By Electrochemical Means Patents (Class 429/422)
-
Publication number: 20120208100Abstract: In one embodiment, an electrical power storage system using hydrogen includes a power generation unit generating power using hydrogen and oxidant gas and an electrolysis unit electrolyzing steam. The electrical power storage system includes a hydrogen storage unit storing hydrogen generated by the electrolysis and supplying the hydrogen to the power generation unit during power generation, a high-temperature heat storage unit storing high temperature heat generated accompanying the power generation and supplying the heat to the electrolysis unit during the electrolysis, and a low-temperature heat storage unit storing low-temperature heat, which is exchanged in the high-temperature heat storage unit and generating with this heat the steam supplied to the electrolysis unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2011Publication date: August 16, 2012Inventors: Shoko SUYAMA, Yoshiyasu Ito, Shigeo Kasai, Yasuo Takagi, Tsuneji Kameda, Kentaro Matsunaga, Masato Yoshino, Daisuke Horikawa, Kazuya Yamada
-
Patent number: 8241469Abstract: A reactor cover, and a hydrogen generating apparatus and a fuel cell power generation system having the reactor cover are disclosed. The reactor cover includes a base panel; a control unit, which is coupled to one side of the base panel, and which regulates a reaction for generating the hydrogen; a circuit pattern buried in the base panel in electrical connection with the control unit; and an electrode pad formed on the other side of the base panel in electrical connection with the circuit pattern. In the reactor cover, the base panel and the control unit may be integrated, to eliminate unnecessary wiring, prevent short-circuiting, and consequently provide a reactor cover that can be fabricated and used more easily.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jae-Hyoung Gil, Jae-Hyuk Jang, Bo-Sung Ku, Kyoung-Soo Chae
-
Publication number: 20120171587Abstract: The present invention generally relates to conducting materials such as mixed ionically and electrically conducting materials. A variety of materials, material compositions, materials with advantageous ratios of ionically and electrically conducting components, structures including such materials, and the like are provided in accordance with the invention. In one aspect, the invention relates to conducting ceramics for electrochemical systems and, in particular, to mixed ionically and electrically conducting ceramics which can be used, for example, for electrochemical systems and, in particular, to mixed ionically and electrically conducting ceramics which can be used, for example, for hydrogen gas generation from a gasified hydrocarbon stream. One aspect of the invention provides a material comprising a first phase comprising a ceramic ionic conductor, and a second phase comprising a ceramic electrical conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2007Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: CTP Hydrogen CorporationInventors: Jack A. Shindle, Scott C. Rackey, Gonghou Wang, Reinder J. Boersma
-
Publication number: 20120156578Abstract: A photoelectrochemical cell (100) includes: a semiconductor electrode (120) including a conductor (121) and semiconductor layers (122, 123) disposed on the conductor (121); a counter electrode (130) connected electrically to the conductor (121); an electrolyte (140) in contact with surfaces of the semiconductor layer (123) and the counter electrode (130); and a container (110) accommodating the semiconductor electrode (120), the counter electrode (130) and the electrolyte (140). A band edge level ECS of a conduction band, a band edge level EVS of a valence band, and a Fermi level EFS in a surface near-field region of the semiconductor layer, and a band edge level ECJ of a conduction band, a band edge level EVJ of a valence band, and a Fermi level EFJ in a junction plane near-field region of the semiconductor layer with the conductor satisfy, relative to a vacuum level, ECS-EFS>ECJ-EFJ, EFS-EVS<EFJ-EVJ, ECJ>?4.44 eV, and EVS<?5.67 eV.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATIONInventors: Noboru Taniguchi, Kenichi Tokuhiro, Takahiro Suzuki, Tomohiro Kuroha, Takaiki Nomura, Kazuhito Hato, Satoru Tamura
-
Publication number: 20120121998Abstract: A method for simultaneous co-generation of electric energy and hydrogen by totally electrochemical means which includes an electricity storage phase by electrolysis of an electrolysable metal solution and formation of a hydrogen-electrolysable metal battery cell and, an electricity recovery and hydrogen generation phase by operation of said battery cell. The electrolysable metal is chosen from zinc, nickel and manganese.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2010Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicant: ERGOSUPInventor: Gerard Bienvenu
-
Patent number: 8148023Abstract: A technique includes operating an electrochemical cell as a pump, including providing a current to the cell and providing a fuel flow to an anode chamber of the cell. The technique includes communicating an anode exhaust flow from the anode chamber to an oxidizer and controlling the current to regulate a temperature of the oxidizer.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2008Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jeffrey W. Schrieber, Jun Takeuchi
