Hydrogen Produced Patents (Class 205/637)
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Patent number: 6497973Abstract: A system for generating and consuming borohydride ions comprising two electrochemical cells. At least one of the cells is configured for installation on a vehicle that is propelled by electricity.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1997Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Assignee: Millennium Cell, Inc.Inventor: Steven Amendola
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Publication number: 20020182741Abstract: Method and apparatus for generating an acid or base, e.g. for chromatographic analysis of anions. For generating a base the method includes the steps of providing a cation source in a cation source reservoir, flowing an aqueous liquid stream through a base generation chamber separated from the cation source reservoir by a barrier (e.g. a charged membrane) substantially preventing liquid flow while providing a cation transport bridge, applying an electric potential between an anode cation source reservoir and a cathode in the base generation chamber to electrolytically generate hydroxide ions therein and to cause cations in the cation source reservoir to electromigrate and to be transported across the barrier toward the cathode to combine with the transported cations to form cation hydroxide, and removing the cation hydroxide in an aqueous liquid stream as an effluent from the first base generation chamber. Suitable cation sources include a salt solution, a cation hydroxide solution or cation exchange resin.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2002Publication date: December 5, 2002Applicant: Dionex CorporationInventors: Yan Liu, Hamish Small, Nebojsa Avdalovic
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Publication number: 20020179454Abstract: A system for producing one or more gases for enhancing combustion in an internal combustion engine, the engine having an intake, the system comprising: an electrolysis cell, for generating one or more combustion enhancing gases under pressure; a gas conduit, for connecting the electrolysis cell to the internal combustion engine; and a flow regulator, operatively connected between the electrolysis cell and the intake of the engine, for regulating a flow of the combustion enhancing gases to the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2002Publication date: December 5, 2002Applicant: Global Tech Environmental Products Inc.Inventor: Bill Ross
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Publication number: 20020175084Abstract: A process for the production of hydrogen, which includes subjecting a hydrogen-containing compound (with the exception of a nitrogen-containing compound) to a decomposition reaction with nonthermal plasma.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Inventors: Shigeru Futamura, Hajime Kabashima, Hisahiro Einaga
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Publication number: 20020177233Abstract: Method and apparatus for generating an acid or base, e.g. for chromatographic analysis of anions. For generating a base the method includes the steps of providing a cation source in a cation source reservoir, flowing an aqueous liquid stream through a base generation chamber separated from the cation source reservoir by a barrier (e.g. a charged membrane) substantially preventing liquid flow while providing a cation transport bridge, applying an electric potential between an anode cation source reservoir and a cathode in the base generation chamber to electrolytically generate hydroxide ions therein and to cause cations in the cation source reservoir to electromigrate and to be transported across the barrier toward the cathode to combine with the transported cations to form cation hydroxide, and removing the cation hydroxide in an aqueous liquid stream as an effluent from the first base generation chamber. Suitable cation sources include a salt solution, a cation hydroxide solution or cation exchange resin.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2002Publication date: November 28, 2002Applicant: Dionex CorporationInventors: Yan Liu, Hamish Small, Nebojsa Avdalovic
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Patent number: 6471850Abstract: An electrochemical cell system includes a hydrogen electrode; an oxygen electrode; a membrane disposed between the hydrogen electrode and the oxygen electrode; and a compartmentalized storage tank. The compartmentalized storage tank has a first fluid storage section and a second fluid storage section separated by a movable divider. The compartmentalized storage tank is in fluid communication with the electrochemical cell. Further, an electrochemical cell includes a hydrogen electrode; an oxygen electrode; an electrolyte membrane disposed between and in intimate contact with the hydrogen electrode and said oxygen electrode; an oxygen flow field disposed adjacent to and in intimate contact with the oxygen electrode; a hydrogen flow field disposed adjacent to and in intimate contact with the hydrogen electrode; a water flow field disposed in fluid communication with the oxygen flow field; and a media divider disposed between the oxygen flow field and the water flow field.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2000Date of Patent: October 29, 2002Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jason K. Shiepe, Trent M. Molter
