Bipolar Electrode Patents (Class 204/254)
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Patent number: 11464423Abstract: Power sources that enable in-body devices, such as implantable and ingestible devices, are provided. Aspects of the in-body power sources of the invention include a solid support, a first high surface area electrode and a second electrode. Embodiments of the in-power sources are configured to emit a detectable signal upon contact with a target physiological site. Also provided are methods of making and using the power sources of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2015Date of Patent: October 11, 2022Assignee: OTSUKA PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD.Inventors: Hooman Hafezi, Timothy Robertson, Eric Snyder, Brad Cozad
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Patent number: 11280010Abstract: A membrane module and method of making are provided, including a mold therefor. Exemplarily, the module, which comprises a membrane around which is formed a frame, is adapted for use with an electrochemical apparatus. The membrane comprises a fabric made from a synthetic fiber such as nylon, where the nylon is woven into ripstop nylon fabric. The frame, which comprises, exemplarily, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene, includes a wedge-shaped portion to facilitate collection of evolved gases and which provides support to the membrane as well as support to internal electrodes. The mold is adapted to suspend and secure the membrane during formation of the module and to provide a module which secures the membrane within the frame after formation of the module.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2019Date of Patent: March 22, 2022Inventor: Christopher M. McWhinney
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Patent number: 11183705Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for Converting chemical energy into electrical energy, or electrical energy into chemical energy, having at least one electrochemically active, planar cell (2) that is held securely between coaxial annular disks (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d) of an electrically insulating support frame (10), through which a supply structure with Channels (22, 23, 13, 33) for process media extends to the cell (2). A free spatial region (8a, 8b) is present on either side of the cell (2) in the axial direction, which region is bounded in the radial direction by at least one of the annular disks (10a, 10b). The spatial regions (8a, 8b) are open toward a pressure Chamber (5) via at least one passage (42a, 42b) through the corresponding annular disk (10a, 10b). When the device (1) is in Operation, the pressure Chamber (5) is filled with a pressurized medium, as a consequence of which the cells are compressed.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2017Date of Patent: November 23, 2021Assignee: WESTFAELISCHE HOCHSCHULE GELSENKIRCHEN BOCHOLT RECKLINGHAUSENInventors: Michael Brodmann, Cristian Mutascu, Pit Podleschny, Ulrich Rost, Jeffrey Roth, Christoph Sagewka, Florian Wirkert
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Patent number: 10756361Abstract: An electrochemical cell stack is disclosed having a plurality of stacked planar electrochemical cell modules, a first end plate at a first end of the stacked planar modules, and a second end plate at a second end of the stacked planar modules. Also included in the stack is an intermediate planar module disposed between adjacent electrochemical cells in the stack. In some aspects, the intermediate module includes a cavity disposed internally within the intermediate module that is in fluid communication with a fluid source at a pressure higher than the operating pressure of the electrochemical cell stack on either side of the intermediate module. In some aspects, the electrochemical cell stack includes an electrically conductive process liquid in fluid communication with a plurality of electrochemical cells in the stack, and the intermediate planar module includes an electrically non-conductive channel in fluid communication with the electrically conductive process liquid.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2015Date of Patent: August 25, 2020Assignee: SKYRE, INC.Inventor: Mark E. Dristy
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Patent number: 10305122Abstract: There is provided a frame body used for a cell of a redox flow battery, that can improve heat dissipation of an electrolyte in a slit and can suppress rise of the temperature of the electrolyte. It is a frame body used for a cell of a redox flow battery, comprising: an opening formed inside the frame body; a manifold allowing an electrolyte to pass therethrough; and a slit which connects the manifold and the opening and forms a channel of the electrolyte between the manifold and the opening, the slit having a pair of sidewalls facing each other in a cross section orthogonal to a direction in which the electrolyte flows, the slit having, at at least a portion thereof in the slit's depthwise direction, a width narrowing portion allowing the sidewalls to have a spacing narrowed in the depthwise direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2017Date of Patent: May 28, 2019Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Kanno, Takeshi Yamana, Kenji Motoi
