With Feeding And/or Withdrawal Means Patents (Class 204/275.1)
  • Publication number: 20100252423
    Abstract: Among other things, hydrogen is released from water at a first location using energy from a first energy source; the released hydrogen is stored in a metal hydride slurry; and the metal hydride slurry is transported to a second location remote from the first location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: SAFE HYDROGEN, LLC
    Inventors: Andrew W. McClaine, Kenneth Brown
  • Publication number: 20100236937
    Abstract: An electrode substrate comprising M(n+1)AXn, where M is a metal of group IIIB, IVB, VB, VIB or VIII of the periodic table of elements or a combination thereof, A is an element of group IIIA, IVA, VA or VIA of the periodic table of elements or a combination thereof, X is carbon, nitrogen or a combination thereof, where n is 1, 2, or 3; and b) an electrocatalytic coating deposited on said electrode substrate, said coating being selected from at least one of b.1) a metal oxide and/or metal sulfide comprising ByC(1?y)Oz1Sz2, wherein B is at least one of ruthenium, platinum, rhodium, palladium, iridium, and cobalt, C is at least one valve metal, y is 0.4-0.9, 0<=z1, z2<=2 and z1+z2=2; b.2) a metal oxide comprising BfCgDhEi, wherein B is at least one of ruthenium, platinum, rhodium, palladium, and cobalt, C is at least one valve metal, D is iridium, E is Mo and/or W, wherein f is 0-0.25 or 0.35-1, g is 0-1, h is 0-1, i is 0-1, wherein f+g+h+i=1; b.3) at least one noble metal; b.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: Akzo Nobel N.V.
    Inventors: Magnus Rosvall, Rolf Edvinsson-Albers, Kristoffer Hedenstedt
  • Publication number: 20100236939
    Abstract: A hydrogen generating vessel wherein a reduction plate generates hydrogen by electrolysis of sea water. The hydrogen generating vessel operates at deep ocean levels to provide unexpected advantages. The operating depth is not limited because the hydrogen generating vessel includes openings at or near the bottom, and no pressure differential exists across the vessel walls. Pressure inside and outside are the same, and are determined by the depth at which the hydrogen generating vessel is installed. Electrolysis, collection, and temporary storage take place in the same container. Since the hydrogen pressure is the same as the water pressure at the same depth, the hydrogen is pumped by simply opening a release valve. Operation within recommended guidelines provides a self-cleaning mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: John E. Menear
  • Patent number: 7799186
    Abstract: The present invention provides a technology for enabling a diaphragm to be arranged in a more facilitated manner in a plating tank of a plating apparatus having a diaphragm for separating an object to be plated from an anode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Electroplating Engineers of Japan Limited
    Inventor: Yuji Uchiumi
  • Publication number: 20100224484
    Abstract: This invention relates to a system and method for producing a metal powder product using conventional electrowinning chemistry (i.e., oxygen evolution at an anode) in a flow-through electrowinning cell. The present invention enables the production of high quality metal powders, including copper powder, from metal-containing solutions using conventional electrowinning processes and/or direct electrowinning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: FREEPORT-MCMORAN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Antonioni C. Stevens, Stanley R. Gilbert, Scot P. Sandoval, Timothy G. Robinson, John O. Marsden
  • Publication number: 20100213075
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reactor for the electrochemical treatment of biomass, including at least two flat surface electrodes positioned equidistantly over the entire surface and separated by less than 1 mm, the space between said electrodes being occupied by a electrolytic solution. Preferably, at least one of the electrodes is an anode and at least one of the electrodes is a cathode. The anode is preferably made from a material selected from among vanadium, selenium, gold, silver, nickel, graphite, graphite galvanised with platinum and graphite galvanised with palladium. The invention also relates to the use of said reactor in electrooxidation reactions involving biomass, particularly polysaccharides, in the production of organic compounds, water electrolysis, hydrogen production or the production of electrochemical cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Domingo Guinea Díaz, José Luis Garcia Fierro, Rufino Manuel Navarro Yerga, José Ramón Jurado Egea, Heli Ricardo Rodríguez Rodríguez
  • Publication number: 20100213070
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a method for easily forming an artificial lipid membrane in a short period of time and an artificial lipid membrane forming apparatus suitable for carrying out such method. The present invention relates to a method for forming an artificial lipid membrane using an artificial lipid membrane forming apparatus. The apparatus comprises a substrate, a first spacer, a first thin film, a second spacer, a second thin film, and a cover, wherein a first chamber is formed between the substrate and the first thin film, the first thin film has a first through hole, a second chamber is formed between the first thin film and the second thin film, the second thin film has a second through hole, and the cover has an inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akio OKI, Hiroaki OKA
