A high-efficiency plasma hydrogen production device and method

Abstract

This invention belongs to the field of hydrogen production technology, and provides a plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device and method. The plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production method relies on the aforementioned plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device and includes the following steps: opening the replenishment port and injecting an alcohol solution until the alcohol solution covers the electrodes; starting the high-voltage power supply and applying voltage between the electrodes, subsequently generating hydrogen gas; discharging the hydrogen gas through the outlet, followed by condensation and purification of the hydrogen gas, and finally collecting the treated hydrogen gas. Compared with existing technologies, this invention combines plasma discharge, a catalyst, and a specific electrode structure, bringing new technological innovation and solutions to the field of hydrogen production technology.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of hydrogen production technology, and particularly relates to a plasma high-efficiency hydrogen production device and method. Background Technology

[0002] Hydrogen energy, due to its exceptionally high calorific value and clean combustion characteristics, has gradually gained global attention and is widely regarded by the scientific research and industrial communities as an ideal energy source to replace fossil fuels in the future. With the increasing global demand for clean energy, the importance of hydrogen energy as a pollution-free energy solution is becoming increasingly prominent, making it a research focus in the field of new energy.

[0003] Currently, most hydrogen production methods still rely on fossil fuels, such as catalytic reforming. While water electrolysis offers a cleaner hydrogen production route, its energy efficiency still needs improvement. Water electrolysis consumes a significant amount of energy, making it difficult to exceed 4 kWh / m³. 3 H2.

[0004] Therefore, we provide a plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device and method. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device and method, aiming to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0006] The present invention is implemented as follows: a plasma high-efficiency hydrogen production device includes a reaction chamber, electrodes, and a catalyst bed; there are two electrodes, each extending into the reaction chamber, and the catalyst bed is disposed inside the reaction chamber; the reaction chamber is provided with a liquid inlet and a gas outlet, and the reaction chamber is filled with an alcohol solution.

[0007] Optionally, a plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device further includes an insulating sleeve, which is sleeved on the outside of the electrode, and the inner wall of the insulating sleeve is in contact with the electrode.

[0008] Optionally, the insulating sleeve is made of ceramic or polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0009] Optionally, the insulating sleeve connects the electrode to the catalyst bed, and the catalyst bed is in contact with the insulating sleeve.

[0010] Optionally, the catalyst bed has a dense porous structure, and a hydrogen evolution catalyst is supported on the catalyst bed.

[0011] Optionally, the catalyst bed is porous ceramic, nickel foam, or copper foam.

[0012] A plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production method, which relies on the aforementioned plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device, includes the following steps:

[0013] S1. Open the replenishment port and inject alcohol solution until the alcohol solution covers the electrode.

[0014] S2. Start the high-voltage power supply, apply voltage between the electrodes, and then hydrogen gas is produced.

[0015] S3. Hydrogen gas is discharged from the outlet, then condensed and purified, and finally the treated hydrogen gas is collected.

[0016] Optionally, the discharge voltage of the electrode is 2-15kV, the electrode spacing is 5-20mm, and the discharge frequency is 500-5000Hz.

[0017] The beneficial effects achieved by this invention are as follows:

[0018] By combining plasma technology and specific catalysts, this invention effectively improves hydrogen production efficiency. Compared to traditional catalytic reforming or electrolysis methods, this invention can achieve higher hydrogen production with lower energy input. This invention employs a simplified operating procedure, including liquid injection, discharge plasma generation, and hydrogen collection and processing. This not only reduces the number of steps in the operation but also lowers the skill requirements for operators, making the process easier to implement.

[0019] This invention primarily uses methanol as a raw material, with carbon monoxide as the main byproduct, which can also be used as fuel. The needle-needle electrode structure achieves efficient discharge and hydrogen generation, reducing the manufacturing and operating costs of the equipment. Furthermore, the use of a low-concentration alcohol solution as a raw material further reduces raw material costs.

