Abstract: Aluminum electroplating installations containing aprotic electrolyte bath systems typically require an electrolyte operating temperature of over 80.degree. C. in order to achieve useable aluminum precipitations. The warming-up and heating of such aluminum electrolyte baths has heretofore been accomplished with indirect heating methods, such as surrounding the baths with a heating jacket or by conducting electrolyte out of the bath through a heat exchanger and then returning the heated electrolyte. The present invention concerns a more efficient heating method whereby Joule's heat is used to heat an aprotic electrolyte bath. Accordingly, at least two electrodes are immersed into the electrolyte and charged with alternating pulses by a square wave pulse generator such that a heating current flows through the electrolyte. The anodes and cathodes of the aluminization electrolyte bath are preferably used as the heating electrodes.

Abstract: The invention is an improved apparatus for the removal of sodium carbonate from cyanide plating baths. The method involves the precipitation of sodium carbonate by the effect of cooling the cyanide plating bath liquid. A container is submerged in the solution with the container opening extending above the plating bath solution level. The container is filled with dry ice and water which produces a temperature of approximately zero degrees centigrade inside of the container. The solution adjacent to the exterior of the container is cooled so that excess sodium carbonate is precipitated as a crystalline deposit. After a desired interval, the container is removed with the encrustation of sodium carbonate for disposal.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hybrid fuel system for an engine which normally operates on fuel such as kerosene, gasoline, propane or the like and is adapted to be used in conjunction with the traditional fuel at selected times during the running of the engine. The system includes an electrolysis chamber provided with a fluid inlet and outlet, a pipe disposed within the chamber to allow the metered dispensing of a portion of the fluid contained within the pipe to an electrolysis area in such a manner that the dissociation of the fluid into its elemental components occurs quite readily. The configuration of the electrolysis area is such that remigration of the elemental components is extremely unlikely, and to this end an angled roof having faces which meet at an area above the pipe cause the elements to be separated and migrate on separate faces of the roof and thereafter to an opening which communicates with a conduit for admission of the elemental components into the engine.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the generation of a gaseous hydrogen or hydrogen and oxygen mixture for use as a fuel. The apparatus includes an electrolytic tank having means for circulating and cooling the electrolyte solution therein, gas removal means and a source of electric power communicating with the electrolyte solution. The method is characterized by dissociation of the aqueous portion of the electrolyte solution and maintaining the temperature of the electrolyte below 150.degree. F.

Abstract: An electrolysis apparatus is disclosed and comprises a plurality of cells connected in series both on the current flow path (an electrical course being connected across the end ones of the electrodes) and the electrolyte/gas flow path (electrolyte entering one end cell through one end electrode and gas issuing from the other end cell through the other end electrode), the cells including at least one series of gas generating cells followed by at least one cooling cell. The end electrodes of a series of cells may be short circuited so that these cells become cooling cells because they are not active to generate gas and instead the electrolyte and gas flowing through them undergoes cooling. The apparatus may be arranged for generating detonating gas or may be modified for generating oxygen and hydrogen at separate outlets.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for electrolytic production of magnesium metal from its chloride, which apparatus essentially comprises at least one externally unwired electrode which is made of graphite alone or graphite-iron composite and is placed between each pair of anode and cathode with the graphite side towards the cathode. The apparatus preferably comprises further a cooling passage for electrolyte bath which allows the electrolyte bath to flow outside an electrolysis chamber where the electrodes are contained, from a bath surface level to the bottom. The bath, while it passes there, is cooled a little, not enough to solidify, to exhibit an increased density so that it flows down back into the electrolysis chamber at the bottom, thus forming a continuous upflow along the electrodes, which facilitates separation of products of magnesium metal and chlorine gas and their recovery. Preferred anode construction is also illustrated.

Abstract: An improved electrolytic apparatus for the production of an alkali metal halate, such as sodium chlorate, from an aqueous solution of alkali metal halide, such as sodium chloride, includes modular, vertical anodes and cathodes in alternating relationship in a housing, and an upwardly oriented flow directing funneling chimney structure in a cylindrical shaped housing and over the electrodes, through which, electrolyte between the electrodes rises, passing from a wider portion of the funnel to a narrower part thereof, and a connected chimney passageway, from which it is returned from recirculation to a location below the electrodes after removal of gas from it. Different structures of the electrolytic apparatus or cell are specifically disclosed in one of which the electrolyte, after having passed through the funnel structure, moves longitudinally with respect to the cell, and in the other of which it moves transversely.

