Electrolytic Synthesis (process, Composition, And Method Of Preparing Composition) Patents (Class 205/334)
  • Publication number: 20130020206
    Abstract: A support member for an improved three-chambered electrolytic cell is disclosed. A porous synthetic support system for exchange membranes in electrolytic cells is used for exchange membrane protection in electrolytic cells for the in situ generation of electrolysis solutions, such as bleach or hypochlorous acid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Kevin A. Wuebben, Scott R. Limback, Barry R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8342207
    Abstract: The invention relates to a microfluidic device for making a liquid/liquid or gas biphasic system using a first liquid or a gas and a second liquid, non-miscible with each other, the device having a first hydrophobic surface for the second liquid, the first liquid forming a layer (6) on said first hydrophobic surface. The device comprises means for introducing a drop (7) of the second liquid into the layer of first liquid or gas and in contact with said first hydrophobic surface, and means for displacing the drop on said first hydrophobic surface along a determined path, the device having on the path of the drop, at least one wetting defect causing, upon passing of the drop over this defect, failure of the triple line of contact of the drop on the first hydrophobic surface and inclusion of first liquid (8) or gas into the drop. The invention also relates to the associated method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventors: Olivier Raccurt, Yves Fouillet
  • Publication number: 20120318680
    Abstract: A device for reducing carbon dioxide includes a vessel for holding an electrolyte solution including carbon dioxide, a working electrode and a counter electrode. The working electrode contains boron particles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Yuji ZENITANI, Reiko TANIGUCHI, Satoshi YOTSUHASHI, Masahiro DEGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20120312696
    Abstract: A process for producing proton-conducting membrane, the process comprising: mixing (i) 5% to 60% by volume of an electrically nonconductive inorganic powder having a good acid absorption capacity, the powder comprising essentially nanosize particles; (ii) 5% to 50% by volume of a polymeric binder that is chemically compatible with acid, oxygen and the fuel; and (iii) 10 to 90% by volume of an acid or aqueous acid solution, wherein the mixing is conducted at various rate steps, thereby producing a proton-conducting mixture; continuously casting the proton-conducting mixture on rolled paper, non-woven matrix or the like at ambient temperature; drying the casted proton-conducting mixture at a temperature of greater than 100° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Emanuel Peled, Arnon Blum, Adi Aharon
  • Publication number: 20120312695
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to conducting polymer composites for use in electrochemical applications and electrolysis applications, and methods of making the same. A composite material is provided that includes a conducting polymer; and a silsesquioxane compound. The composite material is used to prepare ion conducting membranes and membrane electrode assemblies (MEA).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: OHIO UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Anima B. Bose
  • Publication number: 20120255865
    Abstract: This is directed to systems, processes, machines, and other means that produce a reduced solution for cooling machinery. The invention can produce a superior coolant, or has a superior ability to reduce or transfer heat through the use of highly reduced water with a high potential of hydrogen and increased production of electrons in a rapid state of disassociation, which produces a highly active (energy) solution with an increased ability to transfer heat. This superior coolant is a cathodic non-corrosive medium, which possesses an increased ability to transfer heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventor: Melinda Taylor
  • Publication number: 20120247970
    Abstract: Methods and systems for electrochemical cell optimization, namely increasing cell efficiency and rate of chemical product, are disclosed. In particular, a device wherein air or an oxygen-containing gas is bubbled through an electrochemical cell and methods of use are disclosed to reduce the voltage demand and power usage of an electrochemical cell. The optimized electrochemical cell also achieves increased chemical generation from electrolysis for using in various settings, including for example, housekeeping applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: ECOLAB USA INC.
