Gas Withdrawal Patents (Class 204/266)
  • Publication number: 20100320082
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a conductive diamond electrode, comprising a substrate having a plurality of convex and concave part disposed over the entire surface of the conductive diamond electrode, and a diamond film coated on the surface of said substrate, wherein the width of each convex part of said convex and concave part is in a range from 0.2 mm to 1 mm. The present invention can provide a conductive diamond electrode, applying a thin film of conductive diamond and a thick substrate, being less expensive than a self-supported type conductive diamond electrode and also having mechanical strength enough to be used in the zero-gap electrolysis, functioning stably for a long time with smooth water supply or gas liberation, and an ozone generator using the conductive diamond electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: Chlorine Engineers Corp., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaaki Kato, Rie Kawaguchi
  • Publication number: 20100307913
    Abstract: The present invention provides a plating apparatus with multiple anode zones and cathode zones. The electrolyte flow field within each zone is controlled individually with independent flow control devices. A gas bubble collector whose surface is made into pleated channels is implemented for gas removal by collecting small bubbles, coalescing them, and releasing the residual gas. A buffer zone built within the gas bubble collector further allows unstable microscopic bubbles to dissolve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventors: Yue Ma, Xi Wang, Yunwen Huang, Zhenxu Pang, Voha Nuch, David Wang
  • Patent number: 7837842
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating hydrogen. The hydrogen generator includes a cylindrical body and two end plates defining a cavity therein. A plurality of elements are disposed within the cavity including an outer and inner gaskets, an outer and inner electrodes, and a proton exchange membrane. A bladder inflated within the cavity compresses the elements together and into firm contact with the inner wall of the body. A plurality of elongated bolts compresses the end plates against the ends of the cylindrical body. The hydrogen generator includes a water inlet port, an oxygen and water outlet port, and a hydrogen port extending. Connecting a DC voltage across the electrodes and pumping distilled water into the water inlet port produces hydrogen gas that can be used to fuel an internal combustion engine or a fuel cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Inventors: Fred T. Mayers, Sr., Fred T. Mayers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7833391
    Abstract: An apparatus for splitting water to produce hydrogen having at least one photoelectrochemical cell. The photoelectrochemical cell includes at least one water permeable photoelectrode having a light sensitive, nano-crystalline catalytic material layer, a polymer electrolyte membrane, a metallic substrate disposed between the light sensitive nano-crystalline catalytic material layer and the polymer electrolyte membrane adjacent to the polymer electrolyte membrane layer, and at least one photovoltaic device connected in series to the light sensitive nano-crystalline material layer and disposed between the light sensitive nano-crystalline catalytic material layer and the metallic substrate layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Gas Technology Institute
    Inventors: Qinbai Fan, William E. Liss
  • Patent number: 7833392
    Abstract: A chlorine dioxide solution generator includes a chlorine dioxide gas source. An eductor system is fluidly connected to the chlorine dioxide gas source for at least partially effecting the dissolution of chlorine dioxide gas into an aqueous liquid stream. An absorption system is fluidly connected to the eductor system that is capable of effecting additional dissolution of the chlorine dioxide gas into said aqueous liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Pureline Treatment Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Chenniah Nanjundiah, Larry L. Hawn, Jeffrey M. Dotson
  • Patent number: 7803259
    Abstract: The invention describes an electrochemical cell for the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of hydrogen chloride, comprising at least an anode half-cell with an anode, a cathode half-cell with a gas diffusion electrode as cathode and an ion exchange membrane arranged between the anode half-cell and the cathode half-cell, the membrane consisting of at least a perfluorosulfonic acid polymer, wherein the gas diffusion electrode and the ion exchange membrane are adjacent to each other, characterised in that the gas diffusion electrode and the ion exchange membrane, under a pressure of 250 g/cm2 and at a temperature of 60° C., have a contact area of at least 50%, with respect to the geometric area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Bayer MaterialScience AG
