Regenerating Reactant From A Reaction Product Patents (Class 429/417)
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Patent number: 11568739Abstract: A multiply redundant safety system that protects humans and assets while transfer(s)/fueling of on road/off road, rail, marine, aircraft, spacecraft, rockets, and all other vehicles/vessels utilizing Compressed and or Liquefied Gas Fuels/compound(s). Utilizing Natural Gas Chemical Family of Hydrogen/Propane/ethane/ammonia/and any mixtures along with or with out oxidizer(s), such as Liquefied Oxygen, Oxygen Triplet (O3)/ozone/hydrogen peroxide/peroxide/solid oxidizer(s) one or more processors, utilizing Artificial Intelligence techniques/machine learning in combination with one or more sensors; in combination with one or more micro switches/actuator(s) combine to detect any leaks/fire(s)/or explosion hazards/vehicle motion/arc's, spark(s)/and other hazards for quickly mitigating/locking out/stopping fueling/gas/transfers/vehicle releasing system(s).Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2021Date of Patent: January 31, 2023Inventor: Daniel McNicholas
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Patent number: 11557786Abstract: The invention provides flow batteries including an anthraquinone and methods of discharging the batteries that reduce loss of capacity. The loss of capacity of anthraquinones may be mitigated by controlling the state of charge and/or oxidizing the negolyte.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2019Date of Patent: January 17, 2023Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard CollegeInventors: Marc-Antoni Goulet, Roy G. Gordon, Michael J. Aziz, Liuchuan Tong
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Patent number: 10730399Abstract: The fuel cell vehicle includes a housing case having a stack housing portion that houses a fuel cell stack, and a high voltage component housing portion that houses a high voltage component, is disposed above the stack housing portion, and allows gas to be circulated to and from the stack housing portion; and pressure relief mechanisms provided on the front, rear, left, and right side walls respectively. A front side pressure relief mechanism is disposed in a position facing a radiator support, a left side pressure relief mechanism is disposed in a position facing an apron member and suspension tower on the left side, a rear side pressure relief mechanism is disposed in a position facing a dash panel and cowl member, and a right side pressure relief mechanism is disposed in a position facing an apron member and suspension tower on the right side.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2018Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hiroki Sumikawa
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Patent number: 10722743Abstract: A multi-catalytic material that includes a polyelectrolyte membrane and methods of preparing the same are provided herein.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 28, 2020Assignee: RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW JERSEYInventors: John Landers, Alexander V. Neimark, Tewodros Asefa, Aleksey Vishnyakov, Anandarup Goswami, Jonathan Colon Ortiz
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Patent number: 10673089Abstract: A reduction-oxidation flow battery wherein the catholyte and/or the anolyte are selected from among respective defined groups of polyoxometalate compounds.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2017Date of Patent: June 2, 2020Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Timothy Hughes, Ulrich Stimming, Jochen Friedl
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Patent number: 10320007Abstract: A device includes a container, an oxygen-to-water selectively permeable membrane supported by the container, a chamber disposed in the container to hold a hydrogen generating fuel, and a proton exchange membrane fuel cell supported within the container between the oxygen-to-water selectively permeable membrane and the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2016Date of Patent: June 11, 2019Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Steven J. Eickhoff, Jeffrey Michael Klein
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Patent number: 10243224Abstract: The invention relates to a method for switching off a fuel cell system (100) having a fuel cell stack (10), that has anode chambers (13) and cathode chambers (12), and a cathode supply (20) having a cathode supply path (21) for supplying an oxygenated cathode operating gas into the cathode chambers (12), a compressor (23) arranged in the cathode supply path (21) and a cathode exhaust path (22) for discharging a cathode exhaust gas from the cathode chambers (12). The method comprises the steps of: (a) Maintenance of the cathode chambers (12) under excess pressure while preventing a flow of cathode operating gas through the cathode chambers (12) while keeping the cathode operating gas that is present in the cathode chambers (12) oxygen-depleted; (b) Expansion of the oxygen-depleted cathode operating gas present in the cathode chambers (12) via the cathode supply path (31) [sic] and/or the cathode exhaust path (22), and (c) Separation of the cathode chambers (12) from the environment.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2015Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Assignee: Audi AGInventors: Torsten Schwarz, Johannes Müller, Matthew Kenneth Hortop