    Inventors: Erik C. Olson, Kim R. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120248031
    Abstract: The invention relates to a composite or a composite membrane consisting of an ionomer and of an inorganic optionally functionalized phyllosilicate. The isomer can be: (a) a cation exchange polymer; (b) an anion exchange polymer; (c) a polymer containing both anion exchanger groupings as well as cation exchanger groupings on the polymer chain; or (d) a blend consisting of (a) and (b), whereby the mixture ratio can range from 100% (a) to 100% (b). The blend can be ionically and even covalently cross-linked. The inorganic constituents can be selected from the group consisting of phyllosilicates or tectosilicates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Jochen Kerres, Thomas Häring, Rima Häring
  • Publication number: 20120241326
    Abstract: The invention provides a method of preparing a conjugated polymer in which at least one monomer and a supporting electrolyte are incorporated into a thermotropic liquid crystal composition; and the at least one monomer in the thermotropic liquid crystal composition is electropolymerized, the thermotropic liquid crystal composition having a solid-liquid crystal phase transition temperature of 25° C. or lower, an isotropic phase transition temperature of 55° C. or higher, and a clogP value of 6 or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Koji Takaku
  • Patent number: 8263488
    Abstract: The invention relates to the deposition or attachment of materials to surfaces. It relates to a process for coating a surface with a first material and a second material, comprising the following steps: placing the first material on the said surface, inserting into the first material placed on the said surface precursor molecules of the second material, converting the said precursor molecules of the second material inserted into the first material into the said second material such that this second material becomes formed on the said surface to be coated and within the said first material placed on the said surface. The object of the process of the invention is to allow the deposition of materials of any type onto surfaces of any type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventors: Pascal Viel, Sami Ameur, Christophe Bureau
  • Publication number: 20120199493
    Abstract: Aqueous composition containing at least one salt in an amount of at least 30 g/kg of composition, of which the total organic carbon content is at least 1 ?g of C/l and at most 5 g of C/l of composition and which contains at least one carboxylic acid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: SOLVAY (SOCIETE ANONYME)
    Inventors: Philippe KRAFFT, Patrick Gilbeau, Dominique Balthasart, André Daene
  • Publication number: 20120193242
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Frederic Marchal
  • Publication number: 20120186987
    Abstract: The invention relates to “solid state” chemiresistor sensors with electric control of the affinity of a chemosensitive material. The configurations of the present invention enable the fast regeneration of the sensor after analyte binding, which therefore increases selectivity. In one embodiment the chemiresistor sensor is implemented as a multi-electrode chemiresistor, comprising 4 electrodes for the separate measurement of the resistance of the chemosensitive material and the contact resistance, and 2 further electrodes to control the redox state of the chemosensitive sensor material, thereby facilitating fast and effective regeneration of the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: HOCHSCHULE LAUSITZ
    Inventors: Vladimir Mirsky, Ulrich Lange
  • Publication number: 20120171587
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to conducting materials such as mixed ionically and electrically conducting materials. A variety of materials, material compositions, materials with advantageous ratios of ionically and electrically conducting components, structures including such materials, and the like are provided in accordance with the invention. In one aspect, the invention relates to conducting ceramics for electrochemical systems and, in particular, to mixed ionically and electrically conducting ceramics which can be used, for example, for electrochemical systems and, in particular, to mixed ionically and electrically conducting ceramics which can be used, for example, for hydrogen gas generation from a gasified hydrocarbon stream. One aspect of the invention provides a material comprising a first phase comprising a ceramic ionic conductor, and a second phase comprising a ceramic electrical conductor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: CTP Hydrogen Corporation
    Inventors: Jack A. Shindle, Scott C. Rackey, Gonghou Wang, Reinder J. Boersma
  • Publication number: 20120145557
    Abstract: Devices and methods for electrochemical phase transfer utilize at least one electrode formed from either glassy carbon or a carbon and polymer composite. The device includes a device housing defining an inlet port (42), an outlet port (44) and an elongate fluid passageway (36) extending therebetween. A capture electrode (12) and a counter electrode are positioned within said housing such that the fluid passageway extends between the capture and counter electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: Marko Baller, Victor Samper, Christian Rensch, Christoph Boeld