    Inventors: Fritz Gestermann, Hans-Dieter Pinter, Rainer Weber, Gerd Speer, Andreas Bulan
  • Patent number: 7794573
    Abstract: Systems and methods for electrochemically processing microfeature workpieces are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a system includes (a) a processing unit having a first flow system configured to convey a flow of a first processing fluid to a microfeature workpiece, (b) an electrode unit having an electrode and a second flow system configured to convey a flow of a second processing fluid at least proximate to the electrode, (c) a barrier between the processing unit and the electrode unit to separate the first and second processing fluids, and (d) a water balance unit for maintaining the concentration of water in the first processing fluid within a desired range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Klocke
  • Patent number: 7785450
    Abstract: Systems are described for the “on-site” production of substantial amounts of carbon dioxide and hydrogen. The systems include a stack of multiple electrochemical cells, which decompose organic carboxylated compounds into CO2 and H2 without leaving any residue. From a bench-top small generator, producing about 1 lb of CO2 per day to a large-scale generator producing 1 ton of CO2 per day, the process is essentially identical. Oxalic acid, either anhydrous or in its dihydrate form, is used to efficiently generate the gases. The energy required is less than 0.3 Kilowatt-hours per lb of CO2 generated. Individual cells operate at less than 1.2 volts at current densities in excess of 0.75 amps/cm2. CO2 production rates can be controlled either through voltage or current regulation. Metering is not required since the current sets the gas production rate. These systems can competitively replace conventional compressed CO2 gas cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Med-E-Cell
    Inventor: Henri J. R. Maget
  • Patent number: 7785451
    Abstract: The fast and convenient usage of clean and pure oxygen supply devices will meet the requirements of medical application and special environment safety issues. The electrochemical oxygen concentration is a device by using an electrochemical reactor of one electrode of oxygen reduction and another electrode of oxygen generation. The operation of electrochemical reactor can achieve the easy control of air oxygen from one side to another side of this thin mask structure and the materials, design and engineering of this electrochemical oxygen concentration is workable for medical application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Chang Gung University
    Inventors: Shioujenq Andrew Lin, Yingjeng James Li
  • Publication number: 20100213052
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention an electrolytic cell is provided comprising a containment vessel; a first electrode; a second electrode; a source of electrical current in electrical communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; an electrolyte in fluid communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; a gas, wherein the gas is formed during electrolysis at or near the first electrode; and a separator; wherein the separator includes an inclined surface to direct flow of the electrolyte and the gas due to a difference between density of the electrolyte and the combined density of the electrolyte and the gas such that the gas substantially flows in a direction distal to the second electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Roy E. McAlister
  • Publication number: 20100213076
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention an electrolytic cell is provided comprising: a containment vessel configured for pressurization; a first electrode; a second electrode; a source of electrical current in electrical communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; an electrolyte in fluid communication with the first electrode and the second electrode; a first gas, wherein the first gas is formed during electrolysis at or near the first electrode; a second gas, wherein the second gas is formed during electrolysis at or near the second electrode; a separator; a first gas collection vessel; and a second gas collection vessel, wherein the separator includes a first inclined surface to direct flow of the electrolyte and the first gas due to a difference between density of the electrolyte and combined density of the electrolyte and the first gas such that the gas substantially flows in a direction distal the second electrode and towards the first gas collection vessel, and wherein the separa
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Roy E. McAlister
  • Patent number: 7750234