  • Publication number: 20100206740
    Abstract: A water electrolysis system includes a water electrolysis apparatus for electrolyzing pure water supplied from a pure water supply apparatus to produce high-pressure hydrogen. A pressure releasing device is connected between a pipe of the water electrolysis apparatus and a check valve connected to the inlet port of a gas-liquid separator, for releasing the pressure of the high-pressure hydrogen from the water electrolysis apparatus independently from the gas-liquid separator. The pressure releasing device has a bleeder passage including a pressure reducing valve and a solenoid-operated valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun TAKEUCHI, Masanori OKABE, Koji NAKAZAWA, Kenji TARUYA
  • Publication number: 20100200060
    Abstract: A high quality, highly adherent layer of a metal and oxygen material such as a transparent electrically conductive oxide material is electro deposited onto a substrate in a solution deposition process. The substrate is activated prior to the electro deposition of the metal and oxygen material thereonto by contacting it with a multidentate activating agent which promotes the adhesion of the metal and oxygen material to the substrate. Use of the activation agent eliminates the need to pre-deposit a “seed” layer of the metal and oxygen material onto the substrate by a vacuum deposition process. Process parameters are controlled so as to result in the deposition of a high quality layer of material which is suitable for use in a back reflector structure of a high efficiency photovoltaic device In particular instances the activation method may be implemented in a continuous, roll-to-roll process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: United Solar Ovonic LLC
    Inventor: Shengzhong LIU
  • Publication number: 20100200409
    Abstract: A metal and oxygen material such as a transparent electrically conductive oxide material is electro deposited onto a substrate in a solution deposition process. Process parameters are controlled so as to result in the deposition of a high quality layer of material which is suitable for use in a back reflector structure of a high efficiency photovoltaic device. The deposition may be carried out in conjunction with a masking member which operates to restrict the deposition of the metal and oxygen material to specific portions of the substrate. In particular instances the deposition may be implemented in a continuous, roll-to-roll process. Further disclosed are semiconductor devices and components of semiconductor devices made by the present process, as well as apparatus for carrying out the process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: United Solar Ovonic LLC
    Inventors: Shengzhong Liu, Chaolan Hu, Yanhua Zhou, Kais Younan, Bud Dotter, II, Vincent Cannella, Arindam Banerjee, Jeffrey Yang, Subhendu Guha
  • Publication number: 20100200413
    Abstract: A metal and oxygen material such as a transparent electrically conductive oxide material is electro deposited onto a substrate in a solution deposition process. Process parameters are controlled so as to result in the deposition of a high quality layer of material which is suitable for use in a back reflector structure of a high efficiency photovoltaic device. The deposition may be carried out in conjunction with a masking member which operates to restrict the deposition of the metal and oxygen material to specific portions of the substrate. In particular instances the deposition may be implemented in a continuous, roll-to-roll process. Further disclosed are semiconductor devices and components of semiconductor devices made by the present process, as well as apparatus for carrying out the process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: United Solar Ovonic LLC
    Inventors: Shengzhong Liu, Chaolan Hu, Yanhua Zhou, Arindam Banerjee, Jeffrey Yang, Subhendu Guha
  • Publication number: 20100193369
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus for facilitating removal of molten metal from an electrolysis cell are provided. In one embodiment, a system includes a container and an electrical source coupled to the container. The electrical source may be configured to provide complementary current to a spout of the container. This complementary current may create a complementary electromagnetic field at least proximal a tip portion of the spout. When the spout of the container receives the complementary current, and when the spout is in liquid communication with the molten liquid of the electrolysis cell, the complementary electromagnetic field of the complementary current may at least partially assist to increase the flow of molten metal into the spout of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: Alcoa Inc.