  • Patent number: 8197665
    Abstract: Aqueous composition containing at least one salt in an amount of at least 30 g/kg of composition, of which the total organic carbon content is at least 1 ?g of C/l and at most 5 g of C/l of composition and which contains at least one carboxylic acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Solvay (Societe Anonyme)
    Inventors: Philippe Krafft, Patrick Gilbeau, Dominique Balthasart, Andre Daene
  • Publication number: 20120132537
    Abstract: Methods and systems for heterocycle catalyzed carbonylation and hydroformylation with carbon dioxide are disclosed. A method may include, but is not limited to, steps (A) to (D). Step (A) may introduce water to a first compartment of an electrochemical cell. The first compartment may include an anode. Step (B) may introduce carbon dioxide to a second compartment of the electrochemical cell. The second compartment may include a solution of an electrolyte, a heterocyclic catalyst, and a cathode. Step (C) may introduce a second reactant to the second compartment of the electrochemical cell. Step (D) may apply an electrical potential between the anode and the cathode in the electrochemical cell sufficient to induce liquid phase carbonylation or hydroformylation to form a product mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventors: Narayanappa Sivasankar, Emily Barton Cole, Kyle Teamey
  • Publication number: 20120125783
    Abstract: A method and system for probing mobile ion diffusivity and electrochemical reactivity on a nanometer length scale of a free electrochemically active surface includes a control module that biases the surface of the material. An electrical excitation signal is applied to the material and induces the movement of mobile ions. An SPM probe in contact with the surface of the material detects the displacement of mobile ions at the surface of the material. A detector measures an electromechanical strain response at the surface of the material based on the movement and reactions of the mobile ions. The use of an SPM tip to detect local deformations allows highly reproducible measurements in an ambient environment without visible changes in surface structure. The measurements illustrate effective spatial resolution comparable with defect spacing and well below characteristic grain sizes of the material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Sergei V. Kalinin, Nina Balke, Amit Kumar, Nancy J. Dudney, Stephen Jesse
  • Publication number: 20120129952
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sodium chloride composition comprising an iron complex of tartaric acid wherein between 55 and 90% by weight of the tartaric acid is meso-tartaric acid. The present invention furthermore relates to a process to prepare such a sodium chloride composition and to the use of such a sodium chloride composition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Applicant: AKZO NOBEL CHEMICALS INTERNATIONAL B.V.
    Inventors: Hendrikus Wilhelmus Bakkenes, Roberto Aloysius Gerardus Maria Bergevoet, Johannes Albertus Maria Meijer, Maria Steensma
  • Publication number: 20120115071
    Abstract: An energy conversion system, including a first and second electrodes with an inter-electrode gap therebetween that includes a functional medium, wherein the first electrode is made of at least one elongate electrically conductive media having a total length L, a curved cross-section, and a radius R, and arranged into a sturdy assembly structure having a more or less open pattern, capable of having the same electric potential at any location and thus of constituting said first electrode. Where R is lower than 40×10-6 m the inter-electrode gap has a thickness of between 1×10-9 m and 5×10-3 m, the total length L of the electrically conductive media of the first electrode is greater than 1×103 m, and the ratio L/R is greater than 106 such that the first electrode generates a significant increase in the electric field perceived by the second electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: Chantal Chapel et al.
    Inventors: Jean-Marc Fleury, Gauthier Lasou, Philippe Alonso
  • Publication number: 20120103824
    Abstract: A method for achieving high output efficiency from an electrolysis system (100) using a plurality of electrolysis cells all located within a single electrolysis tank (101) is provided. Each individual electrolysis cell includes a membrane (105-107), a plurality of low voltage electrodes comprised of at least a first and second anode (117/118; 125/126) and at least a first and second cathode (121/122; 129/130), and a plurality of high voltage electrodes comprised of at least an anode (119; 127) and a cathode (123; 131). Within each cell, the high voltage anode is interposed between the first and second low voltage anodes and the high voltage cathode is interposed between the first and second low voltage cathodes. The low voltage applied to the low voltage electrodes and the high voltage applied to the high voltage electrodes is pulsed with the pulses occurring simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventor: Nehemia Davidson
  • Publication number: 20120094214
