Recycling Electrolytic Product Produced During Synthesis Back To Production Cell Patents (Class 205/349)
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Publication number: 20110226631Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for utilizing sulfur as a consumable fuel in an electrochemical cell. The principal of the above described invention is that sulfur is oxidized or acts as an oxidizing agent to produce energy while avoiding the production of harmful gases and other byproducts, traditionally associated with the burning of sulfur.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventor: Wesley Martin Lang
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Publication number: 20110147227Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2011Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventors: Ryan J. Gilliam, Nigel Antony Knott, Michael Kostowskyj
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Publication number: 20110114500Abstract: An electrochemical process for the concurrent recovery of iron metal and chlorine gas from an iron-rich metal chloride solution, comprising electrolysing the iron-rich metal chloride solution in an electrolyser comprising a cathodic compartment equipped with a cathode having a hydrogen overpotential higher than that of iron and containing a catholyte having a pH below about 2, an anodic compartment equipped with an anode and containing an anolyte, and a separator allowing for anion passage, the electrolysing step comprising circulating the iron-rich metal chloride solution in a non-anodic compartment of the electrolyser, thereby causing iron to be electrodeposited at the cathode and chlorine gas to evolve at the anode, and leaving an iron-depleted solution, which is recirculated, at least in part, to the iron-rich metal chloride solution. The iron-rich metal chloride solution may originate from carbo-chlorination wastes, spent acid leaching liquors or pickling liquors.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2008Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventors: François Cardarelli, Sylvain Lefebvre, Claude Tousignant, Guillaume Hudon
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Patent number: 7943250Abstract: There is disclosed an electrochemical conversion system (40) for energy management which includes multi-electrochemical cells. The system 40 includes a conduit system (41), an electrical system (42), first electrochemical cell (43), a second electrochemical cell (44), a third electrochemical cell (45), a first recuperative heat exchanger (RHX) (46), and a second recuperative heat exchanger (47). The conduit system, electrical system (42), heat exchangers, and electrochemical cells are all constructed and function in the same manner as previously described. The system (40) also includes an additional, second recuperative heat exchanger (47) (RHX) to thermally isolate the third electrochemical cell from the other two. As shown, the electrochemical cells are electrically and pneumatically connected in series so that the electrical current flow and the proton flow through the electrochemical cells are balanced.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2005Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Johnson Research & Development Co., Inc.Inventors: Lonnie G. Johnson, James R. Muller
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Publication number: 20110100832Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrolytic process, methods and apparatus for the preparation of carbon monoxide and in particular to electrolysis of molten carbonates to yield carbon monoxide which may be used for chemical storage of electrical energy and further as chemical feedstock for other organic products.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2010Publication date: May 5, 2011Inventors: Igor Lubomirsky, Valery Kaplan
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Publication number: 20110089045Abstract: An electrochemical process for the recovery of metallic iron or an iron-rich alloy, oxygen and sulfuric acid from iron-rich metal sulfate wastes is described. Broadly, the electrochemical process comprises providing an iron-rich metal sulfate solution; electrolyzing the iron-rich metal sulfate solution in an electrolyzer comprising a cathodic compartment equipped with a cathode having a hydrogen over-potential equal or higher than that of iron and containing a catholyte having a pH below about 6.0; an anodic compartment equipped with an anode and containing an anolyte; and a separator allowing for anion passage; and recovering electrodeposited iron or iron-rich alloy, sulfuric acid and oxygen gas. Electrolyzing the iron-rich metal sulfate solution causes iron or an iron-rich alloy to be electrodeposited at the cathode, nascent oxygen gas to evolve at the anode, sulfuric acid to accumulate in the anodic compartment and an iron depleted solution to be produced.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2009Publication date: April 21, 2011Inventor: Francois Cardarelli
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Patent number: 7922890Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2007Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: MIOX CorporationInventors: Justin Sanchez, Rodney E. Herrington
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Patent number: 7915470Abstract: A coupled electrochemical system and method for its use is disclosed, where a polyol feed, especially a biomass polyol containing feed is reduced in a reducing solution including HI and a metal ion capable of converting I2 to HI during polyol reduction to hydrocarbon or iodohydrocarbon products and where the metal ions are capable of electrochemical reduction so that the system can be run on a batch, semi-continuous or continuous basis. The system is capable of producing hydrocarbon solvent, fuels and lubricating oils.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2006Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas SystemInventor: J. Michael Robinson
