From Metal, Alloy, Or Metal-containing Material Patents (Class 429/421)
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Hydrogen generating element, hydrogen generation device, power generation device, and driving device
Patent number: 8821601Abstract: A hydrogen generating element which can supply hydrogen efficiently and stably, is safe, and has low environmental load is provided. Further, a hydrogen generation device to which the hydrogen generating element is applied is provided. Furthermore, a power generation device and a driving device to each of which the hydrogen generation device is applied are provided. A hydrogen generating element in which a needle-like or dome-like silicon microstructure is formed over a base may be used and reacted with water, whereby hydrogen is efficiently generated. The hydrogen generating element may be applied to a hydrogen generation device. The hydrogen generation device may be applied to a power generation device and a driving device.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2012Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomokazu Yokoi, Shuhei Yoshitomi, Kensuke Yoshizumi -
Publication number: 20140193731Abstract: A system for converting a waste stream to energy including a water purification device that outputs purified water and a waste stream that includes an electrolyte, a wind and electrolytic energy generation device that receives the waste stream from the water purification device and outputs energy based on the electrolyte present in the waste stream and a power distribution system which receives and stores the energy from the wind and electrolytic energy generation device. The water purification device is further connected to the power distribution system and receives energy enabling further operation of the water purification device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2014Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: Concurrent Technologies CorporationInventors: Mark Becker, Michael Pollock, Michel J. McCluskey, Daniel R. Markiewicz
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Publication number: 20140193730Abstract: Electrooxidative materials and various method for preparing electrooxidative materials formed from an alloy of oxophilic and electrooxidative metals. The alloy may be formed using methods such as spray pyrolysis or mechanosynthesis and may or may not include a supporting material which may or may not be sacrificial as well as the materials.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2014Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: STC.UNMInventors: Ulises A. Martinez, Plamen B. Atanassov, Alexey Serov, Monica Padilla
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Patent number: 8765312Abstract: A load variation detecting section determines whether or not the actual load variation falls below a load variation threshold stored in a memory. If a load variation detecting section determines that a specific time period (for example, one minute) has elapsed since the actual load variation fell below a load variation threshold, a power supply section applies same power to reactors for the respective phases. On the other hand, a heat dissipation property calculating section measures temperature-rise rates of the elements for the respective phases, ranks the rates in order from the one having a higher heat dissipation property, and notifies the priority drive phase determining section of the result. A priority drive phase determining section chooses a phase having the highest heat dissipation property as a priority drive phase.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2009Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasuhiro Osada, Takahiko Hasegawa
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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: 8735022Abstract: A product comprising a fuel cell component comprising a substrate and a coating overlying the substrate, the coating comprising nanoparticles having sizes ranging from 2 to 100 nanometers.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Harald Schlag, Ralf Senner, Thomas A. Trabold, Thomas W. Tighe, Gayatri Vyas, Keith E. Newman
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Publication number: 20140141346Abstract: The present invention provides a method and a kit for producing hydrogen peroxide, capable of producing hydrogen peroxide at low cost. The present invention further provides a fuel battery capable of utilizing hydrogen peroxide as a low-cost fuel. The method for producing hydrogen peroxide of the present invention includes a hydrogen peroxide generation step of irradiating a reaction system containing water, a water oxidation catalyst, a transition metal complex, and oxygen (O2) with light to generate hydrogen peroxide. The kit of the present invention includes the transition metal complex and the water oxidation catalyst that are used in the method for producing hydrogen peroxide of the present invention. The fuel battery of the present invention includes a fuel container and a fuel battery cell, and the fuel container contains the transition metal complex and the water oxidation catalyst that are used in the method for producing hydrogen peroxide of the present invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2012Publication date: May 22, 2014Applicant: OSAKA UNIVERSITYInventors: Shunichi Fukuzumi, Tomoyoshi Suenobu, Satoshi Kato, Dachao Hong
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Publication number: 20140106249Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2013Publication date: April 17, 2014Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Steven J. Eickhoff