-
Publication number: 20120068661Abstract: This invention relates to a transportable electricity generation unit (30) suitable to supply electric power to an external load (51).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2010Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventor: Paolo Fracas
-
Publication number: 20120068667Abstract: One aspect of the present invention provides an electrochemical cell system comprising at least one electrochemical cell configured to be selectively connected to a load to discharge the cell by generating electrical current using a fuel and an oxidant. The electrochemical cell system may alternatively be connected to a power supply to recharge the cell. The electrochemical cell system comprises a plurality of electrodes and electrode bodies therein. The electrochemical cell system further comprises a switching system configured to permit progressive movement of the anodes used for charging each electrochemical cell, maintaining a minimum distance from a progressively moving cathode that is the site of fuel growth.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: Fluidic, Inc.Inventors: Cody A. FRIESEN, Ramkumar KRISHNAN, Todd TRIMBLE, Sergey PUZHAEV
-
Publication number: 20120064420Abstract: There is provided a power generation system capable of obtaining both of electrical energy and heat energy by utilizing light energy. The power generation system includes a gas generation section including one or more containers and producing gas by absorbing light energy, each of the containers enclosing an electrolytic solution and a plurality of semiconductor elements having photoelectric conversion function, a power generation section generating electrical energy by utilizing gas generated in the gas generation section; and a heat exchanger absorbing heat energy from the inside of the container.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: SONY CORPORATIONInventors: Akio Machida, Kensuke Kojima, Yuichi Ishida
-
Publication number: 20120058405Abstract: Apparatus for producing hydrogen gas comprise a container adapted to contain an aqueous electrolyte solution containing hydrogen, at least one first electrode, wherein the at least one first electrode is adapted to be in contact with a solution, at least one second electrode, wherein the at least one second electrode is adapted to be in contact with a solution, and wherein the at least one first electrode is a cylindrically-shaped cathode and the at least one second electrode is a cylindrically-shaped hollow anode capable of accommodating the cylindrically-shaped cathode within it, and wherein the cylindrically-shaped cathode is located along the central axis of the cylindrically-shaped hollow anode.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Inventors: James A. Kirchoff, Jose L. Marques, Francis A. Nottke, Randolph E. Seligmann, Peter D. Vasquez, Robert Koeneman, Jennifer Jeong
-
Patent number: 8124418Abstract: Disclosed is a method for measuring a phosphoric acid and/or a phosphate in a sample simply and rapidly with high sensitivity. Specifically disclosed is a method for electrochemically measuring a phosphoric acid and/or a phosphate ester, which is characterized by measuring PO43? produced through a chemical reaction of a phosphate, more specifically by measuring the redox response current between PO43? and HPO42?.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2005Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Japan Science and Technology AgencyInventor: Tetsuya Haruyama
-
Publication number: 20120028141Abstract: A photoelectrochemical cell (100) includes: a semiconductor electrode (120) including a substrate (121), a first n-type semiconductor layer (122) disposed on the substrate (121), and a second n-type semiconductor layer (123) and a conductor (124) disposed apart from each other on the first n-type semiconductor layer (122); a counter electrode (130) connected electrically to the conductor (124); an electrolyte (140) in contact with surfaces of the second n-type semiconductor layer (123) and the counter electrode (130); and a container (110) accommodating the semiconductor electrode (120), the counter electrode (130) and the electrolyte (140).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2010Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATIONInventors: Takaiki Nomura, Takahiro Suzuki, Nobuhiro Miyata, Kazuhito Hato
-
Publication number: 20120028140Abstract: A compressor for compressing a gas. The compressor receives the gas at a base pressure from a source and provides the gas at a higher pressure to a target. The compressor includes a series of pressure vessels and a one-way valve between the vessels, where a first pressure vessel is coupled to the source and a last pressure vessel is coupled to the target. For one period of time, every other pressure vessel in the series is heated starting with the pressure vessel coupled to the source. As the pressure in the heated pressure vessels increases as a result of the heat, the gas is sent to a next pressure vessel in the series of pressure vessels. After some period of time, the other alternating sequence of pressure vessels is heated to move the gas along the series of pressure vessels from the source to the target.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: Ian J. Sutherland
