Internal Battery Patents (Class 204/248)
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Patent number: 11225420Abstract: Various embodiments relate to an electrochemical cell for removal of materials from water and methods of using the same. A method of removing phosphorus from water includes immersing an electrochemical cell in water including phosphorus to form treated water including a salt that includes the phosphorus. The electrochemical cell includes an anode including Mg, Al, Fe, Zn, or a combination thereof, a cathode including Cu, Ni, Fe, or a combination thereof. The method includes separating the salt including the phosphorus from the treated water, to form separated water having a lower phosphorus concentration than the water including phosphorus.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2021Date of Patent: January 18, 2022Assignee: Phosphorus Free Water Solutions, LLCInventors: Carlos Borras, Donald A. Luke
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Patent number: 10961138Abstract: A sewage/wastewater biological treatment system—sewage (wastewater) synergistic treatment acceleration device, which includes four components of a reaction assembly, a signal transmission assembly, a control assembly, and a housing carrying assembly. The reaction assembly can realize the colonization/proliferation of functional microorganisms, participate in the interface electron transfer between the electrode-microbe-sewage as an electron donor/receptor and electrode interface of the (bio)electrochemical reaction, and optimize the flow characteristics in the sewage/wastewater treatment system. The signal transmission assembly enables the conduction of applied voltage and real-time signal acquisition and transmission of key parameters. The monitoring assembly implements intelligent controllability of the present invention. The housing carrying assembly enables integrated assembly of single device and multi-device serial/parallel operation assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2018Date of Patent: March 30, 2021Assignee: RESEARCH CENTER FOR ECO-ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES, CHINESE ACADEMAY OF SCIENCESInventors: Aijie Wang, Haoyi Cheng, Hongcheng Wang, Dan Cui, Weiwei Cai, Jinglong Han, Shusen Wang
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Patent number: 10722606Abstract: Provided are a method and device for producing negative oxygen ions, and a method and device for purifying air. Said method for producing negative oxygen ions comprises: respectively introducing air and water into an air-water reactor so that the introduced air and water reach a relative movement speed of not less than 20 m/s in said air-water reactor and react within said air-water reactor so as to produce negative oxygen ions; and separating the air containing the negative oxygen ions after the reaction from the water after the reaction, and releasing the air containing the negative oxygen ions after the reaction into a required space. Said method and device can produce a large number of negative oxygen ions and purified air with a high efficiency at a low cost, without producing any harmful substances such as ozone and oxynitrides, and are long-acting and free of maintenance.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2015Date of Patent: July 28, 2020Inventor: Xiaoyue Liu
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Patent number: 10465299Abstract: A gas production apparatus is provided which includes: a module including a plurality of PN junctions connected in series to one another, each being formed of an inorganic semiconductor and having a light receiving surface; two gas generators that are provided at open ends of PN junctions at both extremities of the module, respectively, on a side of the light receiving surface; an electrolysis chamber which contains an aqueous electrolytic solution in contact with the two gas generators and contains gases generated by the two gas generators; and a diaphragm which is ion-permeable but gas-impermeable, and partitions the electrolysis chamber into two regions including the two gas generators, respectively, and containing hydrogen and oxygen, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2015Date of Patent: November 5, 2019Assignees: FUJIFILM Corporation, JAPAN TECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATION OF ARTIFICIAL PHOTOSYNTHETIC CHEMICAL PROCESSInventor: Kohei Higashi
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Patent number: 10100415Abstract: A multi-junction artificial photosynthetic unit includes an active element with a plurality of semiconducting layers, with metal layers deposited between the semiconductor layers appropriately forming Schottky barrier junctions or ohmic junctions with a surface of an adjacent semiconductor layer. The active element is formed within a protective structure formed of porous aluminum oxide. Successive layers of the active element can be formed within the protective structure, and additional layers and junctions can be added until desired photovoltages are achieved. A photoreactor for the production of fuels and chemicals driven by solar-powered redox reactions includes a bag reactor filled with a feedstock solution. A plurality of multi-junction photosynthetic units are placed in the feedstock solution to drive the redox reactions and produce the desired fuels and chemicals.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2015Date of Patent: October 16, 2018Assignee: HYPERSOLAR, INC.Inventors: Syed Mubeen Jawahar Hussaini, Eric W. McFarland, Martin Moskovits, Joun Lee, Tim Young