    Abstract: An integrated photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell generates hydrogen and oxygen from water while being illuminated with radiation. The PEC cell employs a liquid electrolyte, a multi-junction photovoltaic electrode, and a thin ion-exchange membrane. A PEC system and a method of making such PEC cell and PEC system are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: The University Of Toledo
    Inventors: Xunming Deng, Liwei Xu
  • Patent number: 7744733
    Abstract: A system to vent a moist gas stream is disclosed. The system includes an enclosure and an electrochemical cell disposed within the enclosure, the electrochemical cell productive of the moist gas stream. A first vent is in fluid communication with the electrochemical cell for venting the moist gas stream to an exterior of the enclosure, and a second vent is in fluid communication with an interior of the enclosure and in thermal communication with the first vent for discharging heated air to the exterior of the enclosure. At least a portion of the discharging heated air is for preventing freezing of the moist gas stream within the first vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Amjad Khan, Ken Wayne Dreier, Lawrence Clinton Moulthrop, Erik James White
  • Patent number: 7740749
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrolytic cell that is completely sealed during the electrolysis operation during production of oxidant. Gasses generated within the electrolysis operation, primarily hydrogen that is liberated at the cathode surface, increase the pressure within the cell, and the gas pressure is ultimately utilized to expel the oxidant from the cell chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: MIOX Corporation
    Inventors: Rodney E. Herrington, Greg C. Mich, Kevin Schwarz
  • Publication number: 20100116680
    Abstract: An electrically driven oxygen separation assembly and method for applying an electrical potential in which the assembly has one or more tubular membrane elements. The potential is applied at two central spaced locations of a tubular membrane element and at least at opposite end locations thereof. As a result the electric current flow through the tubular membrane element is divided into two parts flowing between the two central spaced locations and the opposite end locations. Additionally, the present invention also provides an end seal to be used in connection with tubular membrane elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: David M. Reed, David Frisbee Suggs, Michael J. Collins, Richard Martin Kelly, Gervase Maxwell Christie
  • Publication number: 20100108536
    Abstract: An electrochemical actuator system includes a membrane electrode assembly coupled to a source of electrical energy. The membrane electrode assembly includes a proton-exchange membrane disposed between a first electrode and a second electrode. A first chamber is located on a first side of the membrane electrode assembly and is configured to hold a gas generated by applying electrical energy to the first electrode of the membrane electrode assembly. The membrane electrode assembly and the first chamber are sealed to inhibit fluid communication with the surrounding ambient environment. The chamber includes a diaphragm deformable in response to a change in an amount of the gas in the first chamber. A deformation of the diaphragm in response to the change in the amount of the gas in the first chamber causes a movement of an actuating member coupled to the diaphragm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Applicant: MTI MICRO FUEL CELLS, INC.
    Inventors: Charles M. CARLSTROM, JR., David H. LEACH
  • Patent number: 7709113
    Abstract: Systems and processes for producing hydrogen using bacteria are described. One detailed process for producing hydrogen uses a system for producing hydrogen as described herein, the system including a reactor. Anodophilic bacteria are disposed within the interior of the reactor and an organic material oxidizable by an oxidizing activity of the anodophilic bacteria is introduced and incubated under oxidizing reactions conditions such that electrons are produced and transferred to the anode. A power source is activated to increase a potential between the anode and the cathode, such that electrons and protons combine to produce hydrogen gas. In one system for producing hydrogen is provided which includes a reaction chamber having a wall defining an interior of the reactor and an exterior of the reaction chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignees: The Penn State Research Foundation, Ion Power, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Logan, Stephen Grot, Thomas E. Mallouk, Hong Liu
  • Patent number: 7704355
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Industrie De Nora S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giovanni Meneghini
  • Patent number: 7704627
