Electrolysis unit based on water electrolysis hydrogen production and electrolytic bath

Abstract

The invention provides an electrolysis unit based on water electrolysis hydrogen production and an electrolytic bath, and the electrolysis unit comprises a diaphragm; the diaphragm is combined between the two polar plates in a sealing manner, so that the diaphragm and the two polar plates form two cavities suitable for accommodating electrolyte; the two electrode layers are respectively positioned in the two cavities, so that the electrolyte reacts to separate out hydrogen and oxygen; and the at least one annular protection sheet is made of an elastic material and is arranged between the diaphragm and the polar plate, and the inner ring edge of the protection sheet extends into the cavity and is positioned between the edge of the electrode layer and the diaphragm so as to protect the diaphragm and prolong the service life of the diaphragm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure relates to the technical field of hydrogen production by electrolysis of water, and in particular to an electrolysis unit and an electrolysis cell based on hydrogen production by electrolysis of water. Background Art

[0002] The diaphragm in the electrolyzer is an important component in the process of hydrogen production by electrolysis of water. It can separate the electrolyte while allowing ions to pass through and prevent the substances produced by the anode and cathode from mixing.

[0003] During the hydrogen production process by water electrolysis, the pressure on both sides of the diaphragm fluctuates continuously due to the dynamic changes in the gas generation and discharge rates. Furthermore, the temperature fluctuates constantly, and the electrolyzer undergoes repeated thermal expansion and contraction, which in turn changes the pressure exerted on the diaphragm by the components on both sides. Because the diaphragm is relatively thin, the shearing forces generated by the pressure and extrusion can cause it to be cut or damaged, shortening its service life. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present disclosure provides an electrolysis unit and an electrolysis cell based on water electrolysis to produce hydrogen, which are used to at least partially solve the above technical problems, reduce the degree of damage to the diaphragm, improve the protection of the diaphragm, and extend the service life of the diaphragm.

[0005] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, an electrolysis unit of an electrolytic cell for hydrogen production based on water electrolysis is provided, comprising a diaphragm; two electrode plates, the diaphragm being sealed and combined between the two electrode plates to form two chambers suitable for accommodating an electrolyte with the two electrode plates; two electrode layers, respectively located in the two chambers, so that the electrolyte reacts to release hydrogen and oxygen; and at least one annular protective sheet, made of an elastic material, disposed between the diaphragm and the electrode plates, the inner ring edge of the protective sheet extending into the chamber and located between the edge of the electrode layer and the diaphragm to protect the diaphragm.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the electrode plates includes: a groove, which is located on the side of the electrode plate facing the diaphragm and forms the chamber with the diaphragm; and an annular boss, which surrounds the groove and is provided with a liquid inlet hole allowing the electrolyte to enter the chamber, and an outlet hole allowing the hydrogen or the oxygen to be discharged.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the inner diameter of the protection sheet is smaller than the inner diameter of the boss, and the outer diameter of the protection sheet is equal to the outer diameter of the boss.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the difference between the inner diameter of the protection sheet and the inner diameter of the annular boss is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 1 mm.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thickness of the protection sheet ranges from 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, two protective sheets are provided, and the two protective sheets are respectively located on both sides of the diaphragm.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electrolysis unit also includes an insulating gasket, which is made of an elastic material. One protective sheet is provided, and the insulating gasket and the protective sheet are respectively located on both sides of the diaphragm. The insulating gasket is constructed to form one of the chambers with the diaphragm and the corresponding electrode plate.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the material of the protection sheet and the insulating gasket includes any one of polytetrafluoroethylene and rubber.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the insulating gasket is an annular structure, and the annular width of the insulating gasket is the same as the annular width of the boss.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the resilience rate of the insulating gasket ranges from 40% to 40.5%.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the thickness of the insulating gasket ranges from 2 mm to 3 mm.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the protective sheet and the insulating gasket are both provided with adaptive clearance holes at positions opposite to the liquid inlet and the air outlet.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of closed first waterlines surrounding the boss are formed on the surface of the boss close to the groove, and the plurality of first waterlines are spaced apart from the inside to the outside in the radial direction of the boss. The edge of the diaphragm covers the plurality of first waterlines and forms the chamber with the groove.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of closed second waterlines are formed on the surface of the boss away from the groove, and the second waterlines are spaced apart from the inside to the outside in the radial direction of the boss to seal and fit with the protective sheet and the insulating gasket.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the depth of the first waterline is less than the depth of the second waterline.

[0020] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an electrolytic cell is provided, comprising: a plurality of electrolytic units of the electrolytic cell as described above, wherein the plurality of electrolytic units are stacked in sequence to form a stacking structure; two end plates, respectively located at the two ends of the plurality of stacking structures; and an installation assembly, suitable for fixing the stacking structure to the two end plates.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the electrode plates and diaphragms of the stacked structure are stacked alternately in sequence, and both sides of each electrode plate of the electrolysis unit form a cavity with the corresponding diaphragm, so that each electrode plate forms another electrolysis unit with other electrode plates.