    Inventors: Edward R. Barnes, JR., Donald P. Ziegler
  • Patent number: 7767066
    Abstract: An electrochemical reactor and process for electrolyzing a substance to change at least a portion of the substance from a first state to a second state. The reactor comprises a tubular body having a first end portion defining an opening and a second end portion defining an electrolysis chamber. The electrolysis chamber includes a well adapted to hold the substance and at least two electrodes for electrolyzing the substance in the well. The volume of the well is less than about 3 milliliters. The reactor further comprises a coupling for releasably and sealingly connecting the reactor body to an auxiliary device body. The coupling is adapted to provide a vacuum tight seal between the reactor body and the auxiliary device and to allow the reactor body to rotate about an axis of rotation independent of the auxiliary device while the reactor body is sealingly connected to the auxiliary device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventors: Michael A. May, John E. Kuo
  • Patent number: 7767065
    Abstract: A problem during electrolytic treatment of printed circuit boards having a very thin basic metallization is that the treatment yields irregular results in various regions on the surface of the printed circuit board. In overcoming this problem the invention provides a device for electrolytically treating an at least superficially electrically conducting work piece having at least two substantially opposing side edges. The device comprises current supply devices for the work piece, said current supply devices each comprising contact strips located on the opposing side edges which are capable of electrically contacting the work piece at the substantially opposing side edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Atotech Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Schneider, Stephan Kenny, Torsten Küssner, Wolfgang Plöse, Bert Reents, Heribert Streup
  • Publication number: 20100187102
    Abstract: Universal cell frame generic for use as an anode frame and as a cathode frame in a water electrolyzer. According to one embodiment, the universal cell frame includes a unitary annular member having a central opening. Four trios of transverse openings are provided in the annular member, each trio being spaced apart by about 90 degrees. A plurality of internal radial passageways fluidly interconnect the central opening and each of the transverse openings of two diametrically-opposed trios of openings, the other two trios of openings lacking corresponding radial passageways. Sealing ribs are provided on the top and bottom surfaces of the annular member. The present invention is also directed at a water electrolyzer that includes two such cell frames, one being used as the anode frame and the other being used as the cathode frame, the cathode frame being rotated 90 degrees relative to the anode frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Inventors: Edwin W. Schmitt, Timothy J. Norman
  • Publication number: 20100181208
    Abstract: A washing system and method comprising forming a charged activated liquid, and operating a washing system with the charged activated liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: TENNANT COMPANY
    Inventors: Thomas R. Denison, Bruce F. Field, Jonathan A. Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20100181190
    Abstract: A process encompassing hydrogen and oxygen gases as a partial fuel source when utilized together with a fossil-based fuel to power conventional internal combustion engines. Hydrogen and oxygen gases are produced by electrolysis in an electrolyser unit(s), on-demand and on-board a vehicle, or in stationary applications, eliminating the need of highly-pressurized hydrogen storage tanks When said gases are introduced into the combustion chamber of the engine, via the air intake assembly, they increase the efficiency of the combustion burn by enriching the air to fuel ratio, resulting in a reduction of the fossil-based fuels required for optimum engine performance, said gases effectively becoming a partial hybrid fuel source. The process includes scalability for all size and types of installations, cold-weather applications and longer operating capabilities. As an additional benefit, in direct correlation, this process reduces carbon dioxide emissions, and, in varying quantities, other greenhouse gas emissions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: HYTRONX TECHNOLOGIES INC
    Inventor: Peter J. Romaniuk
  • Publication number: 20100176088
    Abstract: To ensure a uniform flow over the surface of a product W, an apparatus is provided for the wet chemical treatment of the product W that is disposed in the apparatus 100. This apparatus comprises at least one flow member 150 that includes respectively at least one paddle-like flow element 155, wherein at least one flow member 155 is disposed situated opposite the surface of the product W and is moveable substantially parallel to the surface of the product W.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: ATOTECH DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Sebastian Dunnebeil, Heinz Klingl
  • Publication number: 20100163421