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Publication number: 20100243468Abstract: The present invention provides a method for preparing metallic titanium by electrolyzing molten salt with titanium circulation. The method mainly comprises reducing titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) to at least one of titanium trichloride (TiCl3) and titanium dichloride (TiCl2) in chloride molten salt by metallic titanium (Ti), and electrolyzing the at least one of TiCl3 and TiCl2 in the chloride molten salt to form metallic titanium. According to the method for preparing metallic titanium of the present invention, TiCl2, and/or TiCl3 are prepared and electrolyzed continuously without changing the surrounding medium, thereby simplifying process flow, reducing power consumption, and realizing industrialization.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicants: PANGANG GROUP RESEARCH INSTITUTE CO., LTD., PANZHIHUA IRON & STEEL (GROUP) CORPORATION, Pangang Group Panzhihua Iron & Steel Research Institute Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hongbo Mu, Tianzhu Mu, Lixia Gong, Bin Deng, Sanchao Zhao, Beilei Yan, Fuxing Zhu, Weixing Peng
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Publication number: 20100230293Abstract: A low-voltage, low-energy electrochemical system and method of removing protons and/or producing a base solution comprising hydroxide and carbonate/bicarbonate ions, utilizing carbon dioxide in a cathode compartment that is partitioned into a first cathode electrolyte compartment and a second cathode electrolyte compartment such that liquid flow between the cathode electrolyte compartments is possible, but wherein gaseous communication between the cathode electrolyte compartments is restricted. Carbon dioxide gas in one cathode electrolyte compartment is utilized with the cathode electrolyte in both compartments to produce the base solution with less that 3V applied across the electrodes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventors: Ryan J. GILLIAM, Thomas A. Albrecht, Nikhil Jalani, Nigel Antony Knott, Valentin Decker, Michael Kostowskyj, Bryan Boggs, Alexander Gorer, Kasra Farsad
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Patent number: 7794865Abstract: A filter material for generating oxygen and/or hydrogen gas from a source having a porous boron doped carbon film with diruthenium/diruthenium molecules in direct contact with the porous boron doped carbon film, a synthetic film having at least one zeolite crystalline body in direct contact with the nanocarbon tubules, or both in a continuous alternating arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2009Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Inventor: Binyomin A. Cohen
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Publication number: 20100154429Abstract: A water purification system has a water electrolysis system, combustion water vapor production, and condensation chambers; hydrogen and oxygen channels; and a water vapor conduit. The water electrolysis system generates hydrogen and oxygen from water. The hydrogen and oxygen are transported to the oxygen chamber in channels. The hydrogen is combusted in the oxygen in the combustion chamber to generate heated water vapor. The water vapor production chamber generates water vapor from water. The water vapor conduit is disposed between the water vapor production chamber and the condensation chamber. Heated water vapor from the combustion chamber traveling from the combustion chamber into the condensation chamber generates a vacuum on the water vapor conduit, drawing water vapor from the water vapor production chamber into the condensation chamber. The condensation chamber receives water vapor from both the combustion chamber and the water vapor production chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2010Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventor: Bruce H. Peters
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Publication number: 20100147698Abstract: Method for producing sodium carbonate, according to which an aqueous sodium chloride solution (5) is electrolyzed in a membrane-type cell (1) from which an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution (9) is collected, and carbonated by direct contact with carbon dioxide (15) to form a slurry of crystals of a sodium carbonate (16), and the slurry or its mother liquor is evaporated (3) to collect sodium carbonate (18).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2010Publication date: June 17, 2010Applicant: SOLVAY (SOCIETE ANONYME)Inventors: Francis COUSTRY, Michel Hanse
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Publication number: 20090325014Abstract: An electrolysis cell is controlled for operation under varying electrical power supply conditions. A flow of feed stock to the cell includes an electrolysis reactant at a controlled concentration. A varying amount of electrical power is supplied to the cell to produce an electrolysis reaction that generates a first reaction product at a first side of the cell and a second reaction product at a second side of the cell. The reactant concentration is adjusted as the electrical power varies to substantially maintain the cell at its thermal neutral voltage during cell operation. The cell may be used in an electrolysis system powered by a renewable energy source with varying power output (e.g., wind, solar, etc.).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2009Publication date: December 31, 2009Applicant: ENRG, INC.Inventor: James S. Newkirk