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Patent number: 10030496Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for producing a synthesis gas using a solid acid, more particularly to a method for producing a synthesis gas using a solid acid capable of remarkably decreasing production of environmental pollutants such as carbon dioxide, which includes producing hydrogen by reacting a solid acid with water and producing a synthesis gas by reacting the produced hydrogen with a carbon compound.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2013Date of Patent: July 24, 2018Assignee: KOREA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventors: Hong Gon Kim, Min Jae Ko, Ju Hee Kim, Young Sang Cho, Jae Ik Kim, Kang-Bong Lee, In-Hwan Oh
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Patent number: 9982104Abstract: A reverse electrodialysis device, including an anode, a cathode, one or more single cells spaced apart from each other between the anode and the cathode, each single cell including a cation exchange membrane and an anion exchange membrane, and a shielding membrane disposed to define spaces between the anode and the single cell and/or between the cathode and the single cell. The cation exchange membrane and the shielding membrane include a porous polymer substrate and a polymer electrolyte incorporated into pores in the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2016Date of Patent: May 29, 2018Assignee: KOREA INSTITUTE OF ENERGY RESEARCHInventors: Young-Woo Choi, Misoon Lee, Young-Gi Yoon, Chan-Soo Kim, Namjo Jeong, Han-Ki Kim
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Patent number: 9960443Abstract: Introducing multiple redox reactions with a suitable voltage range can improve the energy density of redox flow battery (RFB) systems. One example includes RFB systems utilizing multiple redox pairs in the positive half cell, the negative half cell, or in both. Such RFB systems can have a negative electrolyte, a positive electrolyte, and a membrane between the negative electrolyte and the positive electrolyte, in which at least two electrochemically active elements exist in the negative electrolyte, the positive electrolyte, or both.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2011Date of Patent: May 1, 2018Assignee: Battelle Memorial InstituteInventors: Wei Wang, Liyu Li, Zhenguo Yang, Zimin Nie
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Patent number: 9941529Abstract: An activation apparatus of a fuel cell stack is provided. The activation apparatus of a fuel cell stack which is provided to perform activation and evaluate performance of the fuel cell stack while the fuel cell stack enters a frame. The apparatus includes an output cable connecting unit that is movably installed back and forth along a side direction of the fuel cell stack in a motor operated manner, and is configured to connect an output cable with the fuel cell stack.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2015Date of Patent: April 10, 2018Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Junhong Lim, Daekeun Chun
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Patent number: 9859549Abstract: A stepwise-stacked seawater battery assembly comprises a first battery chamber, a second battery chamber, a seawater electrolytic liquid, and an electric-conduction set. The first battery chamber includes a first accommodation room and a first electrode group. The second battery chamber is disposed above the first battery chamber and includes an opening, a second accommodation room interconnecting with the opening, and a second electrode group disposed in the second accommodation room. The seawater electrolytic liquid includes a first electrolytic liquid received by the first accommodation room and a second electrolytic liquid received by the second accommodation room. The electric-conduction set electrically connects the first electrode group and the second electrode group. The structural design that the first battery chamber receives the first electrode group and the second battery chamber receives the second electrode group can simplify the structure of the seawater battery assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2016Date of Patent: January 2, 2018Assignee: Taiwan Carbon Nano Technology CorporationInventors: Chun-Hsien Tsai, Kuang-Che Lee, Chun-Jung Tsai, Ting-Chuan Lee, Yuan-Shin Huang
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Patent number: 9799899Abstract: A power generator includes a hydrogen producing fuel and a hydrogen storage element. A fuel cell having a proton exchange membrane separates the hydrogen producing fuel from ambient. A valve is positioned between the hydrogen storage element and the hydrogen producing fuel and the fuel cell. Hydrogen is provided to the fuel cell from the hydrogen storage element if demand for electricity exceeds the hydrogen producing capacity of the hydrogen producing fuel.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2013Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Steven J. Eickhoff
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Patent number: 9774053Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for capturing CO2 from a combustion source using molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs). At least a portion of the anode exhaust can be recycled for use as part of anode input stream. This can allow for a reduction in the amount of fuel cell area required for separating CO2 from the combustion source exhaust and/or modifications in how the fuel cells can be operated.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2014Date of Patent: September 26, 2017Assignee: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering CompanyInventors: Paul J. Berlowitz, Timothy Andrew Barckholtz, Frank Hershkowitz
