Perforated Or Foraminous Electrode Patents (Class 204/283)
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Patent number: 11814741Abstract: Disclosed is an integrally combined electrical current carrier, circulation chamber and frame (CCF) formed as a single or double part (CCF) for use in unipolar electrochemical devices, such as a filter press electrolyser apparatus. The CCF is structured to define an internal circulation chamber for circulation of electrolyte, products, and reactants as well as apertures which form flow passageways when the filter press device is assembled. Affixed on opposed surfaces of the CCFs are electrically conductive planar electroactive structures which are in electrical contact with the CCF. The circulation chamber is formed by the depth of the CCF itself between opposing electroactive structures. Multiple CCFs are assembled and compressed together to form the filter press electrolyser apparatus. The flow passageway apertures within the assembled filter press electrolyser are aligned to form flow pathways, located above and below the circulation chambers.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2022Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Assignee: KEY DH IP INC./IP STRATEGIQUES DH, INC.Inventors: Andrew T. B. Stuart, Raynald G. Lachance, Edward D. B. Stuart, Samantha E. L. Stuart, Jaideep S. Spal
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Patent number: 11560634Abstract: Disclosed is an integrally combined electrical current carrier, circulation chamber and frame (CCF) formed as a single or double part (CCF) for use in unipolar electrochemical devices, such as a filter press electrolyser apparatus. The CCF is structured to define an internal circulation chamber for circulation of electrolyte, products, and reactants as well as apertures which form flow passageways when the filter press device is assembled. Affixed on opposed surfaces of the CCFs are electrically conductive planar electroactive structures which are in electrical contact with the CCF. The circulation chamber is formed by the depth of the CCF itself between opposing electroactive structures. Multiple CCFs are assembled and compressed together to form the filter press electrolyser apparatus. The flow passageway apertures within the assembled filter press electrolyser are aligned to form flow pathways, located above and below the circulation chambers.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2021Date of Patent: January 24, 2023Assignee: KEY DH IP INC./IP STRATÉGIQUES DH, INC.Inventors: Andrew T.B. Stuart, Raynald G. Lachance, Edward D.B. Stuart, Samantha E.L. Stuart, Jaideep S. Spal
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Patent number: 11439950Abstract: An apparatus for capturing CO2 from flue gas includes (a) an absorber, (b) a stripper, (c) a heat exchanger, (d) an amine absorbent circulating through the absorber, the stripper and the heat exchanger, (e) a water washing unit downstream from the flue gas outlet of the absorber, and (f) an electrochemical cell. The electrochemical cell is connected to the water washing unit and is adapted to adsorb and decompose nitrosamine compounds present in liquid separated by the water washing unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2019Date of Patent: September 13, 2022Assignee: Universiity of Kentucky Research FoundationInventors: Jesse G. Thompson, James Landon, Xin Gao, Kunlei Liu
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Patent number: 11035049Abstract: A solid electrolyte membrane is disposed between an anode and a substrate, and voltage is applied between the anode and the substrate while the solid electrolyte membrane is pressed onto the substrate so as to form a metal film on the substrate. In this film forming method, there is used the solid electrolyte membrane that includes: a first portion made of an ion permeable material; and a second portion made of a material having an electric insulating property and having a low permeability of metallic ions, the second portion being embedded in the first portion so as to be exposed from a surface of the solid electrolyte membrane, the surface of the solid electrolyte membrane facing the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2018Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Hirofumi Iisaka
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Patent number: 10633499Abstract: A process for preparing an ion-exchange membrane having a textured surface profile comprising the steps (i) and (ii): (i) screen-printing a radiation-curable composition onto a membrane in a patterned manner; and (ii) irradiating and thereby curing the printed, radiation-curable composition; wherein the radiation-curable composition has a viscosity of at least 30 Pa·s when measured at a shear rate of 0.1 s?1 at 20° C.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2015Date of Patent: April 28, 2020Assignee: Fujifilm Manufacturing Europe B.V.Inventors: Johannes Van Engelen, Bastiaan Van Berchum, Willem Van Baak
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Patent number: 10233550Abstract: A process for manufacturing a catalytic electrode includes depositing an electrocatalytic ink on a carrier, wherein the electrocatalytic ink includes an electrocatalytic material and a product polymerizable into a protonically conductive polymer. The process also includes solidifying the electrocatalytic ink so as to form an electrode wherein the composition of the product polymerizable into a protonically conductive polymer and its proportion in the ink is defined so that the electrode formed has a breaking strength greater than 1 MPa. The process further includes separating the electrode formed from the carrier.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2016Date of Patent: March 19, 2019Assignee: Commissariat a l'energie atomique et aux energies alternativesInventors: Rémi Vincent, Eric Mayousse