[0022] According to the electrolysis unit and electrolyzer for producing hydrogen based on electrolysis of water provided by the present disclosure, the diaphragm is sealed and combined between the two pole plates to form two chambers suitable for accommodating the electrolyte with the two pole plates. The two electrode layers are respectively located in the two chambers. Under the action of direct current, the electrolyte is dissociated to separate hydrogen and oxygen. Since the two electrode layers are respectively located in the chambers on both sides of the diaphragm and are tightly fitted with the diaphragm, the diaphragm is sealed and combined between the two pole plates. The diaphragm located at the edge of the chamber is easily cut by the cutting force generated by the squeezing force of the pole plates. In addition, since the edge of the electrode layer is relatively sharp, it will also generate cutting force on the diaphragm and cause it to be cut. By setting an annular protective sheet between the diaphragm and the electrode plate, the inner ring edge of the protective sheet extends into the chamber and is located between the edge of the electrode layer and the diaphragm and between the electrode plate and the diaphragm. The protective sheet is made of elastic material and has elasticity, so that the edge position of the electrode plate and the electrode layer can elastically contact the diaphragm. When the diaphragm is subjected to cutting force, the protective sheet can deform, effectively absorbing the cutting force of the electrode plate and the electrode layer on the diaphragm, reducing the degree of damage to the diaphragm caused by cutting due to the action of the cutting force, improving the protection of the diaphragm, and extending the service life of the diaphragm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent through the following description of the embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1 Schematically shows an exploded view of an electrolysis unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of an electrolysis cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 3 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of an electrolysis unit according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 4 Schematic diagram showing a state where the electrode plate and the support portion are separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 5 schematically shows a partial view of a plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0029] Figure 6 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of an electrolytic cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown.

[0030] Reference numerals

[0031] 1. Diaphragm; 11. Chamber; 111. First chamber; 112. Second chamber; 2. Cathode layer; 3. Anode layer; 4. Plate; 4a. First plate; 4b. Second plate; 41. Liquid inlet; 411. First liquid inlet; 412. Second liquid inlet; 42. Air outlet; 421. First air outlet; 422. Second air outlet; 43. Boss; 431. First waterline; 432. Second waterline; 44. Groove; 5. Support portion; 51. Flow channel; 6. Nickel foam layer; 7. Electrolytic cell; 71. Stacking structure; 72. End plate; 73. Mounting assembly; 74. First liquid inlet channel; 75. Second liquid inlet channel; 76. First air outlet channel; 77. Second air outlet channel; 8. Insulating gasket; 81. Clearance hole; 9. Protective sheet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present disclosure more clearly understood, the present disclosure is further described in detail below in conjunction with specific embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] The terms used herein are only for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. The terms "comprise," "include," etc. used herein indicate the presence of the features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0034] All terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. It should be noted that the terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the context of this specification and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly rigid manner.

[0035] It should also be noted that directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "front," "back," "left," and "right" mentioned in the embodiments are merely references to the directions in the accompanying drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Throughout the drawings, identical elements are represented by identical or similar reference numerals. Conventional structures or configurations will be omitted where they may cause confusion in understanding this disclosure.

[0036] During the electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen, the diaphragm in the electrolyzer plays a crucial role in separating the electrolyte while allowing ions to pass through and preventing the mixing of substances produced at the anode and cathode. Due to the dynamic changes in the rate of gas production and discharge, the pressure on both sides of the diaphragm fluctuates continuously. Furthermore, the temperature fluctuates constantly, and the electrolyzer undergoes repeated thermal expansion and contraction, which in turn causes the compressive forces exerted on the diaphragm by the components on both sides to vary. Because the diaphragm is relatively thin, the pressure and shearing forces generated by the compressive forces can cause it to be torn or damaged, shortening its service life.

[0037] Figure 1 Schematically shows an exploded view of an electrolysis cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] The embodiment of the present disclosure proposes an electrolysis unit based on a water electrolysis hydrogen production electrolyzer, such as Figure 1 As shown, the electrolytic unit includes a diaphragm 1, two pole plates 4, two electrode layers and at least one annular protective sheet 9. The diaphragm 1 is sealed and combined between the two pole plates 4 to form two chambers 11 suitable for accommodating electrolyte with the two pole plates 4. The two electrode layers are respectively located in the two chambers 11, so that the electrolyte reacts to release hydrogen and oxygen. At least one annular protective sheet 9 is arranged between the diaphragm 1 and the pole plates 4, and the inner ring edge of the protective sheet 9 extends into the chamber 11 and is located between the edge of the electrode layer and the diaphragm 1 to protect the diaphragm 1. In other words, the inner diameter of the protective sheet 9 is smaller than the caliber of the diaphragm 1, and the outer diameter of the protective sheet 9 is larger than the caliber of the diaphragm 1. In this way, the portion of the protective sheet 9 arranged between the diaphragm 1 and the pole plates 4 will extend into the chamber 11. In this disclosure, the term "annular" not only includes Figure 1 The circular ring shown also includes other similar structures such as hollow squares.

[0039] It should be noted that during the electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen, the diaphragm 1 allows ions to pass through while blocking electrons. For example, in anion exchange membrane electrolysis, the ions are generally hydroxide ions. In proton exchange membrane electrolysis, the ions are generally hydrogen ions. This allows ions to move from the anode to the cathode under the action of the electric field, completing the circuit while maintaining charge balance at both electrodes.