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Patent number: 9728792Abstract: A composition for filling an ion exchange membrane, a method of preparing the ion exchange membrane, the filled ion exchange membrane, and a redox flow battery using the filled ion exchange membrane. The composition includes an ion conductive material and a water soluble support.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2015Date of Patent: August 8, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Myung-jin Lee, Joung-won Park, Jun-young Mun, Duk-jin Oh
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Patent number: 9663391Abstract: A liquid treatment device (100) including: a structure (10) having a first surface (10a) and a second surface (10b), the structure including: a conductor (11) arranged between the first surface (10a) and the second surface (10b), the conductor including a first portion (11a) exposed to outside at the first surface (10a) and a second portion (11b) exposed to outside at the second surface (10b), and the conductor electrically connecting the first portion (11a) and the second portion (11b); and an ion transfer layer (15) arranged between the first surface (10a) and the second surface (10b), the ion transfer layer (15) arranged between the first surface (10a) and the second surface (10b), allowing hydrogen ions to move therethrough; and a first treatment tank (12) for holding a first liquid to be treated (17) therein, wherein the first surface (10a) of the structure (10) is located inside the first treatment tank (12).Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2014Date of Patent: May 30, 2017Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.Inventors: Naoki Yoshikawa, Shuji Nakanishi, Yuya Suzuki
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Patent number: 9553321Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for capturing CO2 from a combustion source using molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs). At least a portion of the anode exhaust can be recycled for use as part of anode input stream. This can allow for a reduction in the amount of fuel cell area required for separating CO2 from the combustion source exhaust and/or modifications in how the fuel cells can be operated.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2014Date of Patent: January 24, 2017Assignee: EXXONMOBILE RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANYInventors: Paul J. Berlowitz, Timothy Andrew Barckholtz, Frank Hershkowitz
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Patent number: 9548509Abstract: Redox flow batteries including a half-cell electrode chamber coupled to a current collecting electrode are disclosed herein. In a general embodiment, a separator is coupled to the half-cell electrode chamber. The half-cell electrode chamber comprises a first redox-active mediator and a second redox-active mediator. The first redox-active mediator and the second redox-active mediator are circulated through the half-cell electrode chamber into an external container. The container includes an active charge-transfer material. The active charge-transfer material has a redox potential between a redox potential of the first redox-active mediator and a redox potential of the second redox-active mediator. The active charge-transfer material is a polyoxometalate or derivative thereof. The redox flow battery may be particularly useful in energy storage solutions for renewable energy sources and for providing sustained power to an electrical grid.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventors: Travis Mark Anderson, Nicholas Hudak, Chad Staiger, Harry Pratt
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Patent number: 9362584Abstract: This invention provides a redox fuel cell comprising an anode and a cathode separated by an ion selective polymer electrolyte membrane; means for supplying a fuel to the anode region of the cell; means for supplying an oxidant to the cathode region of the cell; means for providing an electrical circuit between the anode and the cathode; a non-volatile catholyte solution flowing fluid communication with the cathode, the catholyte solution comprising a polyoxometallate redox couple being at least partially reduced at the cathode in operation of the cell, and at least partially re-generated by reaction with the oxidant after such reduction at the cathode, the catholyte solution comprising at least about 0.075M of the said polyoxometallate, and a vanadium (IV) compound.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2011Date of Patent: June 7, 2016Assignee: ACAL ENERGY LIMITEDInventors: Kathryn Knuckey, Belloumi Kangati, Clare Downs, Andrew Potter
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Patent number: 9231266Abstract: Methods and systems for regenerating a fuel cell are disclosed, comprising sparging a catholyte liquid with a gaseous oxygen-containing flow stream. In addition, the gaseous byproducts in the catholyte can be collected and then converted to liquid forms for easy disposal. In some embodiments, the regeneration process comprises intermittently regenerating an oxidant flow stream, for example, based on detected conditions. In some embodiments, the regeneration process comprises switching between different modes of oxidant regeneration, for example, based on detected conditions.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: January 5, 2016Assignee: NEAH POWER SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Tsali Cross, Derek Reiman, Corina Margineanu