Abstract: An electrolysis device for electrolytic deposition of a metal on at least one surface of the tape which has been precoated with a metal provides an electrolytic metal deposition band in which there is a first electrode for connection to a first voltage source. A tape drive is provided for moving the tape through the bath including first guide rollers defining a single loop for the tape through the bath. A second electrode is provided in the tape path and mounted to contact the tape above the entrance to the bath and over an area of the one metallized surface and is connected to a second source potential. Second guide rollers along the tape path downstream of the bath, including a second guide roller contact the metallized surface and is connected to a third source potential.

Abstract: In an apparatus for electrolyzing an aqueous solution, which includes a plurality of electrolytic cells disposed at a plurality of vertically spaced levels and divided by partitions from one another, each of said cells having at least one anode and at least one cathode, said cells including an uppermost cell having an inlet for said solution, and a lowermost cell having an outlet for said solution, the improvement wherein:(a) each cell being separated into at least two horizontally adjacent cell units;(b) the separation adapted to direct the solution flow from the top of one unit into the bottom of the adjacent unit enabling solution flow successively through each unit;(c) a last unit of each cell provided with a passage extending from the top of the last unit to the bottom of the unit at a lower level to direct solution flow downwardly;(d) the anode and cathode being vertical in each unit opposite each other forming a bipolar electrode assembly; and(e) each unit with a gas collecting zone above the anode and

Abstract: A current conductor assembly for conducting electric current to electrodes in cells for the electrolysis of a salt solution is comprised of a conductor and a nonconductive casing for the conductor. There is a space between the conductor and the casing with an inlet in the casing for receiving a fluid. The conductor assembly has means for supplying a pressurized fluid to the space between the conductor and the casing; means for sealingly attaching one end of the conductor assembly to the electrodes, where this end is immersed in the salt solution; and a compressible sealing assembly for the opposite end of the conductor assembly comprised of a compression means and a sealing means.The conductor assembly employs the pressurized fluid to prevent corrosive attack of the conductor metal should a leak develop in the conductor assembly.

Abstract: Hydrochloric acid electrolyzers serve to decompose hydrochloric acid to hydrogen and chlorine with the aid of electric current.

Abstract: A method comprises heating contaminated liquid, cooling electrolyte and subsequently passing the latter through soluble electrodes provided within an electrocoagulation chamber. Next, mixing the heated contaminated liquid is accomplished above the soluble electrodes with an ascending flow of cooled air containing products of dissolution of the soluble electrodes, followed by separating formed foam and sludge within a settling chamber.Apparatus having a settling chamber provided with an outlet pipe to discharge purified liquid. Inside the settling chamber, there is disposed an electrocoagulation chamber provided with an inlet pipe to feed contaminated liquid thereinto, and an inlet pipe to feed electrolyte. In the bottom portion of the electrocoagulation chamber, there is disposed a system of soluble electrodes. A heater communicates with the inlet pipe to feed a contaminated liquid, while a condenser communicates with the inlet pipe to feed electrolyte.

Abstract: An electrode, especially for use in metallurgical furnaces or the like containing a bath of molten material which extends through and outwardly beyond the furnace wall while its inner end is in contact with the bath of molten material. A cooling device, in form of a heat pipe, extends centrally through the electrode nearly up to the inner end of the latter and carrying at its outer end projecting beyond the outer end of the electrode a heat exchange device. The electrode includes at its inner end an arrangement for reducing heat convection from the molten material to the electrode.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for use in a molten salt cell having a corrosive environment of high temperature chlorine gas and a molten bath of magnesium chloride and other salts includes a tapered metal core and is water cooled.