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Patent number: 9945006Abstract: A process for recovering non-ferrous metals from a solid matrix may include: leaching the solid matrix with an aqueous-based solution, in a presence of oxygen, to obtain an extraction solution including leached metals and solid leaching residue; separating the solid leaching residue from the extraction solution; and subjecting the extraction solution to at least one cementation to recover the leached metals in elemental state. The leaching solution may include chloride ions. The leaching solution may further include ammonium ions. A pH of the leaching solution may be greater than or equal to 6.5 and less than or equal to 8.5. A leaching temperature may be greater than or equal to 100° C. and less than or equal to 160° C. A leaching pressure may be greater than or equal to 150 kPa and less than or equal to 800 kPa.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2013Date of Patent: April 17, 2018Assignee: METALS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, LLCInventors: Massimo Giuseppe Maccagni, Jonathan Hylkjier Nielsen, William Leonard Lane, David Michael Olkkonen, Timothy Roy Hymer
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Patent number: 9827517Abstract: A filtration apparatus and filtration method can be used to reduce at least one contaminant (e.g., organic molecules, ions and/or biological microorganisms) in an aqueous fluid. The filtration apparatuses and methods of the invention can separate at least one contaminant from an aqueous fluid and/or oxidize at least one contaminant. In operation, an aqueous fluid is flowed through a filtration apparatus comprising a porous carbon nanotube filter material at an applied voltage. In some embodiments, the filtration apparatus described herein can be used for dead-end filtration. In some embodiments, the filtration apparatus described herein can be used for cross-over filtration.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2012Date of Patent: November 28, 2017Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard CollegeInventors: Chad D. Vecitis, Kirsten Van Fossen
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Patent number: 9708719Abstract: Water-splitting devices and methods for manufacturing water-splitting devices or solar cells is disclosed. The method seeks to provide a relatively high-volume, low-cost mass-production method. In one example, the method facilitates simultaneous co-assembly of one or more sub-units and two or more polymer films or sheets to form a water-splitting device. According to another aspect, there is provided an improved water-splitting device. In one example form, there is provided a water-splitting device which includes a first electrode for producing oxygen gas and a second electrode for producing hydrogen gas from water. The first electrode and the second electrode are positioned between a first outer polymer layer and a second outer polymer layer, and at least one spacer layer is positioned between the first outer polymer layer and the second outer polymer layer.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2011Date of Patent: July 18, 2017Assignee: AQUAHYDREX PTY LTDInventors: Gerhard Frederick Swiegers, David Leslie Officer, Gordon George Wallace
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Patent number: 9695050Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for processing metal sulfate compounds and sequestering CO2. These systems and processes involve one or more electrochemical cells for producing an alkali-containing catholyte and involve a CO2 absorption reactor operatively connected to the electrochemical cell and to a CO2 source. The CO2 absorption reactor receives the alkali-containing catholyte and CO2 gas for forming an alkaline carbonate solution. The alkaline carbonate solution is directed to a vessel where it reacts with an acidic sulfate solution comprising metal ions resulting in precipitation of solid metal carbonate compounds. The acidic sulfate solution may comprise sulfide leachates from acid mine drainage, sulfide mine tailings and/or reacted pyrite concentrate. The acidic sulfate solution may be circulated through an optional SO2 reduction reactor prior to reaction in the vessel. The SO2 reduction reactor reduces trivalent metal compounds present in the acidic sulfate solution to divalent metal compounds.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2016Date of Patent: July 4, 2017Assignee: Terra CO2 Technologies Ltd.Inventors: Donald Lake, Lee Groat, Andrew Carne, William Douglas Eaton
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Patent number: 9428301Abstract: A self-destructive aquatic device for use in a water environment is formed with a body having a metallic portion and a covering preventing exposure of the metallic portion of the body from the water environment. A gap in the covering is used to expose the metallic portion of the body to the water environment. The covering has a cathodic property with respect to the metallic portion of the body, so that the gap and the covering establishing a cathodic-anodic ratio of areas exposed to the water environment to promote erosion of the metallic portion of the body in the water environment. This, in turn, results in controlled break-up of the aquatic device.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2011Date of Patent: August 30, 2016Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Charles M. Ringer, Peyton W. Hall, Earl E. Floren
