Electro-synthetic or electrical energy cell with liquid characteristics

Abstract

Disclosed is an electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell, the electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell comprising: a cathode; an anode; and an electrode separator positioned between the cathode and the anode. The liquid electrolyte inlet supplies a liquid electrolyte to the cell and the liquid electrolyte outlet removes the liquid electrolyte from the cell. The liquid electrolyte outlet includes an overflow weir across or through which excess liquid electrolyte flows out of the cell. In another form, one or more instillators are included as part of a liquid electrolyte inlet and / or a liquid electrolyte outlet, and an instillation chamber is positioned below the instillators. In another form, one or more porous capillary structures are located in a liquid passage in the cell (e.g., in a liquid passage provided by an overflow weir) or positioned adjacent the instillator. In another form, one or more current limiters are utilized that create a pressure drop in the liquid electrolyte passing through the current limiter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention broadly relates to electrochemical cells containing liquids, for example for use as electrosynthesis cells or power cells. Example embodiments relate to cell architectures that maintain liquid levels within the cell during operation while avoiding unwanted shunting currents. Background Art

[0002] Energy cells are electrochemical cells that generate electricity over a sustained period of time for use outside the cell. Energy cells differ from other primary cells in that they require a constant external supply of reactants. The products of the electrochemical reaction must also be continuously removed from the cell. Unlike batteries, energy cells do not store chemical or electrical energy within the cell.

[0003] Examples of battery cells include, but are not limited to, polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells, hydrogen-oxygen alkaline fuel cells, ammonia fuel cells, and so on.

[0004] An electrosynthesis cell can be similarly thought of as an electrochemical cell that produces one or more chemical materials for use outside the cell over a sustained period of time. The chemical materials can be in the form of gases, liquids, or solids. Like power cells, electrosynthesis cells require a constant supply of reactants and a constant removal of products. Electrosynthesis cells may further require a constant input of electrical energy.

[0005] Examples of electrosynthesized battery cells include, but are not limited to: water electrolyzers, chlor-alkali battery cells, and battery cells used to manufacture hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, etc.

[0006] Another characteristic of electrosynthesis or power cells is the large amounts of reactants and products typically involved in their operation. Such cells need to be continuously fed with large amounts of reactants, while at the same time large amounts of products must be continuously removed.

[0007] Because a significant amount of electrical energy is involved in operating and electrosynthesizing battery cells, a key challenge in their development is making them as energy-efficient as possible during operation. This can be achieved in part by minimizing their impedance. Impedance is the resistance that a cell circuit presents to current when a voltage is applied. A well-known method for minimizing impedance is to employ a cell architecture in which the anode and cathode electrodes of the cell are placed facing each other and as close to each other as possible without touching (which would create a short circuit). Ideally, the gap between the two electrodes should also be occupied by an electrolyte with the highest possible conductivity. Generally, liquid electrolytes have the highest conductivity as a category. Liquid electrolytes can be incorporated within porous inter-electrode spacers (also called “diaphragms”), which serve to prevent the electrodes from touching each other.

[0008] Accordingly, many power cells or electrosynthetic cells employ a liquid electrolyte within the cell or component half-cell itself, which can be highly conductive. An important feature of such cells is the need to maintain the amount of liquid in the cell or half-cell; that is, the liquid level in the cell or half-cell needs to be maintained to thereby ensure that the liquid level never drops too low or rises too high (which could hinder the operation of the cell). There are several mechanical or electronic methods to detect and then automatically adjust the liquid level within the cell or component half-cell.

[0009] A further challenge with this type of electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell is that, in industrial applications, they are often ‘stacked’ with multiple other cells in electrical series to create a ‘cell stack’. This is typically achieved in a so-called ‘filter press’ arrangement (or ‘plate and frame filter press’ arrangement). In such an arrangement, individual cells having a substantially flat profile are stacked between two end plates, which are then pressed towards each other. This causes the stacked cells in between to: (i) make and maintain electrical contact with each other (in electrical series), (ii) be securely held within the stack, and (iii) form a single electrical energy or electrosynthesis device, i.e., a filter press-type cell stack. The cell stack then has the output of all the combined cells and their combined consumption. For example, 100 or more cells may be present in a single cell stack. Furthermore, the cells can be thin; for example, their thickness can be 1 cm or less. Additionally, the cells may contain highly corrosive electrolytes, such as strongly alkaline or strongly acidic electrolytes. If the individual cells are securely held in a filter press arrangement, the cell stack can be treated as a single device, with the products it generates and the reactants it consumes handled only by a few suitable external systems. In this way, it becomes potentially possible to aggregate the large number of reactants and products involved in an electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell into a single external product and / or reactant stream that is easier to manage than multiple smaller streams.