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Patent number: 8656793Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate a charge indicator for determining the mass of a fluid contained within a fluid enclosure, wherein the charge indicator responds to a deformation of a solid component in contact with the fluid and wherein the deformation is a function of the mass of fluid contained within the fluid enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Societe BICInventors: Gerard F. McLean, Joerg Zimmermann
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Patent number: 8637198Abstract: A fuel cell system (101) comprising a fuel cell (120) and a reaction container (103), wherein the fuel cell (120) comprises a fuel electrode (121), an air electrode (122) and an electrolyte film (123) and the reaction container (103) comprises a hydrogen storage material (106) and a heater (114) and can supply hydrogen to the fuel cell (120), and wherein a water flow path (109) for supplying water produced in the air electrode (122) to the reaction container (103) is provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2010Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Nobuhisa Ishida, Kouichi Sameshima, Hiroko Ohmori
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Publication number: 20140017580Abstract: In order to make more specifically water autonomous a hydrogen cell electrochemical generating unit (10), the generating unit (1) comprises a condenser (13) provided with a fan (13V) and with a radiator (13R) in contact with a tank (12) stocking hydrogen into a hydride. The condenser simultaneously transfers heat from a steam filled air (17E) to an endothermic reaction of the hydride into an alloy and into hydrogen via the radiator and condenses the steam into condensation water (13EC) being collected by a tank (14) supplying an electrolysis facility (11) with water for producing the hydrogen to be stocked.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: Cassidian SASInventors: Eric Munier, Jean-Marie Bourgeais, Marion De Gentile
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Patent number: 8609054Abstract: A method of forming hydrogen gas comprises the steps of providing a reactor and providing a hydrogen-generating composition to the reactor. The hydrogen-generating composition consists essentially of a borohydride component and a glycerol component. The borohydride, e.g. sodium borohydride, and glycerol components are present in a generally three (3) to four (4) stoichiometric ratio, prior to reaction. The borohydride component has hydrogen atoms and the glycerol component has hydroxyl groups with hydrogen atoms. The method further comprises the step of reacting the borohydride component with the glycerol component thereby converting substantially all of the hydrogen atoms present in the borohydride component and substantially all of the hydrogen atoms present in the hydroxyl groups of the glycerol component to form the hydrogen gas. The reaction between the borohydride component and the glycerol component is an alcoholysis reaction.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2008Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: EnerFuel, Inc.Inventors: Vesna Stanic, Daniel Augusto Betts Carrington
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Publication number: 20130320136Abstract: An electrical power unit provides electrical power to an electrical component on-board an aircraft. The electrical power unit includes a hydrogen generation system configured to be positioned on-board the aircraft. The hydrogen generation system is further configured to generate hydrogen using a reaction between water and metal. The electrical power unit also includes a fuel cell configured to be positioned on-board the aircraft. The fuel cell is operatively connected to the hydrogen generation system such that the fuel cell receives hydrogen from the hydrogen generation system. The fuel cell is further configured to generate electrical power from the hydrogen received from the hydrogen generation system and to be electrically connected to the electrical component for supplying the component with electrical power.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2012Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: Zhi Zhou, James Robert Presley, Russell Stephen Demuth, Ming Yin
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Publication number: 20130316196Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: November 28, 2013Applicant: CONCURRENT TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION (CTC)Inventors: Michel J. MCCLUSKEY, Mark BECKER, Michael POLLOCK, Daniel R. MARKIEWICZ
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Patent number: 8586004Abstract: The present invention involves modifying certain characteristics of solid and aqueous chemical metal hydride fuels to increase the efficiency of hydrogen generation and/or to reduce the problems associated with such conventional hydride fuel sources. The present invention also relates to an apparatus (10) usable with the release of hydrogen from hydride-water fuel cells in which both the borohydride (110) and the water (210) components are in flowable or liquid form.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2006Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Societe BICInventors: Alain Rosenzweig, Andrew J. Curello, David M. Weisberg
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Patent number: 8586254Abstract: An exemplary embodiment and associated method of use discloses a reversible hydrogen storage system that liberates hydrogen and a perlithiohydrocarbon compound by destabilization of a hydrocarbon source or sources with lithium hydride (LiH). The liberated hydrogen may be subsequently utilized in a coupled end-use application.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: John J. Vajo