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a metal-oxide-based ceramic, including, in order, the step of inserting, into a flash sintering device, a nanocrystalline powder comprising crystallites and crystallite agglomerates of a ceramic of formula, Zr1-xMxO2, where M is chosen from yttrium, scandium and cerium, or Ce1-xM?xO2, where M? is chosen from gadolinium, scandium, samarium and yttrium, where x lies between 0 and 0.2, the powder having an average crystallite size of between 5 and 50 nm, an average crystallite agglomerate size of between 0.5 and 20 ?m, and a specific surface area of between 20 and 100 m2/g. The invention further includes the step of flash sintering the powder by applying a pressure of between 50 and 150 MPa, at a temperature of between 850° C. and 1400° C., for a time of between 5 and 30 minutes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicants: Universite Paul Sabatier Toulouse III, Electricite De France
    Inventors: Mohsine Zahid, Mathilde Rieu, Claude Estournes, Pascal Lenormand, Florence Ansart
  • Publication number: 20120091010
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrolysis method, an electrolysis electrode, an electrolysis vessel, an electrolysis device, and a system for use of electrolysis gasses for combustion, in particular for combustion engines, for example piston or turbine engines, wherein an electrolysis electrode is artificially vibrated with a vibration frequency and said electric voltage of the electrolysis electrode oscillates with a lower harmonic frequency of said vibration frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Paul Verdaasdonk, Peter Van Den Brande
  • Publication number: 20120048741
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for a low maintenance, high reliability on-site electrolytic generator incorporating automatic cell monitoring for contaminant film buildup, as well as automatically removing or cleaning the contaminant film. This method and apparatus preferably does not require human intervention to clean. For high current density cells, cleaning is preferably performed by reversing the polarity of the electrodes and applying a lower current density to the electrodes, preferably by adjusting the salinity or brine concentration of the electrolyte while keeping the voltage constant. Electrolyte flow preferably comprises water and brine flows which are preferably separately monitored and automatically adjusted. For bipolar cells, flow between modules arranged in parallel is preferably approximately equally distributed between modules and between intermediate electrodes within each module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: MIOX Corporation
    Inventors: William J. Stewart, Matthew R. Santillanes, Kevin Schwarz, Justin Sanchez, Geofrey C. Showalter, Kyle Lee
  • Publication number: 20120024716
    Abstract: A device for reducing carbon dioxide includes a vessel for holding an electrolyte solution including carbon dioxide, a working electrode and a counter electrode. The working electrode contains metal hexaboride particles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yuji ZENITANI, Reiko TANIGUCHI, Satoshi YOTSUHASHI, Masahiro DEGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20120012466
    Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter comprises a method and system for producing cleaning and/or sanitizing solutions using a replaceable cartridge system. Particularly, the consumables needed to electrochemically or chemically produce the cleaning and/or sanitizing solutions can be supplied in a cartridge in a quantity measured to last for the chosen design life of the cartridge. Alternatively, the cartridge can comprise cleaning and/or sanitizing precursors that can be pre-prepared and supplied in a highly concentrated form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Applicant: SEALED AIR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Charles R. Sperry, Vincent A. Piucci, JR., Stephen D. Smith, Suzanne M. Scott, Dennis F. McNamara, JR., John Koke
  • Publication number: 20120000787
    Abstract: An application for a recycler includes a pressure and temperature resistant metal vessel that is filled with a liquid. Within the vessel is at least one submerged electric arc between a pair of carbon base electrodes powered by either a DC or AC current. The vessel has mechanical systems that maintain and optimize the electric arc. The electric arc produces a combustible gas. The liquid is pumped through a bore in one or more of the electrodes, delivering the liquid directly to the location of the arc, thereby reducing or eliminating any ignition of the gas by the arc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: MAGNEGAS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Ruggero Maria Santilli
  • Publication number: 20110278177
    Abstract: Described is a method for improving the operation of an electrolytic cell having an anolyte compartment, a catholyte compartment and a synthetic diaphragm separating the compartments, wherein liquid anolyte is introduced into the anolyte compartment and flows through the diaphragm into the catholyte compartment, which method involves introducing particulate material comprising halocarbon polymer short fiber, e.g., fluorocarbon polymer short fiber, into the anolyte compartment in amounts sufficient to lower the flow of liquid anolyte through the diaphragm into the catholyte compartment. In the case of an electrolytic cell wherein aqueous alkali metal chloride, e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: PPG INDUSTRIES OHIO, INC.