[0040] In this embodiment, the electrolysis unit is an electrolysis unit for producing hydrogen through anionic water electrolysis, and the diaphragm 1 is an anion exchange membrane (AEM). The electrolyte can be water or an alkaline aqueous solution. The electrode layers include a cathode layer 2 and an anode layer 3. The cathode layer 2 and anode layer 3 can be formed of a corrosion-resistant metal substrate to provide mechanical strength and conductivity. Materials such as platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), nickel (Ni), or cobalt (Co) serve as catalyst materials for the cathode layer 2. Materials such as oxides of iridium (Ir) and ruthenium (Ru), and oxides of cobalt (Co) and manganese (Mn) serve as catalyst materials for the anode layer 3. It is understood that, where theoretical and practical considerations permit, the electrolysis unit can also be applied to alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production.

[0041] Specifically, the diaphragm 1 is sealed between the two electrode plates 4, forming two chambers 11 for containing the electrolyte. The two electrode layers are located in the two chambers 11, respectively, and the electrode layers are tightly attached to the diaphragm 1. Under the action of direct current, the electrolyte dissociates in the chamber 11 corresponding to the cathode layer 2 to release hydrogen, and dissociates in the chamber 11 corresponding to the anode layer 3 to release oxygen.

[0042] In this embodiment, since the two electrode layers are located in the chambers 11 on either side of the diaphragm 1 and are in close contact with the diaphragm 1, the diaphragm 1 is sealed and bonded between the two electrode plates 4. Specifically, the portion of the electrode plate 4 located at the edge of the chamber 11 forms a transition portion. At this point, the first portion of the diaphragm 1 clamped between the two electrode plates 4—specifically, the portion of the diaphragm 1 located outside the chamber 11 and clamped between the two electrode plates 4—is subject to compressive force from the electrode plates 4. Simultaneously, the second portion of the diaphragm 1 located in the transition portion is also subject to compressive force from the transition portion, while the third portion of the diaphragm 1 located within the chamber 11 is in close contact with the electrode layers and is also subject to compressive force from the electrode layers.

[0043] Because the transition portion of the electrode plate 4 is relatively sharp, if the two electrode plates 4 exert a strong pressure on the second portion of the diaphragm 1, the pressure may generate a cutting force on the second portion of the diaphragm, causing it to be cut. In addition, because the edge of the electrode layer is relatively sharp, the pressure may also generate a cutting force on the third portion of the diaphragm 1, causing it to be cut.

[0044] By providing an annular protective sheet 9 between the diaphragm 1 and the electrode plate 4, the inner edge of the protective sheet 9 extends into the chamber 11 and is positioned between the edge of the electrode layer and the third portion of the diaphragm 1, as well as between the transition portion of the electrode plate 4 and the second portion of the diaphragm 1. Protective sheet 9 is made of an elastic material and exhibits elasticity, allowing the transition portion of the electrode plate 4 and the edge of the electrode layer to elastically contact the diaphragm 1. Therefore, when the diaphragm 1 is subjected to cutting forces, the protective sheet 9 deforms, effectively absorbing the cutting forces exerted on the diaphragm 1 by the transition portion of the electrode plate 4 and the edge of the electrode layer, reducing the extent of damage to the diaphragm 1 caused by the cutting forces, improving the protection of the diaphragm 1, and extending the service life of the diaphragm 1.

[0045] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an electrolysis cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown. Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an electrolysis cell according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown. Figure 4 The figure schematically shows a state in which the electrode plate and the support portion are separated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, each electrode 4 includes a groove 44 and an annular boss 43. The groove 44 is located on the side of the electrode 4 facing the diaphragm 1, and forms a chamber 11 with the diaphragm 1. The annular boss 43 surrounds the groove 44, and the edge positions of the boss 43 and the groove 44 form a step, and the turning point of the step forms a transition portion. The transition portion is the portion where the boss 43 and the groove 44 intersect and transition, that is, the portion where the boss 43 of the electrode 4 is located at the edge position of the chamber 11. The size of the transition portion in the radial direction of the boss 43 is very small, and the projection on the plane where the boss 43 is located can be regarded as a circular ring. The boss 43 is provided with a liquid inlet 41 for allowing the electrolyte to enter the chamber 11, and an air outlet 42 for allowing hydrogen or oxygen to be discharged.

[0047] Specifically, the plate 4 is formed into a plate-like structure. The plate 4 can be a circular plate, a rectangular plate or a polygonal plate, etc., which is specifically limited according to actual needs. It is understandable that the boss 43 can also be set to a rectangular or polygonal shape, which is specifically limited according to actual needs. For convenience, Figure 4 Circular plate-shaped electrode plate 4 is shown in FIG.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, each electrode plate 4 is provided with a groove 44. The central area of ​​the electrode plate 4 on the side facing the diaphragm 1 is recessed inward relative to the boss 43 to form the groove 44. The groove 44 and the diaphragm 1 form a chamber 11. The outer periphery of the electrode plate 4 is raised to form an annular boss 43. The boss 43 surrounds the groove 44. The first portion of the diaphragm 1 is clamped between the inner edges of the two bosses 43. The liquid inlet 41 is formed on the boss 43. The liquid inlet 41 is connected to the groove 44 to allow the electrolyte to enter the chamber 11. The gas outlet 42 is formed on the boss 43. The gas outlet 42 is connected to the groove 44 to allow hydrogen or oxygen to be discharged.

