Concentrically Arranged Electrodes Patents (Class 204/272)
  • Patent number: 10870140
    Abstract: A guide system for use in electro-processing a bore of a gun barrel includes a non-conductive external bore guide and a non-conductive internal bore guide. The external bore guide is an adapter that is configured to removably engage the outside of the gun barrel and includes a conduit formed therein. The conduit is disposed such that it is axially aligned with a bore of the gun barrel when the external bore guide is engaged with the gun barrel. The internal bore guide is elongated and includes an axial recess that is sized to seat an electro-processing electrode (an anode). A method for uniformly plating the bore includes moving an anode through the gun barrel at one or more rate(s) of travel to uniformly plate the bore is also disclosed. The plating is sufficiently uniform to conform to military specifications. The systems, methods, support structures, etc. described herein are particularly well-suited to plating small-bore gun barrels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: Government of the United States, as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: John D. Pingilley, Amanda L. Badger, Dale A. Phipps
  • Patent number: 10752524
    Abstract: A metal ion generator for fluids includes a pipe having an insertion aperture positioned between the fluid inlet and fluid exit, and a conductive member configured to be removably secured in the insertion aperture. The conductive member includes a rigid non-conductive extension and a metal bar. When secured in the insertion aperture, the rigid non-conductive extension positions the metal bar into the direct flow of fluid between the fluid inlet and the fluid exit. A power source applies a voltage to the conductive member causing the metal bar to function as an anode and generate metal ions that are transferred into the fluid. The power supply also connects to a cathode such as the pipe or a second conductive member secured in the insertion aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: Mark K. Page
  • Patent number: 10738387
    Abstract: An electrochemical cell 10 is provided that includes first and second electrodes 13, 15, an electrolyte medium 17 in electrolytic communication with the first and second electrodes 13, 15, a chemical substance capable of undergoing an electrochemical reaction, and a voltage source 19 in electrolytic communication with the first and second electrodes 13, 15. The first electrode 13 includes a layer of an active catalyst material 25, and graphene coating 27 at least partially covering the layer of the active catalyst material 25. Methods for making and using the graphene coated electrode are further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: Ohio University
    Inventors: Gerardine G. Botte, Santosh Vijapur
  • Patent number: 10260000
    Abstract: A method of preparing a solution capable of etching a platable plastic. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing an electrolyte comprising a solution of manganese(II) in a solution of 9 to 15 molar sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid to an electrolytic cell; (b) applying a current to the electrolytic cell, wherein the electrolytic cell comprises an anode and a cathode; and (c) oxidizing the electrolyte to form manganese(III) ions, wherein the manganese(III) ions form a metastable sulfate complex. Thereafter, a platable plastic may be immersed in the metastable sulfate complex for a period of time to etch the platable substrate prior to subsequent plating steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: MacDermid Acumen, Inc.
    Inventors: Trevor Pearson, Craig Robinson
  • Patent number: 9957170
    Abstract: A water treatment device generates a bubble in water to be treated inside a treatment tank, and treats the water to be treated through use of radicals that are generated by bubble electric discharge caused via the bubble. The water treatment device includes main electrodes for forming a main discharge area between a first main electrode and a second main electrode, auxiliary electrodes for forming a preliminary discharge area between a first auxiliary electrode and a second auxiliary electrode, and a bubble generator generating a bubble in water to be treated through use of an externally supplied gas. When a bubble generated by the bubble generator passes through the preliminary discharge area, discharge is caused via the bubble, and, when the bubble in an excited state subsequently passes through the main discharge area, the bubble causes discharge again to generate radicals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Nakamura, Yasutaka Inanaga, Akira Morikawa, Tokiko Yamauchi, Takao Tsurimoto, Hirotaka Muto, Gaku Oinuma, Masakazu Taki
  • Patent number: 9945045
    Abstract: An electrochemical deposition apparatus and methods of using the same are provided herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Ashwin-Ushas Corporation, Inc.