    Abstract: Electrolysis cell comprises, in one embodiment, a proton exchange membrane (PEM), an anode positioned along one face of the PEM, and a cathode positioned along the other face of the PEM. An electrically-conductive, compressible, spring-like, porous pad for defining a fluid cavity is placed in contact with the outer face of the cathode. The porous pad comprises a mat of carbon fibers bound together with one or more, preferably thermoplastic, resins, the mat having a density of about 0.2-1.5 g/cm3. Cell frames are placed in peripheral contact with the metal screen and the compression pad for peripherally containing fluids present therewithin. Electrically-conductive separators are placed in contact with the metal screen and the compression pad for axially containing fluids present therewithin. A plurality of the cells may be arranged in series in a bipolar configuration without requiring a separate compression pad between cells (for gas pressure differentials up to about 400 psi or greater).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Giner Electrochemical Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Anthony B. LaConti, William A. Titterington, Larry L. Swette, Ricardo Leon, Kwang S. Kim
  • Publication number: 20100038257
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for electrolysis-based generation of hydrogen and oxygen to enhance combustion. A hydrogen generating apparatus comprises an electrolysis cell, the electrolysis cell electrically connected to a power source, an outlet for directing effluent gases from the electrolysis cell, and a scrubber for using a scrubbing medium to remove contaminants from the effluent gas flow. In another option, a first mesh electrode may be situated within the electrolysis cell and electrically connected to a power source, a second mesh electrode may be situated within the electrolysis cell and electrically connected to the power source, and a membrane may be situated between the first mesh electrode and the second mesh electrode which may be immersed within the aqueous solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Chester Sohn
  • Patent number: 7658823
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrochemical gas generator including a substrate for providing a surface for electrode deposition, a first electrode deposited on the surface for providing an electrical connection with a conducting medium, a second electrode deposited on the substrate for generating a gas, and a plurality of members extending from at least one side of the first electrode placed alternately with a plurality of extensions protruding from at least one side of the second electrode for improving generator efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: PerkinElmer LAS, Inc.
    Inventors: Avinash Dalmia, Otto J. Prohaska
  • Patent number: 7641868
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cell for generating sterilized water in which lead wires having cathode and anode are alternately wound on a body in the horizontal direction, the cell is disposed in plural in the vertical direction to the flow of water by a given distance so that a plasma reaction is generated between both lead wires wound on the cell in the linear direction along the lead wires thereby increasing reaction efficiency per surface area of the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Gwang Woo Jang
  • Patent number: 7638021
    Abstract: Apparatus for generating gas by electrolysis of a liquid comprises an electrolysis cell, and first, second and third chambers. Liquid for supply to the electrolysis cell is stored in the first chamber. The second chamber contains liquid which is a product of the electrolysis reaction and is enriched with a first gaseous product of the electrolysis reaction, and has an outlet for controlled release of the first gaseous product. The third chamber contains liquid which is a product of the electrolysis reaction and is enriched with a second gaseous product of the electrolysis reaction, and has an outlet for controlled release of the third gaseous product. A first channel which connects the first and second chambers, and a second channel which connects the second and third chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Domnick Hunter Limited
    Inventors: Craig Stuart Blenkiron, David John Ian Rowntree, Keith James Blundy
  • Patent number: 7632338
    Abstract: A fuel stabilization unit includes an electrochemical device for promoting the formation of water utilizing oxygen from a fuel stream for generating an oxygen partial pressure differential across an oxygen permeable membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Ned E. Cipollini
  • Patent number: 7619183
    Abstract: A cooking appliance comprising an electrolyzer which produces a combustible fuel, a burner downstream from the electrolyzer, and, an electrically heatable cooking surface on which food is receivable for cooking, the electrically heatable cooking surface being operable simultaneously with the electrolyzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Cropley Holdings Ltd.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