    Abstract: An apparatus for continuously forming thin ceramic coatings on metal sheets, foils or wires. The apparatus having a reaction chamber, perforated nylon sheets, nylon bar guides, copper rods attached to a power supply, nylon collecting rods, and an inlet and an outlet. The reaction chamber is capable of containing an electrolytic solution. The copper rods are separately connected to the R, Y, or B phase of the power supply. Each phase is provided with two thyristors and the output of the thyristors is connected to the copper rods using current transformers. A process for continuously forming thin ceramic coatings on metal sheets, foils or wires is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI)
    Inventors: Lingamaneni Rama Krishna, Nitin Pandurang Wasekar, Govindan Sundararajan
  • Publication number: 20100163409
    Abstract: A power supply connection structure which effectively suppresses heat generation at a connection portion at which a feeder wire, that supplies current to an electrode, is connected to the electrode, and an electrolytic processing including the power supply connection structure are provided. The power supply connection structure includes: a rod-shaped electrode having a reduced-diameter portion having a diameter that is reduced toward an end of the electrode; a conductive power supply member which is connected a feeder wire and has an inner cavity into which the reduced-diameter portion is inserted; and a coil spring which pushes the power supply member toward the reduced-diameter portion, wherein the side wall surface of the inner cavity closely contacts an outer peripheral surface of the reduced-diameter portion, and a gap is formed between the base surface of the inner cavity and the end surface at the reduced-diameter portion of the electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Akira MASUDA, Keiko KAWARASAKI, Yasuhiro MASUDA
  • Publication number: 20100162970
    Abstract: A heat-pipe electric power generating device includes a heat pipe having an evaporating end and a condensing end, a non-magnetic shell connected to the condensing end, a generator stator coil disposed at the outer of the non-magnetic shell, a turbine disposed in the heat pipe, a driving axle connected to the turbine and extended into the non-magnetic shell, and a magnetic element disposed at the driving axle and located in the non-magnetic shell. A vapor flow flowing to the condensing end is generated at the evaporating end. The vapor flow drives the turbine to move the magnetic element, such that the generator stator coil generates an induced current. In addition, a hydrogen/oxygen gas generating apparatus and an internal combustion engine system having the heat-pipe electric power generating device are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Yao-Shun Chen, Wen-Yang Peng, Ra-Min Tain
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20100147679
    Abstract: Embodiments related to increasing a uniformity of an electroplated film are disclosed. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides an electroplating apparatus comprising a plating chamber, a work piece holder, a cathode contact configured to electrically contact a work piece, and an anode contact configured to electrically contact an anode disposed in the plating chamber. A diffusing barrier is disposed between the cathode contact and the anode contact to provide a uniform electrolyte flow to the work piece, and electrolyte delivery and return paths are provided for delivering electrolyte to and away from the plating chamber. Additionally, a vented electrolyte manifold is disposed in the electrolyte delivery path immediately upstream of the plating chamber, the vented electrolyte manifold comprising one or more electrolyte delivery openings that open to the plating chamber and one or more vents that open to a location other than the plating chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: NOVELLUS SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Jingbin Feng, Zhian He, Robert Rash, Steven T. Mayer
  • Publication number: 20100147700
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided. The method includes for example, treating a liquid in an apparatus to increase suspension properties of the liquid and dispensing the treated liquid from the apparatus to a surface or volume of space so as to create an electrically conductive path by the treated liquid from the apparatus to the surface or volume of space. During the step of dispensing, an alternating electric field is generated from the apparatus to the surface or volume of space, through the liquid along the conductive path, wherein the electric field is sufficient to destroy at least one microorganism from the surface or in the volume of space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: TENNANT COMPANY
    Inventors: Bruce F. Field, Thomas R. Denison
  • Patent number: 7736475
    Abstract: The present invention relates, generally, to a method for electrowinning copper powder, and more particularly to a method for electrowinning copper powder from a copper-containing solution using the ferrous/ferric anode reaction. In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, a process for producing copper powder by electrowinning employs alternative anode reaction technology, namely, the ferrous/ferric anode reaction, and enables the efficient and cost-effective production of copper powder at a total cell voltage of less than about 1.5 V and at current densities of greater than 50 A/ft2. A copper powder electrowinning process in accordance with the present invention also reduces or eliminates acid mist generation that is characteristic of electrowinning operations utilizing conventional electrowinning chemistry (e.g., oxygen evolution at the anode), which is advantageous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Freeport-McMoran Corporation