[0010] A further challenge is that one or more liquid electrolyte bodies in each battery cell or half battery cell in such a stack can be connected to each other. That is, there may be a continuous or connected body of a common liquid electrolyte present in all or many battery cells. In such cases, unwanted 'shunt' current (also referred to as 'bypass' current or 'parasitic' current) can occur. Shunt current typically flows between the electrodes in the different battery cells in the stack. They are often driven by a voltage difference that is greater than the voltage difference between the two electrodes in each battery cell. Therefore, the shunt current avoids and competes with the desired current path, which is located between the two electrodes in each battery cell. Shunt current may cause significant efficiency loss, corrosion, and uneven battery cell performance. Shunt current can also relate to one or more surfaces in the electrochemical system.

[0011] Correspondingly, there is a need to address or mitigate one or more of these problems. For example, there is a need to maintain the amount or level of liquid in an electrical or electrosynthetic cell or half-cell without the need for complex or otherwise undesirable electronic or mechanical sensing devices, while simultaneously avoiding or reducing the presence of shunt current between cells or half-cells.

[0012] References to any prior publications (or information derived therefrom) or any known matters in this specification are not, and should not be construed as, an acknowledgment or endorsement, or any form of implication, that such prior publications (or information derived therefrom) or known matters constitute part of the general knowledge in the field of effort covered by this specification. Summary of the Invention

[0013] This overview is provided to introduce selected concepts in a simplified form, as further described below in the detailed embodiments. This overview is not intended to identify all the key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0014] In various example aspects, embodiments relate to an electric energy or electrosynthesis cell comprising a liquid electrolyte, and it is desirable to control the level of the liquid electrolyte within the cell. Preferably, such embodiments include at least one liquid electrolyte inlet and at least one liquid electrolyte outlet. Preferably, in one embodiment, the at least one liquid electrolyte outlet comprises an overflow weir (which may also be referred to as an overflow waterfall, overflow dam, overflow dike, overflow dam, overflow barrier, overflow cascade, overflow grating, or overflow wall) over which excess liquid electrolyte flows. Preferably, the height of the overflow weir (i.e., waterfall, dam, dike, dam, barrier, cascade, grating, or wall) sets the level of the liquid electrolyte in the electric energy or electrosynthesis cell (e.g., for the entire cell or for a component half-cell).

[0015] In one exemplary aspect, an electric energy or electrosynthesis cell is provided, comprising: a cathode and an anode; a liquid electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid electrolyte to the cell; and a liquid electrolyte outlet for removing liquid electrolyte from the cell, wherein the liquid electrolyte outlet may include an overflow weir over which excess liquid electrolyte flows.

[0016] Preferably, the overflow weir over which excess liquid electrolyte flows has a porous capillary structure, which is located at the weir, across the mouth of the weir, or near the point where the liquid overflows from the weir. A 'porous capillary structure' is a porous material that uses capillary action to draw in and retain the liquid electrolyte. Such a porous capillary structure uses capillary pressure to retain the liquid electrolyte, thereby promoting the movement of the liquid electrolyte into and through the porous capillary structure, but hindering the movement of gas and its entrainment into and through the porous capillary structure. Preferably, the porous capillary structure prevents gas from above the liquid level in the cell or half-cell from being drawn in and co-mixed with the liquid flow passing through the overflow weir. Preferably, the liquid passing through the weir flows away as a homogeneous liquid phase without co-mixed gas. A first porous capillary structure may be located at or downstream of the first overflow weir, and / or a second porous capillary structure may be located at or downstream of the second overflow weir.

[0017] In another example aspect, an electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell is provided, comprising: a cathode and an anode; a liquid electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid electrolyte to the battery cell; and a liquid electrolyte outlet for removing liquid electrolyte from the battery cell; wherein the liquid electrolyte inlet and / or the liquid electrolyte outlet are in fluid communication with a dripper.

[0018] In another example aspect, an electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell is provided, comprising: a cathode and an anode; a liquid electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid electrolyte to the battery cell; and a liquid electrolyte outlet for removing liquid electrolyte from the battery cell, the liquid electrolyte outlet including an overflow weir over which excess liquid electrolyte flows; wherein the liquid electrolyte inlet and / or liquid electrolyte outlet are in fluid communication with a dripper.

[0019] A 'drip dripper' is a device that reliably and reliably (if not fail-safe) breaks a flow of liquid through it into a continuous, consistent, uniform, and / or regular stream of droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions of liquid electrolyte with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) therebetween over a relatively long period of continuous or sustained operation. Preferably, the gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) constitute non-conductive voids (i.e., non-conductive gas voids) that effectively disrupt the conductivity of the incoming flow of liquid electrolyte, which is otherwise conductive along the incoming flow. That is, where the liquid passing through the drip dripper is a conductive electrolyte, preferably, as a result of the drip dripper reliably and reliably (if not fail-safe) breaking the flow of liquid through it into a continuous, consistent, uniform, and / or regular stream of droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions of liquid electrolyte with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) therebetween, the bulk of liquid electrolyte on one side of the drip dripper does not come into conductive contact with the bulk of liquid electrolyte on the other side of the drip dripper.