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Patent number: 10000856Abstract: An electrochemical cell includes a pair of bipolar plates and a membrane electrode assembly between the bipolar plates. The electrochemical cell further includes a first seal defining a high pressure zone, wherein the first seal is located between the bipolar plates and configured to contain a first fluid within the high pressure zone. Further, the electrochemical cell includes a second seal defining an intermediate pressure zone, wherein the second seal is located between the bipolar plates and configured to contain a second fluid within the intermediate pressure zone. The first seal is configured to leak the first fluid into the intermediate pressure zone when the first seal unseats.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2016Date of Patent: June 19, 2018Assignee: Nuvera Fuel Cells, LLCInventors: Ed Domit, Scott Blanchet, Roger Van Boeyen, Kevin Beverage
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Patent number: 9634295Abstract: A pouch battery cell container, including at least, one battery cell compartment, is interposed between two end plates. The planar electrode surfaces of a pouch battery cell, housed within the battery cell compartment, are subjected to a constant and optimal amount of compressive force during cell expansion and contraction for battery cell optimization. A first end plate and a second end plate are coupled together by a plurality of connecting devices, wherein each connecting device includes an elastic deformation component. As the battery cells housed within the battery container expand and/or contract, the first and second end plates move relative to each other while constrained by the elastic deformation device so as to maintain a constant amount of compressive force on the planar electrode surfaces housed within the battery cell.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2010Date of Patent: April 25, 2017Assignee: Pellion Technologies, Inc.Inventor: William P. Dube
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Patent number: 9404190Abstract: An end pressure plate is provided for an electrochemical cell stack or an electrolyzer module. The end pressure plates comprise a load transfer plate for maintaining even pressure over the faces of the structural plates, and a backing plate for supporting load transferred from the load transfer plate.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2014Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Next Hydrogen CorporationInventor: Chris Wilson
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Publication number: 20140305794Abstract: The present invention comprises a module for an electrolyser of filterpress type comprising at least one closed frame defining at least one first opening, wherein said module comprises a sealing and electric insulating material, wherein said material at least partly covers the surface of the frame. In addition the present invention comprises a method for producing a module for an electrolyser of filterpress type and use thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2012Publication date: October 16, 2014Inventors: Oddmund Wallevik, Hans Jörg Fell, Petr Chladek
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Publication number: 20140238845Abstract: An electrochemical cell includes a pair of bipolar plates and a membrane electrode assembly between the bipolar plates. The electrochemical cell further includes a first seal defining a high pressure zone, wherein the first seal is located between the bipolar plates and configured to contain a first fluid within the high pressure zone. Further, the electrochemical cell includes a second seal defining an intermediate pressure zone, wherein the second seal is located between the bipolar plates and configured to contain a second fluid within the intermediate pressure zone. The first seal is configured to leak the first fluid into the intermediate pressure zone when the first seal unseats.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: NUVERA FUEL CELLS, INC.Inventors: Ed DOMIT, Scott BLANCHET, Roger VAN BOEYEN, Kevin BEVERAGE
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Publication number: 20140202875Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrolyser for the production of at least one chemical substance, such as hydrogen, oxygen, chlorine or hypochlorous acid, or sodium hydroxide, by electrolysis of pure water or of water containing at least one salt, base and/or acid such as NaCl, H2SO4, KOH or NaOH, comprising a stack of at least a first and a second consecutive electrolytic cells, each electrolytic cell (10) comprising; —an anode, —a cathode, —an ion exchange membrane (11) positioned between the anode and the cathode, the ion exchange membrane (11) of the first electrolytic cell and of the second electrolytic cell being separated by a bipolar electrode (15) constituting on the one hand, the anode of the first electrolytic cell and, on the other hand, the cathode of the second electrolytic cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2012Publication date: July 24, 2014Applicant: Ceram HYDInventor: Arash Mofakhami
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Patent number: 8623195Abstract: An electrolyser (100) comprising an electrolysis cell stack (101) inside a pressure vessel (115), wherein the first terminal end plate (107a) of the cell stack is integral with one a closed ends of the pressure vessel, thus forming a stationary head (107) of the cell stack equipped with the fluid and electric connections, and the second terminal end plate (108a) of the cell stack is inside the vessel and is free to move in a longitudinal direction in response to thermal expansion or contraction, thus forming a floating head (108) of the stack. The pressure vessel (115) is preferably pressurized using a gaseous product obtained in the process of electrolysis.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2009Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Casale Chemicals SAInventor: Giancarlo Sioli