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Patent number: 6468412Abstract: An apparatus and method for venting hydrogen from an electrolytic cell. A brine solution is supplied to an electrolytic cell where hypochlorite and hydrogen gas are produced. A non-combustible gas is introduced into the electrolyzer containing the electrolytic cell and the concentration of hydrogen in the electrolyzer is reduced to a concentration below the LEL of hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2000Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Assignee: United States Filter CorporationInventors: Jared K. Bryan, Gregory E. Stockinger, Manor M. Parikh
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Publication number: 20020108864Abstract: The present invention relates to an arc processing method and device with simultaneous chemical etching wherein the device comprises a conductive electrode, being the cathode, an auxiliary electrode, being the anode, an conductive fluid, and an non-conductive work piece for processing. Processing, and precision processing in particular, of non-conductive materials is obtained by simultaneous arc discharge and etching that are brought about by chemical reactions associated with cathode and anode. Moreover, the present invention discloses simultaneous arc processing and chemical etching that offers improved processing efficiency over conventional arc processing.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2001Publication date: August 15, 2002Applicant: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Ching-Tang Yang, Hung-Yin Tsai, Tung-Chuan Wu
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Publication number: 20020108866Abstract: A system for obtaining gases by electrolytic methods is described, wherein the tubing receiving hydrogen gas from the depth where the electrodes are located, maintains at the interior thereof hydrogen gas under a pressure greater than the atmospheric pressure; and said tubing is connected at the top or exit thereof to a turbine, and said turbine is mechanically coupled to a DC current generator; with said generator being electrically connected to the electrodes submerged into the sea. Said system comprises also means to disconnect said electrodes from an outer power supply and connect the same to said current generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2002Publication date: August 15, 2002Inventor: Jose Luis Bonilla Griz
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Patent number: 6428678Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process and apparatus for producing synthesis gas by electrolysis. The process for producing synthetic gas is heat exchanged between reactants and reaction products of at least one reaction product carried out using textile micro-hollow fibers having non-activated surfaces as heat exchangers as solid electrolytes, the inside and outside surfaces which carry the anodes and cathodes, respectively. The apparatus for producing synthesis gas by electrolysis comprises a multitude of stacked textiles micro-hollow fibers as solid electrolytes, the inside and outside surfaces of which carry the anodes and cathodes, respectively, wherein the ends of the micro-hollow fibers are bound into a frame, and a pressure housing accommodating the stacks is made from a ferromagnetic material and has a partly enameled surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2000Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Inventor: Klaus Rennebeck
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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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Patent number: 6419815Abstract: An apparatus for producing orthohydrogen and/or parahydrogen. The apparatus includes a container holding water and at least one pair of closely-spaced electrodes arranged within the container and submerged in the water. A first power supply provides a particular first pulsed signal to the electrodes. A coil may also be arranged within the container and submerged in the water if the production of parahydrogen is also required. A second power supply provides a second pulsed signal to the coil through a switch to apply energy to the water. When the second power supply is disconnected from the coil by the switch and only the electrodes receive a pulsed signal, then orthohydrogen can be produced. When the second power supply is connected to the coil and both the electrodes and coil receive pulsed signals, then the first and second pulsed signals can be controlled to produce parahydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2000Date of Patent: July 16, 2002Assignee: Xogen Power Inc.Inventor: Stephen Barrie Chambers
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Publication number: 20020070124Abstract: The present invention provides a self-replenishing liquid water source onboard an automobile for supplying liquid water to an electrolyzer, such as an on-board hydrogen generator useful for the suppression of unwanted emissions. While automobiles typically have water reservoirs resupplied by a person, the invention provides a passive means of water collection for reliable replenishment due to operations of the automobile itself. The invention provides condensate from the engine exhaust gas by cooling a region of the exhaust system using cooling fluid from the engine coolant system. The cooling fluid is circulated during a period following the engine cold start event when the heat load on the engine coolant system is low.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2000Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventors: Craig C. Andrews, A. John Appleby, Alan J. Cisar, Carlos Salinas, Oliver J. Murphy