Abstract: The invention is an improved apparatus for the removal of sodium carbonate from cyanide plating baths. The method involves the precipitation of sodium carbonate by the effect of cooling the cyanide plating bath liquid. A container is submerged in the solution with the container opening extending above the plating bath solution level. The container is filled with dry ice and water which produces a temperature of approximately zero degrees centigrade inside of the container. The solution adjacent to the exterior of the container is cooled so that excess sodium carbonate is precipitated as a crystalline deposit. After a desired interval, the container is removed with the encrustation of sodium carbonate for disposal.

Abstract: An improved integrated and cyclic process and apparatus are disclosed wherein portions of various process and waste fluids are recycled to control impurities in the influents to membrane chlor-alkali cells and simultaneously to minimize liquid pollutants from the process. The improved process and apparatus reduces energy costs and wastes while simultaneously controlling impurities important to operation of membrane chlor-alkali electrolytic cells.

Abstract: Anodizing of aluminum or aluminum alloys at an exceptionally high film forming rate is conducted by the employment of a current density greater than 1.5 A/dm.sup.2 and a concentration of sulfuric acid of from 20% to 30% by weight in an electrolyte solution bath, and by the use of a racking device and cooling device which is designed for said severe conditions of current density and sulfuric acid concentration. A careful selection and regulation of the anodizing temperature enables the option of forming a soft or hard oxide film of greater thickness than achieved heretofore. Bath temperatures of around 30.degree. C. permit the formation of a soft oxide film, while bath temperatures of around 5.degree. C. permit the formation of a hard oxide film.

Abstract: A reinforced polypropylene tank for containing caustic fluids and acid baths used in the electroplating process and having a positive ventilation hood for protecting workers from harmful fumes, vapors, and acid splash and nearby hardware from corrosion is disclosed. An optional hot water heater configuration is also disclosed for heating fluid in the tank and reducing the danger of fire.

Abstract: An improved aluminum reduction cell which includes an insulated container for the molten electrolyte, a cover over the open mouth of the container, and a heat exchanger positioned above the molten bath, within the container and below the cover for recovering heat from the molten bath and further including, in one embodiment, means for converting the recovered heat into electricity which can be recycled back to the reduction cell. By heavily insulating the reduction cell against heat loss and by appropriately controlling the amount of heat which is recovered the cell can be operated over a wide range of electrical power inputs.

Abstract: A process for the conversion of carbon dioxide or the bicarbonate ion into useful organic compounds, such as formic acid, formaldehyde and methanol, which comprises carrying out the reduction in a photoelectrochemical cell, wherein the cathode is a p-type semiconductor, and at least part of the energy of reduction is supplied by light, including sunlight.

Abstract: A generator for oxyhydrogen gas comprises a plurality of flat metal electrodes mounted parallel with ring-like spacers between each pair of adjacent electrodes and bolts clamping the spacers and electrodes together to provide a sealed cell between each pair of electrodes within the periphery of the respective spacer. An inlet for electrolyte is connected to one outer cell and an outlet for the gas is connected to the outer cell. The electrodes are imperforate except for apertures adjacent the tops of the cells and in use a DC power source is connected across outer electrodes. The generator is of simple construction and achieves good cooling, high mechanical strength against internal explosions and ensures a minimal quantity of explosive gas in the upper regions of the cells.

Abstract: Prior art electrolysis cells used for producing chlorine for sanitizing and sterilization purposes deteriorate due to accumulation of scale on the electrodes thereof. This problem is solved by an improved cell comprising an outer electrode having an in-facing surface which falls generally on a first cylindrical surface and an inner generally coaxial electrode having an out-facing surface which falls generally on a second cylindrical surface, the second cylindrical surface falling inward radially of the first cylindrical surface, the outer and inner electrodes being longitudinally coextensive for at least a substantial portion thereof. The inner and outer electrodes are rotated relative to one another. An abrading structure is mounted to one of the electrodes with an abrasive portion thereof in abrasive contact with the other of the electrodes. The abrading structure is electrically insulated from at least one of the electrodes.

Abstract: Manufacturing process of a thin metal sheet, comprising depositing the metal by electrolysis from a bath containing an aqueous solution of a salt of this metal onto a mobile cathode formed by a rotating drum partially immersed in this bath, removing the metal sheet thus deposited from the non-immersed part of the drum, and replacing in the bath the metal deposited by electrolytic dissolution of an anode containing the same metal. The temperature of the bath is kept higher than its normal boiling point by maintaining on top of the bath a pressure at least equal to the boiling pressure.