-
Patent number: 8105722Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a first electrode-electrolyte assembly having a first electrode coupled to one side of the first electrode-electrolyte assembly and a second electrode coupled to an opposite side of the first electrode-electrolyte assembly and a second electrode-electrolyte assembly having a third electrode coupled to one side of the second electrode-electrolyte assembly and a fourth electrode coupled to an opposite side of the second electrode-electrolyte assembly. A first conduit is in fluid communication with the first electrode and a second conduit is in fluid communication with the fourth electrode and an electrically conductive mesh positioned between the second electrode and the third electrode. Portions of the second and third electrodes engage each other through apertures defined by the mesh. The fuel cell system also includes an electricity source connected to the first and second electrodes; and an electrical circuit connected to the first conduit and the second conduit.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2011Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Inventor: Andrei Leonida
-
Publication number: 20120003552Abstract: A method for improving the efficiency and durability of reversible solid oxide cells during electrical energy storage is disclosed. The method utilizes a specific set of operating conditions that produces a storage chemistry where approximately thermal-neutral operation can be achieved at low cell over-potentials. Also disclosed are reversible solid oxide cell energy storage system configurations, including one that utilizes storage in natural gas and water storage/distribution networks, thereby reducing storage cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2011Publication date: January 5, 2012Inventors: Scott A. Barnett, David M. Blerschank, James R. Wilson
-
Patent number: 8076041Abstract: A heat insulating member is sandwiched by a first separator and a second separator. The heat insulating member functions as a heat insulating layer to prevent the temperature decrease of electricity generating cells. A first impurity removal flow path is formed in the space enclosed by the grooves on the surface of the second separator and a partition plate. A second impurity removal flow path is formed in the space enclosed by the grooves on the surface of a third separator and the partition plate. The impurity removal flow paths function as filters to remove the impurities contained in the reaction gases. A terminal functions as a current collecting layer to collect the electricity generated in the electricity generating cells.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2006Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Chisato Kato, Koichiro Yamashita
-
Publication number: 20110250515Abstract: The invention relates to an electrode compartment for an electrochemical cell, including a bicontinuous micro-emulsion, wherein catalytic parts are generated in-situ in a fluid, which can act as a cathode as well as an anode. The electrode compartment comprises a connection to supply fuel or an oxidator, for example oxygen, to the compartment. The electrode compartment is part of a refreshing system with a reserve container for an emulsion and a storage container for used emulsion, conduits to connect each of the containers with the electrode compartment and a transport unit, for example a pump, to move the emulsion.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2009Publication date: October 13, 2011Inventors: Rutger Alexander David Van Raalten, Krishna Narayan Kumar Kowlgi, Geradus Joseph Maria Koper
-
Publication number: 20110244345Abstract: The invention essentially consists in the use of melanins, melanin precursors or melanin derivatives, melanin variants, melanin analogues, natural or synthetic, pure or mixed with organic or inorganic compounds, metals, ions, drugs; as water electrolyzing material, using as sole or main source of energy, natural or synthetic light, coherent or not; in the systems of hydrogen production from water, known as photoelectrochemical systems. These systems integrate as semiconductor material and a water electrolyzer inside a monolithic design, to produce hydrogen directly from water, using light (between 200 to 900 nm) as the main or sole source of energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2007Publication date: October 6, 2011Inventor: Arturo Solis Herrera
-