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Patent number: 6383361Abstract: A fluid management system for use in water electrolysis systems for filtering the system water and recombining hydrogen and oxygen. The fluid management system includes a phase separation tank having a filter containing a catalyzed ion exchange resin. Hydrogen/water mixture and an oxygen/water mixture are introduced into the resin where hydrogen is recombined with oxygen to produce recovered water. Trace contaminant ions and particles are removed from the water by the ion exchange resin and the filter.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2000Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: Proton Energy SystemsInventors: Lawrence C. Moulthrop, Jr., Trent M. Molter, Robert J. Friedland
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Patent number: 6368492Abstract: A device for electrolysis of an aqueous solution of an organic fuel. The electrolyte is a solid-state polymer membrane with anode and cathode catalysts on both surfaces for electro-oxidization and electro-reduction. A low-cost and portable hydrogen generator can be made based on the device with organic fuels such as methanol.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2000Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: California Institute of TechnologyInventors: Sekharipuram R. Narayanan, William Chun, Barbara Jeffries-Nakamura, Thomas I. Valdez
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Publication number: 20020017463Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for deionization and hydrogen fuel production in a fuel generation mode, and electricity production in a power generation mode. In one embodiment, a capacitive deionization (CDI) device receives water and electrical energy to produce deionized water that is transferred to a proton electrode membrane electrolysis (PEME) device to produce hydrogen fuel by electrolysis. A storage system receives the hydrogen. The hydrogen is transferred from the storage system to a proton electrode membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) device that produces electrical energy. In another embodiment, the PEME and the PEMFC are functionally combined in a unitary regenerative fuel cell (URFC). In still another embodiment, a humidification unit and the CDI are functionally combined. In yet another embodiment, a CDI, URFC and the humidification unit are combined in a single unitary assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2001Publication date: February 14, 2002Inventor: Walter Roberto Merida-Donis
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Publication number: 20020006535Abstract: An integrated power module for generating thermal and electrical power is provided within a housing which includes inlets for fuel and for air, a reformer chamber, a fuel cell stack, and a combustion chamber. Oxygen-containing gas, such as air, is introduced into the module along a path in one direction in heat exchange relationship with reaction products produced in the reaction chamber traveling in an adjacent path, preferably in an opposite direction, to preheat the incoming oxygen-containing gas. A nozzle having an injector for the fuel and for the oxygen-containing gas delivers these gases to the interior of the reformer chamber, where ignition is supplied by a suitable device. The reaction products from the reformer chamber are fed to a fuel cell which will consume certain of the reaction products, such as hydrogen gas, with oxygen provided from the reaction chamber acting as an oxidizing gas.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2001Publication date: January 17, 2002Inventors: Richard Woods, Leonard Greiner, David Moard
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Patent number: 6338786Abstract: An improved method of separating hydrogen gas entrained with a first aqueous electrolytic solution of a water electrolyser for producing said hydrogen and said oxygen gas entrained with a second aqueous electrolyte solution, said method comprising producing a first two-phase flow discharge of said hydrogen gas in said first solution; producing a second two-phase flow discharge of said oxygen gas in said second solution; feeding said first discharge to a first separation chamber having a portion defining a hydrogen chamber to effect separation of said hydrogen gas from said first discharge; feeding said second discharge to a second separation chamber having a portion defining an oxygen chamber to effect separation of said oxygen gas from said second discharge; collecting said hydrogen gas from said hydrogen chamber; collecting said oxygen gas from said oxygen chamber; collecting said first discharge; collecting said second discharge; the improvement wherein at least one of said first discharge is discharged inType: GrantFiled: July 16, 1999Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Assignee: Stuart Energy Systems CorporationInventors: Steven J. Thorpe, Raynald G. Lachance, Daniel Tapin
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Publication number: 20020000385Abstract: An electrochemical cell system includes a hydrogen electrode; an oxygen electrode; a membrane disposed between the hydrogen electrode and the oxygen electrode; and a compartmentalized storage tank. The compartmentalized storage tank has a first fluid storage section and a second fluid storage section separated by a movable divider. The compartmentalized storage tank is in fluid communication with the electrochemical cell. Further, an electrochemical cell includes a hydrogen electrode; an oxygen electrode; an electrolyte membrane disposed between and in intimate contact with the hydrogen electrode and said oxygen electrode; an oxygen flow field disposed adjacent to and in intimate contact with the oxygen electrode; a hydrogen flow field disposed adjacent to and in intimate contact with the hydrogen electrode; a water flow field disposed in fluid communication with the oxygen flow field; and a media divider disposed between the oxygen flow field and the water flow field.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2000Publication date: January 3, 2002Inventors: Jason K. Shiepe, Trent M. Molter