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Patent number: 8557456Abstract: The fuel cell system of the present invention has: a fuel cell including an electromotive unit comprising a fuel electrode, an oxidant electrode, and an electrolyte sandwiched by these electrodes; a fuel supply unit for supplying a fuel to the fuel electrode; and an oxidant supply unit for supplying an oxidant to the oxidant electrode. A product reduction mechanism unit is provided to reduce a fuel oxidation product produced at the fuel electrode when power is generated by the fuel cell. Based on this, decline in energy density due to the fuel and the fuel oxidation product and by-product can be prevented, without having a mechanism to discharge the fuel and the fuel oxidation product and by-product to the outside of the fuel cell.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2004Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Nobuhiko Hojo, Yuu Inatomi, Yukihiro Okada
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Publication number: 20130266878Abstract: A multiphase hydrogen storage material comprises a lithium compound and a lithium conductor. The hydrogen storage material is capable of undergoing hydrogenation and dehydrogenation cycles during which the rate of lithium transport is enhanced by the presence of the lithium conductor. A solid state hydrogen storage device and a process of storing and supplying hydrogen are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2012Publication date: October 10, 2013Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: John J. Vajo, Ping Liu
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Patent number: 8535838Abstract: A power supply device is provided. The power supply device includes a fuel cell, a hydrogen generator, a check valve and an exhaust valve. The fuel cell has a hydrogen inlet and a hydrogen outlet. The hydrogen generator is connected to the hydrogen inlet and used for generating hydrogen. The check valve is disposed in the hydrogen inlet and used for preventing the hydrogen within the fuel cell from flowing to the hydrogen generator, and preventing exterior air from entering the fuel cell. The exhaust valve is disposed in the hydrogen outlet for exhausting the hydrogen within the fuel cell.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Jie-Ren Ku, Chan-Li Hsueh, Ya-Yi Hsu, Fang-hei Tsau, Reiko Ohara, Shing-Fen Tsai, Chien-Chang Hung, Ming-Shan Jeng, Cheng-Yen Chen
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Patent number: 8530102Abstract: A hydrogen generator has a reaction chamber that contains a complex hydride capable of reacting with an aqueous acid solution to generate hydrogen. A storage chamber contains an aqueous acid solution that is supplied through a supply pipe to the reaction chamber to react with the complex hydride to generate hydrogen. The total weight of water contained in the aqueous acid solution is 0.2 times or more, but 3 times or less, than the weight of the complex hydride. A control device controls the supplying of the aqueous acid solution through the supply pipe to the reaction chamber based on a reference pressure such that the aqueous acid solution is repeatedly supplied to the reaction chamber when the reference pressure is greater than the internal pressure within the reaction chamber and not supplied to the reaction chamber when the reference pressure is less than the reaction chamber internal pressure.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2011Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.Inventors: Takafumi Sarata, Norimasa Yanase, Toru Ozaki, Tsuneaki Tamachi, Kazutaka Yuzurihara, Fumiharu Iwasaki
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Publication number: 20130230784Abstract: A water reactive hydrogen fueled power system includes devices and methods to combine reactant fuel materials and aqueous solutions to generate hydrogen. The generated hydrogen is converted in a fuel cell to provide electricity. The water reactive hydrogen fueled power system includes a fuel cell, a water feed tray, and a fuel cartridge to generate power for portable power electronics. The removable fuel cartridge is encompassed by the water feed tray and fuel cell. The water feed tray is refillable with water by a user. The water is then transferred from the water feed tray into the fuel cartridge to generate hydrogen for the fuel cell which then produces power for the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2013Publication date: September 5, 2013Applicant: SIGNA CHEMISTRY, INC.Inventors: Andrew P. WALLACE, John M. MELACK, Michael LEFENFELD
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Patent number: 8522906Abstract: A hydrogen storage material includes: a first storage material body (1) which stores hydrogen; and a second storage material body (2) which stores hydrogen, and coats a surface of the first storage material body (1). A hydrogen equilibrium pressure (HP) of the second storage material body (2) is lower than that of the first storage material body (1) at the hydrogen generation temperature of the first storage material body (1).Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2008Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomohiro Kaburagi, Masashi Ito
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Patent number: 8518368Abstract: The present disclosure relates to processes and methods of generating hydrogen via the hydrolysis or solvolyis of a compound of the formula (I), R1R2HNBHR3R4, using ligand-stabilized homogeneous metal catalysts.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2008Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Kanata Chemical Technologies Inc.Inventors: Kamaluddin Abdur-Rashid, Todd Graham, Chi-Wing Tsang, Xuanhua Chen, Rongwei Guo, Wenli Jia, Dino Amoroso, Christine Sui-Seng