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Patent number: 8968532Abstract: A substrate plating processor has a vessel on a support structure and a head support fixed in place relative to the support structure. A head having a rotor is attached to the head support. A lifter associated with the head support moves the head into and out of engagement with the vessel. An alignment assembly attachable to the rotor has at least one sensor adapted to detect a position of an inside surface of the vessel when the head is engaged with the vessel. The sensor may be a physical contact sensor positioned to contact the inside surface of the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: APPLIED Materials, Inc.Inventor: Bryan Puch
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Patent number: 8961667Abstract: A scrubbing muffler for internal combustion engines comprises coaxial counter-rotating disk pairs stacked in a cascade. Acoustic pulses are attenuated by doing work and dissipated by the circuitous path through the dynamic cascade. A motor and/or Venturi effect from slipstream over a vehicle assists exhaust and reduces backpressure for greater fuel economy. Exhaust gas fed at the axis is sheared between the disks of the first stage of the cascade as it passes radially outward into a shrouding tank disposed about the cascade. Vortex rebound at the tank wall advects flow radially inward back through the workspace between the first stage disks to axial extraction as feed for the second stage of the cascade. N2 and H2O, along with CO and NO, can pass radially inward to successive stages. Soot and CO2 stay in the tank. NO and CO are reduced at a Faraday disk cathode.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2012Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: McCutchen Co.Inventors: David J. McCutchen, Wilmot H. McCutchen
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Patent number: 8926804Abstract: A fluid container with an output of drinkable activated and vitalized fluids, preferably activated and vitalized water, preferably for fluid intake, includes a hollow body with an opening for filling fitted with a connector connecting an openable cap. An outlet for the bottle is provided for dispensing the fluid. The outlet is fitted with a galvanic processing device for galvanic fluid treatment of the fluid and to produce a swirling motion of the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2011Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Inventors: Franti{hacek over (s)}ek Pancurák, Ladislav Jurec
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Publication number: 20150001066Abstract: A wipe for anti-microbial disinfecting includes a flexible substrate and an anti-microbial ion source integrated on the substrate. The flexible substrate is made entirely or in part of woven fiber cloth, non-woven fiber cloth, woven synthetic cloth, non-woven synthetic cloth, or natural fiber cloth. The anti-microbial ion source is configured to dissolve in an aqueous solution to form an anti-microbial solution. The flexible substrate is configured to absorb the anti-microbial solution for use in cleaning.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Inventor: Ashok V. Joshi
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Patent number: 8821700Abstract: A photoelectrochemical cell (100) includes: a semiconductor electrode (120) including a conductor (121), a first n-type semiconductor layer (122) having a nanotube array structure, and a second n-type semiconductor layer (123); a counter electrode (130) connected to the conductor (121); an electrolyte (140) in contact with the second n-type semiconductor layer (123) and the counter electrode (130); and a container (110) accommodating the semiconductor electrode (120), the counter electrode (130) and the electrolyte (140).Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2010Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Tomohiro Kuroha, Takaiki Nomura, Kazuhito Hato, Noboru Taniguchi, Takahiro Suzuki, Kenichi Tokuhiro
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Patent number: 8758578Abstract: A photoelectrochemical cell (100) includes: a semiconductor electrode (120) including a substrate (121), a first n-type semiconductor layer (122) disposed on the substrate (121), and a second n-type semiconductor layer (123) and a conductor (124) disposed apart from each other on the first n-type semiconductor layer (122); a counter electrode (130) connected electrically to the conductor (124); an electrolyte (140) in contact with surfaces of the second n-type semiconductor layer (123) and the counter electrode (130); and a container (110) accommodating the semiconductor electrode (120), the counter electrode (130) and the electrolyte (140).Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2010Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Takaiki Nomura, Takahiro Suzuki, Nobuhiro Miyata, Kazuhito Hato
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Patent number: 8734625Abstract: A hydrogen generation device (100) of the present invention includes: a transparent substrate (1); a photocatalytic electrode (4) formed of a transparent conductive layer (2) and a photocatalytic layer (3) disposed on the transparent substrate (1); a counter electrode (8) connected electrically to the transparent conductive layer (2); a water-containing electrolyte solution layer provided between the photocatalytic electrode (3) and the counter electrode (8); a separator (6) that separates the electrolyte solution layer into a first electrolyte solution layer (5) in contact with the photocatalytic electrode (4) and a second electrolyte solution layer (7) in contact with the counter electrode (8); a first gas outlet (14) for discharging a gas generated in the first electrolyte solution layer (5); and a second gas outlet (15) for discharging a gas generated in the second electrolyte solution layer (7).Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2011Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Takahiro Suzuki, Takaiki Nomura, Kazuhito Hatoh, Noboru Taniguchi, Tomohiro Kuroha, Kenichi Tokuhiro