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Publication number: 20010045364Abstract: A hydrogen source system delivers a controlled fuel stream to applications, using wicking to control the contact between a mixture of NaBH4, NaOH and H2O and a hydrolyzing catalyst to create a feedback mechanism to automatically maintain a constant pressure production supply of hydrogen. A small compact device packaged for storage, the system operates in any orientation and is mobile. The system is a small portable packaged hydrogen generator for small fuel cells to power applications that are currently powered by batteries. These packaged devices have higher energy per unit mass, higher energy per unit volume, are more convenient for energy users, environmentally less harmful, and less expensive than conventional power sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2001Publication date: November 29, 2001Inventors: Robert G. Hockaday, Patrick S. Turner, Marc D. DeJohn, Carlos J. Navas, Heathcliff L. Vaz, L. Luke Vazul
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Patent number: 6306280Abstract: An electroenzymatic reactor comprises a reaction vessel having a working electrode compartment. Within the working electrode compartment is a reactor solution containing a redox enzyme, a redox carrier, and an oxidizable or reducible substrate. Also within the working electrode compartment is a reference electrode and a metal oxide working electrode capable of being held close to the redox potential of the redox carrier. A counter electrode is provided outside the working electrode compartment. Necessary molecular oxygen or hydrogen is supplied to the reaction by water electrolysis at the counter electrode. Hydrogen peroxide that is generated at the working electrode or counter electrode is decomposed by a screen situated near the hydrogen-peroxide generating electrode.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2000Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of CommerceInventors: Vytautas P. Reipa, Vincent L. Vilker
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Patent number: 6303009Abstract: A simple hydrogen generator system for maintaining zero PSI across the proton exchange membrane while generating ultra pure hydrogen gas at high pressure from water. The system includes a proton exchange membrane across which an electrolysis reaction is induced, thereby producing hydrogen gas on a first side of the proton exchange membrane and oxygen gas on a second side of the proton exchange membrane. The current source used to induce the electrolysis reaction is computer controlled so as to maintain a near constant pressure of hydrogen, even as hydrogen is drawn from the assembly. By minimizing the pressure differential across the proton exchange membrane, a more durable and efficient hydrogen generator is produced.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1999Date of Patent: October 16, 2001Inventor: Peter R. Bossard
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Patent number: 6267864Abstract: Methods and devices for transforming less desirable chemical species into more desirable or useful chemical forms are disclosed. The specifications can be used to treat pollutants into more benign compositions and to produce useful chemicals from raw materials and wastes. The methods and devices disclosed utilize continuous or temporary pulse of electrical current induced by electromagnetic field and high surface area formulations. The invention can also be applied to improve the performance of existing catalysts and to prepare novel devices.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1999Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: Nanomaterials Research CorporationInventors: Tapesh K. Yadav, Bijan K. Meramadi
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Patent number: 6224741Abstract: An electrolytic process which can operate in a hydrogen reaction chamber at a hydrogen reaction rate corresponding to the increase in the rate of production of hydrogen accompanying the increase in the electrolysis rate and maintain the current efficiency at a very high value with respect to the electrolytic current for producing hydrogen and a process for the production of an electrode for this purpose.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1998Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: Peremelec Electrode Ltd.Inventors: Yasuki Yoshida, Setsuro Ogata, Masaharu Uno, Masashi Tanaka, Yoshinori Nishiki, Takayuki Shimamune, Hiroshi Inoue, Chiaki Iwakura