    Inventors: Scot P Sandoval, Antonioni C Stevens, Timothy G Robinson, John O Marsden, Stanley R Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7736476
    Abstract: This invention relates to a system and method for producing a metal powder product using either conventional electrowinning or alternative anode reaction chemistries in a flow-through electrowinning cell. The present invention enables the production of high quality metal powders, including copper powder, from metal-containing solutions using conventional electrowinning processes, direct electrowinning, or alternative anode reaction chemistries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Freeport-McMoran Corporation
    Inventors: Stanley R Gilbert, Scot P Sandoval, Antonioni C Stevens, Timothy G Robinson, John O Marsden
  • Publication number: 20100140080
    Abstract: An insulating end cap for a cylindrical electrolysis cell the type comprising at least two tubular electrodes with a cylindrical membrane arranged co-axially between them, comprises a first annular section with first and second axial ends, having at its first axial end a circular seating or one end of an outer cylindrical electrode and at its second end a circular aperture, of smaller diameter than the circular seating and co-axial therewith, to accommodate one end of the membrane. A second annular section of the end cap is detachably secured to the first and has a central circular aperture of smaller diameter than the central aperture of the first section and co-axial therewith, to accommodate one end of the inner cylindrical electrode. The two part construction of the end cap facilitates the assembly of the cell, and reduces the likelihood of breakage of the fragile ceramic membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: James Daly, Michel Van Schaik
  • Publication number: 20100140106
    Abstract: The invention relates, in particular, to a process for treating a liquid medium loaded with nitrates via a chemical route that mainly comprises a step of electrolysis of the liquid medium in the presence of a metal salt, the electrolysis being carried out at a pH below 5. The invention also relates to a device for treating a liquid medium loaded with nitrates and also to the applications of this process and device, in particular for reducing the level of nitrates in drainage waters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: S.A.R.L. FIRMUS
    Inventors: Michel Reynes, Dimiter Hadjiev
  • Publication number: 20100133097
    Abstract: A method of improving the efficiency of continuous water electrolysis processes to produce a hydrogen rich gas. Improved efficiency is realized by minimizing and/or eliminating wasted current, current that does not convert water to a hydrogen rich gas, attaining approximately 100% Faradic efficiency. This improvement in current or Faradic efficiency is attained by electrically isolating the electrolyte solution contained in each electrolysis cell as well as electrically isolating the electrolyte solution contained in each cell from the supply of electrolyte solution. This invention also improves the efficiency of water electrolysis processes through the utilization of electrodes coated with electrode specific nanomaterials, improving voltage efficiency at current densities exceeding 100 mA/cm2. Overall efficiency improvements of about 20% have been obtained with the present invention over other hydrogen rich gas generators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: HYDROGEN TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Fawcett, Scott Marton
  • Patent number: 7727373
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for producing, capturing and storing hydrogen in a hydrogen absorption rod. The hydrogen absorption rod comprises a zeolite core material surrounding a conductive rod, wherein the zeolite core material is suitable for releasing captured hydrogen to a hydrogen fuel cell. More specifically, the apparatus and method utilize solar-generated electric current to separate hydrogen from water, whereupon the released hydrogen is captured in the hydrogen absorption rod. The hydrogen absorption rod is configured to allow for ease and safety of transportation, storage, and use of hydrogen gas in hydrogen fuel cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Lawrence Curtin
  • Publication number: 20100126879
    Abstract: The present invention provides a solid diamond electrode, a reactor, in particular a reactor comprising an anode, a cathode and at least one bipolar electrode having first and second major working surfaces positioned therebetween wherein the at least one bipolar electrode consists essentially of diamond, and methods in which the reactors are used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventors: Jonathan James Wilman, Patrick Simon Bray, Timothy Peter Mollart
  • Publication number: 20100126849