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Patent number: 10026981Abstract: A method of improving the electrical performance of an operating fuel cell catalyst-containing cathode in a fuel cell connected to an electrical load by: reducing the flow of air to the cathode; disconnecting the load from the fuel cell; connecting a potentiostat to the fuel cell; cycling an applied voltage, current, or power to the fuel cell one or more times; disconnecting the potentiostat from the fuel cell; reconnecting the load to the fuel cell; and resuming the flow of air to the cathode.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2017Date of Patent: July 17, 2018Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Benjamin D. Gould, Karen Swider-Lyons, Olga A. Baturina
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Patent number: 9255333Abstract: A high pressure proton exchange membrane based water electrolyzer system that may include a series of proton exchange membrane (PEM) cells that may be electrically coupled together and coupled to a proton exchange membrane to form a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) that is spiral wound onto a conductive center post, wherein an innermost PEM cell of the MEA may be electrically connected with the conductive center post, or center electrode, and wherein an outermost PEM cell of the MEA may be electrically coupled to pressure vessel cylinder, or outer electrode. Each PEM cell may include an anode portion and a cathode portion separated by a portion of the PEM membrane. In addition, a non-permeable separator layer may also be spiral wound around the conductive center post and separates the wound portions of the PEM core.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: February 9, 2016Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: David B. Ouwerkerk, Nelson A. Kelly, Thomas L. Gibson
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Patent number: 9005412Abstract: An exemplary electrolyzer includes an electrode plate assembly including a plurality of perforated electrode plates and electrically conductive busbars. The plurality of electrode plates includes one or more positive electrode plates interleaved with one or more negative electrode plates. Each electrode plate has a first aperture and a second aperture, the second aperture being larger than the first aperture and lined with a non-conductive grommet. The plurality of electrically conductive busbars includes a first positive conductive busbar and a first negative conductive busbar. Respective conductive busbars extend through the first aperture of corresponding positive and negative electrodes and through the non-conductive grommet of the second aperture of each corresponding negative and positive electrode.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2013Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Hydro Genes Trans Inc.Inventor: Wen-Fu Pan
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Patent number: 8778149Abstract: The invention relates to a synthetic diaphragm for chlor-alkali cells with improved energy consumption and gas separation characteristics. The diaphragm comprises a network of polymer fibers bound to a hydrophilic ceramic material containing zirconium chemically bound to hydroxyl groups. The ceramic material is obtained starting from ZrO2 by a process of hydration under vacuum which can be carried out directly in the cell by means of suitable equipment.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Industrie de Nora S.p.A.Inventor: Giovanni Meneghini
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Patent number: 8734626Abstract: An anode (3) and a cathode (5), interposing a solid polymer film (7), are disposed. While supplying purified water from a supply port (13a) of an anode chamber (13), wherein the anode (3) is disposed, and a supply port (15a) of a cathode chamber (15), wherein the cathode (5) is disposed, direct electric current is applied between the anode (3) and the cathode (5). As a result, ozone-water is discharged from an outlet port (13b) of the anode chamber (13). In such an electrolysis cell (1), a free-standing conductive diamond plate, formed by microwave plasma assisted CVD so as to have a thickness of 0.8 mm, is used as the anode (3). The diamond plate is provided with holes, having a diameter of 1 mm and disposed such that a center distance therebetween becomes 2 mm. Therefore, the electrolysis cell (1) can stably produce ozone without causing exfoliation of the anode (3), even when high voltage and large current are applied between the anode (3) and the cathode (5).Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Central Japan Railway CompanyInventors: Kazuki Arihara, Akira Fujishima
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Publication number: 20140131197Abstract: A carbon dioxide enrichment device includes first and second gas diffusion electrodes; an anion exchange membrane; and an electrolytic solution partitioned by the anion exchange membrane. The electrolytic solution contains solvent and solute, and the solute is dissolved to form a dissolved inorganic carbon containing carbonic acid, hydrogen carbonate ions, or carbonic acid ions. The oxygen is consumed by an oxygen reduction reaction on the first gas diffusion electrode, whereby, a dissolved inorganic carbon is formed by a dissolution and ionization reaction of carbon dioxide in the solvent. The dissolved inorganic carbon from the solute or the dissolved inorganic carbon is transported to the second gas diffusion electrode through the anion exchange membrane, and oxygen is formed from the solvent near the second gas diffusion electrode by an oxidation reaction of the solvent on the second gas diffusion electrode, and carbon dioxide is formed from the dissolved inorganic carbon.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2012Publication date: May 15, 2014Inventors: Michio Suzuka, Ryo Kamai, Shuji Nakanishi, Takeyuki Yamaki, Kazuhito Hashimoto, Adam Heller, Yong Zhao