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Patent number: 6225129Abstract: Method and apparatus for generating an acid or base, e.g. for chromatographic analysis of anions. For generating a base the method includes the steps of providing a cation source in a cation source reservoir, flowing an aqueous liquid stream through a base generation chamber separated from the cation source reservoir by a barrier (e.g. a charged membrane) substantially preventing liquid flow while providing a cation transport bridge, applying an electric potential between an anode cation source reservoir and a cathode in the base generation chamber to electrolytically generate hydroxide ions therein and to cause cations in the cation source reservoir to electromigrate and to be transported across the barrier toward the cathode to combine with the transported cations to form cation hydroxide, and removing the cation hydroxide in an aqueous liquid stream as an effluent from the first base generation chamber. Suitable cation sources include a salt solution, a cation hydroxide solution or cation exchange resin.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1998Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Assignee: Dionex CorporationInventors: Yan Liu, Hamish Small, Nebojsa Avdalovic
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Patent number: 6217713Abstract: The invention concerns a process for producing aquafuel by replacing conventional inflexible carbon bars with thin, flexible and tough carbon fiber bundles as consumptive electrodes which thereby can be sustainedly fed and can produce aquafuel continuously. Such carbon fiber bundle electrodes can be prepared by pultrusion, and electrodes may be further carbonized or graphitized in order to increase the conductivity and gas productivity thereof.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1998Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: National Science Council of Republic of ChinaInventors: Chi-Young Lee, Swe-Kai Chen, Nyan-Hwa Tai
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Patent number: 6214195Abstract: Methods and devices for transforming less desirable chemical species into more desirable or useful chemical forms are disclosed. The specifications can be used to treat pollutants into more benign compositions and to produce useful chemicals from raw materials and wastes. The methods and devices disclosed utilize electrical current induced by electromagnetic field and high surface area formulations. The invention can also be applied to improve the performance of existing catalysts and to prepare novel devices.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1998Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: Nanomaterials Research CorporationInventors: Tapesh Yadav, Bijan Meramadi
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Patent number: 6168705Abstract: The electrochemical gas purifier system consists of a cell module with accessory components mounted in a single framework. The module consists of a number of single cells each capable of purifying and ultimately producing hydrogen gas at pressures exceeding 2000 psi. The process comprises introducing a contaminated hydrogen stream to a cell comprising an anode and a cathode with an electrolyte membrane disposed therebetween. The hydrogen is oxidized on the anode to protons which electrochemically migrate across the membrane to the cathode where they recombine with electrons which have passed through an external power source. The contaminants exit the anode side of the cell while the purified hydrogen exits the cathode side of the cell.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Assignee: Proton Energy SystemsInventors: Trent M. Molter, William F. Smith
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Patent number: 6165333Abstract: A cathode assembly comprising a cathode, an ion-exchange membrane, and an electroconductive porous member permeable to gas and liquid sandwiched between the cathode and the membrane. The porous member may have, deposited on a part thereof, a catalyst active in hydrogen generation. The porous member preferably is in the form of a plate, sheet, fibers, web, paper, net, or sinter of any of these, and comprises at least a carbonaceous material and has a thickness of from 0.05 to 5 mm and a porosity of from 10 to 95%. Also disclosed is a method of reactivating a cathode assembly, which comprises conducting electrolysis using the cathode assembly until its activity decreases, and then depositing a catalyst active in hydrogen generation on the porous member.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1999Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Assignee: Permelec Electrode Ltd.Inventors: Masashi Tanaka, Shuji Nakamatsu, Yoshinori Nishiki
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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: 6093306Abstract: A comprehensive energy system is provided in which a fossil fuel-burning electric utility plant is operated in conjunction with a hydrogen production and utility load leveling unit, a CO.sub.2 recovery and methanol synthesis unit, and a Bunsen reactor which reacts Br.sub.2 and SO.sub.2 to from HBr and H.sub.2 SO.sub.4, while cleaning a utility stack gas.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 1998Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Assignee: Solar Reactor Technologies Inc.Inventors: Robert J. Hanrahan, Robin Z. Parker, Harley L. Heaton
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Patent number: 6090266Abstract: A process for the production of hydrogen from anaerobically decomposed organic materials by applying an electric potential to the anaerobically decomposed organic materials, including landfill materials and sewage, to form hydrogen, and for decreasing the time required to treat these anaerobically decomposed organic materials. The organic materials decompose to volatile acids such as acetic acid, which may be hydrolyzed by electric current to form hydrogen. The process may be continuously run in sewage digestion tanks with the continuous feed of sewage, at landfill sites, or at any site having a supply of anaerobically decomposed or decomposable organic materials.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 1996Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Inventor: Sukomal Roychowdhury