  • Publication number: 20090272645
    Abstract: A gas diffusion layer with a micro protective layer is utilized in the electrochemical cells. The cell mainly includes end plates, current collectors, flow field plates, gas diffusion layers, catalyst layers, a proton exchange membrane and a circuit unit. When the cell functions as a fuel cell, hydrogen reacts with oxygen to generate electricity and water. Reversely, when the cell functions as a water electrolysis cell, water was decomposed electrolytically to produce hydrogen and oxygen gases. In this manner, the present invention particularly has the gas diffusion layer to be coated with a micro protective layer so as to prevent the gas diffusion layer from being corroded by active oxygen species generated within the oxygen electrode under the catalysis during water electrolysis operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: Wen-Hui Yang, Fu-Chen Kuo, Chao-Yang Liu, Chi-Chia Fan
  • Publication number: 20090266710
    Abstract: A hydrogen-oxygen fuel supplying system includes a water hydrolyzing apparatus, a heat dissipation apparatus connected to the water hydrolyzing apparatus, a filter connected to the water hydrolyzing apparatus, a supercharger connected to the filter, a hydrogen-oxygen container connected to the filter, and a pressure adjusting means connected to the hydrogen-oxygen container. The water hydrolyzing apparatus is used to hydrolyze water thereby producing a mixture gas of hydrogen, oxygen, and water vapor. The heat dissipation apparatus is used to dissipate heat generated in the water hydrolyzing apparatus. The filter is used to filter water vapor in the mixture gas. The supercharger is used to compress the hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen-oxygen container is used to store the hydrogen and oxygen. The pressure adjusting means is used to regulate an output of the hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen-oxygen fuel supplying system can reduce pollution of air and environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Kuo-Fong HUANG
  • Publication number: 20090255826
    Abstract: A membrane for use with an electrochemical apparatus is provided. The electrochemical apparatus may include a fuel cell or electrolyzer, for example, an electrolyzer adapted to produce hydrogen. The membrane comprises a fabric made from a synthetic fiber such as nylon where the nylon, in an exemplary embodiment, is woven into ripstop nylon fabric. The electrochemical apparatus is constructed with frames comprising high-density polyethylene (HDPE) which provide support and structure to the membranes as well as to internal electrodes. A method of making an electrochemical apparatus, such as an electrolyzer, containing a membrane comprising ripstop nylon is also disclosed, as is a method for producing hydrogen gas with an electrolyzer containing a membrane comprising ripstop nylon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher M. McWhinney, David C. Erbaugh
  • Patent number: 7591932
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Hydrogen Technologies
    Inventors: Marko Ramisch, Pietro d'Erasmo
  • Patent number: 7578911
    Abstract: This invention seeks an alternative source of fueling technology to obtain power for an auto engine, by combining technology and chemical electrolysis of water. The major component would be using an apparatus as a device called electrolysis, a device that can break up water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen being used as the source of energy or fuel, while the end product water vapor would be recycled to combined with oxygen and atmospheric air to re-form water. This water would be recycled to be re-used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Christian Osita Nweke
  • Patent number: 7566387
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus for producing ozone by electrolysis of water. The apparatus comprises a pair of frames facing each other, and an anode and a cathode oppositely arranged between the two pieces of frames. Between the anode and the cathode is provided a solid polymer electrolyte membrane for transferring hydrogen ions formed during electrolysis. In addition, an auxiliary electrode is provided between the cathode and the solid polymer electrolyte membrane such that a scale can be formed on the surface of the auxiliary electrode. A spacer 60 is inserted between the anode and the cathode. Tap water as well as pure water and cation-exchanged water can be used as a raw material water to produce high-concentration ozone water. A uniformity of pressure between the electrodes and the solid polymer electrolyte membrane can be achieved, thereby providing for a stable operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: R to R, Inc.