    Inventors: Henry W. Schussler, David R. Bush, Craig R. Long
  • Publication number: 20110262840
    Abstract: A composition useful for the fueling and refueling of electrochemical devices is described. The composition comprises an ion-conducting medium such as an electrolyte, and catalyst nanoparticles. Unlike traditional electrodes, such as those typically used in electrolyzers and fuel cells, the inventive composition may be quickly drained from the device and refilled to maintain maximum cell performance. In addition, the electro-catalytic charging composition can be stored as a solid for safe handling; for example in a portable cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: QUANTUMSPHERE, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin Maloney, Robert Dopp
  • Patent number: 8043594
    Abstract: Methods and systems for generating sulfuric acid are disclosed. In some embodiments, the method includes combusting a sulfur-containing material with a gas including oxygen to produce a first stream of sulfur dioxide, mixing water with the first stream of sulfur dioxide to produce a mixed stream, using an energy, electrolytically converting the mixed stream of sulfur dioxide and water into sulfuric acid and hydrogen, generating a source of energy from the hydrogen, and providing the source of energy as at least a portion of the energy for electrolytically converting the first stream of sulfur dioxide and water into sulfuric acid and hydrogen. In some embodiments, the system includes a first chamber for combusting a sulfur-containing material to produce a first stream of sulfur dioxide, an electrolytic cell for converting the first stream into sulfuric acid and hydrogen, and a fuel cell for generating an energy source from the hydrogen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York
    Inventors: Klaus S. Lackner, Tim A. Rappold
  • Publication number: 20110253548
    Abstract: An electrolyte plate for an electrochemical system including a first and a second face opposite to each other of larger surface areas, both faces being separated by a given distance. The first face includes linear protrusions and the second face includes linear recesses, the protrusions and the recesses being substantially parallel to each other. Each protrusion is superposed to a recess along a direction substantially orthogonal to a mean plane of the plate, the distance separating a bottom of each recess from a vertex of the superposed protrusion being substantially equal to the distance between the first and the second face so that the electrolyte plate has a substantially constant thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: Comm. A L'Energie Atomique et Aux Energies Alt.
    Inventors: Stephane Di Iorio, Thibaud Delahaye
  • Publication number: 20110233066
    Abstract: A pressure transducer for measuring pressure may include an all-polymer chamber that has no dimension greater than 1 mm. There may be fluid within the chamber, a gaseous bubble trapped within the fluid, and electrodes in contact with the fluid. The electrodes may enable a measurement of changes in the impedance of the fluid caused by changes in the volume of the gaseous bubble caused by changes in the pressure to be measured. The pressure transducer may be made by depositing the chamber, placing the fluid within the chamber, and generating the gaseous bubble within the fluid with electrolysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: CHRISTIAN A. GUTIERREZ, ELLIS MENG
  • Patent number: 8021536
    Abstract: A method for generating a hydride gas of metal M1 in an electrochemical cell comprising a cathode comprising metal M1, a sacrificial anode comprising metal M2, an initial concentration of aqueous electrolyte solution comprising a metal hydroxide, M3OH, wherein the sacrificial metal anode electrochemically oxidizes in the presence of the aqueous electrolyte solution comprising M3OH to form a metal salt, and the hydride gas of metal M1 is formed by reducing the metal M1 of the cathode. The method comprises the steps of determining solubility profile curves of the metal salt as the M3OH is consumed and the metal oxide is formed by the oxidation reaction at various concentrations of M3OH; determining a maximum concentration of M3OH that, as it is consumed, does not yield a concentration of metal salt that precipitates out of the electrolyte solution; and choosing a concentration of M3OH that is in the range of at and within 5% less than the maximum concentration of M3OH to be the initial concentration of M3OH.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemical, Inc.