[0049] In an alternative exemplary embodiment, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, each electrode plate 4 is provided with two grooves 44. The central areas of the opposing sides of the electrode plate 4 (the left and right sides of the electrode plate 4) are recessed inward relative to their respective bosses 43 to form grooves 44. The two opposing grooves 44 are separated by a common bottom wall. The two grooves 44 and the diaphragm 1 form two chambers 11. In this case, this electrode plate 4 can be called a bipolar plate. The outer periphery of the opposing sides of the electrode plate 4 (the left and right sides of the electrode plate 4) protrudes to form an annular boss 43, which surrounds the groove 44. The first portion of the diaphragm 1 is clamped between the inner edges of the bosses 43 of the two electrode plates 4. Both sides of each electrode plate 4 (the left and right sides of the electrode plate 4) of the electrolytic cell form a chamber 11 with the corresponding diaphragm 1, so that each electrode plate 4 of the electrolytic cell and the other electrode plates 4 (the electrode plates 4 other than the two shown in the figure) form another electrolytic cell.

[0050] Specifically, Figure 3 The first electrode plate 4a is located on the left, and the second electrode plate 4b is located on the right. The diaphragm 1 is located between the first and second electrode plates 4a, 4b, and forms a chamber 11 with the groove 44 on the right side of the first electrode plate 4a and the groove 44 on the left side of the second electrode plate 4b. Specifically, the diaphragm 1 forms a first chamber 111 with the groove 44 on the right side of the first electrode plate 4a, and a second chamber 112 with the groove 44 on the left side of the second electrode plate 4b. Another diaphragm 1 can be located on the left side of the first electrode plate 4a and between another electrode plate 4 (not shown) located to the left of the first electrode plate 4a, and forms a chamber 11 with the groove 44 on the left side of the first electrode plate 4a and the groove 44 on the right side of the other electrode plate 4 (not shown) located to the left of the first electrode plate 4a, thereby forming another electrolytic cell. The second electrode plate 4b forms another electrolytic cell with another electrode plate 4 located to the right of the second electrode plate 4b in the same manner, which will not be repeated here.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, the first side of the plate 4 is shown ( Figure 4 The front side of the plate 4 is not shown, and the second side of the plate 4 is opposite to the first side ( Figure 4 The back of the middle plate 4). The groove 44 on the first side and the diaphragm 1 form a first chamber 111, and the groove 44 on the second side and the diaphragm 1 form a second chamber 112. The liquid inlet 41 is formed on the boss 43, and the liquid inlet 41 (located at Figure 4 The first liquid inlet 411 is formed on the boss 43 and the gas outlet 42 (located at the lower right in the figure) is connected to the first chamber 111 and is the first gas outlet 421, which allows hydrogen or oxygen to be discharged. The liquid inlet 41 (located at the lower right in the figure) is connected to the second chamber 112 and is the first gas outlet 421. Figure 4 The second liquid inlet 412 is connected to the second chamber 112 and the gas outlet 42 is connected to the second chamber 112. Figure 4 The second gas outlet 422 is provided in the upper right corner of the figure, allowing hydrogen or oxygen to be discharged.

[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, the protective sheet 9 is a roughly annular structure, whose inner diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the boss 43 (ie, smaller than the diameter of the groove 44 ), and the outer diameter of the protective sheet 9 can be equal to the outer diameter of the boss 43 .

[0053] Specifically, the protective sheet 9 is coaxially arranged with the groove 44, and the outer diameter of the protective sheet 9 can be equal to the outer diameter of the boss 43. The inner diameter of the protective sheet 9 is smaller than the diameter of the groove 44, so that the edge of the inner ring of the protective sheet 9 extends into the chamber 11 and is located between the edge of the electrode layer and the third portion of the diaphragm 1, and between the transition portion of the electrode plate 4 and the second portion of the diaphragm 1. When the diaphragm 1 is subjected to a cutting force, the protective sheet 9, made of an elastic material, can deform, thereby effectively absorbing the cutting force on the diaphragm 1 at the transition portion of the electrode plate 4 and the edge of the electrode layer, reducing the extent of damage to the diaphragm 1 caused by the cutting force, improving the protection of the diaphragm 1, and extending the service life of the diaphragm 1.

[0054] It is understood that the shape of the hollow structure of the boss 43 can be square, rectangular, polygonal, or irregular, etc. The shape of the protective sheet 9 matches the shape of the boss 43, and the outer edge of the protective sheet 9 can be roughly aligned with the outer edge of the boss 43. The inner edge of the protective sheet 9 extends into the groove 44 to extend into the chamber 11.

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, the difference between the inner diameter of the protective sheet 9 and the inner diameter of the annular boss 43 is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 1 mm, for example, 0.2 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm, 1 mm, etc.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the protective sheet 9 ranges from 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm. For example, it can be 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, or 0.4 mm, depending on actual needs. In an exemplary embodiment, two protective sheets 9 are provided, one on each side of the diaphragm 1.

[0057] In such an embodiment, the two protective sheets 9 are respectively located on both sides of the diaphragm 1, so that both sides of the second part of the diaphragm 1 located in the transition part can be protected by the protective sheet 9, thereby protecting the diaphragm 1 more comprehensively, dispersing and reducing the cutting force applied to the diaphragm 1, and avoiding the diaphragm 1 from being cut and damaged under the action of the cutting force, thereby effectively protecting the diaphragm 1 and extending the service life of the diaphragm 1.