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Patent number: 8685594Abstract: A cathode catalyst for a fuel cell includes a carrier, and an active material including M selected from the group consisting of Ru, Pt, Rh, and combinations thereof, and Ch selected from the group consisting of S, Se, Te, and combinations thereof, with the proviso that the active material is not RuSe when the carrier is C.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.Inventors: Alexey AlexandrovichSerov, Chan Kwak, Myoung-Ki Min, Si-Hyun Lee
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Publication number: 20130240372Abstract: An oxygen-consuming electrode for use in chloralkali electrolysis, having a novel coating, the production thereof, an electrolysis cell comprising the oxygen-consuming electrode and parameters for the startup and shutdown of the electrolysis apparatus, compliance with which prevents damage to the cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2013Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: BAYER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GMBHInventors: Andreas BULAN, Jürgen KINTRUP
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Publication number: 20130153437Abstract: A cathode assembly, a system including the cathode assembly, and method of using the assembly and system are disclosed. The cathode assembly includes a conductive element and a barrier element proximate the conductive element. The assembly, system and method provide for improved metal powder formation. The system may be stationary or portable.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2011Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: FREEPORT-MCMORAN CORPORATIONInventors: Scot P. Sandoval, Gerald Moen, Jason M. Morgan, Mark Peabody
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Publication number: 20130101919Abstract: Provided are a MEA, a fuel cell, and a gas detoxification apparatus that allow at high efficiency a general electrochemical reaction causing gas decomposition or the like and are excellent in cost efficiency; and a method for producing a MEA. In this MEA 7, a porous base 3, a porous anode 2, an ion-conductive solid electrolyte 1, and a porous cathode 5 are stacked. The anode 2 or the cathode 5 is in contact with a surface of the porous base 3. The porous anode 2 includes a metal deposit body 21 having catalysis for gas decomposition.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: April 25, 2013Applicant: SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Chihiro Hiraiwa, Masatoshi Majima, Tetsuya Kuwabara, Tomoyuki Awazu
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Publication number: 20130087465Abstract: An electrode of an electrolysis cell for gas-producing electrochemical processes, which includes a plurality of horizontal lamella elements which in the manner of a flat C-profile consist of a flat central part and one or more flank parts, where one or more transition regions of any shape are arranged between the flat central part and the one or more flank parts, where the lamella elements have a plurality of through-openings, where the lamella elements have a flat surface without structural raised regions and depressions and the flat central part has a plurality of through-openings which are arranged in rows and arranged diagonally to one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2012Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: THYSSENKRUPP UHDE GMBHInventor: THYSSENKRUPP UHDE GMBH
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Publication number: 20130089810Abstract: Provided is a gas decomposition component that employs an electrochemical reaction to reduce the running cost and can have high treatment performance. A gas decomposition component includes a cylindrical-body MEA 7 including an anode 2 on an inner-surface side, a cathode 5 on an outer-surface side, and a solid electrolyte 1; and a porous metal body 11s that is inserted on the inner-surface side of the cylindrical-body MEA and is electrically connected to the anode 2, wherein a metal mesh sheet 11a is disposed between the anode 2 and the porous metal body 11s. Another gas decomposition component includes the cylindrical MEA 7 and silver-paste-coated wiring 12g formed on the cathode 5, wherein the silver-paste-coated wiring 12g is a porous body.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Chihiro Hiraiwa, Masatoshi Majima, Tetsuya Kuwabara, Toshiyuki Kuramoto, Toshio Ueda, Tomoyuki Awazu
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Publication number: 20130032491Abstract: This invention is to provide a membrane-electrode assembly, an electrolytic cell using the same, a method and an apparatus for producing ozone water, a method for disinfection and a method for wastewater or waste fluid treatment, by using which allow electrolysis reaction products or decomposition products to be produced at a high efficiency, channel pressure drop to be minimized, and the apparatus to be designed compact in size without sacrificing the production capacity. This invention relates to a membrane-electrode assembly, comprising an anode having a plurality of through-holes of 0.1 mm or more in diameter; a cathode having a plurality of through-holes of 0.1 mm or more in diameter at the same sites as in the anode; and a solid polymer electrolyte membrane coated on one face or the entire face of at least one of the anode and the cathode with the through-holes being maintained, wherein the anode, the solid polymer electrolyte membrane and the cathode are tightly adhered.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2010Publication date: February 7, 2013Applicants: PERMELEC ELECTRODE LTD., AQUAECOS LTD.Inventors: Hideo Nitta, Masashi Hosonuma