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Publication number: 20130209905Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the production of hydrogen comprising contacting at least one complex of formula (I), wherein: X? is an anion; Y is N or CR6; M is selected from Ru, Os and Fe; each of A and B is independently a saturated, unsaturated or partially unsaturated carbocyclic ring; R5, R6 and R7 are each independently selected from H, NR24R25, C1-6-alkyl and C1-6-haloalkyl, or two or more of R5, R6 and R7 are linked, together with the carbons to which they are attached, to form a saturated or unsaturated carbocyclic group; R8-R25 are each independently selected from H, C1-6-alkyl, C1-6-haloalkyl and a linker group optionally attached to a solid support; with at least one substrate of formula (II), R1R2—NH—BH—R3R4 (II), wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each independently selected from H, C1-20-alkyl, fluoro-substituted-C1-20-alkyl and C6-14-aryl, or any two of R1, R2, R3 and R4 are linked to form a C2-10-alkylene group, which together with the nitrogen and/or boron atoms to which they areType: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2011Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: NOVAUCDInventors: Andrew Phillips, Dominique Schreiber
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Patent number: 8506659Abstract: A hydrogen generating apparatus includes a chemical reaction chamber, a chemical solution reservoir, and an unpowered pressure producing member for moving a chemical solution from the chemical solution reservoir to the chemical reaction chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2006Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Eveready Battery Co., Inc.Inventors: Jason S. Ord, Justin Roman, Alan Shibata
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Patent number: 8497043Abstract: A power generating system for operating below a surface of a body of water includes a fuel cell stack configured to react hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity. An oxygen source is configured to provide oxygen to the fuel cell stack. A hydrogen source is configured to provide hydrogen to the fuel cell stack. The hydrogen source is at least partially submerged in water and incorporates a non-hydride metal alloy that reacts with water to produce hydrogen from the water.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: MIL3 Inc.Inventor: John G. Cleland
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Patent number: 8459032Abstract: The present invention relates to hydrogen production for the generation of energy. The invention describes methods, devices and assemblies involving hydrogen production including reacting hydrogen producing compounds, such as organothiol compounds, with a reactive metal substrate to produce hydrogen gas and utilizing the hydrogen gas to generate energy. The present invention further describes regenerating spent compound to a form suitable for hydrogen production by reacting the spent compound with hydrogen. Hydrogen storage and production, as described herein, is useful for producing hydrogen for energy production in hydrogen consuming devices, such as combustible engines and fuel cells, for example, as located on a hydrogen powered vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2006Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Asemblon, Inc.Inventors: Buddy D. Ratner, Esmaeel D. Naeemi
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Patent number: 8460412Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing energy from the controlled reaction of an alkali metal with water. The method comprises forcing a liquefied alkali metal through a filter that separates the liquid alkali metal into alkali metal droplets. The alkali metal droplets comprise small enough particles that the alkali metal droplets completely react in water to produce heat, steam, an alkaline hydroxide and hydrogen gas before the alkali metal droplets reach the surface of the water. The filter separates the alkali metal droplets at a sufficient distance to avoid recombining of the alkali metal droplets. The alkaline hydroxide is reduced to an alkali metal and water which can be reused in the system.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventor: Bruce McGill
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Patent number: 8460834Abstract: A hydrogen production method includes: a first process in which nitrogen compounds of metal and water are reacted to produce ammonia and hydroxide of the metal; a second process in which hydrogen compounds of a metal and the ammonia produced in the first process are reacted; and a third process in which hydrogen compounds of a metal and the hydroxide of the metal produced in the first process are reacted.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2008Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Hiroshima UniversityInventors: Kyoichi Tange, Yoshitsugu Kojima, Takayuki Ichikawa, Chie Oomatsu, Satoshi Hino, Hironobu Fujii
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Patent number: 8450015Abstract: The present invention discloses a fuel cell bioreactor, based on the microbial regeneration of the oxidant, ferric ions and on the cathodic reduction of ferric to ferrous ions, coupled with the microbial regeneration of ferric ions by the oxidation of ferrous ions, with fuel (such as hydrogen) oxidation on the anode. The microbial regeneration of ferric ions is achieved by iron-oxidizing microorganisms such as Leptospirillum. Electrical generation is coupled with the consumption of carbon dioxide from atmosphere and its transformation into microbial cells, which can be used as a single-cell protein.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: The University of Western OntarioInventors: Dimitre Gueorguiev Karamanev, Vassili Porfirievich Glibin, Peter Vassilev Dobreff