[0020] In example aspects, the resistance between the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on one side of the drip chamber and the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on the other side of the drip chamber, respectively, is greater than 1Ω, greater than 10Ω, greater than 50Ω, greater than 100Ω, greater than 400Ω, greater than 700Ω, greater than 900Ω, greater than 1kΩ, greater than 5kΩ, greater than 10kΩ, greater than 50kΩ, greater than 100kΩ, greater than 1MΩ, greater than 5MΩ, greater than 10MΩ, greater than 50MΩ, greater than 100MΩ, or greater than 1,000MΩ.

[0021] In another example aspect, the at least one liquid electrolyte inlet provides a sufficiently large flow of liquid electrolyte into the cell such that, during operation of the cell, the liquid electrolyte level set by the liquid electrolyte outlet within the cell or component half-cell remains constant or substantially constant.

[0022] In another example aspect, the at least one liquid electrolyte inlet into the cell or component half-cell is in fluid communication with at least one 'drippler' for breaking the liquid electrolyte flow into one or a series of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps). That is, the at least one dripper is positioned in line with the liquid electrolyte inlet.

[0023] In another example aspect, the at least one liquid electrolyte outlet of the cell or component half-cell includes at least one 'drip dispenser' for interrupting the liquid electrolyte flow leaving the cell into one or more liquid electrolyte droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed therebetween with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps). That is, the at least one liquid electrolyte outlet includes at least one drip dispenser. Preferably, the gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) constitute non-conductive voids (i.e., non-conductive gas voids) that effectively disrupt the conductivity of the outflow of liquid electrolyte, which would otherwise be conductive along the outflow. Preferably, the drip dispenser reliably and dependably (if not fault-free) interrupts the liquid flow through it into a continuous, consistent, uniform, and / or regular flow of liquid electrolyte droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed therebetween with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) over a relatively long period of time.

[0024] In another example aspect, an electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell is provided, comprising a cathode half-cell including: a cathode; a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section having a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid cathode electrolyte to the cathode half-cell; and a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section having a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet for removing liquid cathode electrolyte from the cathode half-cell. The cell also includes an anode half-cell including: an anode; a liquid anode electrolyte inlet section having a liquid anode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid anode electrolyte to the anode half-cell; and a liquid anode electrolyte outlet section having a liquid anode electrolyte outlet for removing liquid anode electrolyte from the anode half-cell. An electrode diaphragm is positioned between the cathode and the anode. A dripper is positioned in a straight line within the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section. The dripper breaks the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anolyte into droplets, and these droplets are received in a drip chamber positioned below the dripper. Preferably, in one example, the drip chamber has a height of less than 50 mm.

[0025] In another example aspect, an electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell is provided, comprising a cathode half-cell including: a cathode; a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid cathode electrolyte to the cathode half-cell; and a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet providing a first overflow weir, over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte flows out of the cathode half-cell. The first overflow weir is positioned at a first horizontal plane in the cathode half-cell, higher than the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet. The cell also includes an anode half-cell including: an anode; a liquid anode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid anode electrolyte to the anode half-cell; and a liquid anode electrolyte outlet providing a second overflow weir, over which excess liquid anode electrolyte flows out of the anode half-cell. The second overflow weir is positioned at a second horizontal plane in the anode half-cell, higher than the liquid anode electrolyte inlet. An electrode diaphragm is positioned between the cathode and the anode.

[0026] In another example, the interrupted flow of liquid electrolyte into and out of the cell causes effective electrical isolation between the liquid electrolyte within the cell or half-cell and the liquid electrolyte in adjacent cells or half-cells or other parts of the system. Furthermore, the liquid electrolyte within the cell can be electrically isolated from liquid electrolytes outside the cell. Preferably, the electrical isolation of the liquid electrolyte within the cell effectively prevents electrodes or surfaces within the cell from participating in shunt current along with electrodes or surfaces elsewhere in other cells or systems.

[0027] In another example, due to the interrupted nature of the flow of liquid electrolyte entering and leaving the cell, the resistance between the liquid electrolyte inside the cell and the liquid electrolyte outside the cell is greater than 1Ω, greater than 10Ω, greater than 50Ω, greater than 100Ω, greater than 400Ω, greater than 700Ω, greater than 900Ω, greater than 1kΩ, greater than 5kΩ, greater than 10kΩ, greater than 50kΩ, greater than 100kΩ, greater than 1MΩ, greater than 5MΩ, greater than 10MΩ, greater than 50MΩ, greater than 100MΩ, or greater than 1,000MΩ.