    Inventors: Sang Seon Nam, Hyeok Choi
  • Patent number: 7559978
    Abstract: A system for gas-liquid separation in electrolysis processes is provided. The system includes a first compartment having a liquid carrier including a first gas therein and a second compartment having the liquid carrier including a second gas therein. The system also includes a gas-liquid separator fluidically coupled to the first and second compartments for separating the liquid carrier from the first and second gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Grigorii Lev Soloveichik, David Brandon Whitt
  • Publication number: 20090176180
    Abstract: Apparatus and operating methods are provided for controlled atmosphere furnace systems. In one possible embodiment, hydrogen is injected from a hydrogen source to an enclosure. The hydrogen is circulated within the enclosure from a gas inlet to a gas outlet. A temperature is raised within the enclosure to a predetermined threshold. Hydrogen is pumped from the gas outlet to the gas inlet with an electrochemical hydrogen pump. The electrochemical hydrogen pump has a first electrode in fluid communication with the gas outlet, and a second electrode in fluid communication with the gas inlet. An electrical potential is provided between the first and second electrodes, wherein the first electrode has a higher electrical potential with respect to zero than the second electrode. Various methods, features and system configurations are discussed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: H2 PUMP LLC
    Inventor: Glenn A. Eisman
  • Patent number: 7550113
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for an a system for maintaining hydrogen purity in an electrical power generator. The purity system includes: a generator, a hydrogen generator configured to provide hydrogen gas to the generator, a purity monitor for detecting the level of hydrogen purity in the generator and providing a signal when the purity drops below a predetermined threshold. The system automatically compensates for gas loss or contamination to maintain the desired level of efficiency in the electrical generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: A. John Speranza, Luisa Gudino
  • Patent number: 7517440
    Abstract: A method of pumping fluid including the steps of providing an electrokinetic pump comprising a pair of double-layer capacitive electrodes having a capacitance of at least 10?2 Farads/cm2 and being connectable to a power source, a porous dielectric material disposed between the electrodes and a reservoir containing pump fluid; connecting the electrodes to a power source; and moving pump fluid out of the reservoir substantially without the occurrence of Faradaic processes in the pump. The invention also includes an electrokinetic pump system having a pair of double-layer capacitive electrodes having a capacitance of at least 10?2 Farads/cm2; a porous dielectric material disposed between the electrodes; a reservoir containing pump fluid; and a power source connected to the electrodes; the electrodes, dielectric material and power source being adapted to move the pump fluid out of the reservoir substantially without the occurrence of Faradaic processes in the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Eksigent Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Deon S. Anex, Phillip H. Paul, David W. Neyer, Edwin J. Hlavka
  • Publication number: 20090078568
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to an on-demand hydrogen gas generation device, suitable for use in a fuel cell, which utilizes water electrolysis, and more particularly galvanic cell corrosion, and/or a chemical hydride reaction, to produce hydrogen gas. The present disclosure additionally relates to such a device that comprises a switching mechanism that has an electrical current passing therethrough and that repeatedly and reversibly moves between a first position and a second position when exposed to pressure differential resulting from hydrogen gas generation, in order to (1) alter the rate at which hydrogen gas is generated, such that hydrogen gas is generated on an as-needed basis for a fuel cell connected thereto, and/or (2) ensure a substantially constant flow of hydrogen gas is released therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: ROVCAL, INC.
    Inventors: Karthik Ramaswami, Zhihong Jin, Erik Mortensen, Gregory J. Davidson, Mario DeStephen, Joseph L. Passaniti, Jon Luecke, Jamie L. Ostroha, Tony Rubsam, Juergen Scherer, Viet Vu, William C. Bushong
  • Patent number: 7504015
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for producing elementary oxygen or for increasing the concentration thereof in the inhaled air of a user. According to the invention, water is split into hydrogen and elementary oxygen by means of electrical energy (electrolysis), the elementary oxygen is mixed with the inhaled air, and the hydrogen is mixed with the surrounding air in order to be converted back into water (fuel reaction). The splitting of the water into hydrogen and elementary oxygen and the conversion of the hydrogen and surrounding air into water take place simultaneously and continuously, forming a reaction circuit, and are coupled to each other, the electrical energy produced during the conversion being used to reduce the energy demand for the splitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventors: Karl-Heinz Hecker, Stefan Fiedler, Rudolf Schinagl
  • Patent number: 7491453