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Publication number: 20130026096Abstract: This invention is to provide a membrane-electrode assembly, an electrolytic cell using the same, a method and an apparatus for producing ozone water, a method for disinfection and a method for wastewater or waste fluid treatment, by using which electrolysis reaction products or decomposition products obtained at the anode are produced at a high efficiency; channel pressure drop is minimized; and the apparatus is designed in compact size without sacrificing the production capacity. This invention relates to a membrane-electrode assembly comprising a solid polymer electrolyte membrane having a cation exchange membrane, an anode and a cathode tightly adhered to the respective surfaces of the solid polymer electrolyte membrane, with a plurality of through-holes with 0.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2010Publication date: January 31, 2013Applicants: PERMELEC ELECTRODE LTD., AQUAECOS LTD.Inventors: Hideo Nitta, Masashi Hosonuma
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Patent number: 8343321Abstract: The invention relates to membrane-electrode assemblies for the electrolysis of water (electrolysis MEAs), which contain an ion-conducting membrane having a front and rear side; a first catalyst layer on the front side; a first gas diffusion layer on the front side; a second catalyst layer on the rear side, and a second gas diffusion layer on the rear side. The first gas diffusion layer has smaller planar dimensions than the ion-conducting membrane, whereas the second gas diffusion layer has essentially the same planar dimensions as the ion-conducting membrane (“semi-coextensive design”). The MEAs also comprise an unsupported free membrane surface that yields improved adhesion properties of the sealing material. The invention also relates to a method for producing the MEA products. Pressure-resistant, gastight and cost-effective membrane-electrode assemblies are obtained, that are used in PEM water electrolyzers, regenerative fuel cells or in other electrochemical devices.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: Umicore AG & Co. KGInventors: Ralf Zuber, Klaus Schaack, Sandra Wittpahl, Holger Dziallas, Peter Seipel, Pia Braun, Lutz Rohland
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Patent number: 8323463Abstract: A composite oxygen transport membrane having a dense layer, a porous support layer and an intermediate porous layer located between the dense layer and the porous support layer. Both the dense layer and the intermediate porous layer are formed from an ionic conductive material to conduct oxygen ions and an electrically conductive material to conduct electrons. The porous support layer has a high permeability, high porosity, and a high average pore diameter and the intermediate porous layer has a lower permeability and lower pore diameter than the porous support layer. Catalyst particles selected to promote oxidation of a combustible substance are located in the intermediate porous layer and in the porous support adjacent to the intermediate porous layer. The catalyst particles can be formed by wicking a solution of catalyst precursors through the porous support toward the intermediate porous layer.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Gervase Maxwell Christie, Jamie Robyn Wilson, Bart Antonie van Hassel
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Patent number: 8277623Abstract: The present invention relates to a conductive diamond electrode, comprising a substrate having a plurality of convex and concave part disposed over the entire surface of the conductive diamond electrode, and a diamond film coated on the surface of said substrate, wherein the width of each convex part of said convex and concave part is in a range from 0.2 mm to 1 mm. The present invention can provide a conductive diamond electrode, applying a thin film of conductive diamond and a thick substrate, being less expensive than a self-supported type conductive diamond electrode and also having mechanical strength enough to be used in the zero-gap electrolysis, functioning stably for a long time with smooth water supply or gas liberation, and an ozone generator using the conductive diamond electrode.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2010Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Chlorine Engineers Corp., Ltd.Inventors: Masaaki Kato, Rie Kawaguchi
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Publication number: 20120234676Abstract: The invention relates to a cathode for electrolytic processes provided with a catalytic coating based on ruthenium crystallites with highly controlled size falling in a range of 1-10 nm. The coating can be produced by physical vapour deposition of a ruthenium or ruthenium oxide layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2012Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: Industrie De Nora S.p.A.Inventors: Giovanni Meneghini, Corrado Mojana, Felix Prado
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Publication number: 20120193242Abstract: A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) comprises substantially concentric and tubular-shaped layers of a cathode, an anode and an ion-exchange membrane. The MEAs of the invention can be used in an electrochemical cell, which comprises the following layers which are tubular-shaped, arranged substantially concentrically, and listed from the inner layer to the outer layer; (i) a cylindrical core; (ii) one of the electrodes; (iii) a membrane; (iv) the other of the electrodes; and (v) an outer cylindrical sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2010Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventor: Frederic Marchal