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Publication number: 20090314652Abstract: Provided are various methods, systems and reactors for producing peroxycarboxylic acid compositions, such as non-equilibrium compositions of peracetic acid, for example. The methods and systems relate to electrolytic generation of hydrogen peroxide or peroxide ions in a reactor, wherein the generated materials are reacted with an acetyl donor to form peracetic acid. In an embodiment, a source of alkali metal ions is provided to an anode chamber such that the ratio of concentrations of the alkali metal ions to protons in the anode chamber of a reactor is greater than 1.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2009Publication date: December 24, 2009Inventors: Wayne E. BUSCHMANN, Andrew S. DEL NEGRO
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Publication number: 20090283417Abstract: An electrolytic cell that draws electrolyte from an electrolyte storage container to the inlet of the cell. The inlet of the cell preferably comprises a back flow prevention device that restricts flow of electrolyte from flowing back through the inlet of the cell. Gasses generated by the electrolysis operation, typically primarily hydrogen that is liberated at the cathode surface, forces electrolytic products such as oxidants out of the discharge port of the electrolytic cell, preferably in a continuous flow process.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2009Publication date: November 19, 2009Applicant: MIOX CorporationInventors: Justin Sanchez, Jeffrey Phillip Krom, Kevin Schwarz, Craig Milroy, Rodney E. Herrington
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Publication number: 20090211915Abstract: The invention relates to a method for recycling educt-containing process gas (residual gas) in electrochemical processes with at least one gas diffusion electrode while using a gas jet pump for directly reintroducing the residual gas in the electrochemical process.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2009Publication date: August 27, 2009Inventors: Fritz Gestermann, Thorsten Leidig, Alfred Soppe
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Patent number: 7579103Abstract: A filter material for generating oxygen and/or hydrogen gas from water having a porous boron doped carbon film with diRuthenium/diRuthenium molecules and at least one fluorine ion in direct contact with the porous boron doped carbon film which further comprising a synthetic film made from a nanocarbon tubular mesh network attached with zeolite crystalline and a siderophore plate for capturing dislodged free Ruthenium ion from the porous boron doped carbon film.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2008Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Inventor: Binyomin A. Cohen
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Publication number: 20090139874Abstract: Disclosed herein are a system and a method for the production of hydrogen. The system advantageously combines an independent high temperature heat source with a solid oxide electrolyzer cell and a heat exchanger located between the cathode inlet and the cathode outlet. The heat exchanger is used to extract heat from the molecular components such as hydrogen derived from the electrolysis. A portion of the hydrogen generated in the solid oxide electrolyzer cell is recombined with steam and recycled to the solid oxide electrolyzer cell. The oxygen generated on the anode side is swept with compressed air and used to drive a gas turbine that is in operative communication with a generator. Electricity generated by the generator is used to drive the electrolysis in the solid oxide electrolyzer cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2009Publication date: June 4, 2009Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Andrew Maxwell Peter, Stephane Renou, James Anthony Ruud, Leah Diane Crider, Kenneth Walter Browall, Chellappa Balan
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Publication number: 20090127125Abstract: A method for the purification of a semiconductor material, the method comprising the steps of: a) the oxidation at an anode, which is placed in an anodic electrolyte, of a solid semiconductor material to be purified by application of one or more ionic compounds; b) the reduction at a cathode, which is placed in a cathodic electrolyte, of one or more compounds obtained in step a), to a purified, solid semiconductor material where one or more ionic compounds are also formed; where the one or more ionic compounds that are formed in step b) are applied in step a) and the anode and cathode are mutually connected for electron transfer. The formed ionic compounds are purified externally. The present method can for example be applied for the purification of silicon.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2007Publication date: May 21, 2009Applicant: GIRASOLAR B.VInventor: Uwe Hermann Dobberstein
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Publication number: 20090071839Abstract: A system and process for recovering copper from a copper-containing ore, concentrate, or other copper-bearing material to produce high quality cathode copper from a leach solution without the use of copper solvent/solution extraction techniques or apparatus. A process for recovering copper from a copper-containing ore generally includes the steps of providing a feed stream containing comminuted copper-containing ore, concentrate, or other copper-bearing material, leaching the feed stream to yield a copper-containing solution, conditioning the copper-containing solution through one or more physical or chemical conditioning steps, and electrowinning copper directly from the copper-containing solution in multiple electrowinning stages, without subjecting the copper-containing solution to solvent/solution extraction prior to electrowinning.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Applicant: PHELPS DODGE CORPORATIONInventors: John O. Marsden, Susan R Brewer, Robert E Brewer, Joanna M. Robertson, David R. Baughman, Philip Thompson, Wayne W. Hazen, Christel M.A. Bemelmans