Abstract: An improved electroplating apparatus comprises a nonlinear array of treating tanks having a central rinse tank. A hoist motor is located on a fixed support structure above the rinse tank. A traversing guide engages a hoist cable to move the cable around the array of treating tanks. An insulating canopy surrounds the array to conserve waste heat given off by any heated treating tanks. A plurality of shower nozzles is located around the rinse tank for rinsing off any articles carried thereto by the hoist cable. The rinse water is heated by the waste heat conserved by the insulating canopy. The rinse discharge from the rinse tank can be conducted to a concentrating device for concentrating any contaminants contained in the rinse discharge.

Abstract: A compact chlorine generation device generates chlorine and usually ozone. The device is water cooled. A power transformer has a housing thereabout in heat conductive contact therewith. A highly heat conductive metal frame is attached in direct efficient heat conductive relation with the housing. The frame has a conduit therethrough generally adjacent to the housing. A metal block has a semi-conductor power rectifier held in a cavity therein and in thermal contact therewith. The block is attached in direct heat conductive relation with the frame. A coolant is flowed through the conduit thereby cooling the transformer and the rectifier. A chlorine generating electric cell has an anode and a cathode which are connected to the respective DC output poles of the rectifier. The coolant which exits the conduit is led to the cell wherein it serves as the electrolyte.

Abstract: A solid electrolyte galvanic energy conversion cell capable of being heated to at least 2000.degree. C. containing a form of carbon as a fuel internally and being exposed externally to a source of oxygen, such as air, to cause the passage of oxygen ions through the electrolyte thus causing the formation of CO or CO.sub.2 as desired. The carbon, for example, a rod, is in electrical contact with a solid electrolyte material having an oxygen ion permeability at a temperature of at least 705.degree. C. In one embodiment, an end of the cell is heated at the focal point of a parabolic solar energy collector and generates electrical energy while expelling CO gas which may later be oxidized to CO.sub.2 either by combustion or by means of a secondary galvanic cell to generate additional electrical energy.

Abstract: An electroplating apparatus for applying a protecting metallic coating on the surface of a workpiece, the apparatus featuring a process chamber for containing an electrolytic solution, and means for leading an electric current to the workpiece and to the solution. A pneumatic pressure reducing pump is further provided for creating subatmospheric pressure about said process chamber and the spaces containing said electrolytic solution which is in communication with the electrolytic solution in the process chamber, whereby the use of a high electrical current density during electroplating is possible.

Abstract: A new electrolyzer for the industrial production of fluorine gas which uses bipolar and monopolar electrodes within a tank containing an electrolyte of an anhydrous mixture of mineral fluorides and hydrogen fluoride. A compact construction is achieved which requires only two current connections.

Abstract: In the production of fluorine by electrolysis of a fused electrolyte containing potassium fluoride and hydrogen fluoride the electrolyte is circulated from a tank, through a heat exchanger, through one or more electrolytic cells and is returned to the tank. The heat exchanger controls the temperature of the circulating electrolyte leaving the electrolytic cell or cells at the desired value in the range 75.degree.-110.degree. C.

Abstract: In a process for electrodeposition of a metal or alloy, there is provided in a fused salt electrolytic bath a rotary drum device comprising a relatively rotatable cooling drum and scraper, salt particles deposited on the surface of the cooling drum being scraped off within the bath and dispersed in the bath thereby to assist the production of a smooth and compact electrodeposit.

Abstract: A vertical electrolytic cell has an anode separated from a cathode by a diaphragm. The cathode comprises continuous threads of mercury flowing down by gravity from evenly distributed apertures in the bottom wall of at least one channel fed with mercury.

Abstract: An electrical connector is described which has a helical form with its axis being parallel to the plane of each of the conductor bars to which it is directly connected. The helix has an open pitch which promotes air circulation for cool operation and the design reduces the amount of conductive metal utilized in the connection as well as being a cheaper, less complicated structure than previously known.