Publication number: 20110236776Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a first electrode-electrolyte assembly having a first electrode coupled to one side of the first electrode-electrolyte assembly and a second electrode coupled to an opposite side of the first electrode-electrolyte assembly and a second electrode-electrolyte assembly having a third electrode coupled to one side of the second electrode-electrolyte assembly and a fourth electrode coupled to an opposite side of the second electrode-electrolyte assembly. A first conduit is in fluid communication with the first electrode and a second conduit is in fluid communication with the fourth electrode and an electrically conductive mesh positioned between the second electrode and the third electrode. Portions of the second and third electrodes engage each other through apertures defined by the mesh. The fuel cell system also includes an electricity source connected to the first and second electrodes; and an electrical circuit connected to the first conduit and the second conduit.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: Andrei Leonida
-
Publication number: 20110229780Abstract: A hydrogen generation and storage system provides energy storage and energy production through use of hydrogen. The system may comprise a hydrogen generation subsystem and a storage subsystem. Typically, the system will be powered by a renewable or environmentally friendly electrical source, such as wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric, or wave energy. The stored hydrogen may automatically be used to supplement electrical output, such as to meet demand for electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventor: Dan Kershaw
-
Publication number: 20110219773Abstract: Systems and methods for producing hydrogen from cellulosic and/or grain feedstocks for use as a vehicle fuel, use in the production of anhydrous ammonia, and to generate electricity. In at least one exemplary embodiment of a system for producing ammonia, the system comprises a fuel source containing fuel, a burn chamber coupled to the fuel source for burning the fuel to create energy, an electricity generator coupled to the burn chamber to generate electricity from the energy from the burn chamber, an electrolysis tank coupled to the electricity generator wherein electricity from the electricity generator facilitates the electrolysis of water present within the electrolysis tank to form hydrogen and oxygen, an ammonia reaction chamber coupled to the electrolysis tank, and a compressed air source coupled to the ammonia reaction chamber, wherein the hydrogen and nitrogen from the compressed air source react within the ammonia reaction chamber to generate ammonia.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Inventor: Steven R. Gerrish
-
Publication number: 20110207008Abstract: Induction for thermochemical processes, and associated systems and methods. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes placing first and second substrates in a reactor, with each substrate having a surface facing toward the other. Method can further include directing a precursor gas into the reactor and activating an induction coil proximate to the facing surfaces of the substrates to dissociate the precursor gas. A constituent of the precursor gas is deposited on both the first and second surfaces, and heat radiated from each surface and/or a constituent deposited on the surface is received at the other surface and/or the constituent deposited on the other surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: McAlister Technologies, LLCInventor: Roy Edward McAlister
-
Publication number: 20110207007Abstract: The present invention relates to hydrogen gas fuel.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2010Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: Universiti Malaysia PahangInventors: Zularisam AB WAHID, Abdul Syukor ABD RAZAK, Mimi Sakinah ABDUL MUNALM
-
Patent number: 7998341Abstract: A process for treating hydrocarbon feeds includes the steps of providing a hydrocarbon feed containing sulfur and/or metalloporphyrins; providing a cell having two compartments and a membrane separating the compartments; flowing a hydrogen source through one compartment; flowing the hydrocarbon feed through the other compartment; applying a current across the hydrogen source compartment whereby hydrogen diffuses through the membrane from the hydrogen source to the hydrocarbon feed, whereby the hydrogen reacts with sulfur and/or metalloporphyrins to form H2S and convert such metalloporphyrins into dissolved metals and a free metal porphyrin, and produce a treated hydrocarbon.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Intevep, S.A.Inventors: Victor Báez, Luis Felipe D'Elia, Gaudy Rodriguez
-
Publication number: 20110195327Abstract: An energy storage and power generation system (10) with at least one fuel cell (40), in which an oxidant and a fuel which can be stored can be converted electrochemically and in the process an electrical current can be generated, and with at least one electrolysis cell (30), which is used for generating the fuel which can be stored for the fuel cell (40), wherein the fuel cell (40) and the electrolysis cell (30) share a common electrode (21), and the fuel cell (40) and the electrolysis cell (30) each use a respective further electrode (31, 41) only for themselves. For this purpose, the invention provides that the fuel can be stored outside the fuel cell (40) and outside the electrolysis cell (30) in a store (13).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2011Publication date: August 11, 2011Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventors: Sebastian Maass, Stefan Schoenbauer