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Patent number: 8317985Abstract: An electrolyte electrolyzer adapted to create hydrogen and oxygen from electrolyte fluid at or near atmospheric pressure. The electrolyzer is comprised in a preferred form of a plurality of cells which collectively create oxygen and hydrogen chambers separated by an ion permeable membrane. The electrolyzer is further defined by a passive electrode that is electrically interposed between a charged anode and cathode. The chambers defined by the cells are in communication with oxygen and hydrogen supply lines to transfer the hydrogen gas from the unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2007Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Wood Stone CorporationInventor: Tadeusz Karabin
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Patent number: 8277620Abstract: Embodiments of the present techniques provide electrolyzers made using thermoformed electrode assemblies and diaphragm assemblies. Each electrode assembly is made from two plastic rings and an electrode plate using a twin sheet thermoforming technique. A first plastic ring is laid in a mold having the appropriate shape to form the electrode assembly. The electrode plate is laid on top of the first plastic ring and is generally centered on the ring. The second plastic ring is laid over the electrode plate, and is generally centered over the electrode plate. The plastic is heated to soften the plastic, and a vacuum is pulled on the mold to pull the softened plastic into the shape of the mold. The mold is closed over the assembly to seal the two plastic rings together. After cooling, the molded part may be removed, resulting in a hollow plastic rim surrounding an electrode plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Richard Scott Bourgeois
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Patent number: 8273225Abstract: The present invention provides a solid diamond electrode, a reactor, in particular a reactor comprising an anode, a cathode and at least one bipolar electrode having first and second major working surfaces positioned therebetween wherein the at least one bipolar electrode consists essentially of diamond, and methods in which the reactors are used.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2007Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Element Six LimitedInventors: Jonathan James Wilman, Patrick Simon Bray, Timothy Peter Mollart
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Publication number: 20120037511Abstract: A super-capacitor desalination device is described and includes a pair of terminal electrodes and at least one bipolar electrode located between the terminal electrodes. The at least one bipolar electrode has an ion exchange material disposed on opposing surfaces thereof The ion exchange material is a cation exchange material or an anion exchange material. A method for super-capacitor desalination is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2011Publication date: February 16, 2012Inventors: Rihua Xiong, Hai Yang, Wei Cai
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Patent number: 8021525Abstract: A PEM based water electrolysis stack consists of a number of cells connected in series by using interconnects. Water and electrical power (power supply) are the external inputs to the stack. Water supplied to the oxygen electrodes through flow fields in interconnects is dissociated into oxygen and protons. The protons are transported through the polymer membrane to the hydrogen electrodes, where they combine with electrons to form hydrogen gas. If the electrolysis stack is required to be used exclusively as an oxygen generator, the hydrogen gas generated would have to be disposed off safely. The disposal of hydrogen would lead to a number of system and safety related issues, resulting in the limited application of the device as an oxygen generator. Hydrogen can be combusted to produce heat or better disposed off in a separate fuel cell unit which will supply electricity generated, to the electrolysis stack to reduce power input requirements.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research OrganisationInventors: Sarbjit Singh Giddey, Fabio T. Ciacchi, Sukhvinder P. S. Badwal
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Patent number: 7901549Abstract: A gas evolving bipolar electrolysis system is provided which includes multiple cells. Each cell further includes a cathode, an anode, at least one inlet and at least one outlet for flow of electrolyte and the cathode and the anode are configured to maintain a variable interelectrode gap between the cathode and the anode. In some embodiments, the cell includes a membrane disposed between the electrodes and in some other embodiments the electrodes are coated with electrocatalysts configured to provide uniform current density on the electrode surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Ravichandra Srinivasa Jupudi, Richard Scott Bourgeois, Hongmei Zhang