    Inventors: Prasanna Chandrasekhar, Brian J. Zay, Richard Modes, Sr., Anthony LaRosa, Kyle Hobin
  • Patent number: 9540740
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing an ammonium peroxodisulphate or an alkali-metal peroxodisulphate, to an undivided electrolytic cell constructed from individual components and to an electrolytic apparatus constructed from a plurality of electrolytic cells of this type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: UNITED INITIATORS GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Michael Müller, Patrick Keller, Markus Schiermeier
  • Patent number: 9487875
    Abstract: An electrolyzer device comprises a container configured to receive liquid to be electrolyzed; an anode arranged in the container and operatively connected to a power supply; a cathode arranged in the container so as to surround at least a portion of the anode and operatively connected to the power supply; a first pipe in liquid connection with the container, the first pipe including an intake port arranged in the vicinity of the cathode relative to the anode; and a second pipe in liquid connection with the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: OSAKA ELECTRO-COMMUNICATION UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Koichi Umimoto, Shunji Nagata
  • Patent number: 9217203
    Abstract: A hydrogen generating device comprising an anode, a cathode, a housing having an internal cavity and a perforated wall within the cavity electrically connected to the anode or the cathode and separating an end portion of the cavity from a main portion of the cavity. The device includes water in the housing extending continuously from the main portion of the cavity through the perforated wall and into the end portion of the cavity. The housing includes two ends and a perforated wall within the cavity near each end separating end portions of the cavity from a main portion of the cavity, the anode or the cathode extending through one end of the housing through one perforated wall into the main portion of the cavity, through the other perforated wall into the other end portion of the cavity and through the other end of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Inventor: Scott Gotheil-Yelle
  • Patent number: 9146578
    Abstract: Provided is a coating apparatus that suppresses the phenomenon in which a semisolid film is retained on the upper-end edge portion of the coating bath even after the circulation of the coating liquid is resumed, resulting in the occurrence of coating defects, and a method for producing an electrophotographic photosensitive member using the coating apparatus. The upper-end portion of the coating bath includes a first upper-end surface, a second upper-end surface that is positioned below the first upper-end surface and has an outer diameter larger than that of the first upper-end surface, and a step surface that interconnects the first upper-end surface and the second upper-end surface. The coating liquid is capable of overflowing from the coating bath, flowing along the second upper-end surface, and flowing while wetting the whole area of the step surface when the circulation is resumed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akira Shimada, Shoji Kawase
  • Patent number: 9099297
    Abstract: An electrochemical processor may include a head having a rotor configured to hold a workpiece, with the head moveable to position the rotor in a vessel. Inner and outer anodes are in inner and outer anolyte chambers within the vessel. An upper cup in the vessel, has a curved upper surface and inner and outer catholyte chambers. A current thief is located adjacent to the curved upper surface. Annular slots in the curved upper curved surface connect into passageways, such as tubes, leading into the outer catholyte chamber. Membranes may separate the inner and outer anolyte chambers from the inner and outer catholyte chambers, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: APPLIED Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory J. Wilson, Paul R. McHugh
  • Publication number: 20150144499
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrochemical cell, particularly useful in electrochemical processes carried out with periodic reversal of polarity. The cell is equipped with concentric pairs of electrodes arranged in such a way that, in each stage of the process, the cathodic area is equal to the anodic area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Mariachiara Benedetto
  • Publication number: 20150122741
    Abstract: A system for treating wastewater is disclosed that includes an array of interconnected reactor tubes. Each reactor tube comprises an outer cathode and an inner anode. The inner anode is positioned within the outer cathode. A voltage differential is applied across the inner anodes and the outer cathodes as wastewater flows between the inner anodes and outer cathodes. As the wastewater flows through the reactor tubes, the water is treated. The voltage differential can cause contaminants in the wastewater to flocculate. The flocculated contaminants can then be removed from the wastewater. The voltage differential can also generate chlorine based elements that treat the water removing ammonia and controlling microorganisms. The inner anode and the outer cathode can comprise mixed metal oxide materials or non-donating conductive materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: ORIGINOIL, INC.