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Patent number: 8197658Abstract: In order to solve various problems such as a reduction in a paint resin with the progress of electrodeposition coating treatment and remelting of a coating film or the occurrence of pinholes caused by an increased concentration of an electrolyte as a result of the reduction, upsizing of a hollow electrode with a membrane for electrodeposition coating combined with a barrier membrane (e.g., an ion exchange membrane) and an increase in the number of components should be avoided. In order to realize this, a barrier membrane 20 such as an ion exchange membrane is attached to the exterior surface of an electrode main body 10, which is in a hollow state made of a conductive material and configured so as to allow a liquid to pass through freely between the inside and outside of the electrode serving as a support.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignees: Daiso Co., Ltd., AGC Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shouhei Matsui, Yasushi Yoshida, Nobuyoshi Shoji, Yukio Matsumura
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Patent number: 8152974Abstract: The invention relates to a porous electrode used in an electrochemical cell, containing a carrier and/or catalytic agent, which is characterized by that it consists of two or more layers with different average pore sizes, out of which layers the contact layer with the smallest average pore size is in contact with the membrane, and one or more supporting layers with a greater average pore size are linked to the other side of this contact layer. Furthermore, the invention relates to a procedure for the manufacturing of such electrodes and to electrochemical cells containing such electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: ThalesNano Zrt.Inventors: Ferenc Darvas, Dániel Szalay, Lajos Gödörházy
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Patent number: 8147663Abstract: A scaffold holding one or more ion-conductive ceramic membranes for use in an electrochemical cell is described. Generally, the scaffold includes a thermoplastic plate defining one or more orifices. Each orifice is typically defined by a first, second, and third aperture, wherein the second aperture is disposed between the first and third apertures. The diameter of the second aperture can be larger than the diameters of the first and third apertures. While at an operating temperature the diameter of the ceramic membrane is larger than the diameters of the first and third apertures, heating the scaffold to a sufficient temperature and for a sufficient time causes the third aperture's diameter to become larger than the membrane's diameter. Thus, heating the scaffold may allow the membrane to be inserted into the orifice. Cooling the scaffold can then cause the third aperture's diameter to shrink and trap the membrane within the orifice.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2010Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Cekamatec, IncInventors: Scott Suarez, Steven Matthew Quist
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Patent number: 8142625Abstract: An electrochemical gas detector includes a superhydrophobic, nanostructured gas porous electrode. The electrode exhibits a physically disrupted porous region. In an embodiment, electrode material can be deposited around a templating material which is removed before use. Such electrodes exhibit repeatable and reproducible characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2009Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Life Safety Distribution AGInventor: Keith Francis Edwin Pratt
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Publication number: 20120067744Abstract: There is provided a sample preparation device and method for preparing a sample of liquid for detection of impurities. First (40) and second (38) electrodes are provided, located for immersion in a liquid under test. A semipermeable membrane (42) is positioned to protect the first electrode (40) from a body of liquid under test (32). The semipermeable membrane allows the liquid under test to pass therethrough to reach the first electrode, while preventing solids carried in the liquid from reaching the first electrode, the first electrode being positioned to affect the liquid under test in the vicinity of a sensor (36). Particular embodiments feature a hydrophilic membrane to protect the electrodes from suspended solids in the sample, a thin electrode assembly to achieve a faster response and the addition of a heater for temperature control to achieve consistent detection conditions and improved anti-fouling properties.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventor: David Robert Vincent
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Patent number: 8133306Abstract: A gas diffusion substrate includes a non-woven network of carbon fibres, the carbon fibres are graphitised but the non-woven network has not been subjected to a graphitisation process. A mixture of graphitic particles and hydrophobic polymer is disposed within the network. The longest dimension of at least 90% of the graphitic particles is less than 100 ?m. A process for manufacturing gas diffusion substrates includes depositing a slurry of graphitised carbon fibres onto a porous bed forming a wet fibre network, preparing a suspension of graphitic particles and hydrophobic polymer, applying onto, and pulling the suspension into, the network, and drying and firing the network. Another process includes mixing a first slurry of graphitic particles and hydrophobic polymer with a second slurry of graphitised carbon fibres and liquid forming a third slurry, depositing the third slurry onto a porous bed forming a fibre-containing layer, and drying and firing the layer.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2005Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignees: Johnson Matthey Public Limited Company, Technical Fibre Products LimitedInventors: George Thomas Quayle, Julia Margaret Rowe, Jonathan David Brereton Sharman, Julian Andrew Siodlak, Nigel Julian Walker, Andrew James Fletcher