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Patent number: 9112215Abstract: Methods and systems for regenerating a fuel cell are disclosed, comprising sparging a catholyte liquid with a gaseous oxygen-containing flow stream. In addition, the gaseous byproducts in the catholyte can be collected and then converted to liquid forms for easy disposal. In some embodiments, the regeneration process comprises intermittently regenerating an oxidant flow stream, for example, based on detected conditions. In some embodiments, the regeneration process comprises switching between different modes of oxidant regeneration, for example, based on detected conditions.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: August 18, 2015Assignee: NEAH POWER SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Tsali Cross, Derek Reiman, Corina Margineanu
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Patent number: 9083037Abstract: Provided is a fuel cell including an anode electrode, a cathode electrode, and an electrolyte/ion exchange membrane between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. The cathode electrode uses an iron redox couple as an oxidizer. The iron redox couple is regenerated by an oxidizing substance. The fuel cell does not need a noble metal catalyst, is thus economical in manufacturing costs, and has high power density, thereby improving energy conversion efficiency. Furthermore, the fuel cell is capable of decomposing an oxidizing substance, such as NOx, Cl2, Br2, or O3.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2011Date of Patent: July 14, 2015Assignee: Foundation of Soongsil University-Industry CooperationInventors: Kyung-Won Park, Sang-Beom Han, Young-Woo Lee, A-Ra Ko, Do-Young Kim
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Publication number: 20150140459Abstract: The cooling capacity of a first heat exchanger for cooling a reformed gas introduced into an inlet of a circulation pump is increased as an output of a fuel cell increases. With this configuration, an inlet temperature of the circulation pump is relatively high during low power generation and decreases as the generation power increases, and a volumetric flow rate during high power generation in which a large amount of reformed gas is required can be decreased relatively. As the result, a dynamic range required for the circulation pump can be made small. Furthermore, water condensation in the inlet of the circulation pump can be prevented during low power generation.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2013Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventor: Hiromichi Miwa
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Patent number: 9034531Abstract: The current invention is a fuel cell controller that includes a first control loop, where the first control loop is disposed to adjust a fuel cell current to regulate a hydrogen output pressure from the fuel cell to a pressure target valve, and further includes a second control loop disposed to adjust a hydrogen flow rate from a hydrogen generator to match a DC/DC power output to a power target value.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2009Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: Ardica Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Tibor Fabian, Tobin J. Fisher, Daniel Braithwaite
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Publication number: 20150132674Abstract: A fuel cell module includes a first area where an exhaust gas combustor and a start-up combustor are provided, an annular second area around the first area where a heat exchanger is provided, an annular third area around the second area where a reformer is provided, an annular fourth area around the third area where an evaporator is provided. The heat exchanger includes heat exchange pipes connected to an oxygen-containing gas supply chamber and an oxygen-containing gas discharge chamber. A first circumscribed non-uniform flow suppression plate is provided along a minimum circumscribed circle which contacts outer surfaces of the heat exchange pipes.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2013Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventors: Tetsuya Ogawa, Yuki Yoshimine
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Publication number: 20150132671Abstract: A power generator includes a case having a surface with a perforation and a cavity containing a gas generating fuel. A membrane is supported by the case inside the cavity, the membrane having an impermeable valve plate positioned proximate the perforation, wherein the membrane is water vapor permeable and gas impermeable and flexes responsive to a difference in pressure between the cavity and outside the cavity to selectively allow water vapor to pass through the perforation to the fuel as a function of the difference in pressure. A fuel cell membrane is supported by the case and positioned to receive hydrogen at an anode side of the fuel cell membrane and to receive oxygen from outside the power generator at a cathode side of the fuel cell membrane.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2013Publication date: May 14, 2015Applicant: Honeyweel International Inc.Inventor: Steven J. Eickhoff