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Patent number: 8404395Abstract: A power generator comprises a hydrogen producing fuel, multiple fuel cells arranged in a ring, and a rotatable ring valve. Each fuel cell has a proton exchange membrane and an opening separating the hydrogen producing fuel from ambient. The rotatable ring valve has multiple openings corresponding to the openings of the fuels cells such that ambient water is controllably prevented from entering the fuel cell by rotation of the ring valve.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2011Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Steven J. Eickhoff
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Publication number: 20130065141Abstract: The fuel cell device is provided with: an electricity-generating unit having a fuel electrode (102), an air electrode (103), and an electrolyte film (101) sandwiched between the fuel electrode (102) and the air electrode (103); a hydrogen-generating member (104) that, by means of an oxidation reaction with water, generates hydrogen for supplying to the fuel electrode (102) of the aforementioned electricity-generating unit; a heater (105) that heats the hydrogen-generating member (104); a temperature sensor (106) that detects the temperature of the hydrogen-generating member (104); and a temperature control unit (20) that controls the temperature of the hydrogen-generating member (104) in response to the detection results of the temperature sensor (106). The temperature control unit (20) stops the passage of electricity through the heater (105) when it has been determined that the temperature of the hydrogen-generating member (104) is at least a predetermined temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventors: Shoichi Uratani, Shigeru Wada, Masayuki Ueyama, Nobuhisa Ishida
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Patent number: 8389169Abstract: A hydrogen generator includes a water storage container for storing water, a reaction container for receiving a solid fuel that is a mixture of a complex metal hydride and catalysts, and a water supplying source that is connected between the water storage container and the reaction container to supply the water to the reaction container.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2008Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.Inventor: Sang-Jun Kong
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Patent number: 8375900Abstract: A hydrogen fuel zero or low emissions external combustion engine and a method to convert an internal combustion engine thereto. The invention includes devices, modifications, alterations, kits and methods for converting an internal combustion (IC) engine or engine design to the external combustion engine while using many of the components of the internal combustion engine. The external combustion engine includes a hydrogen tank to supply hydrogen fuel, a hydrogen flash vaporizer (HFV) to combust the hydrogen fuel and vaporize an atomized liquid introduced into the hydrogen flash vaporizer into an expanding fluid vapor (EFV), and an engine to receive the expanding fluid vapor and convert an expansion force thereof into mechanical force with a superior level of efficiency derived from a unique heat scavenging and cylinder shrouding design.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2009Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Inventor: John Berkyto
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Patent number: 8377599Abstract: A system that stabilizes or supplements the variable power output from an external energy source by producing power from aluminum alloys. The aluminum alloy produces hydrogen from water, and also releases heat. During this process, the aluminum alloy is oxidized to alumina mixture, which can be recycled in a smelting unit to regenerate the aluminum alloy. The aluminum alloy can be easily transported in existing transportation system to different locations. The system produces electricity on-demand using portions of the existing power generation and transportation systems with minimal carbon footprint/emission.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Inventor: Arthur Davidson
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Patent number: 8372371Abstract: The invention relates to a method of making alkali metal silicide compositions, and the compositions resulting from the method, comprising mixing an alkali metal with silicon and heating the resulting mixture to a temperature below about 475° C. The resulting compositions do not react with dry O2. Also, the invention relates to sodium silicide compositions having a powder X-ray diffraction pattern comprising at least three peaks with 2Theta angles selected from about 18.2, 28.5, 29.5, 33.7, 41.2, 47.4, and 56.2 and a solid state 23Na MAS NMR spectra peak at about 18 ppm. Moreover, the invention relates to methods of removing a volatile or flammable substance in a controlled manner. Furthermore, the alkali metal silicide compositions of the invention react with water to produce hydrogen gas.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignees: Signa Chemistry, Inc., Board of Trustees of Michigan State UniversityInventors: Michael Lefenfeld, James L. Dye