[0028] In another example, multiple liquid electrolyte inlet sections having multiple liquid electrolyte inlets, multiple liquid electrolyte outlet sections having multiple liquid electrolyte outlets, and multiple drippers for interrupting the flow of liquid electrolyte into and out of the cell are miniaturized.

[0029] In another example aspect, the liquid electrolyte inlet segment, liquid electrolyte inlet, liquid electrolyte outlet segment, and / or liquid electrolyte outlet of the battery cell, and the associated means for breaking the liquid electrolyte flow into droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with air gaps or gas gaps therebetween (i.e., drippers and / or drip chambers) are small in size, having a thickness or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0030] In another exemplary aspect, the liquid electrolyte inlet segment, liquid electrolyte inlet, liquid electrolyte outlet segment, and / or liquid electrolyte outlet of the battery cell, and associated means for breaking the liquid electrolyte flow into droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with air gaps or gas gaps (i.e., a drip chamber) incorporate at least one orifice (e.g., at least one small orifice) or channel that reliably and reliably (if not fail-safely) breaks the flow into small droplets. Preferably, the at least one orifice or channel has a diameter of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0031] Preferably, the droplets, droplets, slugs or other portions (i.e., droplets, droplets or slugs) produced by the at least one dripper in line with the liquid electrolyte inlet(s) of the battery cell and the at least one dripper in line with the liquid electrolyte outlet(s) with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) interspersed therebetween are small, having a diameter or thickness of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0032] In another exemplary aspect, the liquid electrolyte inlet and / or liquid electrolyte outlet of the battery cell, and the associated means for interrupting the liquid electrolyte flow (i.e., a dripper), immediately after the liquid electrolyte flow leaves the dripper, interrupts the flow into one or a series of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps). That is, preferably, the liquid flow in the gas-filled drip chamber below the dripper is discontinuous immediately below the dripper, as one or a series of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps). Preferably, this feature, combined with the small size of the droplets produced by the dripper, enables the height and width of the gas-filled drip chamber below the dripper to be small. Preferably, but not exclusively, during the dripping action, the dripper channel itself is filled with liquid electrolyte.

[0033] Preferably, the drip chamber (e.g., a gas-filled drip chamber) is positioned below the drip chamber and has a height of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 15 mm, less than 12 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 9 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 7 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 5 mm, or less than 3 mm.

[0034] Preferably, the drip chamber below the drip chamber (e.g., a gas-filled drip chamber) has a diameter or width of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0035] Preferably, the drip chamber below the drip chamber is gas-filled and includes a drip chamber gas line that ensures the drip chamber remains filled with gas. Preferably, a gas gap is provided via the drip chamber gas line. Preferably, the gas in the drip chamber is not an isolated gas having a small fixed volume (the pressure fluctuations of which affect the dripping action).

[0036] In another example aspect, the liquid electrolyte inlet and / or liquid electrolyte outlet of the battery cell, and the associated means for breaking the liquid electrolyte flow into droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with air gaps or gas gaps therebetween (i.e., a dripper), include a porous capillary structure in, adjacent to, or co-located near the top of the liquid flow stream feeding the dripper. Preferably, the porous capillary structure prevents gas from a gas-filled drip chamber below the dripper from moving upward through the dripper into the liquid flow stream feeding the dripper.

[0037] Preferably, the liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs or other portions interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) recombine into a homogeneous liquid phase at the bottom of the gas-filled drip chamber below the drip chamber. Preferably, the liquid in a homogeneous liquid phase at the bottom of the gas-filled drip chamber below the drip chamber flows out of the drip chamber at the bottom of the gas-filled drip chamber.

[0038] Alternatively, the gas-filled drip chamber may be configured as a 'slug chamber' in which droplets, droplets, or other portions interspersed with air or gas gaps take the form of liquid slugs that strike the walls of the slug chamber as they flow through it. Alternatively, the slugs may be generated by co-mixing a homogeneous liquid phase exiting a drip chamber with a homogeneous gas phase exiting a slug chamber gas line located near the drip chamber outlet in the slug chamber.

[0039] Optionally, a second dripper and associated gas-filled drip or slug chamber may be incorporated into the liquid passage above or below the first dripper and associated gas-filled drip or slug chamber to thereby provide improved electrical isolation.

[0040] Alternatively, multiple dispensers and associated gas-filled dispensing chambers or slug chambers may be incorporated into the liquid passageway into or out of the cell.

[0041] In another exemplary aspect, the at least one dripper included in line with the at least one liquid electrolyte inlet and / or the at least one liquid electrolyte outlet comprises a polymer material.Preferably, the dripper is injection molded or machined.