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Patent number: 8715469Abstract: An improved galvanic processing device includes disk shaped electrodes made from a metal which have circumferential segments aligned at an angle ? relative to the plane of the circumference of the electrode. The circumferential segments may have portions aligned at a different angle ? relative to the plane of the circumference of the electrode.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2011Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Inventors: Franti{hacek over (s)}ek Pancurák, Ladislav Jurec
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Patent number: 8695526Abstract: A self-scuttling device can include a pressure hull that can define an internal void having an internal pressure PVOID. The device can be disposed in an underwater environment having a pressure PAMBIENT that is greater than PVOID. The pressure hull can be formed with a fill port, which can be selectively opened to flood the void. A reactive agent can be disposed within the void. The reactive agent can be chosen to mix with seawater and establish a solution that corrodes the pressure hull when the reactive agent is exposed to seawater by flooding the void. The reactive agent can be disposed within a watertight container, which maintains watertight integrity at PVOID, but loses watertight integrity at the greater PAMBIENT. When this occurs, the reactive agent becomes exposed to seawater to establish the solution within the void that corrodes the pressure hull.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2012Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Charles M. Ringer, Earl Floren, Peyton Hall
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Patent number: 8691059Abstract: A galvanic processing device includes a flow container having an inlet, an outlet and a longitudinal axis. Anodes are made from a first metal. Cathodes are made from a second, different metal. The electrodes may be disk-shaped. The cathodes and anodes are alternately placed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Dielectric spacer rings separate the anodes and the cathodes. The electrodes may have circumferential segments aligned at an angle ? to impart a swirl to a flow of liquid through the container. A portion of the anodes and cathodes may have the circumferential segments aligned at an angle ?? a to reverse the direction of the swirl of the flow through the flow container. Portions of the circumferential segments may be aligned at an angle ? and other portions are aligned at an angle ? so that the swirl of the flow through the flow container has components with different directions.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2011Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventors: Franti{hacek over (s )}ek Pancurák, Ladislav Jurec
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Publication number: 20140061036Abstract: Photochemical devices having hematite photovoltaic junctions and methods for forming such devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, a photovoltaic device includes a substrate and a photovoltaic junction deposited on the substrate, the photovoltaic junction having a n-type hematite and a p-type hematite.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2013Publication date: March 6, 2014Applicant: The Trustees of Boston CollegeInventors: Dunwei Wang, Yongjing Lin, Yang Xu
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Patent number: 8663435Abstract: The method for producing the optical semiconductor of the present disclosure includes a mixing step of producing a mixture containing a reduction inhibitor and a niobium compound that contains at least oxygen in its composition; a nitriding step of nitriding the mixture by the reaction between the mixture and a nitrogen compound gas; and a washing step of isolating niobium oxynitride from the material obtained through the nitriding step by dissolving chemical species other than niobium oxynitride with a washing liquid. The optical semiconductor of the present disclosure substantially consists of niobium oxynitride having a crystal structure of baddeleyite and having a composition represented by the composition formula, NbON.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Takahiro Suzuki, Takaiki Nomura, Satoru Tamura, Kazuhito Hato, Noboru Taniguchi, Kenichi Tokuhiro, Nobuhiro Miyata
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Patent number: 8647482Abstract: The present invention discloses an electrochemical-catalytic converter, which can remove nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HCs) and particulate matter (PM) in exhaust gas. The electrochemical-catalytic converter comprises a cell module, wherein nitrogen oxides are decomposed to form nitrogen through electrochemical promotion, and wherein carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and particulate matter are catalyzed to form carbon dioxide and water by an oxidation catalyst.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: National Tsing Hua UniversityInventor: Ta-Jen Huang