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Patent number: 6066248Abstract: A process for the electrolysis of aqueous hydrochloric acid solution in an electrochemical flow reactor comprising a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, an anode, a cathode and backings, wherein the anode is comprised of an electrocatalytic material and an ionomer is disclosed. The process provides high current density at low cell voltage, and low HCl outlet concentration while minimizing side reactions.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 1998Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: Stephen Erwin Lyke, Pallav Tatapudi
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Patent number: 6063258Abstract: A process for the production of a hydrogen gas from water, wherein comprising an aqueous solution containing ferric ions is irradiated with a light while maintaining the aqueous solution in contact with a photocatalyst to convert the ferric ions into ferrous ions. The resulting aqueous solution containing the ferrous ions is electrolyzed to yield a hydrogen gas.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Assignee: Director-General of Agency of Industrial Science and TechnologyInventors: Kazuhiro Sayama, Hironori Arakawa, Kiyomi Okabe, Hitoshi Kusama
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Patent number: 6051125Abstract: An efficient method of producing hydrogen by high temperature steam electrolysis that will lower the electricity consumption to an estimated 65 percent lower than has been achievable with previous steam electrolyzer systems. This is accomplished with a natural gas-assisted steam electrolyzer, which significantly reduces the electricity consumption. Since this natural gas-assisted steam electrolyzer replaces one unit of electrical energy by one unit of energy content in natural gas at one-quarter the cost, the hydrogen production cost will be significantly reduced. Also, it is possible to vary the ratio between the electricity and the natural gas supplied to the system in response to fluctuations in relative prices for these two energy sources. In one approach an appropriate catalyst on the anode side of the electrolyzer will promote the partial oxidation of natural gas to CO and hydrogen, called Syn-Gas, and the CO can also be shifted to CO.sub.2 to give additional hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 1998Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Ai-Quoc Pham, P. Henrik Wallman, Robert S. Glass
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Patent number: 6033793Abstract: An integrated power module for generating thermal and electrical power is provided within a housing which includes inlets for fuel and for air, a reformer chamber, a fuel cell stack, and a combustion chamber. Oxygen-containing gas, such as air, is introduced into the module along a path in one direction in heat exchange relationship with reaction products produced in the reaction chamber traveling in an adjacent path, preferably in an opposite direction, to preheat the incoming oxygen-containing gas. A nozzle having an injector for the fuel and for the oxygen-containing gas delivers these gases to the interior of the reformer chamber, where ignition is supplied by a suitable device. The reaction products from the reformer chamber are fed to a fuel cell which will consume certain of the reaction products, such as hydrogen gas, with oxygen provided from the reaction chamber acting as an oxidizing gas.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: Hydrogen Burner Technology, Inc.Inventors: Richard R. Woods, Leonard Greiner, David Moard
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Patent number: 6007600Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing copper in a hydrometallurgical process from copper-bearing raw materials, such as sulfidic concentrates. The concentrate is leached in a leaching stage of several steps into a chloride-based solution. The copper-bearing solution obtained from this leaching is subjected to reduction and solution purification, whereafter the copper contained in the solution is precipitated as copper oxidule by means of alkali hydroxide. The alkali chloride solution formed in the production of copper oxidule is fed into chloride alkali electrolysis, where it is regenerated back into alkali hydroxide. The hydrogen generated in the electrolysis is used in the reduction of copper oxidule and in other reduction stages of the process. The formed chlorine is used in the leaching of the raw material. When necessary, the reduced copper that is in a granular or pulverous form is further subjected to melting and casting in order to produce commercial-grade copper.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1998Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Outokumpu OYJInventors: Olli Hyvarinen, Matti Hamalainen
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Patent number: 5980726Abstract: The present invention relates to a unique, compact hydrogen electrochemical system which eliminates the need for explosion-proof equipment. This system merely separates the electrical equipment from the hydrogen source with a wall, but employs a positive pressure, of about 0.1 inches water column, air purge throughout the system to prevent the introduction of hydrogen gas to the electrical equipment and to recover and use waste heat.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Proton Energy SystemsInventors: Lawrence C. Moulthrop, Jr., A. John Speranza, Robert H. Byron, Jr.