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Publication number: 20120012457Abstract: The invention relates to membrane-electrode assemblies for the electrolysis of water (electrolysis MEAs), which contain an ion-conducting membrane having a front and rear side; a first catalyst layer on the front side; a first gas diffusion layer on the front side; a second catalyst layer on the rear side, and a second gas diffusion layer on the rear side. The first gas diffusion layer has smaller planar dimensions than the ion-conducting membrane, whereas the second gas diffusion layer has essentially the same planar dimensions as the ion-conducting membrane (“semi-coextensive design”). The MEAs also comprise an unsupported free membrane surface that yields improved adhesion properties of the sealing material. The invention also relates to a method for producing the MEA products. Pressure-resistant, gastight and cost-effective membrane-electrode assemblies are obtained, that are used in PEM water electrolyzers, regenerative fuel cells or in other electrochemical devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Applicant: UMICORE AG & CO. KGInventors: Ralf ZUBER, Sandra WITTPAHL, Klaus SCHAACK, Holger DZIALLAS, Peter SEIPEL, Pia BRAUN, Lutz ROHLAND
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Patent number: 8088261Abstract: An electrochemical cell for producing copper having a dense graphite anode electrode and a dense graphite cathode electrode disposed in a CuCl solution. An anion exchange membrane made of poly(ethylene vinyl alcohol) and polyethylenimine cross-linked with a cross-linking agent selected from the group consisting of acetone, formaldehyde, glyoxal, glutaraldehyde, and mixtures thereof is disposed between the two electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2007Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Gas Technology InstituteInventors: Qinbai Fan, Renxuan Liu
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Patent number: 8029654Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a complex material in which an ion conduction film is curved and deformed when a potential difference is applied, which is operated at small electric power, has a large deformation amount, quick response performances, large degree of freedom in shape, and is easy in control of deformation, while having strength and durability necessary for practical use and being excellent in an economical aspect. A conductive cloth (preferably having stretchability), which is made conductive through plating of metal on a cloth or metal complex implantation, is joined as an electrode to both surfaces of the ion conduction film (the film in which an ion exchange film or ion liquid is immersed) made of a fluororesin and the like. When the potential difference is applied, the ion conduction film is deformed.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2007Date of Patent: October 4, 2011Assignee: Seiren Co., Ltd.Inventors: Susumu Takagi, Masakazu Nomura, Eiichi Shoji, Kazuyuki Murase
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Patent number: 8021799Abstract: The embodiments generally relate to a high performance ceramic anode which will increase flexibility in the types of fuels that may be used with the anode. The embodiments further relate to high-performance, direct-oxidation SOFC utilizing the anodes, providing improved electro-catalytic activity and redox stability. The SOFCs are capable of use with strategic fuels and other hydrocarbon fuels. Also provided are methods of making the high-performance anodes and solid oxide fuel cells comprising the anodes exhibiting improved electronic conductivity and electrochemical activity.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: The Trustees Of The University Of PennsylvaniaInventors: Raymond J. Gorte, John M. Vohs, Michael D. Gross
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Patent number: 7964068Abstract: The present invention provides: a membrane-electrode assembly having a first electrode having a shape of a rod-form or a cylindrical-form, a strip-form diaphragm covering the periphery of the first electrode, and a second electrode disposed on a surface of the strip-form diaphragm; an electrolytic unit containing the membrane-electrode assembly; an electrolytic water ejecting apparatus containing the electrolytic unit; and a method of sterilization using the membrane-electrode assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2007Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignees: Permelec Electrode Ltd., Institute of National Colleges of Technology, JapanInventors: Noriyuki Kitaori, Kota Sekido, Genzo Yamane, Katsumi Hamaguchi, Hozumi Tanaka, Yoshinori Nishiki, Tsuneto Furuta
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Patent number: 7951274Abstract: A diamond electrode includes a conductive silicon substrate having a plurality of pores. The diamond electrode also includes a conductive diamond covering the conductive silicon substrate. The inner wall surfaces of the plurality of pores are at an angle of 60° to 85° with respect to a substrate of the conductive silicon substrate.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2006Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Hardmetal Corp.Inventors: Shigeru Yoshida, Katsuhito Yoshida, Toshiya Takahashi, Takahisa Iguchi, Fuminori Higuchi
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Patent number: 7922879Abstract: An ion exchange membrane electrolyzer is provided, which is characterized in that a current is passed through at least one electrode in contact with a plate spring member formed at a portion of an electrode retainer member parallel with a flat plate form of electrode chamber partition, wherein said electrode retainer member is joined at a belt junction to the flat plate form of electrode chamber partition with a space between them, said electrode is provided with a floating mount means at a portion thereof other than a portion of contact with the plate spring member, and said floating mount means is provided with an engaging portion that is engaged with a fixed engaging member to enable said electrode to move in a perpendicular direction to an electrode surface and in a range of displacement of said plate spring member.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignees: Chlorine Engineers Corp., Ltd., Tosoh CorporationInventors: Yoshiyuki Kodama, Shinichiro Yamamoto