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Patent number: 8603318Abstract: An electrolyte solution, methods, and systems for selectively removing a conductive metal from a substrate are provided. The electrolyte solution comprising nanoparticles that are more noble than the conductive metal being removed, is applied to a substrate to remove the conductive metal selectively relative to a dielectric material without application of an external potential or contact of a processing pad with a surface of the substrate. The solutions and methods can be applied, for example, to remove a conductive metal layer (e.g., barrier metal) selectively relative to a dielectric material and to a materially different conductive metal (e.g., copper interconnect) without application of an external potential or contact of a processing pad with the surface of the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Rita J. Klein, Dale W. Collins, Paul Morgan, Joseph N. Greeley, Nishant Sinha
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Publication number: 20130299340Abstract: The present invention relates to a manufacturing method of medical sterilized normal saline, more specifically, to such a method for manufacturing sterilized normal saline for medical purpose with effective sterilizing efficacy comprising: a step of disposing at least one electrode set immersed in saline solution of pH 4.0 to pH 7.5 including a pair of electrodes with flat surface separated from each other by an interval between 1 mm and 3 mm, the flat surfaces of the electrodes facing each other; and a step of supplying 30 mA to 200 mA direct current to the electrodes by applying 2.4V to 3.3V DC power to the electrodes; wherein free chlorine is reliably and stably generated as having concentration range between 0.17 ppm and 6 ppm from electrolysis between electrodes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2013Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventor: Chil-Young Kim
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Patent number: 8540855Abstract: The water battery device has a sterilizing unit composed of a non-noble metal body and a noble metal body that are overlapped coaxially via an interval keeping member. The sterilizing unit is disposed in a passing water or flowing water or immersed in a stored water. Then, a battery action is generated via the water at a uniform clearance space between the non-noble metal body and the noble metal body. Thereby, metal ions are dissolved in a complete ionization state from the non-noble metal body, thereby giving sterilization effect to the water. A container has a container structure that generates an electric current in the water between the non-noble metal body and the noble metal body and that maintains an oxygen concentration in the water required to continually produce the battery action water.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2011Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Youji HayakawaInventors: Youji Hayakawa, Akihiro Hayakawa, Shinji Hayakawa
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Patent number: 8460520Abstract: Contaminants are removed from raw water or discharge water from plants, such as sewerage and industrial plants, by applying direct current through an array of spaced, alternately charged electrodes to eliminate or minimize clogging of the electrodes with precipitated contaminants. Polarity may be switched periodically to assist in eliminating or minimizing clogging. In illustrated embodiments, electrode arrays are contained in housings of dielectric material to form modules, To increase processing capacity, the modules are arranged in parallel arrays. Alternatively, a single module is scaled up for large or industrial applications or scaled down for personal use. Instead of housing the electrode arrays in modules through which liquid passes, the electrode arrays for some batch applications are dipped in the water or aqueous solutions.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2009Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventor: David Rigby
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Patent number: 8454807Abstract: A photoelectrochemical cell (1) is a photoelectrochemical cell for decomposing water by irradiation with light so as to produce hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2011Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Takaiki Nomura, Takahiro Suzuki, Kenichi Tokuhiro, Tomohiro Kuroha, Noboru Taniguchi, Kazuhito Hatoh, Shuzo Tokumitsu
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Patent number: 8449757Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to an apparatus or hydrogen generating system including a galvanic or first hydrogen generator and a thermally-activated or second hydrogen generator connectable to one another.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2009Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Societe BICInventors: Gerard F McLean, Joerg Zimmermann
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Publication number: 20130086787Abstract: A substrate plating processor has a vessel on a support structure and a head support fixed in place relative to the support structure. A head having a rotor is attached to the head support. A lifter associated with the head support moves the head into and out of engagement with the vessel. An alignment assembly attachable to the rotor has at least one sensor adapted to detect a position of an inside surface of the vessel when the head is engaged with the vessel. The sensor may be a physical contact sensor positioned to contact the inside surface of the vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.Inventor: Bryan Puch
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Patent number: 8388818Abstract: Lightweight photoelectrochemical system for real-time hydrogen production from water and sunlight, using lightweight multi-junction photo electrodes made from the highly reliable and efficient copper indium selenide thin films, preferably made by low-cost electrodeposition on flexible foil.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2007Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Inventor: Shalini Menezes