    Inventors: Nicholas Eckelberry, William Charneski, Andrew Davies
  • Patent number: 9023184
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electric device for producing deionized water comprising: desalting chamber (4) defined by at least two ion-exchange membranes (1, 2) and filled with an ion exchanger; first concentration chamber (5a) positioned adjacent to one side of the desalting chamber with one of the ion-exchange membranes therebetween; second concentration chamber (5b) positioned adjacent to the other side of the desalting chamber with another of the ion-exchange membranes therebetween; and a pair of electrode chambers (6a, 6b) with one electrode chamber being disposed at the outer side of first concentration chamber (5a) and the other electrode chamber being disposed at the outer side of second concentration chamber (5b), wherein the electric device for producing deionized water is provided with: main body part (20) formed to include desalting chamber (4), concentration chambers (5a, 5b), and electrode chambers (6a, 6b); a pair of fixing plates (9a, 9b) disposed in such a way that main body part (20)
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Organo Corporation
    Inventors: Kyosuke Yamada, Chika Kemmochi, Shinichi Ohashi
  • Publication number: 20150114832
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electrolytic device and apparatus comprising the same, where the electrolytic device includes a means for generating a first gas stream that is enriched with a first gas. In particular, the electrolytic device of the invention comprises a first tubular electrode and a second tubular electrode that is coaxially located within the first tubular electrode. The second tubular electrode comprises a plurality of orifices that is adapted to producing a first gas stream that is enriched with a first gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Gary Nicholson, Darrel Vance Smith, Domanique Nicholson Leonowicz
  • Patent number: 8986519
    Abstract: An electrowinning apparatus and method are provided. The electrowinning apparatus includes: an electrolytic cell including a body portion which has an inlet for introducing an aqueous solution containing metal ions into the body portion and a conical portion which is gradually reduced in diameter from top to bottom and disposed under the body portion; a ring-shaped cathode coupled to an inner circumferential surface of the body portion of the electrolytic cell and having an entrance hole which extends from an outer circumferential surface of the cathode through to an inner circumferential surface of the cathode and is connected to the inlet of the electrolytic cell; and a hollow anode having an upper end disposed outside the electrolytic cell and inserted into the cathode. In the electrowinning method, a metal can be recovered from an aqueous solution containing a low concentration of metal ions using the above cyclone-shaped electrowinning apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM)
    Inventors: Soo-Kyung Kim, Jae-Chun Lee, Jin-Ki Jeong, Jeong-Soo Sohn, Young Min Oh
  • Patent number: 8945353
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for electrolytically treating water which can include the influent inlet arrangements for cavitation and one or more pairs of electrodes. The electrodes can be suitable for a continuous anodic and cathodic operation for treating water. The pressurized influent premixed with oxidant gas, such as, but not limited to, Ozone or Oxygen can be pumped into the reactor vessel through the mixing nozzles preferably arranged radially along the circumference. A power source for each reactor provides voltage and current to the electrodes. The controller maintains the voltage and current to the electrode. The duration of each voltage polarity applied to each electrode can be preferably the same. The polarity of the voltage to the electrode can be periodically reversed at a set interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Global Water-Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Fraim, Sanjeev Jakhete
  • Publication number: 20150014183
    Abstract: A support device for carrying a selectively permeable membrane is disclosed along with apparatuses and methods of removing long chain hydrocarbons from a stream of gas. The gas cleaning apparatus uses, individually or in combination, plasma, catalyst and electrodes containing catalysts to perform the cleaning of the gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Galip Akay, Wail S. S. Al-Harrasi, Ahmed M. A. El-Naggar, Abdulaziz H. Mohamed, Kui Zhang
  • Patent number: 8932439
    Abstract: The present invention includes an electrolytic bath with increased contact specific surface area configured to effectively electrodeposit valuable metals from waste water, wherein the specific surface area of an electrode contacting the waste water is maximized to increase electrolysis efficiency, and electrolysis space is increased to enable effective electrodeposition and recovery of valuable metals from low-concentration waste water. The electrolytic bath comprises: a housing having an inlet, outlet, gas discharge hole, and inner space; an anode group comprising a plurality of anodes installed in the inner space; a cathode group installed between the anodes to form two electrolysis spaces, and cathode wire threads placed on one side of each electrolysis spaces. As waste water flows through the inlet and electrolysis spaces and then is discharged through the outlet, metal is electrodeposited onto the cathode group and gas is discharged through the gas discharge hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Inventor: Sangyoup Suk
  • Patent number: 8932441
    Abstract: A system adapted to generate hydrogen and oxygen for use in hydrogen-based fuel cells is described. The system includes a power source, a first conducting element connected to a positive terminal of the power source, a second conducting element connect to a negative terminal of the power source, and a conducting medium adapted to electrically connect the first conducting element to the second conducting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Inventor: Jeffrey Hines