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein generally relate to an electrode structure for an electrochemical battery or capacitor, particularly, apparatus and methods of creating a reliable and cost efficient 3D electrode nano structure for an electrochemical battery or capacitor that has an improved lifetime, lower production costs, and improved process performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: SERGEY D. LOPATIN, Robert Z. Bachrach
  • Publication number: 20100122912
    Abstract: A water treatment device having a tank containing an anode and a cathode. A motor is provided to impart rotational motion to the cathode. A scraping means is fixed to the interior of the tank and extend inward toward the tank so as to define a gap between the scraping means and the cathode. As mineral deposits accumulate on the cathode they are removed by the scraping means and the rotational motion of the cathode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicant: Chardon Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Alan Resor, Loyd Nels Cutchall, Christopher Charles Mace, Alan Neil Sosebee, Richard James Winter
  • Publication number: 20100122902
    Abstract: A system for producing hydrogen gas fuel used in powering an internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising a hydrogen reactor which includes at least one set of electrode plates comprising a plurality of neutral, positively charged and negatively charged plates disposed in a predetermined sequence or position relative to one another to define a predetermined stacked array submerged within water maintained in the hydrogen reactor. Metal particles disbursed within the water are forced through the plurality of electrode plates and structured to define an additional collection surface area, along with said plurality of electrode plates, on which hydrogen gas may be collected to facilitate increased production thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Inventors: Yehuda Shmueli, Eitan Shmueli, Doron Shmueli
  • Publication number: 20100116650
    Abstract: In the field of fluid treatment, there is a need for a more flexible electrocoagulation unit and a fluid treatment apparatus that is readily configurable to deal efficiently with differently contaminated fluids. An electrocoagulation unit (210), for removing contaminants from a fluid, comprises an electrode chamber, which in use has a top and a bottom. The chamber also has a fluid inlet (14) at or towards its bottom, and is in fluid communication with at least one discharge conduit towards its top to direct fluid from the chamber towards a fluid outlet. The electrocoagulation unit also comprises an electrode module (234) which is removable through the top of the electrode chamber and includes at least one support body that supports a plurality of electrodes (38, 42). The electrode chamber and the electrode module co-operate with one another to restrict the flow of contaminated fluid to regions within the electrode chamber adjacent to active surfaces of the electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: AGUACURE LIMITED
    Inventor: John Bostock
  • Publication number: 20100116684
    Abstract: Vessel-deployed wind machines are described that supply electricity for the electrolysis of sea water or fresh water to obtain hydrogen. The hydrogen produced from the electrolysis can be stored and used as desired. Hydrogen so produced can be used to power the vessel that carries the wind machines. Hydrogen produced can also be used for hydrogen fuel distribution networks and power plants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Carleton E. Sawyer
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20100101941
    Abstract: A device for electrolytic production of hydrogen and oxygen, comprising: process lines for feed of water and electrolyte and withdrawal of the electrolysis products, an electrolyser, comprising a body with upper and lower covers made of electrically conducting material, short-circuited electrodes, one of which is located centrally in the electrolyser, and the other is formed by the inside surface of the body, and an electromagnetic system, comprising magnets, mounted above the upper and under the lower covers of the body, the electrolyser being rotatable relative to the magnets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: OM ENERGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Aleksandr Konstantinovich SURIKOV, Evgeny Mikhailovich OVSYANNIKOV
  • Patent number: 7704354
    Abstract: The present invention relates, generally, to a method and apparatus for electrowinning metals, and more particularly to a method and apparatus for copper electrowinning using the ferrous/ferric anode reaction. In general, the use of a flow-through anode—coupled with an effective electrolyte circulation system—enables the efficient and cost-effective operation of a copper electrowinning system employing the ferrous/ferric anode reaction at a total cell voltage of less than about 1.5 V and at current densities of greater than about 26 Amps per square foot (about 280 A/m2), and reduces acid mist generation. Furthermore, the use of such a system permits the use of low ferrous iron concentrations and optimized electrolyte flow rates as compared to prior art systems while producing high quality, commercially saleable product (i.e., LME Grade A copper cathode or equivalent), which is advantageous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Freeport-McMoran Corporation