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Publication number: 20090026084Abstract: Filter wash methods and apparatuses for chloralkali processes are provided. The filter wash uses in-process fluids from the chloralkali process to wash filters. The in-process fluids may be drawn from a point in the chloralkali process where the in-process fluids contain active chlorine values such as bleach. A filter may then be isolated from the chloralkali process and contacted with the in-process fluids containing active chlorine values to wash the filter. The in-process fluids containing active chlorine values may be operable to oxidize organic material clinging to the filter, thereby cleaning the filter. After washing, the in-process fluids containing active chlorine values may be returned to the chloralkali process to a point at or near where they were drawn from. The filters may be membrane filters. The filters may comprise expanded polytetrafluoroethylene.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2007Publication date: January 29, 2009Inventors: Dwight R. Davis, Mike Raimer
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Publication number: 20090008261Abstract: An oxygen generator for an oxygen-generation apparatus has a proton-conducting membrane (60), a cathode (50) contacting a first side, or cathodic side, of the membrane, an anode (70) contacting a second side, or anodic side, of the membrane, and a source of water for supply to the membrane. In use, an electrolysis voltage applied between the cathode and the anode causes electrolysis of the water to generate oxygen gas at the anode. Atmospheric oxygen, i.e. oxygen in the air, is substantially prevented from coming into contact with the cathode. For an acidic proton-conducting membrane this substantially prevents the formation of hydrogen peroxide at the cathode.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2006Publication date: January 8, 2009Applicant: Cambridge Enterprise LimitedInventors: Vega Petrova Kotzeva, Derek John Fray
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Publication number: 20080237057Abstract: An apparatus and process are presented that provide for the separation of hydrogen peroxide from a solution having an acid and hydrogen peroxide.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Lin Li, Kurt M. Vanden Bussche, Anil R. Oroskar, Sanjay N. Gandhi
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Patent number: 7361276Abstract: A method of enhancing the concentration of a first inorganic compound in a first aqueous solution of a first process of a heavy chemical plant, the method comprising (a) feeding the first solution having the first compound at a first concentration and a first water vapor pressure to an osmotic membrane distillation means comprising a hydrophobic, gas and water vapor permeable membrane separating (i) a first chamber for receiving the first solution, from (ii) a second chamber for receiving a receiver feed aqueous solution having a second water vapor pressure lower than the first water vapor pressure; (b) feeding the receiver aqueous feed solution to the second chamber as to effect transfer of water vapor through the membrane from the first chamber to the second chamber, and to produce (i) a resultant first solution having a second concentration of the first compound greater than the first concentration and (ii) a diluted receiver feed aqueous solution; and (c) collecting the resultant first solution.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Aker Kvaemer Canada Inc.Inventors: Zbigniew Twardowski, Thomas S. Drackett, Dmitri Bessarabov, Peter E. Fetissoff
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Patent number: 7182851Abstract: This invention concerns the commercial production of electrolytic hydrogen from coal and other hydrocarbon compounds. The process provides high capacity and low impedance compared to conventional diaphragm electrolytic cells. The hydrogen produced is suitable for combined cycle gas turbines and fuel cell power generation plants and for proton electrolytic membrane fuel cell powered transport vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Inventor: Rodolfo Antonio M Gomez
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Patent number: 7014679Abstract: A process for removing oxygen from a copper plating solution is provided. The solution is passed through a degasser comprising a shell and hollow hydrophobic fiber porous membranes wherein the shell while a vacuum is drawn on the surfaces of the fibers opposite the fiber surfaces contacted by the solution. Gas passed through the fiber walls while liquid is prevented from infiltrating the fiber pores. The composition of the solution is monitored so that the composition can be retained substantially constant by adding components of the solution as needed.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2002Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Mykrolis CorporationInventors: Bipin Parekh, Saksatha Ly, Qunwei Wu