[0020] Compared to existing technologies, this invention combines plasma discharge, catalysts, and specific electrode structures, bringing new technological innovations and solutions to the field of hydrogen production technology. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the plasma high-efficiency hydrogen production device provided by the present invention;

[0023] The attached figures are labeled as follows:

[0024] 1-Reaction chamber, 11-Replenishment port, 12-Gas outlet, 2-Electrode, 21-Insulating sleeve, 3-Catalyst bed. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0026] The terms "first" and "second," etc., used in this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps, operations, components, or modules is not limited to the listed steps, operations, components, or modules, but may optionally include steps, operations, components, or modules not listed, or may optionally include other steps, operations, components, or modules inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0027] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0028] Example 1

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown in the exemplary embodiment, a plasma high-efficiency hydrogen production device includes a reaction chamber 1, electrodes 2, and a catalyst bed 3; there are two electrodes 2, each extending into the reaction chamber 1, and the catalyst bed 3 is disposed inside the reaction chamber 1; the reaction chamber 1 is provided with a liquid replenishment port 11 and a gas outlet 12, and the reaction chamber 1 is filled with an alcohol solution.

[0030] According to specific requirements, select an appropriate alcohol type and dissolve it in a suitable solvent to form an alcohol solution. Pour the prepared alcohol solution into reaction chamber 1 through the replenishment port 11 until the desired level is reached. Ensure that both electrodes 2 are inserted into reaction chamber 1 and are not in contact with each other. Inside reaction chamber 1, ensure that the catalyst bed 3 is properly positioned to utilize plasma-assisted catalysis to accelerate hydrogen generation. Provide voltage to electrodes 2 via an external power source. When plasma is formed, the alcohol solution will begin to decompose, releasing hydrogen. Due to hydrogen production, the pressure inside the reaction chamber may rise. For safety, the exhaust port 12 can be opened to safely guide the hydrogen to an external collection device. Alcohol decomposition causes the liquid level to drop, making it difficult to ensure the liquid level covers the two electrodes. Therefore, replenish the alcohol solution through the replenishment port 11 to ensure the liquid level covers the two electrodes, allowing plasma to be directly ignited in the liquid. Sensors can be used to monitor the state of the gas and liquid inside the reaction chamber, as well as the purity and quantity of the produced hydrogen, for adjustments.

[0031] In this embodiment, the discharge voltage of electrode 2 is 2-15kV, the electrode spacing is 5-20mm, and the discharge frequency is 500-5000Hz.

[0032] As an example, a plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device further includes an insulating sleeve 21, which is sleeved on the outside of the electrode 2, and the inner wall of the insulating sleeve 21 is in contact with the electrode 2.

[0033] By adding an insulating sleeve 21 to electrode 2, energy loss is reduced, and plasma is generated at the electrode tip; in addition, accidental electrical contact can be prevented, improving the operational safety of the equipment.

[0034] As an example, the insulating sleeve 21 is made of ceramic or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Choosing ceramic or PTFE as the material for the insulating sleeve ensures excellent insulation, enhancing the durability and safety of the equipment.

[0035] As an example, the insulating sleeve 21 connects to the electrode 2 and extends into the catalyst bed 3, with the catalyst bed 3 in contact with the insulating sleeve 21. This contact design between the insulating sleeve 21 and the catalyst bed 3 ensures that the high heat generated during discharge is fully utilized by the catalyst loaded on the catalyst bed 3, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the plasma-catalysis equipment.

[0036] As an example, the catalyst bed 3 has a dense porous structure; the hydrogen evolution catalyst is supported on the catalyst bed 3. This dense porous structure is designed to improve catalytic efficiency while allowing liquid to continuously enter the plasma discharge region, making the hydrogen production process more efficient and stable.

[0037] Dense porous structures are material structures characterized by high organization and fine pores. These structures have wide applications in various scientific and engineering fields because they offer a large surface area to volume ratio, as well as specific pore sizes and shapes. The following is a detailed description of dense porous structures:

[0038] This term describes the overall robustness and continuity of a structure. Despite the presence of numerous pores, these pores are ordered and fine, and the overall material remains relatively hard and compact. In porous materials, the pore size can be controlled from the nanoscale to the microscale through specific synthesis and processing methods. Pores can be spherical, tubular, honeycomb-like, or various other shapes. It refers to the ratio of the volume of pores in a material to the volume of the overall material.