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Patent number: 5908545Abstract: A process is described for decomposing hydrogen sulfide to produce hydrogen and sulfur. The process comprises mixing hydrogen sulfide with a volatile basic solution and introducing this mixture into an electrolytic cell having an anode and a cathode. By operation of this cell, hydrogen is formed at the cathode and a solution containing polysulfide is formed at the anode. The polysulfide-containing solution is separated and distilled to recover sulfur and the remaining volatile basic solution is recycled to be mixed with further hydrogen sulfide.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1997Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Assignee: Natural Resources CanadaInventors: John C. Donini, Slobodan Petrovic, Edward A. Luinstra
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Patent number: 5891319Abstract: Carbonyl halide is produced from carbon monoxide and halogen produced from the electrochemical conversion of anhydrous hydrogen halide. Both the oxidation of anhydrous hydrogen halide and the formation of carbonyl halide are carried out in the anode-compartment of an electrochemical cell. This reduces the equipment and thus the capital investment necessary for carrying out these reactions. Moreover, no catalyst is needed to form halogen and subsequently make carbonyl halide, as in the prior art. In addition, the health hazards associated with making a carbonyl halide, such as phosgene, at high temperatures from chlorinated hydrocarbons with atmospheric oxygen are virtually eliminated. Furthermore, the halogen produced as a result of the oxidation of anhydrous hydrogen halide are dry, thereby eliminating the need for a preheater before the halogen is reacted with carbon monoxide.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1996Date of Patent: April 6, 1999Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: Francisco Jose Freire, Kenneth Bernard Keating, Edward Kaoru Sakata
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Controlled and regulated conveying of flowable media with a gas evolution cell and a flow multiplier
Patent number: 5871632Abstract: Process and apparatus for conveying flowing substances with the aid of an electrochemical gas evolution cell whose cell current generates primarily a gas volume flow which secondarily causes the volume flow of a decomposer liquid into a catalytic decomposer and which thereby initiates a quantity flow of the decomposer gas which transports the flowable conveyed medium to the intended location.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1997Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Inventor: August Winsel -
Patent number: 5855761Abstract: A fluid delivery device (10) operated by a first gas delivery device (12) (e.g. electrochemical pump) that takes advantage of sequential gas production methods. The fluid delivery device includes a container (14) with an interior surface. An first gas delivery device for producing or delivering a first gas is placed in one end of the container. A moveable member (e.g. piston, bladder (18) or membrane) is positioned within the container, which moveable member, together with the container's interior surface and the electrochemical cell, structurally define a fluid-tight chamber. The moveable member may abut a first reactive material. Unreacted material (34), chemically reactive with the either the first gas or the first reactive material to generate a second gas, is contained within the container.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 1996Date of Patent: January 5, 1999Assignee: Ceramatec, Inc.Inventor: Ashok V. Joshi
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Patent number: 5840172Abstract: The invention relates to an ultra-high purity gas generator system, such as a hydrogen gas generator system and method, which employs a direct current source to supply proportional electrical current to a cathode in an electrolyte cell. The system comprises a metal cathode gas generator for hydrogen gas and a DC current for the metal cathode, wherein the output DC line current is continuously modified by a control circuit, which modifies the pulse width into the DC source, based on the variation in hydrogen gas pressure or flow from the cell. In the system and method, direct current is supplied to the palladium or palladium alloy cathode of an electrolytic cell, and the direct current is controlled or switched by monitoring the gas flow or pressure in the cell by a pressure or flow transducer, providing the output voltage to a control circuit.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1997Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Whatman Inc.Inventor: George Zugravu