Abstract: A system for heating water to be utilized for rinsing material plated in an electroplating tank includes an electrically conductive water coil electrically connected in series between the spaced segments of a bus bar carrying current of 2000 Amps. at 12-15 volts D.C. to the plating tank. The inlet and outlet of the water coil are connected to a water tank and circulation of water from the water tank through the coil is effected either by a pump or by thermosyphonic action.

Abstract: A thin film of low magnetostriction Permalloy 80% nickel - 20% iron .+-. 1% is electroplated in a bath having a ratio of about 1.8:1 to 24:1 g/liter ratio of Ni to Fe ions with a plating current density from 10 ma/cm.sup.2 - 200 ma/cm.sup.2 when plating in sheet form or an Ni/Fe ratio of 25:1 to 85:1 with a current density of 2 ma/cm.sup.2 - 110 ma/cm.sup.2 when plating through a mask. The fluid in the system is constantly mixed, replenished with fresh iron, acid, and other reagents, is adjusted in temperature and subjected to a continuous laminar regime of mixing. Fresh solution is added to the bath from a reservoir where the above adjustments are made. The inlet for the fresh solution is at the lower end of the plating chamber and directed at a bath mixer which includes a slot through which the fresh solution is directed to optimize mixing in the plating chamber. Complexing agents are avoided. High speed plating is obtained with about 24.4 g/l of Ni.sup.++, 1.05 g/l of Fe.sup.++, 25 g/l of H.sub.3 BO.sub.

Abstract: An electroplating test cell comprises a tank having a housing supported within it, the housing being divided into an annular anode compartment and an inner cathode compartment. A cylindrical cathode support is mounted for rotation within the cathode compartment and is vertically adjustable therein to vary its position relative to electrolyte flowed within the compartment. The housing is supported near the bottom of the tank so that different levels of electrolyte may be maintained above the housing to provide varying liquid conditions ranging from a static pressure head to spray chamber plating. Rotation speed of the cathode support is variable to simulate different speeds of material movement through a plating bath.

Abstract: Apparatus for producing methane and other products by processing a slurry of biodegradable waste materials including two tanks containing waste material which are connected to allow fluid flow communication between slurry in each tank, each tank being airtight with respect to the ambient, one of said tanks containing a cathode and the other tank containing an anode to aid in the growth of methane producing bacteria, the tanks provided with movable hoods for collecting gas.

Abstract: The invention is for placement in a molten salt electrolysis cell and a jacket means on the cell for providing a chamber for containment of a coolant. The cell and the jacket means have an orifice extending from the exterior of the jacket means into the interior of the cell. The invention, a tapping apparatus, includes a tapping tube in the orifice extending into the interior of the cell, and a packing tube and packing in the orifice and surrounding the tapping tube, with the improvement including the extending of the packing tube and packing past the jacket means.

Abstract: A potshell for an electrolytic cell for the electrolytic reduction of aluminum includes a bottom plate, side walls and end walls of steel plates, and also a reinforcing structure surrounding structure. Up against the side walls and end walls, on the outside thereof are disposed vertical stiffeners and outside these stiffeners there is disposed an essentially horizontal reinforcing frame in such a manner that between the stiffeners there are formed vertical, free air passages up against the side walls and the end walls, and in such a manner that the stiffeners act as cooling ribs for conducting and dissipiating the heat from the side walls and the end walls.

Abstract: A method for the oxidation of organic material present in concentrated sulfuric acid is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of diverting a portion of a concentrated sulfuric acid stream, diluting the diverted stream with water to about 40-70% sulfuric acid concentration, passing the diluted stream through an electrolysis apparatus to oxidize some of the sulfuric acid to form a predetermined quantity of peroxosulfuric acids, and returning the diverted stream back to the main stream to oxidize the organic material and decolorize the main stream of concentrated sulfuric acid.

Abstract: A substantially sealed electrolyte container is provided for electroplating articles, and an evacuating means is provided for evacuating the space above the electrolyte surface in the electrolyte container. The article to be electroplated forms the anode or cathode electrode. The electrolyte container is subdivided by porous partitions, which do not disturb the electrical field of force, into cathode and anode chambers, and separate gas extraction means are provided for said chambers. Beneath the electrolyte level in the cathode and anode chambers electrolyte extraction and supply means are provided by means of which the electrolyte is extracted, degassed and returned to the cathode and anode chambers.