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Publication number: 20130026031Abstract: A fluid container with an output of drinkable activated and vitalized fluids, preferably activated and vitalized water, preferably for fluid intake, includes a hollow body with an opening for filling fitted with a connector connecting an openable cap. An outlet for the bottle is provided for dispensing the fluid. The outlet is fitted with a galvanic processing device for galvanic fluid treatment of the fluid and to produce a swirling motion of the fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Inventors: Frantisek Pancurák, Ladislav Jurec
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Publication number: 20130026029Abstract: CO2 conversation into organic molecules is based on the photo-oxidation of water into oxygen gas O2, protons H+, and electrons. The conversion of CO2 occurs at the photo-cathode and involves the generated protons, electrons and the “fuel” CO2.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2011Publication date: January 31, 2013Inventors: Sam Kayaert, Johan Martens, Kasper Masschaele
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Publication number: 20130015077Abstract: The invention is a unit that produces Hydrogen Gas (Browns Gas (HHO)) that can be used as an assist to diesel and gas engines. The gas is produced from distilled water, using our stainless steel plate design. The patent should apply to the internal plate placement and design. The internal design of the unit allows it to produce significantly more hydrogen, drawing significantly less current or electricity from its power source. The internal design is in the placement of positive, negative and neutral plates to produce the gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2012Publication date: January 17, 2013Inventors: James D. Dees, April R. Saldivar
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Patent number: 8303782Abstract: A hydrogen generating apparatus is disclosed. The hydrogen generating apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first hydrogen generating unit, which has a first electrode generating hydrogen by decomposing an electrolyte aqueous solution; a second hydrogen generating unit, which has a second electrode that is placed adjacent to the first hydrogen generating unit and surface thereof is formed with a super absorbent polymer that is gelled when water is absorbed; a solution separation membrane interposed between the first hydrogen generating unit and the second hydrogen generating unit; a reactor accommodating the first hydrogen generating unit, the second hydrogen generating unit and the solution separation membrane; and a hydrogen vent being formed on one side of the reactor, which is adjacent to the second hydrogen generating unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2009Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Bo-Sung Ku, Jae-Hyuk Jang, Kyoung-Soo Chae, Jae-Hyoung Gil
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Patent number: 8241469Abstract: A reactor cover, and a hydrogen generating apparatus and a fuel cell power generation system having the reactor cover are disclosed. The reactor cover includes a base panel; a control unit, which is coupled to one side of the base panel, and which regulates a reaction for generating the hydrogen; a circuit pattern buried in the base panel in electrical connection with the control unit; and an electrode pad formed on the other side of the base panel in electrical connection with the circuit pattern. In the reactor cover, the base panel and the control unit may be integrated, to eliminate unnecessary wiring, prevent short-circuiting, and consequently provide a reactor cover that can be fabricated and used more easily.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jae-Hyoung Gil, Jae-Hyuk Jang, Bo-Sung Ku, Kyoung-Soo Chae
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Patent number: 8236146Abstract: A photoelectrochemical cell (100) includes: a semiconductor electrode (120) including a conductor (121) and an n-type semiconductor layer (122); a counter electrode (130) connected electrically to the conductor (121); an electrolyte (140) in contact with the surfaces of the n-type semiconductor layer (122) and the counter electrode (130); and a container (110) accommodating the semiconductor electrode (120), the counter electrode (130) and the electrolyte (140). The photoelectrochemical cell (100) generates hydrogen by irradiation of the n-type semiconductor layer (122) with light.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Takaiki Nomura, Takahiro Suzuki, Kenichi Tokuhiro, Tomohiro Kuroha, Noboru Taniguchi, Kazuhito Hatoh, Shuzo Tokumitsu
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Patent number: 8216436Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein relate to hetero-nanostructures for efficient solar energy conversions, and more particularly to the fabrication of titanium dioxide hetero-nanostructures and methods of using same for water splitting. In an embodiment, a hetero-nanostructure includes a plurality of connected and spaced-apart nanobeams linked together at an about 90-degree angle, the plurality of nanobeams including a conductive silicide core having an n-type photoactive titanium dioxide shell.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: The Trustees of Boston CollegeInventors: Dunwei Wang, Yongjing Lin
