may be used. One or more sensors allow the generator to have a steady flow of solution in and a steady flow of liquid-gas mixture out of the system.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2012Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Cleanworld Fuels, LLCInventor: Marc Daniel Moncion
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Patent number: 8974646Abstract: Disclosed herein is a portable hydrogen-rich water generator that includes a separable drinking cup, an electrolytic cell which includes an anode, a cathode, a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, etc. and is disposed at the bottom of the drinking cup, a reservoir base on which the drinking cup is mounted and in which an anode reaction of the electrolytic cell is generated, a float valve which allows water to be continuously supplied at a certain water level from a water tank, and a power supply to apply direct current power to the electrolytic cell.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2011Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Inventors: Inchol Park, Ilbong Kim
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Patent number: 8961747Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 4, 2012Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Daisuke Kurashina, Nobuyuki Kawasaki, Hiroyuki Ishikawa
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Patent number: 8961776Abstract: A composition of matter suitable for the generation of hydrogen from water is described, the positively charged cation of the composition having the general formula [(PY5W2)MO]2+, wherein PY5W2 is (NC5XYZ)(NC5H4)4C2W2, M is a transition metal, and W, X, Y, and Z can be H, R, a halide, CF3, or SiR3, where R can be an alkyl or aryl group. The two accompanying counter anions, in one embodiment, can be selected from the following Cl?, I?, PF6?, and CF3SO3?. In embodiments of the invention, water, such as tap water containing electrolyte or straight sea water can be subject to an electric potential of between 1.0 V and 1.4 V relative to the standard hydrogen electrode, which at pH 7 corresponds to an overpotential of 0.6 to 1.0 V, with the result being, among other things, the generation of hydrogen with an optimal turnover frequency of ca. 1.5 million mol H2/mol catalyst per h.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2010Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Jeffrey R. Long, Christopher J. Chang, Hemamala I. Karunadasa
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Patent number: 8956770Abstract: The invention relates to a method for optimizing 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: GrantFiled: May 30, 2008Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignees: Areva, Societe des Ceramiques Techniques, Armines, Centre National de la Recherche ScientifiqueInventors: Béatrice Sala, Olivier Lacroix, Stéphanie Willemin, Kamal Rahmouni, Hisasi Takenouti, Arie Van Der Lee, Philippe Colomban, Patrice Goeuriot, Baroudi Benjeriou-Sedjerari
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Patent number: 8956526Abstract: A hybrid sulfur (HyS) cycle process for the production of hydrogen is provided. The process uses a proton exchange membrane (PEM) SO2-depolarized electrolyzer (SDE) for the low-temperature, electrochemical reaction step and a bayonet reactor for the high-temperature decomposition step The process can be operated at lower temperature and pressure ranges while still providing an overall energy efficient cycle process.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Savannah Nuclear Solutions, LLCInventor: Maximilian B. Gorensek
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Patent number: 8940152Abstract: A process is provided for producing electrolytic decomposition products of water by effecting a DC potential across a membrane comprising ripstop nylon interposed between an anode and a cathode. In electrolyzer mode, the electrochemical process produces hydrogen as well as oxygen products. In fuel-cell mode, the electrochemical process produces electricity from hydrogen and oxygen.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2013Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Inventors: Christopher M. McWhinney, David C. Erbaugh
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Patent number: 8940151Abstract: Membrane-less electrolysis systems including an electrolysis chamber having an inlet for water, a cathode associated with the electrolysis chamber that includes a plurality of apertures within the cathode that fluidly couple the chamber with a cathode fluid pathway that is fluidly coupled to a hydrogen gas collector, an anode associated with the electrolysis chamber that similarly includes a plurality of apertures fluidly coupling the chamber with an anode fluid pathway that is fluidly coupled to an oxygen gas collector, a power source electrically coupled to the cathode and anode, and a pump fluidly coupled with the water reservoir and electrolysis chamber so that the pump is configured to pump water into the electrolysis chamber, through the cathode and anode apertures, into the cathode and anode fluid pathways, respectively, and into the product gas collectors.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2012Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Advanced Hydrogen Products, LLCInventors: Jeremy L. Hartvigsen, Aaron J. Hartvigsen, Andrew J. Hartvigsen
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Patent number: 8936704Abstract: Systems and methods for generating hydrogen by electrolysis of water from a volatile power source may facilitate adjusting the operating capacity of an electrolysis stack based on measurements of the electricity output of the power source. In various embodiments, capacity adjustment is achieved by incorporating fewer or more cells of the electrolysis stack into a closed electrical circuit including the incorporated cells in series with the power source.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2014Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Inventor: Haiming Li