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Patent number: 7858231Abstract: A current collector sheet for an electrode of an electrochemical device has a conductive area and an insulating area on the surface thereof. Examples of the current collector sheet includes: a current collector sheet including an insulating sheet, wherein the conductive area has a conductive layer formed on the surface of the insulating sheet, and the insulating area has an exposed portion of the insulating sheet; a current collector sheet including a conductive sheet, wherein the insulating area has an insulating layer formed on the surface of the conductive sheet, and the conductive area has an exposed portion of the conductive sheet; and a current collector sheet including a conductive sheet portion and an insulating sheet portion positioned flush with each other, wherein the conductive area has a surface of the conductive sheet portion, and the insulating area has a surface of the insulating sheet portion.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Ken Nishimura, Naoto Arai, Toru Oshima, Fumio Daio, Munehisa Ikoma, Hideo Kaiya
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Patent number: 7842172Abstract: It is described a bipolar plate consisting of a single wall and a perimetrical sealing frame obtained by folding and provided with a planar abutment surface for the frame-to-wall welding. The wall is further provided with projections on one face thereof preferably obtained by moulding, and with supports on the other face consisting of sheet strips housed in the recesses formed by the concave part of the projections. The projections substantially extend along the entire length of the bipolar plate. The projections and supports are connected to electrodes or current distributors. The projections, the supports, the single wall and the perimetrical frame are made of the same metal or alloy. The electrode or current distributor supported by the projections, the same projections and the supports are welded together by a single pass of arc-welding or preferably laser-welding.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Assignee: Uhdenora S.p.A.Inventors: Fulvio Federico, Leonello Carrettin, Dario Oldani, Corrado Mojana
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Patent number: 7767360Abstract: An electrochemical cell apparatus is disclosed. The electrochemical cell apparatus includes a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) having a membrane with a first side and a second side opposite the first side, a first electrode in contact with the first side, and a second electrode in contact with the second side. The apparatus further includes a flow field member and a protector member having a boundary partially defined by a first surface facing toward a center of the MEA. The second electrode has a boundary partially defined by a second surface facing away from the center of the MEA. A first distance from the center of the MEA to the first surface is greater than a correspondingly oriented second distance from the center of the MEA to the second surface, thereby defining a gap between the first surface and the second surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.Inventor: Jacob Friedman
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Patent number: 7704355Abstract: The invention describes an improved anode suitable for being installed in chlor-alkali electrolysis cells intercalated to cathode elements provided with a diaphragm. In operation, the anode of the invention is in direct contact with the diaphragm so as to form mutually equivalent vertical channels defined by the surfaces of the plates, of the supporting sheets and of the diaphragm, allowing a predefined and controlled upward motion of the chlorine-brine biphasic mixture.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Industrie De Nora S.p.A.Inventor: Giovanni Meneghini
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Patent number: 7704353Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode assembly for the electrochemical treatment of liquids with a low conductivity. Said assembly comprises electrodes (1, 2), between which a polymer solid electrolyte (3) is situated. The electrodes are pressed against one another by means of a compression device (9, 10; 91) and are configured in such a way that the assembly can be traversed by the liquid. To produce said assembly simply and to ensure that it is flexible and easy to use, the compression device (9, 10; 91) is supported on the electrodes (1, 2).Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2005Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Condias GmbHInventors: Manuela Stadelmann, Manfred Blaschke, Maja Wuensche, Helmut Petzer, Alexander Kraft, Thorsten Matthee, Matthias Fryda
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Publication number: 20090294021Abstract: An electrical power generating device having a plurality of ceramic composite cells, each cell having a cathode and an anode. A thermal shell in which the ceramic composite cells are stacked or arranged in electrical series and gas parallel surrounded by shock absorbing and insulating materials, respectively, is preferably included. Also provided are an exhaust fan, thermocouple sensors, a fuel supply, a programmable computer controller with user interface, and a container supporting the assembly and having passageways for providing air ingress and egress to the device, and power output terminals for the electrical power from the device. Methods for manufacturing the ceramic composite cells are also provided, including a method for manufacturing stabilized zirconia and for use in the ceramic materials used within the ceramic composite cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2003Publication date: December 3, 2009Inventors: Esin Cubukcu, Steve Dahar, Ravi Dodeja, Arnold Z. Gordon, Daniel Kalynchuk, Troy Shannon Prince, Justin Soltesz, Mike Waite