  • Patent number: 8877020
    Abstract: An anode pipe includes a main pipe portion and a secondary pipe portion. The anode pipe has an inner circumferential surface that functions as an anode. The main pipe portion has a first connection end portion and a second connection end portion. The main pipe portion forms a flow channel for a treatment liquid that continues from the first connection end portion to the second connection end portion. The secondary pipe portion extends in a tubular fashion from the intermediate section of the main pipe portion. The interior of the secondary pipe portion communicates with the flow channel inside the main pipe portion. The cathode is disposed at a distance from the inner circumferential surface of the anode pipe. The cathode extends from a cathode attachment end portion toward the main pipe portion inside the secondary pipe portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: C. Uyemura & Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hisamitsu Yamamoto, Masayuki Utsumi, Yoshikazu Saijo, Tomoji Okuda, Hiroki Omura
  • Patent number: 8795535
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for separating minerals in drilling fluid based primarily on density. The separator creates and maintains a slurry with a controllable density for separating minerals from drill cuttings. The density is controlled through the use of an electrode array. The separator comprises a housing have a fluid inlet for the fluid mixture, at least one rotating disk having an electrode array positioned inside the housing to suspend a first material of the fluid mixture, and a mechanism configured to rotate the disk. A second and third material is separated from the fluid via use of the suspended first material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventor: Thomas R. Larson
  • Patent number: 8668814
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: McAlister Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Patent number: 8668818
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a new method of mass-transfer/fabrication of micro-sized features/structures onto the inner diameter (ID) surface of a stent. This new approach is provided by technique of through mask electrical micro-machining. One embodiment discloses an application of electrical micro-machining to the ID of a stent using a customized electrode configured specifically for machining micro-sized features/structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Palmaz Scientific, Inc.
    Inventor: Armando Garza
  • Publication number: 20140061060
    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: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: MCALISTER TECHNOLOGIES, LLC.
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Patent number: 8663471
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to devices and methods of treating aqueous solutions to help remove or otherwise reduce levels, concentrations or amounts of one or more contaminants. The present disclosure relates to a apparatus including a substantially self-contained housing or container which is adapted to receive components including at least one counterelectrode (e.g. cathode) and at least one photoelectrode (e.g. anode) provided or arranged around at least one UV light source, and/or receive, contain and/or circulate fluid or aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: AquaMost, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence P. Barry, Thomas P. Barry, Jake Myre, Anton Asmuth
  • Patent number: 8658035
    Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to devices and methods of treating aqueous solutions to help remove or otherwise reduce levels, concentrations or amounts of one or more contaminants. The present disclosure relates to a apparatus including a substantially self-contained housing or container which is adapted to receive components including at least one counterelectrode (e.g. cathode) and at least one photoelectrode (e.g. anode) provided or arranged around at least one UV light source, and/or receive, contain and/or circulate fluid or aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: AquaMost, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence P. Barry, Thomas P. Barry, Jake Myre, Anton Asmuth
  • Patent number: 8641875
    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 first electrode is configured to control the location of nucleation of the gas by substantially separating the location of electron transfer and nucleation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: McAlister Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Roy Edward McAlister
  • Publication number: 20140014503
    Abstract: A cell for high temperature electrochemical reactions is provided. The cell includes a container, at least a portion of the container acting as a first electrode. An extension tube has a first end and a second end, the extension tube coupled to the container at the second end forming a conduit from the container to said first end. A second electrode is positioned in the container and extends out of the container via the conduit. A seal is positioned proximate the first end of the extension tube, for sealing the cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicants: TOTAL S.A., MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Brice Hoani Valentin Chung, Paul J. Burke, Donald R. Sadoway
  • Patent number: 8591707
    Abstract: A hydrogen generating device comprising an anode, a cathode, a housing having an internal cavity and a perforated wall within the cavity electrically connected to the anode or the cathode and separating an end portion of the cavity from a main portion of the cavity. The device includes water in the housing extending continuously from the main portion of the cavity through the perforated wall and into the end portion of the cavity. The housing includes two ends and a perforated wall within the cavity near each end separating end portions of the cavity from a main portion of the cavity, the anode or the cathode extending through one end of the housing through one perforated wall into the main portion of the cavity, through the other perforated wall into the other end portion of the cavity and through the other end of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Hydroripp, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Gotheil-Yelle