[0042] In another exemplary aspect, the at least one dripper included in line with the at least one liquid electrolyte inlet and / or the at least one liquid electrolyte outlet comprises an orifice or a portion of an orifice that is metal-lined. Preferably, the metal is electrically isolated from other metals in the battery cell and electrically grounded.

[0043] In another exemplary aspect, the at least one dripper included in line with the at least one liquid electrolyte inlet and / or the at least one liquid electrolyte outlet is impermeable to the corrosive liquid electrolyte.

[0044] In another exemplary aspect, an additional dripper and an additional drip chamber positioned below the additional dripper are provided in fluid communication with the dripper and the drip chamber. Preferably, the additional dripper and the additional drip chamber are positioned in line with the dripper and the drip chamber in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anolyte inlet section, or the liquid anolyte outlet section.

[0045] In another exemplary aspect, the liquid electrolyte inlet(s), liquid electrolyte outlet(s), and dripper(s) for interrupting the flow of liquid electrolyte into and out of the cell, and / or overflow weir(s) for maintaining the liquid level within the cell / half-cell, and / or other liquid features described above are incorporated into the cell's frame. Preferably, the liquid passages are incorporated into the cell frame.

[0046] In another example, the liquid electrolyte inlet is an opening or orifice at the end of the liquid electrolyte inlet segment. The liquid electrolyte inlet segment can be a pipe, a conduit, a channel, etc. At least one drip chamber can be positioned in the liquid electrolyte inlet segment, for example, positioned inside the liquid electrolyte inlet segment and in line with it.

[0047] In another example, the liquid electrolyte outlet is an opening or orifice at the end of a liquid electrolyte outlet segment. The liquid electrolyte outlet segment can be a pipe, a conduit, a channel, etc. At least one drip chamber can be positioned in the liquid electrolyte outlet segment, for example, positioned inside the liquid electrolyte outlet segment and in line with it.

[0048] Preferably, the cell frame comprises a polymer material.Preferably, the cell frame is injection moulded or machined.

[0049] In another exemplary aspect, cells incorporating the above types of liquid features are stacked in a cell stack. Preferably, the cell stack is a filter press type cell stack.

[0050] Preferably, the cell frame is substantially flat or at least of uniform thickness. Preferably, the cell frame is thin. Preferably, the cell frame has a thickness of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0051] Alternatively, the liquid passages in the cell frame can be formed as side-opening cavities on the face of the cell frame. Alternatively, such liquid passages can be sealed to prevent leakage by attaching covers to them. Alternatively, such liquid passages can be sealed to prevent leakage by stacking and pressing the cells in a filter press arrangement.

[0052] In another example, the liquid inlet manifold of the cells within the stack is pressurized to a pressure higher than the liquid pressure in each cell. Preferably, the manifold is in fluid communication with each cell in the stack. Preferably, the pressure in the outlet manifold of the cells in the stack is lower than the pressure of the liquid in each cell. Preferably, but not exclusively, the liquid flowing from the higher pressure region to the lower pressure region first passes through a flow restrictor and then through a dripper to interrupt the liquid flow. Preferably, but not exclusively, the flow restrictor creates a pressure drop that serves to ensure that each cell in a cell stack containing more than one cell has an equal or substantially equal amount of liquid flowing into, out of, or through the flow restrictor during operation. Preferably, the flow restrictor is a molded polymer. Preferably, the flow restrictor is an injection-molded or machined polymer. Preferably, the flow restrictor is located upstream of the dripper.

[0053] Optionally, the battery cell having the above liquid characteristics is an electric energy battery cell, such as: (i) a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell, including a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell or an alkaline fuel cell, (ii) a direct alcohol fuel cell, including a direct methanol or direct ethanol fuel cell, (iii) a phosphoric acid fuel cell, or (iv) an ammonia fuel cell.

[0054] Optionally, the cell having the above liquid characteristics is an electrosynthetic cell, such as: (i) a water electrolyzer, (ii) a chlor-alkali electrolyzer, (iii) a cell for ammonia production, or (iv) a CO2 electrolyzer, including a combined carbon capture and CO2 electrolyzer. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Illustrative embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings.Various example embodiments will become apparent from the following description of at least one preferred but non-limiting embodiment, given by way of example only, described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0056] Figure 1 A cross-section of a preferred example embodiment of an electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell is depicted in schematic form.

[0057] Figure 2 Depicted in schematic form Figure 1 The preferred example embodiment is a cross-section of an electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell, but the electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell is equipped with a porous capillary structure to prevent gas entrainment in the liquid passage.

[0058] Figure 3 Depicted is an example dripper shown as a polymer fitting having a small orifice for breaking a flow of liquid electrolyte into a series of droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with air or gas gaps.