    Inventors: Reinaldo Mario Machado, Christopher L. Hartz, James E. Hollen, Rebecca J. Mohr, George L. Ryals
  • Publication number: 20110147227
    Abstract: A method and system of separating an acid from an acid-salt solution produced in an electrochemical system using an ion exchange resin bed, by processing the acid-salt solution through the ion exchange resin bed such that the acid is retarded at the bottom of the bed and a de-acidified salt solution is recovered from the top of the bed. After removing the salt solution from the bed, the acid is recovered by back-flushing the resin bed with water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventors: Ryan J. Gilliam, Nigel Antony Knott, Michael Kostowskyj
  • Patent number: 7964084
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for activation of a low reactivity, non-polar chemical compound. In one example embodiment, the method comprises introducing the low reactivity chemical compound to a catalyst. At least one of (a) an oxidizing agent or a reducing agent and (b) a polar compound is provided to the catalyst and the chemical compound. An alternating current is applied to the catalyst to produce an activation reaction in the chemical compound. This activation reaction produces a useful product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignees: Catelectric Corp., The University of Connecticut
    Inventors: Victor Stancovski, Steven Lawrence Suib, Boxun Hu
  • Publication number: 20110136036
    Abstract: The present invention is made to provide a carbon catalyst which has high catalytic activity and can achieve high catalyst performance. A carbon catalyst has nitrogen introduced therein. The value of energy peak area ratio of a first nitrogen atom whose electron in the is orbital has a binding energy of 398.5±1.0 eV to a second nitrogen atom whose electron in the is orbital has a binding energy of 401±1.0 eV (i.e., the value of (the first nitrogen atom)/(the second nitrogen atom)) of the introduced nitrogen is 1.2 or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicants: NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION GUNMA UNIVERSITY, NISSHINBO HOLDINGS INC., SEIZO MIYATA, MASAHARU OSHIMA
    Inventors: Seizo Miyata, Masaharu Oshima, Jun-ichi Ozaki, Kazuo Saito, Shogo Moriya, Kyosuke Iida, Takeaki Kishimoto
  • Publication number: 20110127169
    Abstract: A solid oxide reactor provided with an electrode structure comprising a first electrode, a second electrode (6; 26), a first gas chamber (V1 ), a second gas chamber and an ion-conductive medium (8), wherein an ion-conductive medium is located between the first electrode (2) and the second electrode, wherein furthermore, the first electrode borders on the first gas chamber, and the second electrode borders on the second gas chamber. The first electrode comprises a first layer of a conductive oxide material, the conductive oxide material being composed of at least one electron-conducting oxide material provided with a defective structure and one ion-conductive oxide material provided with a defective structure. The second electrode comprises a first layer of a conductive oxide material, the conductive oxide material being composed of at least one electron-conductive oxide material provided with a defective structure and one ion-conductive oxide material provided with a defective structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: STICHTING ENERGIEONDERZOEK CENTRUM NEDERLAND
    Inventors: Jan Pieter Ouweltjes, Marc Matheus Antonius Van Tuel
  • Patent number: 7950221
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for controlling catalytic processes, including catalyst regeneration and soot elimination. An alternating current is applied to a catalyst layer and a polarization impedance of the catalyst layer is monitored. The polarization impedance may be controlled by varying the asymmetrical alternating current. At least one of water, oxygen, steam and heat may be provided to the catalyst layer to enhance an oxidation reaction for soot elimination and/or to regenerate the catalyst.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Catelectric Corp.
    Inventor: Victor Stancovski
  • Publication number: 20110114504
    Abstract: A method for electrochemical production of synthesis gas from carbon dioxide is disclosed. The method generally includes steps (A) to (C). Step (A) may bubble the carbon dioxide into a solution of an electrolyte and a catalyst in a divided electrochemical cell. The divided electrochemical cell may include an anode in a first cell compartment and a cathode in a second cell compartment. The cathode generally reduces the carbon dioxide into a plurality of components. Step (B) may establish a molar ratio of the components in the synthesis gas by adjusting at least one of (i) a cathode material and (ii) a surface morphology of the cathode. Step (C) may separate the synthesis gas from the solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Narayanappa Sivasankar, Emily Barton Cole, Kyle Teamey
  • Publication number: 20110100328
    Abstract: A cell for use in an electrolysis unit includes a back wall, a side wall extending upwardly from and around a periphery of the back wall to define an inner region of the cell, an electrode disposed on the back wall within the inner region to divide at least a portion of the inner region into first and second regions is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventor: Buddy Ray Paul
  • Publication number: 20110070510
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, a system for providing a renewable source of material resources is provided comprising: a first source of renewable energy; first stream of materials from a first materials source; an electrolyzer coupled to the first source of renewable energy and the first stream of materials, wherein the electrolyzer is configured to produce a first material resource by electrolysis; a processor for further processing or use or the material resource to produce a second material resource, wherein the processor comprises a solar collector and where the solar collector is configured to provide heat to the first materials resource for disassociation; and a material resource storage coupled to the electrolyzer for receiving the material resource from the electrolyzer or providing the material resource to the processor for further processing or use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: McAlister Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Roy E. McAlister