[0058] In another exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the electrolysis unit further includes an insulating gasket 8 made of elastic material and a protective sheet 9, which are respectively located on both sides of the diaphragm 1. The insulating gasket 8 is configured to form one of the cavities with the diaphragm 1 and the corresponding electrode plate 4.

[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, the insulating gasket 8 is an annular structure, and the annular width of the insulating gasket 8 is the same as the annular width of the boss 43. Herein, the so-called "annular width" refers to the difference between the inner diameter and the outer diameter of the annular boss 43, for example.

[0060] In an exemplary embodiment, the material of the protection sheet 9 includes any one of polytetrafluoroethylene and rubber. The material of the protection sheet 9 is not limited here, and needs to be high temperature resistant, corrosion resistant and elastic.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the spring rate of the insulating gasket 8 is in the range of 40%-40.5%, for example, it can be 40%, 40.1%, 40.2%, 40.3%, 40.4%, 40.5%, etc.

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the insulating gasket 8 ranges from 2 mm to 3 mm, for example, it can be 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, etc., and is specifically limited according to actual needs.

[0063] According to the disclosed embodiments, protective sheet 9 and insulating gasket 8 have different thicknesses but are made of the same material. The spring rate of insulating gasket 8 is greater than that of protective sheet 9. Insulating gasket 8 can undergo slight deformation, counteracting the effects of environmental factors such as temperature and pressure fluctuations and maintaining the seal between chambers 11. Protective sheet 9 primarily absorbs the cutting force exerted on diaphragm 1 by electrode plates 4 and electrode layers, minimizing damage to diaphragm 1 caused by these forces.

[0064] Specifically, if Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the insulating gasket 8 and the protective sheet 9 are respectively located on both sides of the diaphragm 1 to protect both sides of the diaphragm 1. Figure 3 As shown, the insulating gasket 8 is located on the right side of the diaphragm 1. The insulating gasket 8 is an annular structure and is coaxial with the groove 44 of the electrode plate 4. The annular width of the insulating gasket 8 is the same as the annular width of the boss 43, so that the insulating gasket 8, the diaphragm 1 and the corresponding electrode plate 4 form one of the chambers 11 ( Figure 3 The chamber 112 on the right side of the middle diaphragm 1 isolates the electrolyte from the external environment. In this way, the insulating gasket 8, made of elastic material, can undergo slight deformation, absorbing the cutting force on the diaphragm 1 at the transition between the electrode layer edge and the electrode plate 4, reducing the degree of damage to the diaphragm 1 caused by the cutting force, thereby effectively protecting the diaphragm 1 and extending its service life.

[0065] In such an embodiment, the thickness of the protective sheet 9 is less than the thickness of the insulating gasket 8, which can reduce the impact of the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8 on the space of the chamber 11 when they expand or shrink, reduce the degree of separation between the diaphragm 1 and the electrode layer, and make the diaphragm 1 in close contact with the electrode layer.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the protective sheet 9 is located on the left side of the diaphragm 1. The inner edge of the protective sheet 9 extends into the chamber 11 and is located between the transition portion of the electrode plate 4 and the second portion of the diaphragm 1, and between the edge of the electrode layer and the third portion of the diaphragm 1. When the second and third portions of the diaphragm 1 are subjected to a cutting force, the protective sheet 9 made of elastic material can deform, thereby dispersing and reducing the cutting force on the diaphragm 1, thereby reducing the degree of damage to the diaphragm 1 and improving the protection of the diaphragm 1.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8 are both provided with matching clearance holes 81 at positions opposite to the liquid inlet 41 and the air outlet 42 .

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown, clearance holes 81 are provided on the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8 at positions opposite to the first liquid inlet hole 411 and the second liquid inlet hole 412, as well as at positions opposite to the first gas outlet hole 421 and the second gas outlet hole 422. Each clearance hole 81 penetrates the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8, thereby allowing the electrolyte to pass through the clearance hole 81 and enter the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 through the first liquid inlet hole 411 and the second liquid inlet hole 412, respectively, and allowing the generated hydrogen and oxygen to be discharged through the corresponding clearance hole 81 and gas outlet hole 42, respectively.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the liquid inlet 41 and the air outlet 42 are located at radially opposite positions of the boss 43 .

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 4 As shown, the grooves 44 on both sides of the plate 4 and the corresponding diaphragm 1 form a first chamber 111 and a second chamber 112. The first liquid inlet 411 (located at Figure 4 The first air outlet 421 (located at the upper left of the middle) is connected to the first chamber 111 to allow the electrolyte to enter the first chamber 111. Figure 4 The first liquid inlet 411 and the first gas outlet 421 are located in the same radial direction of the electrode plate 4, that is, opposite the boss 43.

[0071] The second liquid inlet hole 412 (located at Figure 4 The second vent hole 422 (located at the lower left of the middle) is connected to the second chamber 112 to allow the electrolyte to enter the second chamber 112. Figure 4 The second liquid inlet 412 and the second gas outlet 422 are located in the same radial direction of the electrode plate 4, that is, opposite the boss 43.