[0039] As an example, the catalyst bed 3 is porous ceramic, nickel foam, or copper foam.

[0040] Among them, porous ceramics possess excellent thermal stability, chemical stability, and mechanical strength, and their porosity can be controlled by adjusting the preparation conditions. Nickel foam exhibits high specific surface area, good electrical and thermal conductivity, and excellent mechanical properties. Copper foam combines the good electrical and thermal conductivity of copper with the advantages of porous materials, such as lightweight and high specific surface area.

[0041] A plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production method, which relies on the aforementioned plasma-based high-efficiency hydrogen production device, includes the following steps:

[0042] S1. Open the liquid inlet and inject the alcohol solution until it covers electrode 2.

[0043] S2. Start the high-voltage power supply, apply voltage between electrodes 2, and then hydrogen gas is generated.

[0044] S3. Hydrogen gas is discharged from outlet 12, and then the hydrogen gas is condensed and purified. Finally, the treated hydrogen gas is collected.

[0045] As an example, the high-voltage power supply is an AC, DC, or high-frequency pulse power supply.

[0046] As an example, the discharge voltage of the electrode 2 is 2-15kV, the electrode spacing is 5-20mm, and the discharge frequency is 500-5000Hz.

[0047] More specifically, S1: Alcohol solution injection: An alcohol solution is injected into the reaction chamber 1 through the replenishment port 11. The reaction chamber is already equipped with electrode 2 and catalyst bed 3.

[0048] The purpose of injecting the alcohol solution is to ensure that the liquid fully covers electrode 2, thereby providing a medium for the subsequent generation of liquid-phase discharge plasma.

[0049] S2: Discharge Plasma Generation: Once the alcohol solution has properly filled reaction chamber 1 and covered electrode 2, the high-voltage power supply can be activated. Voltage is applied between electrodes 2, generating a strong electric field. Under this high electric field, molecules in the alcohol solution are ionized, generating plasma. The alcohol (such as methanol) undergoes a cracking reaction under the influence of the plasma, producing hydrogen and other byproducts. Simultaneously, the catalyst bed 3 utilizes the high temperature generated in the discharge region to catalyze this process, further increasing the hydrogen generation rate and reducing the generation of other harmful gases.

[0050] S3: Hydrogen collection and processing

[0051] The generated hydrogen gas rises from reaction chamber 1 and is discharged through outlet 12.

[0052] To ensure the purity of hydrogen, it needs to be condensed. In this process, the hydrogen is cooled, causing impurities in the gas (such as water vapor, alcohol vapor, and other byproducts) to condense and be separated.

[0053] Furthermore, purification can be carried out using techniques such as pressure swing adsorption and membrane separation to ensure that the purity of the obtained hydrogen meets industrial standards.

[0054] In this embodiment, a needle-needle type electrode structure was used, ensuring a distance of 15 mm between the two electrodes. During hydrogen production, a discharge voltage of 2 kV was set, and high-frequency discharge at 3000 Hz was employed. Furthermore, to improve hydrogen generation efficiency, a Ni catalyst was loaded onto the catalyst bed. For the hydrogen production feedstock, a 75% methanol aqueous solution was selected. Under these conditions and configuration, a hydrogen production rate of 4.0 L / min was successfully achieved.

[0055] The needle-needle electrode structure is a discharge electrode configuration in which both electrodes are needle-shaped. This structure can generate a strong electric field between the two needle tips, making it easier to generate discharge. Due to its small discharge gap and strong electric field concentration, the needle-needle electrode structure is particularly suitable for high-frequency, small-gap discharge applications. In plasma hydrogen production, this structure helps to achieve efficient discharge and hydrogen generation.

[0056] Example 2

[0057] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that: a needle-needle electrode structure is adopted, the electrode distance is 20mm, the discharge voltage is 5kV, the discharge frequency is 3000Hz, and the catalyst is bed-supported with Ni catalyst. When using a 75% volume fraction methanol aqueous solution as raw material, the hydrogen production flow rate reaches 6.5L / min.