-
Publication number: 20110195326Abstract: A sodium chlorate electrolysis cell (9) receives a portion of its electrical power (47, 48; 50, 51) from a phosphoric acid fuel cell (45) which receives fuel at its anode inlet (43) from a water cooled catalytic reactor (26) that converts oxygen in the byproduct output (21) of the sodium chlorate electrolysis cell to hydrogen and water. A utility grid (53) may provide through a converter (55) power to support the electrochemical process in the sodium chlorate electrolysis cell. Temperature of the water cooled catalytic reactor is determined by the vaporization of pressurized hot water, the pressure of which may be adjusted by a controller (36) and a valve (38) in response to temperature (40).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2008Publication date: August 11, 2011Inventors: Antonio M. Vincitore, Peter F. Foley, Derek W. Hildreth, John L. Preston
-
Publication number: 20110183222Abstract: A hydrogen generator system includes an electrolyzer for executing a water electrolysis process and associated devices for operation thereof to produce hydrogen and oxygen, and functionally interconnected to each other: 1) a device for recovering heat generated by the electrolysis and cooling of the electrolyzer, 2) a device for storing the generated hydrogen, 3) a burner for generating heat, and 4) a fuel cell for producing electrical energy. The burner and the fuel cell are connected in parallel and suppliable with the hydrogen produced directly by the electrolyzer and/or with the hydrogen drawn from the storage device, as well as respective circuit and control and adjustment components. The entire hydrogen generator system is accommodated in a casing, which has externally a plurality of inlet connection fittings for the water and electrical power supply system for supplying the electrolyzer and outlet connection fittings for the various services and products supplied.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2010Publication date: July 28, 2011Applicant: GIACOMINI S.P.AInventor: Corrado GIACOMINI
-
Publication number: 20110177407Abstract: [Object] To provide an electrochemical reactor that is small in size but high in throughput capacity, does not generate NOx or carbon dioxide, can be operated at a low running cost, is easy to handle during assembling, and has a simple structure and high durability, a method for manufacturing the reactor, a gas decomposing element, an ammonia decomposing element, and a power generator. [Solution] An electrochemical reactor 10 includes a porous anode 2, a porous cathode 5 that is paired with the anode, and an ion conductive material 1 having an ion conductivity and being interposed between the anode and the cathode. The anode 2 includes surface-oxidized metal particle chains 21.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2009Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Masatoshi Majima, Atsushi Fukunaga, Shinji Inazawa, Toshio Ueda, Motomi Nakata, Hiroki Mori, Masahiro Yamakawa
-
Publication number: 20110165482Abstract: A method for preparing a thin ceramic material with a continuous controlled surface porosity gradient is disclosed as well as its use for producing electrochemical cells that conduct by oxide ions. The thin ceramic material is characterized by a continuous variation in porosity from 0% to about 80% of small thicknesses.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2011Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventors: Thierry CHARTIER, François Guillotin
-
Publication number: 20110143236Abstract: An engine having an electrolysis system that is powered, at least in part, by multiple piezoelectric generators, to generate a minimum amount of hydrogen necessary to fuel the engine as required by the engine to operate so that only the minimal amount of hydrogen exists at any time regardless of operating status of the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2010Publication date: June 16, 2011Inventor: Geoffrey McCue
-
Patent number: 7939210Abstract: An electric automobile includes a fuel cell for power generation by supply of hydrogen and oxidizing agent, a hydrogen generating device for generating a gas containing hydrogen to be supplied to the fuel cell, and a motor driven by electricity generated by the fuel cell. The hydrogen generating device generates gas containing hydrogen by decomposing an organic compound-containing fuel, and includes a proton conductive partition membrane, a fuel electrode provided on one surface of the partition membrane to directly generate the gas containing hydrogen, a device for supplying, to the fuel electrode, water and organic compound-containing fuel capable of producing a proton as a result of electrochemical oxidization which can pass through the partition membrane, an oxidizing electrode provided on the other surface of the partition membrane, a device for supplying the oxidizing agent to the oxidizing electrode, and a device for generating and collecting the gas containing hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2005Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: GS Yuasa CorporationInventors: Ryoichi Okuyama, Yoshihiro Yamamoto, Masashi Motoi, Katsuji Ashida