[0072] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first liquid inlet 411 and the first air outlet 421 communicating with the first chamber 111 are located at radially opposite positions of the boss 43 and in a first radial direction of the electrode plate 4. The second liquid inlet 412 and the second air outlet 422 communicating with the second chamber 112 are located at radially opposite positions of the boss 43 and in a second radial direction of the electrode plate 4 that intersects the first radial direction. In this way, the first liquid inlet 411 and the second liquid inlet 412 are staggered, and the first air outlet 421 and the second air outlet 422 are staggered.

[0073] Figure 5 A partial view of a plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 4and Figure 5 As shown, a plurality of closed first waterlines 431 are formed on the surface of the boss 43 near the groove 44, surrounding the boss 43. The first waterlines 431 are circular and match the shape of the groove 44. The plurality of first waterlines 431 are spaced apart from the inside to the outside in the radial direction of the boss 43. As a result, the first portion of the diaphragm 1 covers the plurality of first waterlines 431 and forms a chamber 11 with the groove 44.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first portion of the diaphragm 1 is clamped between the two plates 4, and the first portion of the diaphragm 1 covers multiple first waterlines 431. Specifically, the outer diameter of the first portion of the diaphragm 1 is less than or equal to the outer diameter of the boss 43, and greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the first waterline 431 located on the outermost side, so as to cover the multiple first waterlines 431. The first waterline 431 is configured as a closed structure, whereby when the electrolyte in the chamber 11 formed by the groove 44 of the diaphragm 1 and the plate 4 overflows due to pressure, the electrolyte flows into the first waterline 431 near the groove 44, and the electrolyte is filled between the first waterline 431 and the diaphragm 1, thereby achieving sealing. The multiple first waterlines 431 and the diaphragm 1 further enhance the sealing effect and reduce electrolyte overflow.

[0076] In addition, the first waterline 431 is a closed structure, forming a complete circular structure, so that the first waterline 431 does not generate cutting force on the diaphragm 1 due to the discontinuous structure, thereby avoiding the diaphragm 1 from rupturing and extending the service life of the diaphragm 1.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, a plurality of closed second waterlines 432 are formed on the surface of the boss 43 away from the groove 44. The second waterlines 432 are spaced apart from each other in the radial direction of the boss 43 from the inside to the outside so as to seal against the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8. For example, the second waterlines 432 seal against the outer edges of the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8.

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the liquid inlet 41 and the air outlet 42 are located in intervals between the region of the plurality of first waterlines 431 and the region of the plurality of second waterlines 432. The protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8 cover the boss 43 and cooperate with the second waterlines 432. The protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8 are partially embedded in the second waterlines 432, or the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8 are provided with ridges that cooperate with the second waterlines 432, thereby further improving the sealing between the protective sheet 9 and the insulating gasket 8 and the boss 43 of the electrode plate 4, respectively, preventing the electrolyte from overflowing through the liquid inlet 41 and preventing the leakage of generated hydrogen and oxygen.

[0079] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the depth of the first waterline 431 is less than the depth of the second waterline 432. Furthermore, the distance between adjacent first waterlines 431 is less than the distance between adjacent second waterlines 432.

[0080] According to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the depth of the depression of the first waterline 431 is shallower than that of the second waterline 432. That is, the depression of the first waterline 431 is shallower, and the distance between adjacent first waterlines 431 is closer, that is, the first waterlines 431 are relatively dense, resulting in a smaller amplitude of concavity and convexity in the area of ​​the first waterline 431. As a result, when the electrode plate 4 squeezes the diaphragm 1, the deformation of the contact area between the electrode plate 4 is smaller, reducing the cutting force generated by the first waterline 431 squeezing the diaphragm 1, thereby further preventing the diaphragm 1 from being cut by the cutting force.

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the electrolysis cell further includes two support portions 5, one located in each of the two chambers 11 and between the electrode plate 4 and the electrode layer, so that the electrode layer is in contact with the diaphragm 1. Thus, the electrode plate 4 and the support portions 5 position the electrode layer and the diaphragm 1, providing the required mechanical strength for the electrolysis cell.

[0082] In an exemplary embodiment, Figures 1 to 4 As shown, a flow channel 51 is provided on the side of the support portion 5 facing the diaphragm 1 to guide the electrolyte to flow and disperse.

[0083] According to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the electrolyte flowing into the chamber 11 through the liquid inlet 41 is dispersed under the guidance of the flow channel 51, thereby increasing the contact area between the electrolyte and the electrode layer and improving the electrolysis efficiency.

[0084] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, a nickel foam layer 6 is provided between the cathode layer 2 and / or the anode layer 3 and the support portion 5. The nickel foam layer 6 can play a catalytic role, thereby improving catalytic efficiency and electrolysis efficiency.

[0085] Figure 6 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of an electrolytic cell according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown.

[0086] The embodiment of the present disclosure also provides an electrolytic cell, such as Figure 6 As shown, the electrolytic cell includes a plurality of electrolytic units as described above, two end plates 72, and a mounting assembly 73. The plurality of electrolytic units of the electrolytic cell 7 are stacked in sequence to form a stack structure 71. The two end plates 72 are located at opposite ends of the stack structure 71. The mounting assembly 73 is adapted to secure the stack structure 71 to the two end plates 72.