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Patent number: 9012097Abstract: A regenerative fuel cell is provided by the present invention. In the methods and systems described herein, a source of fuel is partially oxidized to release protons and electrons, without total oxidation to carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide. The partially oxidized fuel can be regenerated, by reduction, when the fuel cell is reversed. Other variations of the invention provide a convenient system for hydrogen storage, including steps for both release and recapture of hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2013Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLCInventors: Ping Liu, John J. Vajo
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Patent number: 9005828Abstract: This invention provides a redox fuel cell comprising an anode and a cathode separated by an ion selective polymer electrolyte membrane; means for supplying a fuel to the anode region of the cell; means for supplying an oxidant to the cathode region of the cell; means for providing an electrical circuit between the anode and the cathode; a non-volatile catholyte solution flowing fluid communication with the cathode, the catholyte solution comprising a polyoxometallate redox couple being at least partially reduced at the cathode in operation of the cell, and at least partially re-generated by reaction with the oxidant after such reduction at the cathode, the catholyte solution comprising at least about 0.075M of the said polyoxometallate.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Acal Energy LimitedInventors: Andrew Martin Creeth, Andrew Robert Potter
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Patent number: 8968948Abstract: A self contained energy generating system that comprises a galvanic battery and a power distribution system. The energy generating system is used to purify water by using a reverse osmosis device that draws in a source of water and transfers electrolytes to the galvanic battery. Upon contact with the electrolyte, the galvanic battery produces energy by an oxidation-reduction reaction of the cathode and anode and transfers energy to the power distribution system, which in turn provides power to the osmosis device. Additionally, the system includes a hydrogen fuel cell to increase the amount of energy generated and a power storage device for storing excess energy generated. The system also includes a controller which is configured to regulate the overall operation of the system.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Concurrent Technologies CorporationInventors: Michel J. McCluskey, Mark Becker, Michael Pollock, Daniel R. Markiewicz
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Patent number: 8962199Abstract: A fuel cell system of the present invention includes: a reformer (1) configured to generate a hydrogen-containing fuel gas from a material gas and steam; a fuel cell (101) configured to generate electric power by using a fuel gas supplied from the reformer (1); a water tank (3) configured to store water; a water utilizing device configured to utilize the water supplied from the water tank (3); a first water supply unit (5) disposed on a water passage (30) extending from the water tank (3) to the water utilizing device and configured to supply the water in the water tank (3) to the water utilizing device; and a purifier (4) disposed on the water passage (30) and configured to purify the water flowing through the water passage (30), and the purifier (4) is provided such that when a water level of the water tank (3) is a full water level, the purifier (4) is filled with the water by the weight of the water.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2010Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akinori Yukimasa, Junji Morita, Akinari Nakamura, Takayuki Urata
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Patent number: 8962198Abstract: A power generator includes a hydrogen producing fuel in a first high pressure chamber. A fuel cell having a proton exchange membrane is disposed in a second low pressure chamber. A water absorbing material provides water vapor to the hydrogen producing fuel, and a plurality of valves control hydrogen provided to the fuel cell from the first high pressure chamber, and exposure of the water absorbing material to ambient and the high pressure chamber.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2007Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Steven J. Eickhoff
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Patent number: 8932773Abstract: A hydrogen generating apparatus for effectively generating hydrogen from ammonia and relates to the hydrogen generating apparatus for generating hydrogen from ammonia. The apparatus comprises an ammonia oxidation part having ammonia oxidation catalysts which oxidizes ammonia, and an ammonia decomposition part having an ammonia decomposition catalyst which decomposes ammonia to generate nitrogen and hydrogen. The decomposition part is located downstream of the oxidation part in a direction of feed gas flow.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2010Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Hitachi Zosen CorporationInventors: Haruyuki Nakanishi, Hidekazu Arikawa, Susumu Hikazudani, Chikashi Inazumi, Sadao Araki, Takuma Mori
