Abstract: An electrochemical cell employs an ionic semiconductor material as a separator between an anolyte and a catholyte. Ionic semiconductor material includes 10 to approximately 50 percent by weight of a hydrogel which is dispersed within an inert nonporous matrix material to form a composite wherein the quantity of water that can be absorbed by the composite does not substantially exceed the weight of the composite.

Abstract: An electrode comprising: metallic electrode material; and a nonporous solid composite material encapsulating the electrode material, the composite material comprising an inert matrix material having hydrogel substantially uniformly dispersed therein, the hydrogel comprising 10% to approximately 50% by weight of the dry composite material, there being sufficient bonding between molecules of the hydrogel and the matrix material to prevent substantial leach-out of hydrogel molecules from the composite.

Abstract: An ion transport membrane includes 10 to approximately 50 percent by weight of a hydrogel which is dispersed within an inert nonporous matrix material to form a composite wherein the quantity of water that can be absorbed by the composite does not substantially exceed the weight of the composite. The membranes may be used in electrochemical cells, for water purification, as solid polymeric electrolytes, in breathable waterproof coatings, and in numerous other applications for controlled moisture or ion transfer.

Abstract: The efficiency of thermal galvanic cells is enhanced by establishing a temperature gradient along the electrodes, in addition to the temperature gradient between the electrodes, and/or by optimizing electrode geometry. Optimization of electrode geometry may comprise segmenting the electrodes while retaining the desired total electrode area or controlling the depth of immersion of the electrodes into the electrolyte. Further performance improvement may be obtained through the addition of a silica containing material and/or a thermal barrier to the electrolyte.

Abstract: The efficiency of thermal galvanic cells is enhanced by establishing a temperature gradient along the electrodes, in addition to the temperature gradient between the electrodes, and/or by optimizing electrode geometry. Optimization of electrode geometry may comprise segmenting the electrodes while retaining the desired total electrode area or controlling the depth of immersion of the electrodes into the electrolyte. Further performance improvement may be obtained through the addition of a silica containing material and/or a thermal barrier to the electrolyte.

Abstract: A thermoelectric energy system comprising first and second separated metal electrodes, an electrolyte comprising a source of metal ions and a material for complexing the metal ions to form a metal ion complex, the electrolyte being disposed between and in contact with the electrodes to provide a metal ion conduction path which extends substantially the entire distance between the electrodes. A temperature gradient is imposed between the electrodes to produce a voltage across the electrodes. An electric circuit is connected to the electrodes to allow for removal of electrical energy from the system.