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Publication number: 20120103795Abstract: The present invention discloses an electrochemical-catalytic converter, which can remove nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HCs) and particulate matter (PM) in exhaust gas. The electrochemical-catalytic converter comprises a cell module, wherein nitrogen oxides are decomposed to form nitrogen through electrochemical promotion, and wherein carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and particulate matter are catalyzed to form carbon dioxide and water by an oxidation catalyst.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2011Publication date: May 3, 2012Inventor: Ta-Jen HUANG
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Publication number: 20120037497Abstract: An improved galvanic processing device includes disk shaped electrodes made from a metal which have circumferential segments aligned at an angle ? relative to the plane of the circumference of the electrode. The circumferential segments may have portions aligned at a different angle ? relative to the plane of the circumference of the electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2011Publication date: February 16, 2012Inventors: Frantisek Pancurák, Ladislav Jurec
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Publication number: 20120037498Abstract: A galvanic processing device includes a flow container having an inlet, an outlet and a longitudinal axis. Anodes are made from a first metal. Cathodes are made from a second, different metal. The electrodes may be disk-shaped. The cathodes and anodes are alternately placed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Dielectric spacer rings separate the anodes and the cathodes. The electrodes may have circumferential segments aligned at an angle ? to impart a swirl to a flow of liquid through the container. A portion of the anodes and cathodes may have the circumferential segments aligned at an angle ?? a to reverse the direction of the swirl of the flow through the flow container. Portions of the circumferential segments may be aligned at an angle ? and other portions are aligned at an angle ? so that the swirl of the flow through the flow container has components with different directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2011Publication date: February 16, 2012Inventors: Frantisek Pancurák, Ladislav Jurec
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Publication number: 20110290707Abstract: An automated self-propelled pool cleaner having a housing, a water pump for moving water through the housing, drive means for moving the pool cleaner over the surface of the salt water pool to be cleaned, and an integral electrochemical chlorine generator mounted in the housing, includes a processor/controller that is programmed to activate the chlorine generator, the pump and drive means in predetermined operational sequences that minimize wear and tear on the water pump and drive means, while at the same time distribute and maintain a safe level of sanitizing chlorine in the pool, to thereby obviate the need for an in-line chlorinator or other chemical additive treatments; an optional automated sensor device can be provided to activate a secondary maintenance program which enables the pool cleaner to operate over prolonged periods of time as the sole means for filtering and sanitizing the pool water.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2011Publication date: December 1, 2011Inventor: Joseph PORAT
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Publication number: 20110180397Abstract: The water battery device has a sterilizing unit composed of a non-noble metal body and a noble metal body that are overlapped coaxially via an interval keeping member. The sterilizing unit is disposed in a passing water or flowing water or immersed in a stored water. Then, a battery action is generated via the water at a uniform clearance space between the non-noble metal body and the noble metal body. Thereby, metal ions are dissolved in a complete ionization state from the non-noble metal body, thereby giving sterilization effect to the water. A container has a container structure that generates an electric current in the water between the non-noble metal body and the noble metal body and that maintains an oxygen concentration in the water required to continually produce the battery action water.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2011Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventors: Youji Hayakawa, Akihiro Hayakawa, Shinji Hayakawa
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Publication number: 20110147652Abstract: Methods and systems for generating sulfuric acid are disclosed. In some embodiments, the method includes combusting a sulfur-containing material with a gas including oxygen to produce a first stream of sulfur dioxide, mixing water with the first stream of sulfur dioxide to produce a mixed stream, using an energy, electrolytically converting the mixed stream of sulfur dioxide and water into sulfuric acid and hydrogen, generating a source of energy from the hydrogen, and providing the source of energy as at least a portion of the energy for electrolytically converting the first stream of sulfur dioxide and water into sulfuric acid and hydrogen. In some embodiments, the system includes a first chamber for combusting a sulfur-containing material to produce a first stream of sulfur dioxide, an electrolytic cell for converting the first stream into sulfuric acid and hydrogen, and a fuel cell for generating an energy source from the hydrogen.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventors: Klaus S. Lackner, Tim A. Rappold