    Inventors: Scot Philip Sandoval, Timothy George Robinson, Paul Richard Cook
  • Patent number: 7704373
    Abstract: A method for electrochemical oxidation decomposition of difficult to decompose compounds such as aromatic compounds, organic chlorine compounds, agricultural chemicals, dioxin, PCB's and water soluble polymers that are contained in waste fluid, such as print developing waste fluids, factory waste water and industrial waste water, and landfill soil seeping waste water by carrying out electrolysis at a high current density to eliminate and purify difficult to decompose substances in the waste fluid. Waste fluid containing difficult to decompose substances is introduced into an electrolytic chamber having a ferrite electrode anode, electrolysis is performed at a high current density of 10 A/dm2 or higher, hypohalogenous acid and active oxygen are generated in the waste fluid along with a strong anode oxidation action being brought about, and the oxidation decomposition is repeated by re-circulating the waste fluid through a filter, electrolyzer and an intermediate collecting chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Omega Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Nakamura, Kunihiko Fukuzuka
  • Publication number: 20100089746
    Abstract: A hydrogen-oxygen electrolyzing device for generating hydrogen and oxygen with electrolytic solution comprises a first container providing a receiving trough for containing the electrolyte, and at least an electrolyzing structure; the electrolyzing structure further comprises: at least a serial cell being disposed in the receiving trough and further comprising a plurality of electrodes with a gap between every two neighboring electrodes, a first conductor and a second conductor; the first and second conductors electrically connect with the two outermost electrodes; characterized in that each of the electrodes is a carbon paper electrode with both outer surfaces thereof being changed in material; the carbon paper electrode further comprises: a carbon paper substrate having a first surface and a second surface, a first metal layer being joined to the first surface, and a second metal layer being joined to the second surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicants: TROIKA INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: CHAO CHANG
  • Publication number: 20100089766
    Abstract: A hydrogen generation vessel within which a reduction plate generates hydrogen by electrolysis of sea water. The hydrogen generation vessel operates at deep ocean levels to provide unexpected advantages. The operating depth is not limited because the hydrogen generation vessel includes openings at or near the bottom, and no pressure differential exists across the vessel walls. Pressure inside and outside are the same, and are determined by the depth at which the hydrogen generation vessel is positioned. Electrolysis, collection, and storage (temporary) take place in the same container. Since the hydrogen pressure is the same as the water pressure at the same depth, the hydrogen is pumped by simply opening a valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: John E. Menear
  • Patent number: 7695606
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrolytic device for disinfecting water in a water supply system using active chlorine, comprising an electrolytic cell having electrodes and a generator driven by the water, a part of the water being guided through the electrolytic cell and at least a part of the feeding of the electrolytic cell being guided through a salt dosing device containing a compound capable of supplying chloride ions to the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Johannes Petrus Paulus Tholen
  • Patent number: 7691251
    Abstract: Sharps are introduced into an apparatus for contacting the sharps with an electrolyte containing the oxidized form of one or more reversible redox couples, at least one of which is 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 sharps and the biological waste on the sharps and are themselves converted to their reduced form, whereupon they are reoxidized by either of the aforementioned mechanisms and 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 at temperatures between ambient and approximately 100° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Scimist, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger W. Carson, Bruce W. Bremer
  • Publication number: 20100078318
    Abstract: According to the invention, a surface cleaning device comprises an electrolytic cell for generating bleach for use with a cleaning pad. The electrolytic cell is in fluid communication with the cleaning pad for delivering bleach to a surface to be cleaned. According to another embodiment of the invention, the surface cleaning device is a hand-held cleaning device capable of selectively generating bleach at the request of a user directly in the cleaning pad. A sufficient amount of bleach for cleaning a surface can be generated within the electrolytic cell at the request of a user, eliminating the need for storing and transporting large quantities of bleach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: BISSELL HOMECARE, INC.