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Patent number: 7591932Abstract: A pressure electrolyzer having an electrolytic cell block that contains a number of electrolytic cells combined to form a stack, each electrolytic cell having an anode and a cathode. The electrolytic cell block has a sealed housing formed by a number of stacked cell frames of the electrolytic cells, the cell frames being composed at least partially of a material that is elastic at least in a longitudinal direction of the electrolytic cell block and seals adjacent cell frames from each other. End plates are provided so as to hold the electrolytic cell block in place between the end plates under compression of the elastic material. Each of the cell frames has a rigid element that runs in a circumferential direction of the frame so as to mechanically stabilize the cell frame.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2003Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignee: Hydrogen TechnologiesInventors: Marko Ramisch, Pietro d'Erasmo
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Patent number: 7507493Abstract: An electrochemical cell having a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), and a gas diffusion layer (GDL) disposed proximate a side of the MEA with an edge of the GDL disposed inboard of an edge of the MEA is disclosed. A sealing member is disposed proximate the edge of the GDL and extends outward toward the edge of the MEA, thereby defining a discontinuity between the GDL and the sealing member. A protector member is disposed between the MEA and the GDL such that the protector member traverses the discontinuity.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Froton Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jacob Friedman, Greg Hanlon
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Patent number: 7351317Abstract: The invention relates to an electrolysis device for halogen gas production from an aqueous alkali halide solution in several plate-type electrolysis cells stacked and arranged side by side, with electrical contacts, each of the cells with a housing consisting of two half-shells made of electrically conductive material, said housing being equipped with devices for feeding electrolytic current and the electrolysis plant reactants and devices for discharging electrolytic current and discharging the electrolysis products, with anodic electrode, cathodic electrode and a membrane arranged therebetween, built-in components being fitted in at least one of the two half-shells and permitting a defined increase in the liquid level and thus minimizing the remaining gas volume accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Uhdenora Technologies S.r.l.Inventors: Karl Heinz Dulle, Peter Woltering, Frank Funck, Martin Wollny, Randolf Kiefer, Thomas Steinmetz, Kosmas Janowitz, Roland Beckmann, Torsten Dresel, Hans-Joachim Hartz
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Patent number: 7332063Abstract: A structural component for electrolytic cells of an electrochemical reactor of the filter-press type, comprising a frame (6) supporting its corresponding functional element (7, 7a), a bipolar sheet or a diaphragm, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2004Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Casale Chemicals S.A.Inventor: Giancarlo Sioli
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Patent number: 7323090Abstract: A bipolar zero-gap electrolytic cell comprising an anode comprising an anode substrate constituted of a titanium expanded metal or titanium metal net of 25 to 70% opening ratio, which anode after coating the substrate with a catalyst has a surface of 5 to 50 ?m unevenness difference maximum and has a thickness of 0.7 to 2.0 mm. In this electrolytic cell, the possibility of breakage of ion exchange membrane is low, and the anolyte and catholyte have a concentration distribution falling within given range. With this electrolytic cell, stable electrolysis can be performed for a prolonged period of time with less variation of cell internal pressure.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Asahi Kasei Chemicals CorporationInventors: Hiroyoshi Houda, Yasuhide Noaki
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Patent number: 7220516Abstract: A bipolar battery comprises a bipolar electrode having a positive electrode layer on one side of a collecting foil and a negative electrode layer on the other side of the collecting foil, and a polymer electrolyte layer disposed between the bipolar electrodes. In the bipolar battery, an insulation layer is provided on a periphery of at least one side of the collecting foil.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2003Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasuhiko Oosawa, Ryouichi Senbokuya
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Patent number: 7153409Abstract: In one embodiment, the electrochemical system comprises an electrochemical cell and hydrogen storage in fluid communication with the hydrogen electrode, the hydrogen storage comprising at least one of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers. In one embodiment, the method for operating an electrochemical cell system, comprises introducing water to an oxygen electrode and electrolyzing the water to form oxygen, hydrogen ions and electrons, wherein the hydrogen ions migrate to a hydrogen electrode. The hydrogen ions can then be reacted with the electrons to form hydrogen gas that is stored in at least one of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2003Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jason K. Shiepe, Frano Barbir