[0059] Figure 4The flow of water through a 0.51 mm diameter metal orifice at the tip of a syringe was depicted at different flow rates.

[0060] Figure 5 The measured relationship between the velocity of the liquid flowing through the orifice (x-axis) and the diameter (or thickness) of the formed droplets (y-axis) is depicted.

[0061] Figure 6 An example 'leaf-shaped dripper' is depicted.

[0062] Figure 7 An example 'slug' flow is depicted.

[0063] Figure 8 Example combinations of restrictors, slug chambers, and drip chambers are depicted.

[0064] Figure 9 An example of the use of a gas-filled elbow in a liquid line is depicted.

[0065] Figure 10 The illustration depicts how an example miniaturized 'drip dispenser' accessory can be incorporated into the polymer frame of an example electrochemical cell.

[0066] Figure 11 The illustration depicts how multiple cells in a cell stack can be induced to allow equal or substantially equal volumes of liquid (e.g., water) to pass through them.

[0067] Figure 12 The illustration schematically depicts how components of an example capillary-based electrosynthesis or electric energy cell can be assembled.

[0068] Figure 13 The illustration schematically depicts how example capillary-based electrosynthesis or energy cells can be stacked within an example cell stack.

[0069] Figure 14 The liquid characteristics of the example cell stack are schematically depicted. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] The following patterns, features, or aspects (given by way of example only) are described to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of one or more preferred embodiments.

[0071] definition

[0072] 'Reactants' are the chemical materials consumed during an electrochemical reaction.

[0073] 'Products' are chemical materials produced during electrochemical reactions.

[0074] A 'liquid electrolyte' is a liquid containing dissolved ions that have electrical conductivity.

[0075] 'Room temperature' is defined herein as 21°C.

[0076] A 'liquid-gas' cell is defined as an electrochemical cell having at least one liquid-phase reactant or product and at least one gas-phase reactant or product.

[0077] An 'electric power cell' is an electrochemical cell that, during operation, continuously or continually generates electricity for use externally to the cell for an indefinite period of time. During operation, the electric power cell may require a constant external supply of reactants. During operation, the products of the electrochemical reaction may also be continuously removed from the cell. The electric power cell may be a liquid-gas cell. An example of an electric power cell is a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell, which is also an example of a liquid-gas cell.

[0078] An electrosynthesis cell is an electrochemical cell that, during operation, continuously or continually produces one or more chemical materials for use outside the cell over an indefinite period of time. The chemical materials may be in the form of a gas, liquid, or solid. Like an electric energy cell, an electrosynthesis cell may require a constant supply of reactants and a constant removal of products during operation. Electrosynthesis cells may also typically require a constant input of electrical energy during operation. Electrosynthesis cells may be liquid-gas cells. An example of an electrosynthesis cell is a water electrolysis cell, which is also a liquid-gas cell.

[0079] Power and electrosynthesis cells differ from other types of electrochemical cells (e.g., batteries, sensors, etc.) in that they do not incorporate all / some of the reactants they need to operate within the cell body, nor do they incorporate all / some of the products they generate during operation within the cell body. Instead, these can be continuously brought into or removed from outside the cell during operation. For example, power cells differ from primary cells in that primary cells store their reactants and products within the cell body. Unlike batteries, power cells do not store chemical or electrical energy within them. Similarly, although some electrochemical sensors may consume reactants and generate products in limited amounts during sensing operations, all / some of these are stored within the cell body itself.

[0080] The 'energy efficiency' of an electrosynthetic cell is defined herein as the net energy present in a single unit output of chemical product divided by the net energy consumed by the cell to produce that same unit output of chemical product, expressed as a percentage. The 'energy efficiency' of an electrical energy cell is defined herein as the energy produced by the cell per unit time divided by the maximum theoretical energy that the cell can produce per unit time, expressed as a percentage.

[0081] 'Overflow weir' should be interpreted as also referring to or referring to overflow opening, overflow orifice, overflow waterfall, overflow dam, overflow dike, overflow embankment, overflow barrier, overflow waterfall, overflow grate, or overflow wall, when the liquid electrolyte level exceeds the range, level, or height of the overflow weir, and excess liquid electrolyte flows over or through the overflow weir.