  • Patent number: 8585876
    Abstract: A cylinder block plate processing apparatus in which one end side of an inner peripheral surface of a cylinder of a cylinder block is sealed to circulate a process liquid to perform pre-plating or plating processing of the cylinder inner peripheral surface. The apparatus includes: an apparatus body having a workpiece mount table on which the cylinder block is placed; a workpiece holding tool that is provided on the workpiece mount table so as to be vertically movable; an electrode support member including an electrode cylinder mounted to the apparatus body; a processing solution supply member that supplies a processing solution to the electrode support member; an electrode operated by the electrode cylinder; a sealing jig provided to one end of the electrode; a driving mechanism that drives the sealing jig; and a control circuit that controls operations of the processing solution supply member and the driving mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Suzuki Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Hitoshi Muramatsu, Seiya Kunioka, Naoyuki Suda, Akira Ishibashi, Tomohiro Asou, Manabu Suzuki, Masahiro Ogawa, Minoru Imai
  • Publication number: 20130299354
    Abstract: An electrochemical processor may include a head having a rotor configured to hold a workpiece, with the head moveable to position the rotor in a vessel. Inner and outer anodes are in inner and outer anolyte chambers within the vessel. An upper cup in the vessel, has a curved upper surface and inner and outer catholyte chambers. A current thief is located adjacent to the curved upper surface. Annular slots in the curved upper curved surface connect into passageways, such as tubes, leading into the outer catholyte chamber. Membranes may separate the inner and outer anolyte chambers from the inner and outer catholyte chambers, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory J. Wilson, Paul R. McHugh
  • Publication number: 20130288150
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are fuel cell elements including at least one electronically conductive layer and an ion conductive layer. The fuel cell elements can have a tubular cross-section or an enclosed cross-section of another shape. Also disclosed is an assembly of fuel cell elements to form cell tubes and stacks of such fuel cell elements or cell tubes. Fuel cell elements, or cell tubes, or stacks thereof can also be used as an electrolyser. Further disclosed are methods of making such fuel cell elements, cell tubes and stacks thereof, as well as methods of using the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: GARAL PTY LTD
    Inventors: Alastair M. Hodges, Garry Chambers
  • Patent number: 8568574
    Abstract: A method for obtaining a disinfectant from an aqueous solution of sodium chloride by using a diaphragm electrolyser is disclosed. The method comprise channeling a fresh water flow inside a tubular cathode, separating 0.4-0.8% of the quantity of the fresh water flow and channeling the separated fresh water flow into the cathode chamber. Next, 16-20% of sodium chloride at the concentration of 0.02-1.2% is channeled to the anode chamber after a sodium chloride mixer. Fresh water flow is channeled from inside the cathode to a branch of an anode chamber in a cover-mixer of an electrolyser. The flow, originating from the cathode chamber, is discharged for utilization, wherein an anolyte flow from the anode chamber is channeled to the branch of the anode chamber. The concentration of active chlorine in the anolyte is reduced by employing a water supply to a predetermined level required of a disinfectant and the disinfectant with a pH level of 5.5-7.5 is discharged from the electrolyser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventors: Valeri Iltsenko, Nikolay Nayda
  • Patent number: 8551303
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of an electroplating system and an associated electroplating method that allow for depositing of metal alloys with a uniform plate thickness and with the means to alter dynamically the alloy composition. Specifically, by using multiple anodes, each with different types of soluble metals, the system and method avoid the need for periodic plating bath replacement and also allow the ratio of metals within the deposited alloy to be selectively varied by applying different voltages to the different metals. The system and method further avoids the uneven current density and potential distribution and, thus, the non-uniform plating thicknesses exhibited by prior art methods by selectively varying the shape and placement of the anodes within the plating bath. Additionally, the system and method allows for fine tuning of the plating thickness by using electrically insulating selectively placed prescribed baffles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Charles L. Arvin, Raschid J. Bezama, Harry D. Cox, Krystyna W. Semkow
  • Patent number: 8540855
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Youji Hayakawa
    Inventors: Youji Hayakawa, Akihiro Hayakawa, Shinji Hayakawa
  • Publication number: 20130228457
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reactor (10) for completely separating phosphate from a liquid and for recovering phosphate salts, comprising a housing (12) and two electrodes having differing polarities, wherein a sacrificial anode (16) made of a magnesium-containing material and an inert cathode (18) are arranged concentrically inside the housing (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.
    Inventors: Jennifer Bilbao, Dieter Bryniok, Alejandra Campos, Siegfried Egner
  • Patent number: 8518224
    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: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: ACM Research (Shanghai) Inc.