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Patent number: 7001085Abstract: A method of processing photographic material includes the steps of processing the photographic material in a processing solution, monitoring the concentration of a process-retarding by-product of the processing in the processing solution during operation of the method, reducing the concentration of the by-product in the processing solution by a first method and as the by-product concentration in the processing solution exceeds a predetermined level, activating simultaneous operation of a second method for a period of time to thereby ensure that the photographic material is always adequately processed. The invention enables rapid processing of film whilst maintaining low replenishment rates and low fixer solution temperature such that inadequately fixed film is avoided.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Christopher B. Rider, Nicholas J. Dartnell
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Patent number: 6939611Abstract: A titanium dioxide film (2) having at least photocatalytic activity, whose light linear transmittance corresponding to light having a wavelength of 550 nm is not less than 50% and whose thickness is 0.1 to 5 ?m or so, is formed on a transparent substrate (1) constituted by a glass plate or the like. Preferably, a precoat film (3), which has optical transmissivity and is constituted by a SiO2 film having a thickness of 0.02 to 0.2 ?m or so, is provided between the transparent substrate (1) and the titanium dioxide film (2). Thereby, excellent photocatalytic action and optical transmissivity can be obtained. Moreover, members composing various structures such as a glass window, which are especially required to have optical transparency, can be further provided with photocatalytic activities.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignees: Kanagawa Academy of Science and Technology, Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akira Fujishima, Kazuhito Hashimoto, Tomokazu Iyoda, Shigemichi Fukayama, Tetsuo Yoshimoto, Tokuyoshi Saitoh
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Patent number: 6835295Abstract: An apparatus and method for electrowinning metal from ionic solutions is provided wherein ionic solution is subject to nanofiltration. An electrowinning cell (10) includes a reservoir (12) adapted to receive an ionic solution (14). During operation, metal ions in solution (14) electroplate onto cathode (18). Nanofilter (20) is in fluid communication with the reservoir and receives solution (14) from a location (22) proximate to the cathode (18). Retentate (52) is formed as a first portion (26) of the solution (14) which passes through the membrane (21) of the filter (20). Permeate (54) is formed as a second portion (28) of the solution (14) which passes through the membrane (21) of the filter (20) to a second region (29) on the opposite side of membrane (21) from the first region (27). Permeate (54) has a second concentration of metal ions lower than the first concentration in first portion (26). Retentate (52) is returned to the reservoir (12) to intermix with solution (14).Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: Hydromatix, Inc.Inventor: Juzer Jangbarwala
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Patent number: 6805787Abstract: In a method for producing sodium hypochlorite, brine solution is piped from the brine tank to a first inlet in a first electrolyzer cell of an electrolyzer assembly while simultaneously piping chilled water from a chiller having a temperature range from about 10° C. to about 25° C. to the first inlet so that the brine solution combines with the chilled water. The chilled brine solution is electrolyzed in the first electrolyzer cell. The hypochlorite and brine solution resulting from electrolysis occurring in the first cell is piped to a second inlet in a second electrolyzer cell in the electrolyzer assembly while simultaneously piping chilled water from the chiller having a temperature range from about 10° C. to about 25° C. to the second inlet so that the chilled water combines with the hypochlorite and brine solution. Each cell can have more than one inlet, preferably up to 6 inlets. The chilled hypochlorite and brine solution are electrolyzed in the second cell.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: Severn Trent Services-Water Purification Solutions, Inc.Inventors: James W. Bess, Rudolf C. Matousek, Brent Simmons
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Patent number: 6685819Abstract: A galvanic cell system (50) in fluid communication with a dewatering system (40) of an inhibited oxidation scrubber (20) removes an oxidation catalyst, i.e., solution phase iron (98), from the process liquor (42) produced by the dewatering system (40) and replaces the iron (98) with magnesium (104) in an oxidation-reduction reaction. An electrolytic cell system (154) in fluid communication with a dewatering system (144) of a forced oxidation scrubber (128) removes an oxidation inhibitor, i.e., solution phase aluminum (174), from the process liquor (146) produced by the dewatering system (144) and replaces the aluminum (174) with iron (170) in an oxidation-reduction reaction. The process liquor (42, 146) is subsequently returned to the scrubber (20, 128) with the solution phase metal (98, 174) selectively removed, thereby enhancing the scrubbing efficiency of the scrubber (20, 128).Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Pinnacle West Capital CorporationInventors: Bruce A. Salisbury, Kelly L. Baird, Calvin C. Webb
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Patent number: 6679984Abstract: An apparatus and method utilizing a strip solution for removing gold from the loaded activated carbon used to accumulate such gold leached from gold bearing ore, and for electrically removing such gold from the strip solution by electrowinning. The apparatus includes a pair of strip columns fillable with loaded activated carbon. The strip columns are connectable individually and in series in respective continuous loops using a valved crossover pipe assembly to an electrowinning device, with the strip solution being pumped therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2001Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Assignee: Summit Valley Equipment & Engineering Corp.Inventors: Todd A. Weldon, Charles O. Gale