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Patent number: 5833834Abstract: An electrolysis cell, fuel cell and solar reactor or conventional furnace are operated in conjunction with one another for providing hydrogen as a product, from electrolysis of hydrogen bromide.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1997Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: Solar Reactor TechnologiesInventors: Robert J. Hanrahan, Harley L. Heaton, Robin Z. Parker
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Patent number: 5798036Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrochemical cell and a process for converting anhydrous hydrogen halide to halogen gas using a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) or a separate membrane and electrode arrangement, such as gas diffusion electrodes with a membrane.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 1996Date of Patent: August 25, 1998Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: William H. Zimmerman, Thomas Frank Saturno, John Stanley Artysiewicz, James Arthur Trainham, Clarence Garlan Law, Jr., John Scott Newman, Douglas John Eames
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Patent number: 5785768Abstract: A photo cell and a photo cell array which have high photoelectric conversion efficiency, little leakage current, long life, and high reliability, as well as a electrolytic device that employs the cell and array. The photo cell (1) comprises: a base material (2) consisting of p-type semiconductor; a light receiving section (3) being an integral spherical part of the base material (2) which protrudes outward from the surface of the base (2), and has an n-type semiconductor layer formed on the surface of said spherical part, so that a pn junction interface is formed between the base material (2) and the semiconductor layer; a front surface electrode (4) formed from conductive material in ohmic contact with a portion of the surface of the aforementioned sphere; and a lower or back electrode (5) formed from conductive material on the bottom of the aforementioned base material (2), to provide ohmic contact.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 1996Date of Patent: July 28, 1998Inventor: Josuke Nakata
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Patent number: 5718819Abstract: In order to improve a process for the electrolysis of a fluid electrolyte containing cations and anions in an electrolytic cell with a cathode and an anode located opposite the cathode such that primary energy not present in an electrical form, in particular thermal energy from reservoirs having a moderately high temperature, can be used for the electrolysis with lower losses, it is suggested that a current path between the cathode and the anode be closed, that a magnetic field be applied to the electrolytic cell and that a relative movement between the magnetic field and the electrolyte be generated so that on account of the effect of Lorentz forces the cations migrate to the cathode and the anions to the anode and products of electrolysis be formed on the cathode and on the anode in electrolytic reactions, wherein the charge equalization necessary for the electrolytic reactions be carried out by the current path closed between the cathode and the anode.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 1996Date of Patent: February 17, 1998Assignee: Deutsche Forschungsanstalt fuer Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V.Inventors: Walter Peschka, Gottfried Schneider
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Patent number: 5709791Abstract: There are provided a method of producing a hydrogen halide and oxygen by reacting water with a halogen using activated carbon as a catalyst, a method of producing hydrogen by thermal decomposition of a hydrogen halide using chromium oxide as a catalyst, and a method of producing oxygen and hydrogen by combining these two methods.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1996Date of Patent: January 20, 1998Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kouetsu Hibino, Kyoichi Tange
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Patent number: 5658449Abstract: A method and a device for NO reduction of exhaust in motor vehicles by reduction on a catalyst is provided. The hydrogen required for NO reduction is generated directly on board the motor vehicle by electrolysis with liquid fixed electrolyte.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1996Date of Patent: August 19, 1997Assignee: Dornier GmbHInventors: Uwe Benz, Ottmar Schmid
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Patent number: 5658448Abstract: Method and apparatus for producing hydrogen by conversion of solar energy into thermal and electrical energy for electrolysis of steam.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1995Date of Patent: August 19, 1997Inventor: John Beavis Lasich