[0087] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 6 As shown, the electrolytic cells are arranged vertically, and multiple electrolytic cells are stacked in sequence in the horizontal direction to form a stack structure 71. Two end plates 72 are located on the left and right sides of the stack structure 71, respectively, and the end plates 72 are coaxially aligned with the stack structure 71. The mounting assembly 73 includes a plurality of bolts, which surround the outside of the stack structure 71 and are evenly spaced. The periphery of the end plates 72 is provided with a plurality of mounting holes for mounting the bolts. The plurality of bolts pass through the plurality of mounting holes, respectively, and are suitable for fixing the stack structure 71 to the two end plates 72.

[0088] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the electrode plates 4 and the diaphragms 1 of the stacking structure 71 are stacked alternately in sequence, and both sides of each electrode plate 4 of the electrolysis unit form a cavity 11 with the corresponding diaphragm 1, so that each electrode plate 4 forms another electrolysis unit with other electrode plates 4.

[0089] Specifically, if Figure 3 As shown, the electrolytic cell includes two electrode plates 4. The electrode plates 4 and the diaphragms 1 of the stacked structure 71 are arranged alternately. The central area of ​​each electrode plate 4 on the side facing the diaphragm 1 is recessed inward relative to the boss 43 to form a groove 44. In other words, each electrode plate 4 is provided with two grooves 44, one on the left and one on the right side of the electrode plate 4.

[0090] The electrode plate 4 on the left side of the electrolytic cell is the first electrode plate 4a, and the electrode plate 4 on the right side is the second electrode plate 4b. The groove 44 on the right side of the first electrode plate 4a and the groove 44 on the left side of the second electrode plate 4b form a chamber 11 with the diaphragm 1, thereby forming an electrolytic cell. The groove 44 on the left side of the first electrode plate 4a of the electrolytic cell and the groove 44 on the right side of another electrode plate 4 (not shown) located to the left of the first electrode plate 4a form another electrolytic cell. The groove 44 on the right side of the second electrode plate 4b and the groove 44 on the left side of yet another electrode plate 4 (not shown) located to the right of the second electrode plate 4b form yet another electrolytic cell.

[0091] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each electrode plate 4 is provided with two grooves 44, so that each electrode plate 4 of the electrolytic unit forms a chamber 11 with the corresponding diaphragm 1, and each electrode plate 4 forms another electrolytic unit with other electrode plates 4, which can reduce the volume of the stacking structure 71, thereby reducing the volume of the electrolytic cell 7.

[0092] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the chamber 11 of each electrolysis unit includes a first chamber 111 ( Figure 4 The middle front chamber) and the second chamber 112 ( Figure 4In this way, the first chambers 111 and the second chambers 112 of the plurality of electrolytic units of the electrolytic tank 7 are alternately arranged in sequence.

[0093] Each liquid inlet hole 41 communicating with the first chamber 111 is aligned in the stacking direction to form a first liquid inlet channel 74. Each liquid inlet hole 41 communicating with the second chamber 112 is aligned in the stacking direction to form a second liquid inlet channel 75. The first liquid inlet channel 74 and the second liquid inlet channel 75 are configured to allow electrolyte to enter the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 of each electrolytic cell, respectively.

[0094] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, each gas outlet hole 42 communicating with the first chamber 111 is oppositely arranged to form a first gas outlet channel 76, and each gas outlet hole 42 communicating with the second chamber 112 is oppositely arranged to form a second gas outlet channel 77. The first gas outlet channel 76 and the second gas outlet channel 77 are constructed to allow hydrogen or oxygen to be discharged.

[0095] According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the electrolyte can enter the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 of each electrolytic cell through the first liquid inlet channel 74 and the second liquid inlet channel 75, respectively. Under the action of direct current, the electrolyte in the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112 is dissociated to release hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen and oxygen are discharged through the first outlet channel 76 and the second outlet channel 77, respectively. Multiple electrolytic cells are provided in the stacked structure 71 of the electrolytic cell 7, achieving integration.

[0096] According to the electrolysis unit and electrolytic cell for producing hydrogen based on electrolysis of water provided by the present disclosure, the diaphragm 1 is sealed and combined between the two electrode plates 4 to form two chambers 11 suitable for accommodating the electrolyte with the two electrode plates 4. The two electrode layers are respectively located in the two chambers 11. Under the action of direct current, the electrolyte is dissociated and separated into hydrogen and oxygen. Since the two electrode layers are respectively located in the chambers 11 on both sides of the diaphragm 1 and are tightly fitted with the diaphragm 1, the diaphragm 1 is sealed and combined between the two electrode plates 4. At this time, the second part of the diaphragm 1 located at the edge of the chamber 11 is easily cut by the cutting force generated by the squeezing force of the transition part of the electrode plate 4. In addition, since the edge position of the electrode layer is relatively sharp, it will also squeeze the third part of the diaphragm 1 to generate a cutting force and cause it to be cut. By providing an annular protective sheet 9 located between the diaphragm 1 and the electrode plate 4, the inner ring edge of the protective sheet 9 extends into the chamber 11 and is located between the edge of the electrode layer and the third part of the diaphragm 1, and between the transition part of the electrode plate 4 and the second part of the diaphragm 1. The protective sheet 9 is made of an elastic material and has elasticity, so that the transition part of the electrode plate 4 and the edge of the electrode layer can elastically contact the diaphragm 1. When the second part and the third part of the diaphragm 1 are subjected to cutting force, the protective sheet 9 can deform, effectively absorbing the cutting force of the transition part of the electrode plate 4 and the edge of the electrode layer on the diaphragm 1, reducing the degree of damage to the diaphragm 1 caused by the cutting force, improving the protection of the diaphragm 1, and extending the service life of the diaphragm 1.