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Patent number: 6652725Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a method for continuously producing electrodeposited copper foil while thiourea-decomposed products remaining in copper electrolyte are removed through activated carbon treatment. Another object is to provide high-resistivity copper foil obtained through the method. The present invention further provides an electrodeposition apparatus including a path for circulating a copper sulfate solution, whereby in said path is provided a filtration means for removal of thiourea-decomposed products remaining in copper electrolyte.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignees: Mitsui Mining, Smelting Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuko Taniguchi, Makoto Dobashi, Hisao Sakai, Yasuji Hara
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Patent number: 6641712Abstract: A method for selective dissolution of tin and/or lead- or tin-containing alloys from printed circuit boards is provided comprising contacting a printed circuit board with a solution comprising Ti(IV) and an acid which forms stable and soluble salt of Ti(III), Ti(IV), Sn(II) and Pb(II), under conditions to effect dissolution of substantially all of the Sn and/or Pb- or Sn-containing alloy therefrom, as Sn(II) and/or Pb(II) and recovering from the solution by electrolytic reduction substantially all of the Sn(II) and/or PB(II) species as Sn and/or Pb. After the electrolytic reduction step, the oxidant metal species is regenerated by oxidation and recycled to the first stage of the process.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2001Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Alpha Fry LimitedInventors: Robert William Gibson, Paul David Goodman, Lyn Holt, Ian McCrady Dalrymple, Derek John Fray
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Patent number: 6632347Abstract: A method and apparatus for the electrochemical treatment of an aqueous solution in an electrolytic cell is described. Output solution having a predetermined level of available free chlorine is produced by applying a substantially constant current across the cell between an anode and a cathode while passing a substantially constant throughput of chloride ions through the cell.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2000Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Assignee: Sterilox Medical (Europe) LimitedInventors: Alan Buckley, Alexey Yurevich Popov, Martin Bellamy, Phil Collins
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Patent number: 6607649Abstract: An electrolyte line extends from the outlet of an electrolysis device to a collecting tank and from the same back to the inlet of the electrolysis device. The electrolyte is passed from the outlet of the electrolysis device to a first container which is disposed at a higher level than a second container. Electrolyte collected in the first container is periodically discharged through a first syphon line into the second container, and electrolyte collected in the second container is periodically discharged through a second syphon line into the collecting tank which is disposed at a lower level than the second container. The outlet end of each syphon line is disposed at a distance above the liquid level of the container disposed thereunder, so that electrolyte always flows only in one of the two syphon lines or in none of the syphon lines. When electrolyte flows in none of the two syphon lines, electrolyte is preferably supplied from the collecting tank into the second container.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2001Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Assignee: MG Technologies AGInventors: Helmut Schatton, Nikola Anastasijevic
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Publication number: 20020195349Abstract: A method of storage and redistribution of electrical energy comprising the steps of: producing hydrogen and oxygen through water electrolysis in an electrolyzer (1) operating under pressure; collecting the hydrogen and oxygen so obtained in respective pressurized tanks (3, 5); reconverting into water and electrical energy hydrogen and oxygen, through an electrochemical reaction of the latter in a fuel cell (9) fed from the tanks (3, 5), distinguishes itself by the fact that in the electrolyzer (1) and in the fuel cell (9) a same liquid phase is used and by the fact that the water produced in the fuel cell (9) by the hydrogen and oxygen reconversion step, is collected in the respective liquid phase and transferred together with the liquid phase to the electrolyzer (1) in order to undergo electrolysis.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2002Publication date: December 26, 2002Applicant: CASALE CHEMICALS SAInventor: Sioli Giancarlo
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Patent number: 6491807Abstract: An electrolytic production of sodium persulfate in a decreased number of steps with low unit power cost is described. Sodium persulfate is caused to crystallize by the reaction between an anode product and sodium hydroxide. The resulting sodium persulfate slurry is separated into a mother liquor and sodium persulfate crystals which are recovered and dried to obtain product sodium persulfate. In the process of the invention, ammonia liberated in the reaction-type crystallization of sodium persulfate is recovered into a cathode product, which is then neutralized by sodium hydroxide and/or ammonia. The neutralized solution is combined with sodium sulfate recovered from the mother liquor after recovering the sodium persulfate crystals and reused as a part of the starting material for an anolyte feed solution.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2001Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc.Inventors: Kenichi Kimizuka, Shoichiro Kajiwara, Naoki Kogure, Takamitsu Tsuruga