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Patent number: 7048838Abstract: The invention provides an ion exchange membrane electrolyzer ensuring a satisfactory circulation of electrolyte, high electrolytic efficiency and great ridigity. An anode chamber partition in a flat sheet form is joined to a cathode chamber partition in a flat sheet form. An electrode retainer member in a sheet form is joined to at least one partition at a belt-like junction. A projecting strip with an electrode joined thereto is located between adjacent junctions. A space on an electrode surface side of the electrode retainer member defines a path through which a fluid goes up in the electrode chamber, and a space that spaces away from the space defines a path through which an electrolyte separated from a gas at a top portion of the electrode goes down.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2003Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Chlorine Engineers Corp., Ltd.Inventors: Shinji Katayama, Masaru Mori, Masakazu Kameda
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Patent number: 7018516Abstract: A bipolar multi-purpose electrolytic cell for high current loads has a frame, two electrode edge plates with metal electrode sheet, and power supply and of bipolar plates. Each includes a plastic electrode base body with electrode rear spaces and/or with coolings spaces that are incorporated on one or both sides: incorporated supply and discharge lines for the electrolyte solutions and the cooling medium, metal electrode sheets which are applied to both sides of the base body and are solid and/or perforated in the electrochemically active area: electrolyte sealing frames, which rest on the solid metal electrode sheets and which are made of flexible plastic, and: ion exchanger membranes, which rest on the perforated metal electrode sheets and/or on the electrolyte sheets and/or on the electrolyte sealing frames and which are provided for separating the electrode spaces.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2001Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Peroxid-Chemie GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Michael Gnann, Wolfgang Thiele, Gerd Heinze
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Patent number: 7014947Abstract: An electrochemical cell includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a proton exchange membrane disposed between and in intimate contact with the electrodes. The proton exchange membrane is configured to be integral with a frame structure and includes a substrate disposed in contiguous contact with the frame structure and a proton exchange material disposed at the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2001Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: A. John Speranza, Mark E. Dristy
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Patent number: 6852205Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided an electrode plate for a water electrolysis device, which is formed from a metal plate having such a thickness as to be capable of being press-formed, and which comprises a flat plate portion, and a peripheral edge portion positioned on the outer side of the flat plate portion and bent so that recesses and protrusions are alternately arrayed along an outer peripheral edge thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2000Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Shinko-Pantec Co., Ltd.Inventors: Manabu Toyoshima, Masaru Yonezawa, Kiyoshi Hirai, Akiko Miyake, Yutaka Ishii, Tsutomu Oi, Shingo Toriu
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Patent number: 6783885Abstract: An electrochemical cell system includes a hydrogen electrode; an oxygen electrode; a membrane disposed between the hydrogen electrode and the oxygen electrode; and a compartmentalized storage tank. The compartmentalized storage tank has a first fluid storage section and a second fluid storage section separated by a movable divider. The compartmentalized storage tank is in fluid communication with the electrochemical cell. Further, an electrochemical cell includes a hydrogen electrode; an oxygen electrode; an electrolyte membrane disposed between and in intimate contact with the hydrogen electrode and said oxygen electrode; an oxygen flow field disposed adjacent to and in intimate contact with the oxygen electrode; a hydrogen flow field disposed adjacent to and in intimate contact with the hydrogen electrode; a water flow field disposed in fluid communication with the oxygen flow field; and a media divider disposed between the oxygen flow field and the water flow field.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2002Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jason K. Shiepe, Trent M. Molter
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Publication number: 20040159543Abstract: An electrochemical cell component having a plate with opposing faces, seal grooves formed in each of the faces, and a plurality of holes extending through the plate between the first and second grooves with an integral sealing member formed in the grooves and holes. The seal grooves extend continuously around the perimeter of the faces and the grooves may follow any type of contiguous pattern. The component may form a frame surrounding a flow field. Bipolar plates and fluid cooled bipolar plates may comprise this electrochemical cell component. Alternatively, a seal groove may be formed in only the first face and a ridge formed in the second face of the component. The ridge may be used to form a fluid tight seal when pressed into an opposing surface of the membrane in a membrane and electrode assembly. A sealing material is contained within the seal groove.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventors: Chris Boyer, Brad Fiebig, Craig Andrews, James Layton