-
Publication number: 20110100328Abstract: A cell for use in an electrolysis unit includes a back wall, a side wall extending upwardly from and around a periphery of the back wall to define an inner region of the cell, an electrode disposed on the back wall within the inner region to divide at least a portion of the inner region into first and second regions is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2010Publication date: May 5, 2011Inventor: Buddy Ray Paul
-
Publication number: 20110104579Abstract: A fuel cell power generation system including: a hydrogen generating apparatus, controlling an amount of hydrogen generation by controlling an on/off status of a switch connected between electrodes; and a fuel cell, being supplied with hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generating apparatus and producing a direct current by converting chemical energy of the hydrogen to electrical energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2011Publication date: May 5, 2011Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Jae-Hyoung Gil, Jae-Hyuk Jang, Arunabha Kundu, Sung-Han Kim, Kyoungsoo Chae
-
Publication number: 20110086280Abstract: The system of the invention is a very efficient means for the on-demand production of hydrogen for aid, power, and electricity, operated by a control system with a modular, smart, and high-power efficiency arrangement using nanotechnology. A vast number of selections are provided for the user to obtain power production when needed or furthermore with variable delivery. Respecting cleanliness, environmental, and air pollution reduction constraints, the system is devised for use in the areas of housing, transportation, or more generally, any industry producing electricity or heat particularly by hydrocarbon means, or furthermore any environment requiring power for stationary or mobile operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2009Publication date: April 14, 2011Inventor: Alex Roustaei
-
Publication number: 20110081586Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, a method for providing an energy supply using a renewable energy source is provided comprising: providing a first source of renewable energy, wherein the first source of renewable energy is intermittent or does not provide a sufficient amount of energy; providing energy from the first source of renewable energy to an electrolyzer to produce an energy carrier through electrolysis; selectably reversing the electrolyzer for use as a fuel cell; and providing the energy carrier to the electrolyzer for the production of energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2010Publication date: April 7, 2011Applicant: McAlister Technologies, LLCInventor: Roy E. McAlister
-
Patent number: 7914934Abstract: The Hydro-Oxy Fuel Generator is an electro/chemical system that can convert ions (Hydronium ions and Hydroxide ions to gases (Hydrogen and Oxygen). The system can be easily mounted on vehicles (cars, trucks, buses, trains, etc.) to produce Hydrogen and Oxygen gases, wherein, gases can be used as an alternative fuel source. The basic objective of this invention is to create a viable source of fuel that reduces the dependency on fossil fuels.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2005Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: Jesse Foster
-
Publication number: 20110070510Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, a system for providing a renewable source of material resources is provided comprising: a first source of renewable energy; first stream of materials from a first materials source; an electrolyzer coupled to the first source of renewable energy and the first stream of materials, wherein the electrolyzer is configured to produce a first material resource by electrolysis; a processor for further processing or use or the material resource to produce a second material resource, wherein the processor comprises a solar collector and where the solar collector is configured to provide heat to the first materials resource for disassociation; and a material resource storage coupled to the electrolyzer for receiving the material resource from the electrolyzer or providing the material resource to the processor for further processing or use.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2010Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: McAlister Technologies, LLCInventor: Roy E. McAlister
-