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Publication number: 20020179451Abstract: An apparatus and method utilizing a strip solution for removing gold from the loaded activated carbon used to accumulate such gold leached from gold bearing ore, and for electrically removing such gold from the strip solution by electrowinning. The apparatus includes a pair of strip columns fillable with loaded activated carbon. The strip columns are connectable individually and in series in respective continuous loops using a valved crossover pipe assembly to an electrowinning device, with the strip solution being pumped therethrough.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2001Publication date: December 5, 2002Inventors: Todd A. Weldon, Charles O. Gale
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Publication number: 20020175081Abstract: A method of processing photographic material includes the steps of processing the photographic material in a processing solution, monitoring the concentration of a process-retarding by-product of the processing in the processing solution during operation of the method, reducing the concentration of the by-product in the processing solution by a first method and as the by-product concentration in the processing solution exceeds a predetermined level, activating simultaneous operation of a second method for a period of time to thereby ensure that the photographic material is always adequately processed. The invention enables rapid processing of film whilst maintaining low replenishment rates and low fixer solution temperature such that inadequately fixed film is avoided.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Applicant: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Christopher B. Rider, Nicholas J. Dartnell
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Patent number: 6423203Abstract: The invention describes a method for the direct connection of fuel cells to electrolyzers of electrochemical plants producing hydrogen as a by-product. The by-product hydrogen is fed to the fuel cells and the electric energy thereby produced is transferred to the electrolyzers, with the consequent saving of the overall energy consumption. The direct coupling avoids the need for DC/AC converters or voltage adjusters and may be effected either in series or in parallel. In the latter case the fuel cell are assembled in modules, the number and voltage of which is regulated by means of interrupters activated by a computerised control and supervision system. As an alternative, the voltage of the modules may be varied by varying the pressure of the air fed to the fuel cells.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2000Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: Nuvera Fuel Cells Europe S.r.l.Inventors: Giuseppe Faita, Angelo Ottaviani
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Publication number: 20020051898Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the regenerative electrochemical cell system comprises: a fuel cell module comprising a fuel cell oxygen inlet in fluid communication a water storage device, and a fuel cell hydrogen inlet in fluid communication with both an oxygen source and with a gaseous portion of an water phase separation device; an electrolysis module comprising an electrolysis water inlet in fluid communication with the water storage device via a fuel cell oxygen outlet, and an electrolysis water outlet in fluid communication with the fuel cell hydrogen.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2001Publication date: May 2, 2002Inventors: Lawrence C. Moulthrop, Trent M. Molter, A. John Speranza, Mark A. Lillis, William Smith, Jason Shiepe, Thomas M. Skoczylas
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Publication number: 20010015322Abstract: An electrolytic production of sodium persulfate in a decreased number of steps with low unit power cost is described. Sodium persulfate is caused to crystallize by the reaction between an anode product and sodium hydroxide. The resulting sodium persulfate slurry is separated into a mother liquor and sodium persulfate crystals which are recovered and dried to obtain product sodium persulfate. In the process of the invention, ammonia liberated in the reaction-type crystallization of sodium persulfate is recovered into a cathode product, which is then neutralized by sodium hydroxide and/or ammonia. The neutralized solution is combined with sodium sulfate recovered from the mother liquor after recovering the sodium persulfate crystals and reused as a part of the starting material for an anolyte feed solution.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2001Publication date: August 23, 2001Inventors: Kenichi Kimizuka, Shoichiro Kajiwara, Naoki Kogure, Takamitsu Tsuruga