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Patent number: 7909979Abstract: The present invention provides a water photolysis system comprising: a casing 1 into which incident sunlight L can enter from the outside and a photolytic layer 5 which is disposed inside the casing 1; wherein the photolytic layer 5 has a light-transmissive porous material 51 and photocatalyst particles 52 supported thereon; a water layer 4 containing water in its liquid state is disposed below the photolytic layer 5 with a first space 6 disposed between the water layer and the photolytic layer; a sealed second space 7 is formed above the photolytic layer 5 in the casing 1; vapor generated from the water layer 4 is introduced into the photolytic layer 5 via the first space 6; and the vapor is decomposed into hydrogen and oxygen by the photocatalyst particles 52, which are excited by the sunlight L.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2009Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Yuka Yamada, Masa-aki Suzuki, Nobuyasu Suzuki, Hidehiro Sasaki, Yasunori Morinaga
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Patent number: 7867367Abstract: A fluid treatment apparatus capable of maximizing contact area between a fluid and electrodes in the apparatus to improve corrosion resistance or combustion efficiency includes a housing having an inlet port and an outlet port for the water at both ends of the housing, and a plurality of first electrodes installed in the housing for generating a potential difference through delivery of electrons at a contact surface between the fluid and the electrodes. The first electrodes are disc shaped and have a water passing hole formed in a center portion. The first electrodes being arranged in parallel in a direction perpendicular to a main flow direction of the fluid, so as to form a channel between the first electrodes to branch and guide a main flow.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Inventor: Sang Jin Lee
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Patent number: 7820022Abstract: A photoelectrochemical cell may include a cell housing defining an interior volume with a window affixed to the cell housing for allowing the passage of light into the interior volume of the cell. A polymeric film may be affixed within the interior volume defining an anterior compartment and a posterior compartment within the cell housing. A plurality of semiconductor particles embedded continuously within a through thickness of the polymeric film so that a first respective surface area of the plurality of semiconductor particles is exposed to the anterior portion of the cell and a second respective surface area of the plurality of semiconductor particles is exposed to the posterior portion of the cell. The membrane may be immersed within an electrolyte so that incident radiation on the semiconductor particles causes oxidation and reduction to occur within the cell to produce gaseous hydrogen and oxygen.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2005Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Thomas Francis McNulty, Lifeng Zhang
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Patent number: 7815779Abstract: The invention relates to a water treatment device comprising a metallic sleeve inside which at least one metallic sacrificial anode is disposed, said sacrificial anode being connected to the sleeve in an electrically conducting manner. At least one metallic swirling member which generates eddies within the water flow is arranged upstream of a sacrificial anode in the sleeve, particularly in order to cause the sacrificial anode to be cleaned by means of the turbulent water flow.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2004Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventor: Marc Flettner
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Publication number: 20100243434Abstract: Small, autonomous, low cost electrochemical gas generators containing an electrochemical cell assembly, a commercially available battery and a current controlling mechanism. Current control, which defines the gas generation rate, is achieved either electronically by means of a resistor or through mass transfer control by means of a gas permeable film of known permeability. In either case, the gas generation rates are generally from 0.1 to 10 cc/day. The gas source must contain an electrochemically active gas such as oxygen or hydrogen. Air is the preferred source for oxygen. These miniature gas generators, generally are less than 1.5 cm in diameter and length, require novel, compact, electrochemical cell assemblies. Various cell assemblies, generally 1 cm in diameter and less than 05 mm thick, are described. These miniature gas generators are used for the controlled release of fluids such as pheromones, fragrances, insect repellents, and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2009Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventor: Henri J.R. MAGET
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Publication number: 20100230298Abstract: An electrochemically driveable actuator according to one embodiment includes a nanoporous carbon aerogel composition capable of exhibiting charge-induced reversible strain when wetted by an electrolyte and a voltage is applied thereto. An electrochemically driven actuator according to another embodiment includes a nanoporous carbon aerogel composition wetted by an electrolyte; and a mechanism for causing charge-induced reversible strain of the composition. A method for electrochemically actuating an object according to one embodiment includes causing charge-induced reversible strain of a nanoporous carbon aerogel composition wetted with an electrolyte to actuate the object by the strain.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventors: Juergen Biener, Theodore F. Baumann, Lihua Shao, Joerg Weissmueller