[0058] Example 3

[0059] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that: a needle-needle electrode structure is adopted, the electrode distance is 20mm, the discharge voltage is 5kV, the discharge frequency is 3000Hz, and the catalyst is bed-supported with Ni-Cu catalyst. When using a 75% volume fraction methanol aqueous solution as raw material, the hydrogen production flow rate reaches 8.0L / min.

[0060] Example 4

[0061] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that: a rod-rod electrode structure is adopted, the electrode distance is 20mm, the discharge voltage is 5kV, the discharge frequency is 3000Hz, and the catalyst is bed-supported with Ni-Cu catalyst. When using a 75% volume fraction methanol aqueous solution as raw material, the hydrogen production flow rate reaches 8.5L / min.

[0062] The "rod-rod electrode structure" refers to two parallel cylindrical electrodes, with an electric field generated in the space between them. Compared to the "needle-needle electrode structure," the electric field distribution in this structure is relatively uniform rather than highly concentrated.

[0063] Example 5

[0064] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that: a rod-rod electrode structure is adopted, the electrode distance is 20mm, the discharge voltage is 5kV, the discharge frequency is 3000Hz, the catalyst is bed-supported with Ni-Cu catalyst, and the hydrogen production flow rate reaches 7.6L / min when using 50% volume fraction ethanol aqueous solution as raw material;

[0065] Example 6

[0066] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that: a rod-rod electrode structure is adopted, the electrode distance is 20mm, the discharge voltage is 15kV, the discharge frequency is 3000Hz, and the catalyst is bed-supported with Ni-Mo catalyst. When using a 75% volume fraction methanol aqueous solution as raw material, the hydrogen production flow rate reaches 18.5L / min.

[0067] The exemplary embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and the exemplary embodiments obtained by combination also fall within the scope of this application.

[0068] This application uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A plasma high efficiency hydrogen production device, characterized by, It comprises a reaction chamber (1), electrodes (2) and a catalyst bed (3); the electrodes (2) are two and respectively extend into the reaction chamber (1), and the catalyst bed (3) is arranged inside the reaction chamber (1); the reaction chamber (1) is provided with a liquid supplementing port (11) and a gas outlet (12), and is filled with an alcohol solution; The plasma hydrogen production device further comprises an insulating sleeve (21) sleeved on the outside of the electrode (2), and the inner wall of the insulating sleeve (21) is attached to the electrode (2); The insulating sleeve (21) is communicated with the electrode (2) extending into the catalyst bed (3), and the catalyst bed (3) is in contact with the insulating sleeve (21). The electrode (2) is a needle-needle electrode structure or a rod-rod electrode structure.

2. The plasma high efficiency hydrogen generator of claim 1, wherein, The insulating sleeve (21) is made of ceramic or polytetrafluoroethylene.

3. The hydrogen generation device with high plasma efficiency according to claim 1, wherein, The catalyst bed (3) is a dense porous structure, and the catalyst bed (3) is loaded with a Ni catalyst, a Ni-Cu catalyst or a Ni-Mo catalyst.

4. The hydrogen generation device of claim 3, wherein, The catalyst bed (3) is a porous ceramic, a nickel foam or a copper foam.

5. A method of efficiently producing hydrogen by plasma, characterized by, The method is implemented by using the plasma hydrogen production device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and comprises the following steps: S1. Open the liquid supplementing port and inject an alcohol solution so that the alcohol solution covers the electrodes (2); S2. Start a high-voltage power supply, and apply a voltage between the electrodes (2) to generate hydrogen gas; S3. Discharge the hydrogen gas from the gas outlet (12), and then condense and purify the hydrogen gas, and finally collect the treated hydrogen gas.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the hydrogen is produced at a rate of at least 1.0 g / hr / L of plasma. The high-voltage power supply is an alternating current, direct current or high-frequency pulse power supply.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the hydrogen is produced at a rate of at least 1.0 g / hr / L of plasma. The discharge voltage of the electrode (2) is 2-15 kV, the electrode spacing is 5-20 mm, and the discharge frequency is 500-5000 Hz.

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