  • Publication number: 20110059028
    Abstract: A metal sulphate is added to the alkali metal chloride solution in membrane electrolysis in order to increase the amount of catholyte solution formed. At the same time, a metal sulphate is added to the anolyte solution in order to improve its stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Burkhard Ponitz
  • Publication number: 20110048959
    Abstract: A device for dispensing a fragrant, electrochemically-activated liquid, the device comprising an electrolysis cell configured to electrochemically activate the liquid and to diffuse one or more fragrant compounds into the liquid to provide the fragrant, electrochemically-activated liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: TENNANT COMPANY
    Inventor: Bruce F. Field
  • Publication number: 20110033760
    Abstract: Contemplated electrochemical devices and methods include an electrolyte flow path in which substantially all of the electrolyte has laminar flow. A segmented electrode contacts the electrolyte, and each of the segments in the segmented electrode is preferably coupled to a control device to provide control over the flow of current to and/or from the electrolyte. Thus, it should be appreciated that the redox state of the electrolyte can be changed in a single-pass through the flow path, which effectively eliminates problems associated with mass transport phenomena and reduced current efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Clarke
  • Publication number: 20110017606
    Abstract: A wear of an electrode is prevented as much as possible, thereby efficiently electrolyzing a sulfuric acid solution and the like. An electrolysis method includes: passing an electrolytic solution through an electrolysis cell including at least a pair of an anode and a cathode; and supplying the electrodes with an electric power, so as to electrolyze the electrolytic solution, wherein a viscosity of the electrolytic solution is set in a range in response to a current density upon the electric power supply to carry out the electrolysis. The viscosity of a sulfuric acid solution as the electrolytic solution is equal to or less than 10 cP when the current density is equal to or less than 50 A/dm2, the viscosity of the sulfuric acid solution is equal to or less than 8 cP when the current density is from more than 50 to 75 A/dm2, and the viscosity of the sulfuric acid solution is equal to or less than 6 cP when the current density is from more than 75 to 100 A/dm2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2008
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Minoru Uchida, Tatsuo Nagai, Shunichi Kanamori
  • Publication number: 20100276297
    Abstract: Electrowinning methods and apparatus are suitable for producing elemental deposits of high quality, purity, and volume. Respective cathodes are used during electrowinning for bearing the elemental product, segregating impurities, dissolving morphologically undesirable material, and augmenting productivity. Silicon suitable for use in photovoltaic devices may be electrodeposited in solid form from silicon dioxide dissolved in a molten salt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Applicant: METAL OXYGEN SEPARATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Adam C. Powell, IV, Steve J. Derezinski, III
  • Publication number: 20100263487
    Abstract: A method for producing char and fuel gas includes degasifying a carbonaceous material with oxygen-containing gases in a fluidized bed reactor at a temperature of more than about 1000° C. and at a pressure of from about 1 bar to about 40 bar. A supply of oxygen within the fluidized bed reactor is adjusted so as to recover more than 60% of fixed carbon in the carbonaceous material in a char product, and an oxygen availability in a lower or bottom region of the fluidized bed reactor is less than 80% of an oxygen availability in an upper region of the fluidized bed reactor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: OUTOTEC OYJ
    Inventor: Andreas Orth
  • Publication number: 20100258448
    Abstract: The invention relates generally to a process for removing one or more contaminants from an electrolytic solution and more particularly to a process for removing the one or more contaminants contained in an electrorefining solution using rare earth metals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: MOLYCORP MINERALS, LLC
    Inventors: Charles F. Whitehead, Carl R. Hassler
  • Publication number: 20100252442
    Abstract: In order to carry out a selective extraction of cations (Mn+) by an electrochemical transfer in a solution from a first electrolyte (E1) to a second electrolyte (E2), the method includes using as an electrolyte separation wall a transfer wall (2) made of chalcogenide with molybdenum clusters (MonXn+2 or MxMonXn+2) and ensuring the cation transfer through the transfer wall by generating a potential difference (?E) between the electrode A1 in the first electrolyte (E1) and the electrode C2 in the second electrolyte (E1) or the transfer wall (2) in order to induce an interleaving of the cations in the transfer wall on the side of the first electrolyte, a scattering of the cations therein, and the de-interleaving thereof in the second electrolyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicants: UNIVERSITE PAUL VERLAINE, CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCENTIFIQUE
    Inventors: Clotilde Boulanger, Sakina Seghir, Nathalie Leclerc, Sebastien Diliberto, Jean-Marie Lecuire
  • 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