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Patent number: 8372551Abstract: A hydrogen generating apparatus and a fuel cell power generation system are disclosed. The hydrogen generating apparatus may include an electrolyte bath, which contains an electrolyte solution; a first electrode, which is stacked on a surface inside the electrolyte bath, and which generates electrons; a moisture absorption layer, which is stacked on the first electrode, and which absorbs moisture from the electrolyte solution; and a second electrode, which is stacked on the moisture absorption layer, and which generates hydrogen using the electrons and the electrolyte solution. With this apparatus, the electrodes can be formed as thin films, whereby the number of electrodes can be increased and -the gaps between electrodes can be decreased, to increase the amount of hydrogen generation. Also, the flow of electrons can be controlled, using a control unit, in accordance to the amount of hydrogen or amount of electrical power required by the fuel cell.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2008Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jae-Hyoung Gil, Jae-Hyuk Jang, Hong-Ryul Lee
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Patent number: 8367272Abstract: A method for producing a gold fine particle-supported carrier catalyst for a fuel cell, which reduces a gold ion in a liquid phase reaction system containing a carbon carrier by means of an action of a reducing agent, to reduce the gold ion, deposit, and support a gold fine particle on the carbon carrier, wherein a reduction rate of the gold ion is set within the range of 330 to 550 mV/h, and pH is set within the range of 4.0 to 6.0 to perform the reduction of the gold ion, deposition, and support of the gold fine particle.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2009Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Nobuaki Mizutani, Hiroaki Takahashi, Yousuke Horiuchi
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Publication number: 20130022887Abstract: Hydrogen is generated effectively with a small amount of electrolytic energy. Hydrogen is generated by electrolyzing liquid ammonia to which an electrolyte was added, and the generated hydrogen is reacted with oxygen to generate electricity. Since the electrolytic energy of liquid ammonia is small, a large amount of hydrogen can be generated effectively. The electric energy obtained from hydrogen generated by the electrolysis is greater than that required for the electrolysis of liquid ammonia. Therefore, great electric power can be utilized by converting the electric power obtained from small power source thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2012Publication date: January 24, 2013Applicants: SOPHIA SCHOOL CORPORATION, HIROSHIMA UNIVERSITYInventors: Yoshitsugu Kojima, Takayuki Ichikawa, Hiroshi Suzuki, Nobuko Hanada
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Publication number: 20130004867Abstract: An exemplary embodiment and associated method of use discloses a reversible hydrogen storage system that liberates hydrogen and a perlithiohydrocarbon compound by destabilization of a hydrocarbon source or sources with lithium hydride (LiH). The liberated hydrogen may be subsequently utilized in a coupled end-use application.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2011Publication date: January 3, 2013Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: John J. Vajo
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Publication number: 20120328965Abstract: A power generator includes a housing, a chemical hydride fuel block adapted to be removably placed within the housing, an air conduit disposed about the chemical hydride fuel block in the housing. The air conduit includes a fuel cell portion and a water vapor permeable, hydrogen impermeable membrane portion. The housing has an air intake opening to draw air into the housing and through the air conduit to provide oxygen to the fuel cell portion and to carry water vapor generated by the fuel cell portion past the permeable membrane portion such that water vapor passes through the membrane and causes release of hydrogen from the fuel block.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2011Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Steven J. Eickhoff
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Patent number: 8329130Abstract: The present invention provides a method for synthesis of crystalline polymeric boron-nitrogen compounds comprising a step of dehydrogenation of a boron-nitrogen-hydrogen compound on catalyst, wherein the boron-nitrogen-hydrogen compound is selected from the group consisting of ammonia borane, metal amidoboranes, amine boranes or mixtures thereof, and the catalyst is selected from the group consisting of transition metals, transition metal salts or alloys.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2010Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of SciencesInventors: Ping Chen, Teng He, Zhitao Xiong, Guotao Wu
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Publication number: 20120288775Abstract: A fuel cell system (101) comprising a fuel cell (120) and a reaction container (103), wherein the fuel cell (120) comprises a fuel electrode (121), an air electrode (122) and an electrolyte film (123) and the reaction container (103) comprises a hydrogen storage material (106) and a heater (114) and can supply hydrogen to the fuel cell (120), and wherein a water flow path (109) for supplying water produced in the air electrode (122) to the reaction container (103) is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2010Publication date: November 15, 2012Inventors: Nobuhisa Ishida, Kouichi Sameshima, Hiroko Ohmori