Patent number: 7910252Abstract: A hydrogen supply system includes at least a hydrogen supply device for supplying hydrogen to a hydrogen storing device, and a hydrogen generating device producing hydrogen containing gas to be supplied to the hydrogen supply device. The hydrogen generating device produces the hydrogen containing gas by decomposing a fuel containing an organic compound, and includes a partition membrane, a fuel electrode provided on one surface of the partition membrane for generating hydrogen containing gas, a device for supplying a fuel containing the organic compound and water to the fuel electrode, an oxidizing electrode provided on the other surface of the partition membrane, a device for supplying an oxidizing agent to the oxidizing electrode, and a device for collecting the hydrogen containing gas directly from the fuel electrode.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2005Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: GS Yuasa CorporationInventors: Ryoichi Okuyama, Yoshihiro Yamamoto, Masashi Motoi, Katsuji Ashida
-
Publication number: 20110057455Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating hydrogen gas includes a reactor vessel in which electrolysis takes place in water, an electrical current source coupled to the reactor, and a chemical energy conversion device that converts chemical energy to electrical current by reacting hydrogen gas with oxygen gas. Conduits convey the gases from the reactor to the conversion device, and safety devices and controls maintain safe and efficient operation of the system. A backfire suppression apparatus may be used to prevent a backfire from propagating backward through the system and causing damage, while a buffer tank may ensure that the gases supplied to the chemical energy conversion device are substantially free of liquid water or other contaminants. One or more heat exchangers maintain an optimal temperature range for the water inside the reactor, and a programmable logic controller may be provided to monitor and control the operation of the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2010Publication date: March 10, 2011Applicant: INNOVATIVE ENERGY SYSTEMS AND DESIGN, LLCInventors: Tony W. Russo, Mallory S. Restis, Pamela Restis
-
Patent number: 7883802Abstract: Electrochemical power generation systems in which the oxidizable reactant is non-carbon constituents of a fossil fuel are provided. The fossil fuel may be coal, which is contacted with an aqueous electrolyte medium used in the systems. The electrolyte may, in certain aspects, be acid mine drainage. Aspects of the invention include systems and methods for remediation of acid mine drainage, where the systems are configured to raise the pH of acid mine drainage. Aspects of the invention also include regenerating the electrolyte using an external electricity source and recirculating the electrolyte to the system.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventors: R. Paul Levine, Robert Danziger
-
Publication number: 20100323255Abstract: A fuel cell system including an electrode-electrolyte assembly having a first catalytic electrode coupled to one side of the electrode-electrolyte assembly, and a second catalytic electrode coupled to a generally opposite side of the electrode-electrolyte assembly. The fuel cell system includes a first conduit in fluid communication with the first catalytic electrode for delivering fuel to the first catalytic electrode at ambient temperature and a second conduit in fluid communication with the second catalytic electrode for delivering oxidant thereto. The fuel cell system also includes means for providing an electrical potential across the first catalytic electrode, the electrode-electrolyte assembly and the second catalytic electrode and the fuel cell system further includes an electrical load circuit for using an energy output generated across the first catalytic electrode, the electrode-electrolyte assembly and the second catalytic electrode.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2010Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventor: Andrei Leonida
-
Publication number: 20100316918Abstract: In various aspects, provided are substantially single phase ceramic membranes, gas separation devices based thereon, and methods of making the membranes. In various embodiments, the membranes and devices can be used for hydrogen production, such as in a fuel-cell.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2007Publication date: December 16, 2010Applicant: PRESIDENT AND FELLOWS OF HARVARD COLLEGEInventors: Shriram Ramanathan, Annamalai Karthikeyan
-
Patent number: 7807305Abstract: A fuel cell system comprising a first electrode-electrolyte assembly having a first electrode coupled to one side of thereof and a second electrode coupled to a generally opposite side of the first electrode-electrolyte assembly, and a first conduit for delivering fuel to the first electrode at ambient temperature. The fuel cell system includes a second electrode-electrolyte assembly having a third electrode coupled thereto assembly, and a fourth electrode coupled to a generally opposite side of the second electrode-electrolyte assembly; and a mesh positioned between and in sealing engagement with the second electrode and the third electrode. A second conduit is in fluid communication with the fourth electrode for delivering oxidant thereto. The fuel cell system further includes means for providing an electrical potential across the first electrode-electrolyte assembly and an electrical load circuit for using an energy output generated across the second electrode-electrolyte assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2006Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Inventor: Andrei Leonida