    Inventor: Eric C. Huffman
  • Publication number: 20100078334
    Abstract: An electro-chemical processor for making porous silicon or processing other substrates has first and second chamber assemblies. The first and second chamber assemblies include first and second seals for sealing against a wafer, and first and second electrodes, respectively. The first seal is moveable towards and away from a wafer in the processor, to move between a wafer load/unload position, and a wafer process position. The first electrode may move along with the first seal. The processor may be pivotable from a substantially horizontal orientation, for loading and unloading a wafer, to a substantially vertical orientation, for processing a wafer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventors: Daniel J. Woodruff, Paul R. McHugh, Gregory J. Wilson, Kyle M. Hanson, Erik Lund, Steven L. Peace
  • Publication number: 20100072077
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for toolless electrolytic deburring are disclosed in which a charged electrolyte stream flows through a hose and nozzle and can be selectively directed at a desired portion of an external or internal surface of a workpiece. The nozzle or the workpiece can be manipulated to vary the electrolytic deburring working gap so as to control the intensity of the electrolytic deburring and the portion of the workpiece that is electrolytically deburred. The electrolytic deburring is preferably performed in an enclosure having a glove which has an electrical contact that can be used to electrically connect the workpiece to the DC power supply anode simply by gripping the workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Michael R. Rohrbeck
  • Publication number: 20100072071
    Abstract: Embodiments of systems and methods for electrocoating a part are presented herein. According to one embodiment, an electrocoating system comprises a tank, a pump in fluid communication with the tank, and an external anode positioned outside of the tank. The external anode is a substantially membrane-free metal pipe configured to provide an electric charge to a fluid for electrocoating a part. The system may further comprise one or more internal nozzles positioned inside of the tank to direct an electrically charged fluid from the pump into the tank for electrocoating a part. In addition, the system may further comprise one or more external nozzles positionable outside of the tank to direct an electrically charged fluid from the pump to one or more selected areas of a part positioned for electrocoating outside of the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: METOKOTE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Brent Allen Schwartz, Brian Todd Young
  • Publication number: 20100065422
    Abstract: An axial flow electrolytic cell includes an outer layer made of a polyolefin material and formed as a tube. An outer layer liner lines an inside surface of the outer layer. The outer layer liner is formed as a metal tube. A middle layer is mounted inside the outer layer. The middle layer further includes a middle flow inlet and a middle flow outlet. The middle layer is formed as a metal tube. An inside layer is mounted inside the middle layer. The inside layer has an inside flow inlet and an inside flow outlet. The inside layer is formed as a middle tube. The first electrical connector is mounted to the middle layer at a middle layer connection. The first electrical connector passes through the outer layer and outer layer liner at an outer layer opening. A second electrical connector mounts to the outer layer liner and the inside layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Pete ADAMS
  • Patent number: 7678238
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is a method and an apparatus for underwater decomposition of organic content of aqueous waste solutions, involving the measurement and, if necessary, adjustment of the pH and electric conductivity of the solution, maintaining optimum pH and/or electric conductivity during the process, and further involving the partial or total decomposition of organic materials contained by the solution. The apparatus comprises a feed tank, at least one decomposition loop, and a storage tank. The method according to the invention is characterized by submerging electrodes in the solution, producing and maintaining an electric arc between the electrodes and the electrically conductive the solution, where the arc is produced by an electric current of at least 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: G.I.C. KFT
    Inventors: István Schremmer, Peter Tilky