    Abstract: Systems and processes for producing hydrogen using bacteria are described. One detailed process for producing hydrogen uses a system for producing hydrogen as described herein, the system including a reactor. Anodophilic bacteria are disposed within the interior of the reactor and an organic material oxidizable by an oxidizing activity of the anodophilic bacteria is introduced and incubated under oxidizing reactions conditions such that electrons are produced and transferred to the anode. A power source is activated to increase a potential between the anode and the cathode, such that electrons and protons combine to produce hydrogen gas. One system for producing hydrogen includes a reaction chamber having a wall defining an interior of the reactor and an exterior of the reaction chamber. An anode is provided which is at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber and a cathode is also provided which is at least partially contained within the interior of the reaction chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignees: The Penn State Research Foundation, Ion Power, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Logan, Stephen Grot, Thomas E. Mallouk, Hong Liu
  • Patent number: 7491309
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a system and a method for the production of hydrogen. The system advantageously combines an independent high temperature heat source with a solid oxide electrolyzer cell and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is used to extract heat from the molecular components such as hydrogen derived from the electrolysis. A portion of the hydrogen generated in the solid oxide electrolyzer cell is recombined with steam and recycled to the solid oxide electrolyzer cell. The oxygen generated on the anode side is swept with compressed air and used to drive a gas turbine that is in operative communication with a generator. Electricity generated by the generator is used to drive the electrolysis in the solid oxide electrolyzer cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Andrew Maxwell Peter, Chellappa Balan, James Anthony Ruud, Stephane Renou, Kenneth Walter Browall
  • Patent number: 7488409
    Abstract: Animal waste is contacted with an electrolyte containing the oxidized form of one or more reversible redox couples, produced electrochemically by anodic oxidation at the anode of an electrochemical cell. The oxidized forms of any other redox couples present are produced either by similar anodic oxidation or reaction with the oxidized form of other redox couples present and capable of affecting the required redox reaction. The oxidized species of the redox couples oxidize the organic waste molecules and are themselves converted to their reduced form, whereupon they are reoxidized by either of the aforementioned mechanisms. The redox cycle continues until all oxidizable waste species, including intermediate reaction products, have undergone the desired degree of oxidation. The entire process takes place between zero degrees centigrade and slightly below the boiling point of the electrolyte, avoiding formation of either dioxins or furans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Scimist, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger W. Carson, Bruce W. Bremer
  • Patent number: 7485211
    Abstract: An electro-catalyst for the oxidation of ammonia in alkaline media; the electrocatalyst being a noble metal co-deposited on a support with one or more other metals that are active to ammonia oxidation. In some embodiments, the support is platinum, gold, tantalum, or iridium. In some embodiments, the support has a layer of Raney metal deposited thereon prior to the deposition of the catalyst. Also provided are electrodes having the electro-catalyst deposited thereon, ammonia electrolytic cells, ammonia fuel cells, ammonia sensors, and a method for removing ammonia contaminants from a contaminated effluent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Ohio University
    Inventors: Gerardine G. Botte, Frederic Vitse, Matt Cooper
  • Patent number: 7481914
    Abstract: A photoelectrolysis cell is described herein. The cell includes a photoelectrode based on a material having the general formula (Ln1?xMx)(Nb1?yTay)O1+xN2?x. Ln is at least one lanthanide element; M is at least one alkaline earth metal; 0?x?0.99; and 0?y?1. The photoelectrolysis cell further includes a counter-electrode formed from at least one metal or metallic alloy. An electrolyte which is in contact with both the photoelectrode and the counter-electrode is another component of the cell, along with a means for collecting hydrogen produced by the cell. A related process for producing hydrogen in a photoelectrolysis cell is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas Francis McNulty, Anant Achyut Setlur
  • Publication number: 20090008261
    Abstract: An oxygen generator for an oxygen-generation apparatus has a proton-conducting membrane (60), a cathode (50) contacting a first side, or cathodic side, of the membrane, an anode (70) contacting a second side, or anodic side, of the membrane, and a source of water for supply to the membrane. In use, an electrolysis voltage applied between the cathode and the anode causes electrolysis of the water to generate oxygen gas at the anode. Atmospheric oxygen, i.e. oxygen in the air, is substantially prevented from coming into contact with the cathode. For an acidic proton-conducting membrane this substantially prevents the formation of hydrogen peroxide at the cathode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Cambridge Enterprise Limited