[0097] The embodiments of the present disclosure are described above. However, these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Although each embodiment has been described separately above, this does not mean that the measures in each embodiment cannot be used in combination to advantage. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, those skilled in the art may make various substitutions and modifications, which should all fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An electrolysis unit based on a water electrolysis hydrogen production electrolyzer, characterized in that: include: diaphragm (1); Two electrode plates (4), the diaphragm (1) being sealed and combined between the two electrode plates (4) to form two chambers (11) suitable for containing electrolyte with the two electrode plates (4); Two electrode layers are respectively located in the two chambers (11), so that the electrolyte reacts to release hydrogen and oxygen; as well as At least one annular protective sheet (9) is made of elastic material and is arranged between the diaphragm (1) and the electrode plate (4). The inner ring edge of the protective sheet (9) extends into the chamber (11) and is located between the edge of the electrode layer and the diaphragm (1) to protect the diaphragm (1).

2. The electrolysis unit according to claim 1, characterized in that Each of the polar plates (4) comprises: a groove (44) located on a side of the electrode plate (4) facing the diaphragm (1) and forming the chamber (11) together with the diaphragm (1); and An annular boss (43) surrounds the groove (44), and the boss (43) is provided with a liquid inlet (41) allowing the electrolyte to enter the chamber (11), and an outlet (42) allowing the hydrogen or oxygen to be discharged.

3. The electrolysis unit according to claim 2, characterized in that The inner diameter of the protective sheet (9) is smaller than the inner diameter of the boss (43), and the outer diameter of the protective sheet (9) is equal to the outer diameter of the boss (43).

4. The electrolysis unit according to claim 3, characterized in that The difference between the inner diameter of the protective sheet (9) and the inner diameter of the annular boss (43) is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 1 mm.

5. The electrolysis unit according to claim 1, characterized in that The thickness of the protective sheet (9) ranges from 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm.

6. The electrolysis unit according to claim 1, characterized in that Two protective sheets (9) are provided, and the two protective sheets (9) are respectively located on both sides of the diaphragm (1).

7. The electrolysis unit according to claim 2, characterized in that The invention also includes an insulating gasket (8), wherein the insulating gasket (8) is made of an elastic material, and the protective sheet (9) is provided with one, wherein the insulating gasket (8) and the protective sheet (9) are respectively located on both sides of the diaphragm (1), and the insulating gasket (8) is constructed to form one of the chambers (11) with the diaphragm (1) and the corresponding electrode plate (4).

8. The electrolysis unit according to claim 7, characterized in that The material of the protective sheet (9) and the insulating gasket (8) includes any one of polytetrafluoroethylene and rubber.

9. The electrolysis unit according to claim 7, characterized in that The insulating gasket (8) is an annular structure, and the annular width of the insulating gasket (8) is the same as the annular width of the boss (43).

10. The electrolysis unit according to claim 7, characterized in that The springback rate of the insulating gasket (8) is in the range of 40%-40.5%.

11. The electrolysis unit according to claim 7, characterized in that The thickness of the insulating gasket (8) ranges from 2 mm to 3 mm.

12. The electrolysis unit according to claim 7, characterized in that The protective sheet (9) and the insulating gasket (8) are both provided with matching clearance holes (81) at positions relative to the liquid inlet (41) and the air outlet (42).

13. The electrolysis unit according to claim 7, characterized in that A plurality of closed first waterlines (431) surrounding the boss (43) are formed on the surface of the boss (43) near the groove (44), and the plurality of first waterlines (431) are spaced apart from the inside to the outside in the radial direction of the boss (43). The edge of the diaphragm (1) covers the plurality of first waterlines (431) and forms the chamber (11) with the groove (44).

14. The electrolysis unit according to claim 13, characterized in that A plurality of closed second waterlines (432) are formed on the surface of the boss (43) away from the groove (44), and the second waterlines (432) are spaced apart from each other from the inside to the outside in the radial direction of the boss (43) so as to be sealed and fitted with the protective sheet (9) and the insulating gasket (8).

15. The electrolysis cell according to claim 14, characterized in that The depth of the first waterline (431) is less than the depth of the second waterline (432).

16. An electrolytic cell, characterized in that: include: A plurality of electrolytic units according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the plurality of electrolytic units are stacked in sequence to form a stacked structure (71); Two end plates (72), respectively located at two ends of the plurality of stacked structures (71); as well as The mounting assembly (73) is adapted to fix the stacking structure (71) and the two end plates (72).

17. The electrolytic cell according to claim 16, characterized in that The electrode plates (4) and the diaphragms (1) of the stacking structure (71) are stacked alternately in sequence, and both sides of each electrode plate (4) of the electrolysis unit form a chamber (11) with the corresponding diaphragm (1), so that each electrode plate (4) and other electrode plates (4) form another electrolysis unit.

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