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Patent number: 6146518Abstract: An improved process for providing hydrogen from an electrolytic cell having an anolyte solution having an anolyte liquid level; a catholyte solution having a catholyte liquid level; generating oxygen at an oxygen pressure above the anolyte level; generating hydrogen at a hydrogen pressure above the catholyte level; the improvement comprising detecting at least one of the anolyte and the catholyte liquid levels as anolyte level and catholyte level data; feeding the level data to central processing means; determining the pressure differential between the levels from the level data, and pressure adjustment data by the central processing means; and providing the adjustment data to pressure control means to maintain the pressure differential within a selected range. The process offers a low cost method of controlling the pressure differential to within 2 cm WC of a set point.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 1999Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: Stuart Energy Systems Inc.Inventors: Matthew J. Fairlie, William J. Stewart, Charlie Dong
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Patent number: 6056865Abstract: In a dry chemical reprocessing method, uranium type elements are electrolytically refined continuously. Molten cadmium in which these uranium type elements are dissolved is transferred to a rotating cathode electrolysis tank 30 for performing electrolytic refining. The rotating cathode electrolysis tank 30 is filled with molten cadmium, and a mixture of potassium chloride and lithium chloride. In the salt phase are placed a rotating cathode 32 and a receiving dish 36 for uranium type elements which deposit at the cathode, while in the molten cadmium phase a fixed anode 42 is installed. When uranium type elements deposited at the rotating cathode 32 have grown to at least a predetermined size, they are scraped off by a scraper 34 and collect in a receiving dish 36. These uranium type elements are sent to a U/salt separating tank 50 where uranium is separated from salts.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1998Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Assignee: Japan Nuclear Cycle Development InstituteInventors: Ippei Amamoto, Miyuki Igarashi
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Patent number: 5976346Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrochemical cell, system and process for converting essentially anhydrous hydrogen halide to essentially dry halogen gas. The process of the present invention is useful for converting anhydrous hydrogen halide, in particular, hydrogen chloride, hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen bromide and hydrogen iodide, to a halogen gas, such as chlorine, fluorine, bromine, or iodine. In particular, in the present invention, water is provided to the cation-transporting membrane at the cathode in various ways. The present invention allows for recovery of a released fluid at the cathode-side of the membrane and recycling of the released fluid back to the cathode side of the membrane. In this way, the recovered, released fluid may be recycled to continuously supply water to the membrane, thereby allowing the limiting current density of the cell to be increased and/or controlled.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1997Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: Francisco Jose Freire, Edward Joseph Fahy, Dennie Turin Mah, Kenneth Bernard Keating, Douglas John Eames, William H. Zimmerman, James Arthur Trainham, Clarence Garlan Law, Jr., John Scott Newman
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Patent number: 5951842Abstract: A process for monitoring the electrolyte circulation in an electrolysis cell, in which an electrolyte flow generated by a circulation pump is generated between the electrodes of the electrolysis cell and the electrolysis is performed by a constant electrolysis current or electrode potential.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1998Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventor: Gerhard Ueffinger
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Patent number: 5925322Abstract: The present invention relates to a combined cycle system of enhanced efficiency. The system comprises a top stage, such as a fuel cell, a partial oxidation reactor or a heat engine, and an oxygen-enriching device, such as a temperature swing adsorption device or a chemical reactor bed device, as its bottom stage. The bottom stage uses waste heat produced by the top stage to enrich the oxygen content of air that is inputted to the bottom stage, thereby producing an oxygen-enriched gas mixture as the bottom stage output. This output mixture constitutes a superior oxidant which is fed back as an input for the top stage, thus enhancing the energy conversion efficiency, cheapness, and compactness of the combined cycle system as compared to that of ordinary fuel cells, partial oxidation reactors and heat engines that use unenriched air as their oxidant input.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Assignee: H Power CorporationInventor: John Werth
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Patent number: 5906722Abstract: Describes a method of electrochemically converting amine hydrohalide, e.g., ethyleneamine hydrochloride, into free amine, e.g., free ethyleneamine. A three compartment electrolytic cell is provided having (1) a catholyte compartment containing a cathode assembly comprising a cathode and an anion exchange membrane, (2) an anode compartment containing an anode assembly comprising either (a) a hydrogen consuming gas diffusion anode and a current collecting electrode or (b) a hydrogen consuming gas diffusion anode which is fixedly held between a hydraulic barrier and a current collecting electrode, and (3) an intermediate compartment separated from the catholyte and anode compartments by the anion exchange membrane and either (i) the hydrogen consuming gas diffusion anode or (ii) the hydraulic barrier respectively.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 1997Date of Patent: May 25, 1999Assignee: PPG Industries, Inc.Inventors: Peter C. Foller, David G. Roberts, Robert H. Tang