    Inventors: Vega Petrova Kotzeva, Derek John Fray
  • Patent number: 7396442
    Abstract: An ionically conductive ceramic element includes a central unit (703). The central unit (703) is composed of a plurality of integrated manifold and tube modules (IMAT) (22) joined end to end along a central axis (A). Each IMAT module (22) has a tube support portion (804) and a plurality of tubes (802) extending from the first surface (803). The tubes (802) each have a closed end (805) and an open end. The second surface (807) is at least partially open to the atmosphere. The open ends of the tubes (802) are open to the atmosphere through the second surface (807). An interior space (830) is formed in the interior of the IMAT (22) for collecting a desired product gas. A collection tube (710) is operable joined with a first end (714) of the central unit (703) for transporting the desired product gas collected in the interior space (730) of the connected IMAT modules (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Carleton Life Support Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad M. Bagby, Scott H. Harvey
  • Patent number: 7387719
    Abstract: Mediated electrochemical oxidation to treats, oxidizes and destroys biological waste, medical, infectious, pathological, animal, sanitary, mortuary, ship, veterinary, pharmaceutical and combined waste. Electrolytes contain oxidized forms of reversible redox couples produced. Oxidized forms of redox couples are produced by anodic oxidation or reaction with oxidized forms of other redox couples. Oxidized species of the redox couples oxidize the biological waste molecules and are reduced and reoxidized. The redox cycle continues until all oxidizable waste and intermediate reaction products have undergone oxidation. Temperatures between ambient and 100° C. avoid formation of dioxins or furans.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Scimist, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger W. Carson, Bruce W. Bremer
  • Publication number: 20080090125
    Abstract: A hydrogen supply system is provided which can supply hydrogen easily to a hydrogen storing means, can generate a gas containing hydrogen at a low temperature and uses a hydrogen generating device which does not require a large quantity of electric energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Applicant: GS YUASA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ryoichi Okuyama, Yoshihiro Yamamoto, Masashi Motoi, Katsuji Ashida
  • Patent number: 7357102
    Abstract: A system includes: an electrolytic cell for electrolytically converting water into a oxyhydrogen gas, the electrolytic cell having a gas outlet port; a fuel tank defining a fuel chamber therein and adapted to store hydrocarbon fuel in the fuel chamber in such a manner that the fuel chamber is divided by a body of the hydrocarbon fuel in the fuel tank into a liquid fuel-filled portion and a liquid fuel-free portion above the liquid fuel-filled portion, the fuel tank having upper and lower inlet ports; and a gas distributing unit including a control valve connected to the gas outlet port of the electrolytic cell and the upper and lower inlet ports of the fuel tank so as to direct first and second streams of the oxyhydrogen gas into the liquid fuel-free portion and the liquid fuel-filled portion of the fuel chamber, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Lin
  • Patent number: 7351314
    Abstract: Chambers, systems, and methods for electrochemically processing microfeature workpieces are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an electrochemical deposition chamber includes a processing unit having a first flow system configured to convey a flow of a first processing fluid to a microfeature workpiece. The chamber further includes an electrode unit having an electrode and a second flow system configured to convey a flow of a second processing fluid at least proximate to the electrode. The chamber further includes a nonporous barrier between the processing unit and the electrode unit to separate the first and second processing fluids. The nonporous barrier is configured to allow cations or anions to flow through the barrier between the first and second processing fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventors: John Klocke, Kyle M Hanson
  • Patent number: 7351317
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: 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
  • Patent number: 7351315
    Abstract: Chambers, systems, and methods for electrochemically processing microfeature workpieces are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an electrochemical deposition chamber includes a processing unit having a first flow system configured to convey a flow of a first processing fluid to a microfeature workpiece. The chamber further includes an electrode unit having a plurality of electrodes and a second flow system configured to convey a flow of a second processing fluid at least proximate to the electrodes. The chamber further includes a barrier between the processing unit and the electrode unit to separate the first and second processing fluids. The barrier can be a porous, permeable barrier or a nonporous, semipermeable barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventors: John Klocke, Kyle M Hanson