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Publication number: 20120282535Abstract: A system including a fuel cell system configured to produce power from a fuel and a device configured to receive the power as the power is produced. The fuel cell system includes a fuel cell arrangement fueled by a fuel supply, and a sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of available power. The device is configured to manage a device functionality to match the available power.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2011Publication date: November 8, 2012Inventors: TIBOR FABIAN, DANIEL BRAITHWAITE
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Publication number: 20120266863Abstract: The invention is using a hydrogen-containing solid as an energy storage material for naval and stationary uses. The system is designed and analyzed optimally for producing thermal energy necessary to dissociate magnesium hydride which in turn produces the needed hydrogen to operate a fuel-cell and meet the electricity demand. The collected hydrogen is used to power the various energy needs of the Navy as well as of homes. In addition, the solar thermal system may also be used to provide heat to hot water, and other heating needs. The system has an overall energy efficiency between 20% and 30% with both thermal and hydrogen storage capability for overall energy storage and provides smooth energy needs of a building.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2011Publication date: October 25, 2012Inventors: Surendra Saxena, Yong X. Tao
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Publication number: 20120244765Abstract: A hydrogen power supply module includes a hydrogen production unit, a fuel cell unit, and a hydrogen flow channel. The hydrogen flow channel is in communication with the hydrogen production unit and the fuel cell unit, and a solid-state reactant is stored in the hydrogen production unit. A liquid-state reactant reacts with the solid-state reactant to produce hydrogen when the liquid-state reactant comes into contact with the solid-state reactant, and the hydrogen flows into the fuel cell unit via the hydrogen flow channel. A life preserver having the hydrogen power supply module is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2012Publication date: September 27, 2012Inventors: Shao-Chi HUANG, Chieh-Ju Hung, Cheng Wang, Po-Kuei Chou
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Patent number: 8263271Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack for generating electricity by a electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen; a controller for controlling the operation of the system; a hydride storage tank for storing hydride powder as a source of hydrogen for the fuel cell stack; a hydrogen separating chamber for collecting hydrogen gas generated from a reaction of the hydride powder and liquid catalyst; a powder transferring device for transferring the hydride powder to the hydrogen separating chamber; and a residue collector for collecting residues that are generated from the reaction and settled at the bottom of the hydrogen separating chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2008Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sang-Jun Kong, Seong-Kee Yoon, Ho-Jin Kweon
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Patent number: 8246796Abstract: An apparatus for recharging a fuel cell cartridge and methods for recharging a fuel cell cartridge are disclosed. An example recharging apparatus may include a housing having a fuel cell cartridge holder. A water reservoir may be disposed in the housing and may have water disposed therein. The recharging apparatus may also include an electrolysis chamber for converting water into hydrogen and oxygen. The electrolysis chamber may be in fluid communication with the water reservoir. The electrolysis chamber may include a hydrogen passage for passing hydrogen from the electrolysis chamber to the fuel cell cartridge holder. The recharging apparatus may further include a vacuum pump at least selectively in fluid communication with the fuel cell cartridge holder. In some instances, the vacuum pump may be used to evacuate residual hydrogen and/or other gases or materials from the fuel cell cartridge and/or determine if the fuel cell cartridge is leaky and requires replacement.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2010Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Steven J. Eickhoff
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HYDROGEN GENERATING ELEMENT, HYDROGEN GENERATION DEVICE, POWER GENERATION DEVICE, AND DRIVING DEVICE
Publication number: 20120189929Abstract: A hydrogen generating element which can supply hydrogen efficiently and stably, is safe, and has low environmental load is provided. Further, a hydrogen generation device to which the hydrogen generating element is applied is provided. Furthermore, a power generation device and a driving device to each of which the hydrogen generation device is applied are provided. A hydrogen generating element in which a needle-like or dome-like silicon microstructure is formed over a base may be used and reacted with water, whereby hydrogen is efficiently generated. The hydrogen generating element may be applied to a hydrogen generation device. The hydrogen generation device may be applied to a power generation device and a driving device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2012Publication date: July 26, 2012Applicant: SEMICONDUCTOR ENERGY LABORATORY CO., LTD.Inventors: Tomokazu YOKOI, Shuhei Yoshitomi, Kensuke Yoshizumi -
Patent number: 8202659Abstract: A method for producing sodium carbonate monohydrate, 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 monohydrate (16), and the slurry or its mother liquor is evaporated (3) to collect sodium carbonate monohydrate (18).Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2010Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Solvay (Societe Anonyme)Inventors: Francis Coustry, Michel Hanse