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Patent number: 6759161Abstract: An electrochemical cell includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a proton exchange membrane disposed between and in intimate contact with the electrodes. The proton exchange membrane is configured to be integral with a frame structure and includes a substrate disposed in contiguous contact with the frame structure and a proton exchange material disposed at the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2001Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: A. John Speranza, Mark E. Dristy
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Patent number: 6752937Abstract: The invention provides a resin matrix with high loadings of a conductive filler; various additional additives, such as initiators, mold-release agents, shrink control additives, and carbon black; and optionally one or more rheological agents selected from the group comprising group II oxides, alkaline earth oxides, carbodiamides, polyisocynates, polyethylene and polytetraethylene fluoroethylene. The conductive filler is an inorganic filler which is desirably particulate graphite having a significant distribution of large particles such as for example, 95% in the range of about 150 to about 1000 microns with over about 40%, and more particularly about 50% or even 60% over 200 microns, or over 300 microns, or even over 600 microns. Conductive polymers may be used as a conductivity enhancer with the graphite. In addition, silver coated ceramic fibers can be added to improve the overall electrical properties. Fuel cell plates can be made from these compositions.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2002Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: Quantum Composites, Inc.Inventor: Kurt I. Butler
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Patent number: 6746580Abstract: The present invention provides an ozone generation and delivery system that lends itself to small scale applications and requires very low maintenance. The system preferably includes an anode reservoir and a cathode phase separator each having a hydrophobic membrane to allow phase separation of produced gases from water. The hydrogen gas, ozone gas and water containing ozone may be delivered under pressure.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2001Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: Lynntech International, Ltd.Inventors: Craig C. Andrews, Oliver J. Murphy
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Patent number: 6733913Abstract: This invention is an improved fuel cell design for use at low pressure. The invention has a reduced number of component parts to reduce fabrication costs, as well as a simpler design that permits the size of the system to be reduced at the same time as performance is being improved. In the present design, an adjacent anode and cathode pair are fabricated using a common conductive element, with that conductive element serving to conduct the current from one cell to the adjacent one. This produces a small and simple system suitable for operating with gas fuels or alternatively directly with liquid fuels, such as methanol, dimethoxymethane, or trimethoxymethane. The use of these liquid fuels permits the storage of more energy in less volume while at the same time eliminating the need for handling compressed gases which further simplifies the fuel cell system.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Lynntech, Inc.Inventors: Alan J. Cisar, Dacong Weng, Oliver J. Murphy
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Patent number: 6703153Abstract: An electrical power generating device having a plurality of ceramic composite cells, each cell having a cathode and an anode. A thermal shell in which the ceramic composite cells are stacked or arranged in electrical series and gas parallel surrounded by shock absorbing and insulating materials, respectively, is preferably included. Also provided are an exhaust fan, thermocouple sensors, a fuel supply, a programmable computer controller with user interface, and a container supporting the assembly and having passageways for providing air ingress and egress to the device, and power output terminals for the electrical power from the device. Methods for manufacturing the ceramic composite cells are also provided, including a method for manufacturing stabilized zirconia and for use in the ceramic materials used within the ceramic composite cell.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: IGR EnterprisesInventors: Esin Cubukcu, Steve Dahar, Ravi Dodeja, Arnold Z. Gordon, Daniel Kalynchuk, Troy Shannon Prince, Justin Soltesz, Mike Waite, Sandeep Chawla