    Inventors: Yue Ma, Xi Wang, Yunwen Huang, Zhenxu Pang, Voha Nuch, David Wang
  • Patent number: 8491762
    Abstract: A water purification apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a casing and an electrode array. The casing has an outer surface, a substantially annular inner surface, and a water flow passage chamber surrounded by the substantially annular inner surface, the water flow passage chamber providing an outer annulus region and an inner central region. The electrode array features at least four electrodes in adjacent relationship to one another and circumferentially spaced apart from another about the outer annulus region, each electrode having a respective first planar surface and a respective second planar surface facing and substantially parallel to the respective second planar surface and the respective first planar surface of the adjacent electrodes on opposite sides thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Pioneer H2O Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald S. Kuhnel
  • Publication number: 20130146469
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide solid oxide cells and components thereof having a metal oxide electrolyte that exhibits enhanced ionic conductivity. Certain of those embodiments have two materials, at least one of which is a metal oxide, disposed so that at least some interfaces between the domains of the materials orient in a direction substantially parallel to the desired ionic conductivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicants: UT-BATTELLE, LLC, C3 INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Leonid V. Budaragin, Mark A. Deininger, Michael M. Pozvonkov, D. Morgan Spears, II, Paul D. Fisher, Gerard M. Ludtka, Arvid E. Pasto
  • Patent number: 8419906
    Abstract: Electroplating systems that include a plurality of electrodes, a power supply operably coupled to the plurality of electrodes, a platen for bearing a substrate on which metal features are to be formed, and an electrode support are disclosed. The electrode support may be configured for suspending the electrode assembly over an upper surface of the substrate disposed on the platen in spaced relation to and in alignment with the substrate or for supporting the electrode assembly in a stationary position over the substrate when the voltage is applied across the plurality of electrodes. The electrodes may be adjacent, mutually spaced and electrically isolated and connected in series so as to be oppositely polarized when the voltage is applied thereacross or may be connected so as to have alternating polarities when the voltage is applied thereacross.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Suresh Ramarajan, Whonchee Lee
  • Patent number: 8394543
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an electrical power storage system using hydrogen includes a power generation unit generating power using hydrogen and oxidant gas and an electrolysis unit electrolyzing steam. The electrical power storage system includes a hydrogen storage unit storing hydrogen generated by the electrolysis and supplying the hydrogen to the power generation unit during power generation, a high-temperature heat storage unit storing high temperature heat generated accompanying the power generation and supplying the heat to the electrolysis unit during the electrolysis, and a low-temperature heat storage unit storing low-temperature heat, which is exchanged in the high-temperature heat storage unit and generating with this heat the steam supplied to the electrolysis unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Shoko Suyama, Yoshiyasu Ito, Shigeo Kasai, Yasuo Takagi, Tsuneji Kameda, Kentaro Matsunaga, Masato Yoshino, Daisuke Horikawa, Kazuya Yamada
  • Publication number: 20120318682
    Abstract: An electrowinning apparatus and method are provided. The electrowinning apparatus includes: an electrolytic cell including a body portion which has an inlet for introducing an aqueous solution containing metal ions into the body portion and a conical portion which is gradually reduced in diameter from top to bottom and disposed under the body portion; a ring-shaped cathode coupled to an inner circumferential surface of the body portion of the electrolytic cell and having an entrance hole which extends from an outer circumferential surface of the cathode through to an inner circumferential surface of the cathode and is connected to the inlet of the electrolytic cell; and a hollow anode having an upper end disposed outside the electrolytic cell and inserted into the cathode. In the electrowinning method, a metal can be recovered from an aqueous solution containing a low concentration of metal ions using the above cyclone-shaped electrowinning apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM)
    Inventors: Soo-Kyung KIM, Jae-Chun LEE, Jin-Ki JEONG, Jeong-Soo SOHN, Young Min OH
  • Patent number: 8329021
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a new method of mass-transfer/fabrication of micro-sized features/structures onto the inner diameter (ID) surface of a stent. This new approach is provided by technique of through mask electrical micro-machining. One embodiment discloses an application of electrical micro-machining to the ID of a stent using a customized electrode configured specifically for machining micro-sized features/structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Palmaz Scientific, Inc.