[0082] A 'drip dispenser' is defined herein as a device that consistently and reliably breaks a relatively constant flow of a liquid into a series of droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other segments interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) over a relatively long period of continuous or sustained operation. In the case where the liquid is a conductive liquid electrolyte, the drip dispenser, in doing so, breaks a conductive path through the flow of the liquid electrolyte. References to droplets are to be interpreted as references to droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other segments of liquid interspersed with gas gaps. 'Relatively long periods of continuous or sustained operation' are to be interpreted as including periods of hours, days, weeks, months, or years of continuous or sustained operation. Preferably, the gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) constitute non-conductive voids (i.e., non-conductive gas voids) that effectively disrupt the conductivity of the incoming flow of liquid electrolyte, which is otherwise conductive along the incoming flow. That is, in the case where the liquid passing through the drip chamber is electrically conductive, preferably, the bulk of liquid on one side of the drip chamber does not electrically contact the bulk of liquid on the other side of the drip chamber due to the interruption of the liquid flow passing through the drip chamber into a continuous, consistent, uniform, and / or regular stream of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) therebetween. In order to properly interrupt the conductive path, the action of the drip chamber is preferably reliable and dependable (if not largely trouble-free) over a relatively long period of continuous or sustained operation. It will be understood that the drip chamber is an engineered device, and its performance in consistently, reliably, and repeatedly interrupting the liquid flow over a relatively long period of time is critical to its operation. That is, preferably, the drip chamber must reliably and reliably (if not trouble-free) interrupt the liquid flow passing through it into a continuous, consistent, uniform, and / or regular stream of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) therebetween over a relatively long period of continuous or sustained operation. It will be further understood that not all devices that generate droplets from a liquid stream can be considered to be 'droplets' as defined herein. For example, a device that occasionally or sometimes forms droplets from a liquid stream is not a 'droplet dispenser'. Other devices that 'primarily', 'often', or even 'very often' or occasionally interrupt a liquid stream into droplets do not constitute 'droplets' as defined herein because electrical isolation may not be consistently maintained across the device over a relatively long period of continuous or sustained operation with a conductive electrolyte. Similarly, devices that interrupt a liquid stream irregularly, and / or with varying frequencies, and / or for varying durations do not constitute droplets as defined herein because they may not be able to consistently maintain electrical isolation between the liquid electrolyte bodies on both sides of the device over a relatively long period of time. Furthermore, droplets as defined herein rely on a relatively constant flow of liquid through relatively small orifices or channels for their operation that reliably, reliably, and uniformly interrupts these flows over a relatively long period of time.Therefore, other types of devices that employ different or different droplet formation principles (which may be unreliable over relatively long periods when applied to electrical or electrosynthetic cells, such as intravenous drip systems and chambers or agricultural drip systems and chambers) do not constitute a 'drip device' as defined herein.

[0083] The 'liquid electrolyte inlet' is an opening or aperture at the end of the 'liquid electrolyte inlet section'. The liquid electrolyte inlet section may be a pipe, a conduit, a channel or the like.

[0084] The 'liquid electrolyte outlet' is an opening or orifice at the end of the 'liquid electrolyte outlet section'. The liquid electrolyte outlet section may be a pipe, a conduit, a channel or the like.

[0085] A 'porous capillary structure' is defined as a porous material that uses capillary action to draw in liquid and uses capillary pressure to hold the liquid within it. A structure is a porous capillary structure if it exhibits a 'bubble point,' defined as the non-zero gas pressure required to push a liquid out of the largest capillary within the porous material. A 'porous capillary structure' can have a porous membrane form factor, a porous plug form factor, or any other form factor. A 'porous capillary structure' can alternatively be described as: a 'porous membrane,' a 'porous hydrophilic membrane,' a 'porous plug,' a 'porous hydrophilic plug,' a 'structure having a flow passage,' a 'hydrophilic structure having a flow passage,' or a 'porous structure having a flow passage.'

[0086] A 'homogeneous liquid phase' is defined as a body of liquid or a stream of liquid that does not contain gas bubbles entrained therein.

[0087] A 'homogeneous gas phase' is defined as a bulk of gas or a gas stream that contains no liquid droplets entrained therein.

[0088] A 'mixed liquid and gas phase' is defined as a body or stream of liquid with gas bubbles entrained therein, or a body or stream of gas with liquid droplets, droplets or slugs entrained therein.

[0089] A 'drip chamber' is defined as a gas-filled cavity through which one or more liquid electrolyte droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions pass, with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) interspersed. Drip chambers can be provided as separate cavities or chambers, or as sections of channels, tubes, conduits, or similar structures.

[0090] A 'drip chamber gas line' is defined as a channel, pipe, conduit, or similar structure that maintains fluid contact between the gas in the drip chamber and the gas in another gas-filled volume. The 'drip chamber gas line' is typically intended to maintain the gas atmosphere in the drip chamber, which might otherwise be lost during relatively long periods of operation. By providing a pathway for gas movement between the larger body of gas and the gas within the drip chamber, the 'drip chamber gas line' can also prevent or mitigate pressure fluctuations in the gas in the drip chamber during infusion. Such pressure fluctuations could affect the reliability of the infusion action.

[0091] A slug is a portion of liquid with gas above and below it, and the liquid portion is in contact with the walls of the chamber. A slug chamber is defined as a cavity through which a liquid slug with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) passes. These liquid slugs contact the walls of the slug chamber during their passage. A slug chamber is a specific example type of drip chamber.