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Patent number: 8911911Abstract: In preferred aspect, the present invention features a membrane humidifier for a fuel cell which can control the amount of air flow and the amount of humidification based on the amount of water produced in a fuel cell stack according to a power level of the fuel cell stack while humidifying dry air and supplying humidified air to the fuel cell stack.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2010Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Jin Woo Koo
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Patent number: 8871398Abstract: A power generator includes a hydrogen generator that generates hydrogen in response to water vapor. A solid oxide fuel cell is coupled to the hydrogen generator for receiving hydrogen and is coupled to a source of oxygen.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2013Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Eickhoff, Chunbo Zhang
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Patent number: 8871393Abstract: A regenerative fuel cell is provided by the present invention. In the methods and systems described herein, a source of fuel is partially oxidized to release protons and electrons, without total oxidation to carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide. The partially oxidized fuel can be regenerated, by reduction, when the fuel cell is reversed. Other variations of the invention provide a convenient system for hydrogen storage, including steps for both release and recapture of hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLCInventors: Ping Liu, John Vajo
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Publication number: 20140302412Abstract: The present application relates to an arrangement for supplying energy to isolated buildings. The arrangement comprises at least one energy generating installation for providing an electrical current, at least one electrolyser for producing hydrogen from water using the electrical current from the energy generating installation, at least one first chemical reactor for at least partially hydrogenating at least one substrate with an extended ?-conjugated system using the hydrogen formed in the electrolyser, at least one storage tank for storing the substrate hydrogenated at least partially in the first chemical reactor, at least one second chemical reactor for at least partially dehydrogenating the at least partially hydrogenated substrate which was produced in the first chemical reactor and stored in the storage tank with the release of hydrogen, and at least one fuel cell for the oxidation of the hydrogen release in the second chemical reactor with the release of energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2012Publication date: October 9, 2014Applicant: HYDROGENIOUS TECHNOLOGIES GMBHInventors: Wolfgang Arlt, Peter Wasserscheid
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Publication number: 20140272637Abstract: In various aspects, systems and methods are provided for integration of molten carbonate fuel cells with a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis process. The molten carbonate fuel cells can be integrated with a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis process in various manners, including providing synthesis gas for use in producing hydrocarbonaceous carbons. Additionally, integration of molten carbonate fuel cells with a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis process can facilitate further processing of vent streams or secondary product streams generated during the synthesis process.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: EXXONMOBIL RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANYInventors: Paul J. Berlowitz, Timothy Andrew Barckholtz, Frank H. Hershkowitz
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Publication number: 20140272639Abstract: The present invention generally relates to storing energy in a form that is carbon neutral, storable and transportable, so that it can be used on demand. The present invention provides a process and system for using energy as available to produce carbon from carbon oxide, and then oxidizing the carbon to generate useful energy on demand, while effectively recycling the carbon, oxidant, and carbon oxide used in the process or system. In one embodiment, the present invention effectively stores renewable energy as carbon, transports the carbon, oxidizes the carbon to generate useful energy on demand and recycles the carbon as carbon dioxide. This invention may increase the utilization of renewable energy, especially for electrical power generation, while producing no net carbon dioxide or other air pollutants.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Zietlow Innovative Engineering and Technology, LLCInventor: Douglas A. ZIETLOW
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Publication number: 20140272638Abstract: In various aspects, systems and methods are provided for integration of molten carbonate fuel cells with a methanol synthesis process. The molten carbonate fuel cells can be integrated with a methanol synthesis process in various manners, including providing synthesis gas for use in producing methanol. Additionally, integration of molten carbonate fuel cells with a methanol synthesis process can facilitate further processing of vent streams or secondary product streams generated during methanol synthesis.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: EXXONMOBIL RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANYInventors: Paul J. Berlowitz, Timothy Andrew Barckholtz, Anita S. Lee, Frank H. Hershkowitz