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Patent number: 8936712Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 28, 2012Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Daisuke Kurashina, Koji Nakazawa, Hisashi Nagaoka, Hiroyuki Ishikawa, Yuji Yamakawa, Jun Takeuchi
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Publication number: 20150001092Abstract: A system is disclosed for providing hydrogen that includes a first PEM electrochemical cell or stack including a membrane electrode assembly that includes an inlet for a first gas that comprises hydrogen in fluid communication with the anode side of the first electrochemical cell or cell stack, and an outlet in fluid communication with the cathode side of the first electrochemical cell or stack. A second electrochemical cell or cell stack includes a water inlet in fluid communication with the anode side of the second electrochemical cell or cell stack, and an outlet in fluid communication with the cathode side of the second electrochemical cell or cell stack. A controller is configured to operate the first electrochemical cell or cell stack as a primary hydrogen source and to controllably operate the second electrochemical cell or cell stack as a secondary hydrogen source.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Inventors: Joshua S. Preston, Trent M. Molter, Mark E. Dristy, Vyas Krishnamurthy, Gregory Hesler
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Publication number: 20150001091Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a method of producing hydrogen gas meeting a predetermined threshold of purity may include transferring a quantity of a hydrogen gas mixture through an electrochemical hydrogen pump, wherein the electrochemical hydrogen pump includes an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte membrane located between the anode and the cathode; separating a quantity of hydrogen gas from the hydrogen gas mixture by transferring the hydrogen gas from the anode, through the electrolyte membrane, to the cathode; collecting the hydrogen gas from the cathode, wherein the collected hydrogen gas at least meets the predetermined threshold of purity; and producing a certificate that the collected hydrogen gas has a purity that is at least substantially equal to the predetermined threshold of purity.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2013Publication date: January 1, 2015Applicant: Nuvera Fuel Cells, Inc.Inventor: Scott Blanchet
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Publication number: 20140378016Abstract: A device comprising a magnetic element, which comprises a magnetic material, wherein the magnetic element is adapted to absorb hydrogen to form hydride. The magnetic aspect of the system enhances the hydrogen storage. Also disclosed is a metal hydride element comprising a magnetic material and absorbed hydrogen. The magnetic element and the metal hydride element can be an electrode. Further disclosed are methods for making and using the electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: December 25, 2014Inventors: Johna Leddy, Jessica Jewett Reed
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Publication number: 20140367275Abstract: The invention provides a method for enriching air with hydrogen for subsequent use by internal combustion engines, the method comprising supplying a modified form of water; electrolyzing the water to produce hydrogen gas; mixing the gas with air to produce a hydrogen-air mixture; and injecting the mixture into the air intake of a combustion engine. Also provided is a system for enriching internal combustion engine air intake with hydrogen gas, the system comprising modified water; an electrolysis unit for producing hydrogen gas from the modified water; and process for mixing the gas with ambient air to create a mixture, and a venturi-based injector for inserting the mixture into the air intake system of the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2014Publication date: December 18, 2014Applicant: GO GREEN HYBRID FUEL SYSTEMSInventors: Chris MINGILINO, Leo BAILLEAUX, Charlie CORRY, Thomas FORNARELLI, Timothy TUTT
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Patent number: 8894830Abstract: A low-voltage, low-energy electrochemical system and method of removing protons and/or producing a base solution comprising hydroxide and carbonate/bicarbonate ions, utilizing carbon dioxide in a cathode compartment that is partitioned into a first cathode electrolyte compartment and a second cathode electrolyte compartment such that liquid flow between the cathode electrolyte compartments is possible, but wherein gaseous communication between the cathode electrolyte compartments is restricted. Carbon dioxide gas in one cathode electrolyte compartment is utilized with the cathode electrolyte in both compartments to produce the base solution with less that 3V applied across the electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2012Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Celera CorporationInventors: Ryan J. Gilliam, Thomas A. Albrecht, Nikhil Jalani, Nigel Antony Knott, Valentin Decker, Michael Kostowskyj, Bryan Boggs, Alexander Gorer, Kasra Farsad
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Patent number: 8877137Abstract: A hydrogen generator including an initiator assembly having one or more contact members within a compressible member, and a removable fuel unit adjacent a surface of the compressible member. The fuel unit contains a hydrogen containing material that can release hydrogen gas when heated and an exothermic mixture that can react exothermically upon initiation by the initiator assembly. When no fuel unit is in the hydrogen generator, the compressible member is uncompressed and the contact members are at or below its surface, and when a fuel unit is disposed in the hydrogen generator, the compressible member is compressed so the contact members extend beyond the surface to make thermal contact with the fuel unit. Energy from the initiator assembly is conducted by the contact members to corresponding quantities of the exothermic mixture to initiate an exothermic reaction, providing heat for the release of hydrogen gas from the hydrogen containing material.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Intelligent Energy Inc.Inventor: Mark D. Vandayburg