Abstract: In a pressure electrolyzer suitable for the electrolysis of water or hydrochloric acid or sodium chloride provided with bipolar electrodes forming a plurality of cell units arranged in the form of a cell block, the improvement which comprises a housing for the cell block, said housing being a pressure vessel designed for pressures of at least 1.

Abstract: A cooling device for self-baking anodes in electrolytic cells for the production of aluminum includes plural cooling rods extending through openings in a supporting bar and supported thereby in a row covering a band-shaped zone along the center line of the cell anode. Each cooling rod is partly submerged in the anode mix of the cell and has a collar which determines the extent of such submergence. Each cooling rod is an aluminum extrusion having longitudinal ribs radiating from a center section.

Abstract: An electrolytic polishing apparatus, in which a polishing sample is pressed against an opening in a cover of a container, in which electrolyte is caused to rotate by means of a stirring magnet, said container having a central bottom opening and being placed in an outer bowl.

Abstract: In the method of electrowinning metals from acid aqueous solutions of the metals, the improvement comprising maintaining the anode surface at a temperature not greater than 40.degree. C to avoid deposits of manganese cobalt and iron dioxides and to improve anode life.

Abstract: A wet chlorine generator for providing precisely controlled rates of gas flow for instrumentation purposes, characterized by a safe and reliable gas source provided by precisely controllable electrolysis of a metal chloride electrolyte to form chlorine gas that is then passed through a flow regulating device into a gas conduit that guides the gas from the generator to associated instrumentation.

Abstract: A method of electrolytic borating with a crucible holding a melt of boron-bearing medium in which anodes and articles under treatment are immersed, both being connected to a source of direct current, and electrodes for the electrical heating of the melt are accommodated inside the crucible and immersed directly in the melt, with the electrodes being connected to a source of alternating current. The electrodes are so positioned with respect to the anodes and the articles being treated so that the direct-current density on the surface of the articles is in excess of the alternating - current density.

Abstract: A recording method which comprises selectively applying a DC or AC electric field to a layer of a recording medium on a support, the recording medium comprising at least one organic compound capable of assuming two or more convertible aggregation states at the same temperature, thereby selectively converting the initial aggregation state of the organic compound to which the field is applied into another aggregation state or hindering the converting of the initial aggregation state of the organic compound into another aggregation state.

Abstract: Colloids are precipitated from an aqueous suspension by electrolysis techniques in which a flocculation cell is provided with a soluble anode formed preferably of multi-valent material and wherein the cathode comprises a metal cylinder having an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end and in which the anode is coaxially disposed in insulated relation to the cathode so that an aqueous suspension may be caused to flow through the cell in such manner as thoroughly and systematically to wash the inner surface of the cathode and the outer surface of the anode by following a generally helical path which inhibits formation of large clusters of hydrogen and oxygen gas established by the application of an electric potential across the cathode and anode. The pH of the aqueous solution must be controlled at a substantially neutral value and the anode preferably is formed of soluble aluminum, iron, magnesium or other multi-valent metal.

Abstract: A salinometer apparatus for measuring the salinity (conductivity) of a liquid sample from a standard sample bottle or other container having an elongated tube having one end adapted for insertion into a sample bottle or container, a conductivity measuring cell formed of a glass tube having an elongated main body portion, four upwardly extending branch tubes connected to the main tube and having liquid seals at their upper ends, metal electrodes mounted inside the four branch tubes, two of the electrodes forming potential electrodes and the other two forming current electrodes, electrical leads passing through the seals and connected to the four electrodes, said cell being connected at one end to the elongated tube and the other to waste, a temperature controlled liquid bath, temperature changing means associated with said bath, an electric heating and control circuit connected to said heating means, the said conductivity cell and a portion of the elongated tube being immersed in said bath, means for flushing

Abstract: In a continuous electrolytic foil forming process employing a source of constant d.c. voltage, the speed with which the foil is drawn through the electrolyte is automatically adjusted by a feedback mechanism to maintain a constant value of forming current, thereby producing an oxide film whose thickness is substantially invariant over the entire length of the foil.