-
Publication number: 20100156104Abstract: An apparatus for generating synthesis gas from waste organic materials that consists of a thermal reduction gasification reactor which is a rotary reactor having a drying and volatilizing zone for gasifying organic materials and a reformation zone for converting the gasified organic materials to synthesis gas. Solid waste organic material is fed to the reactor that heats the solid material to a temperature of about 600° C. to about 1000° C. The synthesis gas generated by the apparatus is substantially hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The apparatus is combined with an electrical generation system for making purified hydrogen and electricity. Alternatively, the synthesis gas can be used as a source for hydrogen. The synthesis gas is cleaned, the composition is shifted to enrich the content of hydrogen, and the hydrogen is isolated from the other gases that make up the synthesis gas. Alternatively, the synthesis gas can be fermented forming an organic alcohol and an organic acid.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2006Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventor: N. Edward Bottinelli
-
Publication number: 20100143810Abstract: A method of operating a fuel cell system with at least one fuel cell unit comprising a plurality of fuel cells, each having one anode and one cathode, the anode adjoining an anode gas compartment and the cathode adjoining a cathode gas compartment, hydrogen being supplied to the anode and an oxidizing agent being supplied to the cathode. Hydrogen is supplied to the anode compartment during a retention time before start-up of the fuel cell system, in which no fuel cell reaction takes place in the fuel cell unit. Hydrogen is stored in an adsorption storage element during fuel cell operation and released to the anode compartment during the retention time.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2007Publication date: June 10, 2010Applicants: DAIMLER AG, FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Hans-Joerg Heidrich, Uwe Limbeck, Holger Richter
-
Publication number: 20100143811Abstract: A catalyst for the photo-electrolysis of water molecules, the catalyst including catalytic groups comprising tetra-manganese-oxo clusters. A plurality of the catalytic groups are supported on a conductive support substrate capable of incorporating water molecules. At least some of the catalytic groups, supported by the support substrate, are able to catalytically interact with water molecules incorporated into the support substrate. The catalyst can be used as part of photo-electrochemical cell for the generation of electrical energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2008Publication date: June 10, 2010Inventors: Robin Brimblecombe, Leone Spiccia, Charles Gerard Dismukes, Gerry F. Swiegers
-
Patent number: 7264837Abstract: The deacidification of citrus juice with ion exchange resin is described. Maintaining a high acid condition of the juice is achieved by passing the juice through regenerated resin that is preconditioned with an aqueous food-grade acid, preferably citric acid. Additionally or optionally, an early bed volume or multiple early bed volumes of juice flow are at a rapid flow rate. The products obtained also are described, and they may be any deacidified citrus juice or juice blend where the pH of the juice does not rise above that of an acid food pH for the juice during deacidification. In preferred embodiments, the juice product is orange juice. In another preferred embodiment, the conditioning process is used to provide a deacidified citrus juice product while avoiding raising the pH of any portion of the juice to 4.6 or above so as to control microbial growth of the juice.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: September 4, 2007Assignee: Tropicana Products, Inc.Inventors: Yongsoo Chung, Osvaldo A. Chu, Marcelo Perez Alvarez
-
Patent number: 5871767Abstract: A method for treatment of a neurodegenerative condition in a patient comprising implanting in the patient at least one immunoisolatory vehicle comprising a corc comprising a volume of at least 1 .mu.l and at least 10.sup.4 living cells which secrete at least one biologically active product, said cells being dispersed in a biocompatible matrix comprising a hydrogel or extracellular matrix components, and an external jacket surrounding the core, the jacket comprising a biocompatible hydrogel or thermoplastic, the jacket being free of cells projecting externally thereof, said jacket having a molecular weight cutoff permitting the passage of the biologically active product from the core through the jacket.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1995Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: Brown University Research FoundationInventors: Keith E. Dionne, Dwaine F. Emerich, Diane Hoffman, Paul R. Sanberg, Lisa Christenson, Orion D. Hegre, David W. Scharp, Paul E. Lacy, Patrick Aebischer, Alfred V. Vasconcellos, Michael J. Lysaght, Frank T. Gentile