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Patent number: 6669826Abstract: Compact proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrochemical cell stack. In a preferred embodiment, the cell stack comprises first and second sub-stacks of series-connected, proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrochemical cells. The first sub-stack is stacked between a top end plate and an intermediate plate, and the second sub-stack is stacked between the intermediate plate and a bottom end plate, the top end plate, the intermediate plate and the bottom end plate all extending beyond the peripheries of the first and second sub-stacks. A first set of tie rods is coupled to the top end plate and extends downwardly therefrom through the intermediate plate at points peripheral to the first and second sub-stacks, the first tie rods terminating prior to the bottom end plate. A Belleville washer spring stack is mounted on each of the first tie rods below the intermediate plate and above the bottom end plate for biasing the intermediate plate towards the top end plate.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: December 30, 2003Assignee: Giner Electrochemical Systems, LLCInventors: Robert W. Milgate, Jr., Anthony B. LaConti
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Publication number: 20030150717Abstract: A bipolar multipurpose electrolysis cell according to the invention for high current loads comprises a clamping frame, two electrode edge plates with metal electrode sheets and supply conductor, as well as bipolar electrode plates, the latter comprising:Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2003Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventors: Michael Gnann, Wolfgang Thiele, Gerd Heinze
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Patent number: 6524452Abstract: A flow-frame for forming a subassembly; said sub-assembly comprising a bipolar electrode and an ion-selective membrane mounted on said flow-frame and wherein said sub-assembly may be stacked together with other such subassemblies to create an array of electrochemical cells; wherein said flow-frame is formed from an electrically insulating material and comprises at least four manifold-defining portions which also define pathways for the passage of the anolyte/catholyte. Such pathway may define a labyrinthine path which may be spiral in shape between the manifold and the chamber entry/exit port.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Regenesys Technologies LimitedInventors: Duncan Guy Clark, Stephen Hampden Joseph, Herbert Stephen Oates
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Patent number: 6497973Abstract: A system for generating and consuming borohydride ions comprising two electrochemical cells. At least one of the cells is configured for installation on a vehicle that is propelled by electricity.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1997Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Assignee: Millennium Cell, Inc.Inventor: Steven Amendola
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Patent number: 6495006Abstract: The present invention has an object of providing a bipolar type ion exchange electrolytic cell which is capable of minimizing the anode-cathode distance by a movable system which has a low electric resistance and which is simple and inexpensive, thereby to substantially reduce the electrolysis voltage.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2000Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Asahi Glass Company, LimitedInventors: Tatsuhito Kimura, Hajime Ishizaka, Kiyoshi Hachiya
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Patent number: 6464846Abstract: Electrically-conductive compression pad suitable for use in an electrolysis cell stack. In a preferred embodiment, the electrically-conductive compression pad comprises a single sheet of electrically-conductive material, such as a metal. The electrically-conductive sheet has a top surface and a bottom surface and is bent upwardly and downwardly in a step-wise fashion to form an alternating pattern of parallel ribs and channels, the alternating pattern extending across the entirety of the sheet and being reversed on the bottom surface of the sheet. The pad also comprises a plurality of elastomeric strips, each strip being positioned within a corresponding channel and being secured to the sheet by an adhesive. The strips are preferably dimensioned and made of an appropriately compressible material so that, when the pad is compressed, the strips expand laterally to fill their respective channels and lie flush with their adjacent ribs.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: Giner Electrochemical Systems, LLCInventor: William A. Titterington
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Patent number: 6395155Abstract: An electrolysis plate is described which consists of an outer non-conductive frame, particularly a frame having a fiber-reinforced cresol resin, an electrically conductive, bipolar graphite plate which is mounted therein and is preferably slotted on both sides, and, in the region of the electrolyte feed, has plastic skirts for the forced direction of the electrolyte solutions.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2000Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventors: Bernd Bressel, Hans-Joachim Kramann
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Publication number: 20020005362Abstract: A bipolar electrolytic cell can include, as a manifold, a spiral manifold assembly. This spiral manifold assembly will comprise a first outer assembly member, a second outer assembly member and a center assembly member. The overall structure can provide reduced loss of metal or gas and minimal loss of electrical current during an electrolytic process.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2001Publication date: January 17, 2002Applicant: ELTECH Systems CorporationInventors: Robert L. Wilhelm, William A. Nutter