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Patent number: 7914652Abstract: The present invention provides an oxygen gas diffusion cathode for sodium chloride electrolysis comprising: a porous conductive substrate comprising silver, a hydrophobic material and a carbon material; a catalyst comprising silver and palladium, coated on the porous conductive substrate.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2007Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Permelec Electrode Ltd.Inventors: Yuji Yamada, Yuki Izawa, Yoshinori Nishiki
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Patent number: 7909969Abstract: A gas diffusion layer with a micro protective layer is utilized in the electrochemical cells. The cell mainly includes end plates, current collectors, flow field plates, gas diffusion layers, catalyst layers, a proton exchange membrane and a circuit unit. When the cell functions as a fuel cell, hydrogen reacts with oxygen to generate electricity and water. Reversely, when the cell functions as a water electrolysis cell, water was decomposed electrolytically to produce hydrogen and oxygen gases. In this manner, the present invention particularly has the gas diffusion layer to be coated with a micro protective layer so as to prevent the gas diffusion layer from being corroded by active oxygen species generated within the oxygen electrode under the catalysis during water electrolysis operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2008Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: General Optics CorporationInventors: Wen-Hui Yang, Fu-Chen Kuo, Chao-Yang Liu, Chi-Chia Fan
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Patent number: 7892408Abstract: A cathodic gas diffusion electrode for the electrochemical production of aqueous hydrogen peroxide solutions. The cathodic gas diffusion electrode comprises an electrically conductive gas diffusion substrate and a cathodic electrocatalyst layer supported on the gas diffusion substrate. A novel cathodic electrocatalyst layer comprises a cathodic electrocatalyst, a substantially water-insoluble quaternary ammonium compound, a fluorocarbon polymer hydrophobic agent and binder, and a perfluoronated sulphonic acid polymer. An electrochemical cell using the novel cathodic electrocatalyst layer has been shown to produce an aqueous solution having between 8 and 14 weight percent hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, such electrochemical cells have shown stable production of hydrogen peroxide solutions over 1000 hours of operation including numerous system shutdowns.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2007Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Lynntech, Inc.Inventors: Christopher P. Rhodes, Charles L. K. Tennakoon, Waheguru Pal Singh, Kelvin C. Anderson
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Patent number: 7850832Abstract: The present invention relates to an inert, non-asbestos separator and method of making same, the separator comprising an inorganic/polymer fibrid and agglomeration composite material containing from about 5 weight percent to about 70 weight percent of organic halocarbon polymer fibers together with from about 30 wt percent to about 95 weight percent of a finely divided non-organic particulate, which non-organic particulate is firmly bound in said composite fibrids and agglomerates; a natural gum thickening agent in an amount to provide a viscosity of about 6270 to about 590 cP at 0.22 sec?1; and an inert inorganic particulate powder whereby the inert inorganic particulate remains unbound from the inorganic/polymer fibrid and agglomeration composite, the inorganic particulate powder having a mean particle size of not greater than 1.0 ?m and being present in an amount to provide a ratio of polymer fiber composite to unbound inorganic particulate in a range from about 1 to 25.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2006Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Industrie de Nora S.p.A.Inventors: Nick J. Tomba, Michael S. Moats, Richard L. Romine, Thomas F. Florkiewicz, Douglas J. Waskovich, Edward S. Kazimir
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Publication number: 20100276280Abstract: In order to solve various problems such as a reduction in a paint resin with the progress of electrodeposition coating treatment and remelting of a coating film or the occurrence of pinholes caused by an increased concentration of an electrolyte as a result of the reduction, upsizing of a hollow electrode with a membrane for electrodeposition coating combined with a barrier membrane (e.g., an ion exchange membrane) and an increase in the number of components should be avoided. In order to realize this, a barrier membrane 20 such as an ion exchange membrane is attached to the exterior surface of an electrode main body 10, which is in a hollow state made of a conductive material and configured so as to allow a liquid to pass through freely between the inside and outside of the electrode serving as a support.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2007Publication date: November 4, 2010Applicants: Daiso Co., Ltd., AGC Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shouhei Matsui, Yasushi Yoshida, Nobuyoshi Shoji, Yukio Matsumura
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Publication number: 20100224506Abstract: Methods and apparatus for complex treatment of contaminated liquids are provided, by which contaminants are extracted from the liquid. The substances to be extracted may be metallic, non-metallic, organic, inorganic, dissolved, or in suspension. The treatment apparatus includes at least one mechanical filter used to filter the liquid solution, a separator device used to remove organic impurities and oils from the mechanically filtered liquid, and an electroextraction device that removes heavy metals from the separated liquid. After treatment within the treatment apparatus, metal ion concentrations within the liquid may be reduced to their residual values of less than 0.1 milligrams per liter. A Method of complex treatment of a contaminated liquid includes using the separator device to remove inorganic and non-conductive substances prior to electroextraction of metals to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment and provide a reusable liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2008Publication date: September 9, 2010Inventors: David Livshits, Lester Teichner