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Patent number: 8808931Abstract: The present invention is directed toward ion exchange filters useful in fuel cell systems, fuel cell systems including ion exchange filters and methods for treating fluid of fuel cells. One embodiment of the invention includes a cartridge containing an anion exchange resin in bicarbonate form. The invention is particularly useful in connection with vehicle mounted fuel cell systems.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2008Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Dow Global Technologies LLCInventors: Harlan Robert Goltz, Marvin H. Tegen
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Patent number: 8795912Abstract: Processes and systems for operating molten carbonate fuel cell systems are described herein. A process for operating a molten carbonate fuel cell system includes providing a hydrogen-containing stream comprising molecular hydrogen to an anode portion of a molten carbonate fuel cell; controlling a flow rate of the hydrogen-containing stream to the anode such that molecular hydrogen utilization in the anode is less than 50%; mixing anode exhaust comprising molecular hydrogen from the molten carbonate fuel cell with a hydrocarbon stream comprising hydrocarbons, contacting at least a portion of the mixture of anode exhaust and the hydrocarbon stream with a catalyst to produce a steam reforming feed; separating at least a portion of molecular hydrogen from the steam reforming feed; and providing at least a portion of the separated molecular hydrogen to the molten carbonate fuel cell anode.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2011Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Jingyu Cui, Erik Edwin Engwall, John William Johnston, Mahendra Ladharam Joshi, Scott Lee Wellington
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Patent number: 8758951Abstract: A continuous coal electrolytic cell for the production of pure hydrogen without the need of separated purification units Electrodes comprising electrocatalysts comprising noble metals electrodeposited on carbon substrates are also provided. Also provided are methods of using the electrocatalysts provided herein for the electrolysis of coal in acidic medium, as well as electrolytic cells for the production of hydrogen from coal slurries in acidic media employing the electrodes described herein. Further provided are catalytic additives for the electro-oxidation of coal. Additionally provided is an electrochemical treatment process where iron-contaminated effluents are purified in the presence of coal slurries using the developed catalyst.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Ohio UniversityInventor: Gerardine Botte
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Patent number: 8753783Abstract: The invention provides a fuel cell comprising an anode in an anode region of the cell and a cathode in a cathode region of the cell, the anode being separated from the cathode by an ion selective polymer electrolyte membrane, the anode region of the cell being supplied in use thereof with an alcoholic fuel, the cathode region of the cell being supplied in use thereof with an oxidant, the cell being provided with means for generating an electrical circuit between the anode and the cathode and with a non-volatile redox couple in solution in flowing fluid communication with the cathode in the cathode region of the cell, the redox couple being at least partially reduced at the cathode in operation of the cell, and at least partially re-generated by reaction with the oxidant after such reduction at the cathode, the redox couple and/or the concentration of the redox couple in the catholyte solution being selected so that the current density generated by the cell in operation is substantially unaffected by the crossType: GrantFiled: April 24, 2007Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: ACAL Enegy LimitedInventors: Andrew Martin Creeth, Jian-Guo Liu
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Publication number: 20140162154Abstract: A thermally integrated system for producing electricity from a feedstock fuel is disclosed. The system utilizes a reformer that includes a plasma zone to receive a pre-heated mixture of reactants and ionize the reactants by applying an electrical potential thereto. A first thermally conductive surface surrounds the plasma zone and is configured to transfer heat from an external heat source into the plasma zone. The reformer further includes a reaction zone to chemically transform the ionized reactants into synthesis gas comprising hydrogen and carbon monoxide. A second thermally conductive surface surrounds the reaction zone and is configured to transfer heat from the external heat source into the reaction zone. The first thermally conductive surface and second thermally conductive surface are both directly exposed to the external heat source. A corresponding method and apparatus are also disclosed herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2012Publication date: June 12, 2014Inventors: Joseph J. Hartvigsen, S. Elangovan, Piotr Czernichowski, Michele Hollist