    Inventor: Armando Garza
  • Publication number: 20120298505
    Abstract: An anode pipe includes a main pipe portion and a secondary pipe portion. The anode pipe has an inner circumferential surface that functions as an anode. The main pipe portion has a first connection end portion and a second connection end portion. The main pipe portion forms a flow channel for a treatment liquid that continues from the first connection end portion to the second connection end portion. The secondary pipe portion extends in a tubular fashion from the intermediate section of the main pipe portion. The interior of the secondary pipe portion communicates with the flow channel inside the main pipe portion. The cathode is disposed at a distance from the inner circumferential surface of the anode pipe. The cathode extends from a cathode attachment end portion toward the main pipe portion inside the secondary pipe portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: C. UYEMURA & CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hisamitsu YAMAMOTO, Masayuki UTSUMI, Yoshikazu SAIJO, Tomoji OKUDA, Hiroki OMURA
  • Publication number: 20120292181
    Abstract: An electrochemical processor may include a head having a rotor configured to hold a workpiece, with the head moveable to position the rotor in a vessel. Inner and outer anodes are in inner and outer anolyte chambers within the vessel. An upper cup in the vessel, has a curved upper surface and inner and outer catholyte chambers. A current thief is located adjacent to the curved upper surface. Annular slots in the curved upper curved surface connect into passageways, such as tubes, leading into the outer catholyte chamber. Membranes may separate the inner and outer anolyte chambers from the inner and outer catholyte chambers, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Paul R. McHugh, Gregory J. Wilson, Kyle M. Hanson
  • Patent number: 8298383
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to the area of electrochemical processing of liquids and production of gases, and is used for anolyte and catholyte synthesis. The electrolytic cell comprises an assembled anode and a diaphragm. Elements of the anode and the diaphragm are assembled in axial alignment with help of sleeves, and free ends of the anode and the diaphragm are fixed in a coaxial manner with solid of electrolyte input and output covers. The cathode is made solid from a single pipe with current terminals on each side. The cathode is the internal electrode of the electrolytic cell, while the anode is the external one. The anode is may be provided with a visual indicator as a positive electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Valeri Iltsenko, Nikolay Naida
  • Patent number: 8287702
    Abstract: The commercial unipolar activation of water to disinfect raw water supply from rivers or wells, seawater, or waste water from sewage, animal waste, processing plant waste, cooling tower water, swimming pool and spa water, ship ballast water and similar polluted waters. Disinfection is accomplished by hydrogen peroxide and ozone including biocides from chlorine and sulphur compounds in the water that are produced during the electrolytic unipolar activation of the water. Unipolar activation can also be used to perform chemical reactions such as in the activation of seawater. This invention can also produce alkaline water that is beneficial for health.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Rodolfo Antonio M. Gomez
  • Publication number: 20120255856
    Abstract: My electrolytic cell is uniquely designed to improve the ionic flow of the dissociated ions present in the electrolytic bath when a direct current is present. The cell consists of an outer cylinder made of palladium, a middle cylinder made of platinum, and a center electrode also made of palladium. The middle platinum cylinder is perforated with holes, allowing for the electrolyte and dissociated ions to flow from the outer interior cell chamber to the inner interior cell chamber and vice versa. A dual polarity, direct current power supply is connected to the cell by either a double pole, double throw switch or by an integrated switching circuit. The purpose of the switch is to periodically reverse the polarities of the cell's palladium electrodes creating a fluctuating and alternating ion flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Tamian
  • Publication number: 20120222954
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrolytic reaction system (1) for generating gaseous hydrogen and oxygen, comprising a reaction chamber (2) for accommodating an electrolyte and an electrode arrangement (3) comprising a plurality of anodic and cathodic electrodes (5, 6). The electrode arrangement (3) comprises a plurality of plate-shaped electrodes (5, 6) fanned out in a star-shaped arrangement, and a virtual fanning axis (7) of the star-shaped electrode arrangement (3) lies at least approximately on a virtual, central cylinder or vertical axis (8) or is congruent with a virtual, central cylinder or vertical axis (8) of the reaction chamber (2). At least one electromagnetic coil (13) is disposed above and/or underneath the star-shaped electrode arrangement (3) in the axial direction of the virtual cylinder or vertical axis (8), the electromagnetic field of which acts on the electrolyte and on the electrode arrangement (3) when exposed to electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: NEW ENERGY AG
    Inventor: Adolf Lothring