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Patent number: 7785453Abstract: An electrode for electrochemical processes for gas production, which in the installed state is located parallel and opposite to an ion exchange membrane and consists of a multitude of horizontal lamellar elements which are structured and three-dimensionally shaped and are in contact with only one surface with the membrane, wherein the lamellar elements have grooves and holes, the major part of the holes being placed in the grooves and the surfaces of such holes or part thereof are located in the grooves or extend into the grooves whereby the holes are ideally placed in the contact area of the respective lamellar element with the membrane.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2006Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Uhdenora S.p.A.Inventors: Karl Heinz Dulle, Roland Beckmann, Randolf Kiefer, Peter Woltering
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Patent number: 7785454Abstract: A gas diffusion electrode comprising an electrically conductive web, a non-catalyzed gas diffusion layer comprising at least one electroconductive filler and at least one binder, and a noble metal coating obtained by subjecting an electrically conductive web to a first ion beam having an energy not higher than 500 eV, then to a second beam having an energy of at least 500 eV, containing the ions of at least one noble metal.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2008Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: BASF Fuel Cell GmbHInventors: Andrea F. Gulla, Robert J. Allen, Emory De Castro, Enrico Ramunni
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Patent number: 7763152Abstract: There is provided an ion exchange membrane electrolyzer, wherein at least one electrode is energized by coming into contact with plate spring bodies formed on the electrode side of an electrode holding member forming a space with an electrode chamber partition bonded to a plate-like electrode chamber partition by a strip-like bonded portion, the electrode has a connected portion extending from a plane parallel to the ion exchange membrane toward the electrode holding member side in a direction perpendicular to the electrode plane, the connected portion is provided with an engaging opening extending in a direction perpendicular to the electrode plane, and the engaging opening engages with an engaging member, permitting the electrode to move in a direction perpendicular to the electrode plane within the displacement range of the plate spring bodies.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2007Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignees: Chlorine Engineers Corp., Ltd., Tosoh CorporationInventors: Minoru Suzuki, Masakazu Kameda
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Publication number: 20100167175Abstract: A composition useful in electrodes provides higher power capability through the use of nanoparticle catalysts present in the composition. Nanoparticles of transition metals are preferred such as manganese, nickel, cobalt, iron, palladium, ruthenium, gold, silver, and lead, as well as alloys thereof, and respective oxides. These nanoparticle catalysts can substantially replace or eliminate platinum as a catalyst for certain electrochemical reactions. Electrodes, used as anodes, cathodes, or both, using such catalysts have applications relating to metal-air batteries, hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs), and other air or oxygen breathing electrochemical systems as well as some liquid diffusion electrodes.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2010Publication date: July 1, 2010Applicant: QUANTUMSPHERE, INC.Inventors: Robert Brian Dopp, Kimberly McGrath, R. Douglas Carpenter
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Patent number: 7727927Abstract: Activation of a tungsten-containing catalyst using water in a PEM-type fuel cell is described as well as cathode operation of the tungsten-containing catalyst.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2005Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Global Tungsten & Powders Corp.Inventor: Joel B. Christian
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Publication number: 20100126850Abstract: An electrode comprising: a least a first, preferably cylindrical, glass body, in which at least a first chamber is formed; at least a first electrolyte, which is located in the first chamber; at least a first potential-forming element, which is arranged in the chamber, and forms a first potential when contacted by the first electrolyte; at least a first closing element, which is axially fixed in the first chamber for enclosing the first electrolyte and the first potential-forming element and sealedly closes the first chamber; wherein, additionally, the first closing element is conductive, the first potential-forming element conductingly contacts the first closing element, and the electrode furthermore includes at least a first electrical conductor, which electrically contacts the first closing element on the side of the first closing element facing away from the first electrolyte.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 15, 2007Publication date: May 27, 2010Applicant: Endress + Hauser Conducta Gesellschaft fur Mess- und Regeltechnik mbH - Co. KGInventors: Reiner Franzheld, Katrin Scholz, Ingrid Wunderlich