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Publication number: 20140106247Abstract: A system and method for controlling a fuel cell system. An anode tail gas oxidizer (ATO) receives air and fuel exhaust streams from one or more fuel cell stacks of the fuel cell system. The one or more fuel cell stacks provide current to one or more loads. An ATO temperature signal is used to control at least one of a fuel inlet flow to the one or more fuel cell stacks or the current provided to the one or more loads.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2013Publication date: April 17, 2014Applicant: Bloom Energy CorporationInventors: David Higdon, David Weingaertner
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Patent number: 8697300Abstract: A fuel cell of the present invention comprises a power generating cell (C), which has at least two surfaces, a fuel gas being supplied through one of the surfaces and oxygen being supplied through the other surface, thereby generating electric power, a cell holder (6) that holds the power generating cell (c) to face the one of the surfaces inward, whereby forming an inner space together with the power generating cell (C), and a fuel generating section (B) that is arranged in the inner space of the cell holder (6) and generates the fuel gas.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2009Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: ROHM Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masakazu Sugimoto, Masaya Yano, Hitoshi Ishizaka
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Publication number: 20140093798Abstract: A mixer/eductor assembly for use with a fuel cell stack having an anode-side and a cathode-side, said mixer/eductor assembly mixing and at least partially combusting anode exhaust gas output from the anode-side and an oxidant supply gas, said mixer/eductor assembly comprising: a first area receiving and mixing a first portion of the anode exhaust gas and a first portion of the oxidant supply gas to form a first mixture, the first area being configured so as to initiate a combustion reaction in the first mixture; a second area coupled with the first area, the second area receiving and mixing a second portion of the anode exhaust gas and a second portion of the oxidant supply gas to form a second mixture, wherein: the first mixture has a predetermined oxidant to fuel ratio smaller than the oxidant to fuel ratio of the second mixture; and the first area provides an ignition source to promote continuous combustion of the second mixture in the second area.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2012Publication date: April 3, 2014Applicant: FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.Inventors: William J. Snyder, Michael P. Quatannens, Dennis R. Farrenkopf
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Publication number: 20140080019Abstract: The disclosure provides a material with the general formula Sr1-xAxSi1-yGeyO3-0.5x, wherein A is K or Na, including mixtures thereof, and wherein 0?y?1 and 0?x?0.4. In a specific embodiment, 0?y?0.5. In another specific embodiment, 0?y?0.1 and 0?x?0.4. In another specific embodiment 0.9?y?1 and 0?x?0.25. The material may be a single-phase polycrystalline solid having a monoclinic crystal structure. The material may have an oxide-ion conductivity (?o) greater than or equal to 10?2 S/cm at a temperature of at least 500° C. The material may be formed into a planar or tubular membrane or a composite with another solid member. The material may be used as the electrolyte in a fuel cell or a regenerative or reverse fuel cell, as an oxygen sensor, or as an oxygen separation membrane. The material may also be used as a catalyst for oxidation of an olefin or for other purposes where oxide-ion conductivity is beneficial.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2013Publication date: March 20, 2014Applicant: Board of Regents, The University of Texas SystemInventors: John B. Goodenough, Preetam Singh
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Publication number: 20140080020Abstract: A power generator includes a hydrogen generator that generates hydrogen in response to water vapor. A solid oxide fuel cell is coupled to the hydrogen generator for receiving hydrogen and is coupled to a source of oxygen.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2013Publication date: March 20, 2014Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Eickhoff, Chunbo Zhang
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Patent number: 8658323Abstract: The invention provides a solid oxide fuel cell generation system and a start up method thereof which heat up a reformer and a cell main body without any water and nitrogen gas, and start up for a short time until a power generation and without deteriorating a reliability of the cell. In a solid oxide fuel cell generation system having a power generation cell including an anode, a cathode and a solid electrolyte membrane, a mixing portion for obtaining a mixed gas by mixing a used fuel gas discharged from the anode with a raw fuel, a reducing combustion gas generating apparatus, and a reforming portion, the reducing combustion gas generating apparatus has a starting burner generating a reducing combustion gas, and the mixing portion, the reducing combustion gas generating apparatus, the reforming portion and the anode are coupled alphabetically from an upstream side.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2008Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Hidekazu Fujimura, Hiromi Tokoi, Shin Takahashi