[0092] A 'slug chamber gas line' is defined as a passage, pipe, conduit, or similar structure that contains gas and leads to a slug chamber. Liquid passing through a slug chamber equipped with such a gas line can draw gas from the gas line and entrain it in the liquid flow path, thereby breaking the liquid flow into slugs. The Venturi effect can be used to generate slug flow in a slug chamber equipped with a slug chamber gas line. A slug chamber gas line is a specific example type of drip chamber gas line.

[0093] A 'liquid passage' is defined as a channel, pipe, conduit, or similar structure along which a liquid is intended to flow.

[0094] A 'cell stack' is defined as an assembly of cells wherein the cells are stacked adjacent or abutting each other along a single dimensional axis.

[0095] Cell stacking can take the form of a 'filter press' arrangement, which is defined as a cell stack in which the cells are substantially flat and are pressed against each other between end plates during their assembly and / or operation.

[0096] A 'manifold' is a channel, tube, chamber, or groove formed by the combination of orifices in the individual cells of a cell stack, used to transport fluid through the entire thickness of the cell stack.

[0097] A 'manifold orifice' is an orifice in a battery cell. When combined with an equivalent manifold orifice in other cells in a stack, it forms a corresponding 'manifold'.

[0098] A manifold is one or more pipes, tubes, chambers, or channels with multiple openings used to transport fluids. A header can also be a manifold.

[0099] If a cell is designed to be deployed in a cell stack, then the cell is 'stackable'. For example, in the case of cell stacking for filter presses, it can include openings that dock with openings in other cells in the stack to form manifolds or headers.

[0100] A 'flow restrictor' is defined as a liquid-carrying channel that creates a pressure drop in the liquid passing through the restrictor. It can also slow and / or regulate the flow rate of the liquid along the liquid channel. A flow restrictor can include a liquid-carrying channel with multiple bends in the restrictor; i.e., a tortuous path restrictor. A flow restrictor can also include fine structures that require a certain pressure for the liquid to pass through. Flow restrictors are typically polymeric or metallic structures, such as sintered metal structures.

[0101] 'Shunt current' is defined as the current in the fluid pathways of the system that bypasses the desired inter-electrode current within each cell. Shunt current is also known as 'bypass' current.

[0102] The 'energy efficiency' of an electrosynthetic cell is defined herein as the net energy present in a single unit output of chemical product divided by the net energy consumed by the cell to produce that same unit output of chemical product, expressed as a percentage. The 'energy efficiency' of an electrical energy cell is defined herein as the energy produced by the cell per unit time divided by the maximum theoretical energy that the cell can produce per unit time, expressed as a percentage.

[0103] The inter-electrode porous capillary spacer (also known as the inter-electrode porous capillary diaphragm) is defined as set forth in International Patent Publications WO 2022056603, WO 2022056604, WO 2022056605 and WO 2022056606, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0104] Preferred Embodiments

[0105] The inventors have discovered that the volume of liquid electrolyte within an electrocomposition or power cell or half-cell (preferably a thin, stackable, machined or injection molded polymer electrocomposition or power cell or half-cell) can be simultaneously maintained at a constant level (i.e., a constant volume or substantially constant volume) and also electrically isolated from the liquid electrolyte in other cells. The level (and volume) of the liquid electrolyte in the cell or half-cell can be adjusted by allowing excess liquid electrolyte to pass into the cell (or half-cell) and then out of the cell (or half-cell) over an overflow weir, which forms or is part of the liquid electrolyte outlet of the cell (or half-cell). The height (or range) of the overflow weir sets the level (and volume) of the liquid electrolyte within the cell (or half-cell). The overflow weir is a feature that the liquid electrolyte passes over to flow from one area or level in the cell to another area or level outside the cell (or half-cell). The height or level of the overflow weir is relative to the interior bottom (i.e., base or floor) of the cell, on which the liquid electrolyte lies due to gravity. The cell is in a vertical orientation relative to gravity. The overflow weir can be small in its physical dimensions. Electrical isolation can be achieved by passing an interrupted flow of liquid electrolyte into and out of the cell or half-cell. The interrupted flow is a flow of liquid electrolyte in which the liquid electrolyte passes through a 'drip' (preferably a small 'drip') that segments the liquid electrolyte into a series of droplets (i.e., droplets, slugs or other portions of liquid) interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps). The function of the gas gaps is to disconnect any conductive pathways through the flow of liquid electrolyte.

[0106] The inventors have developed drippers that can interrupt the liquid electrolyte flow immediately after the liquid electrolyte leaves the dripper's outlet. That is, the liquid electrolyte flow can become discontinuous immediately after the liquid electrolyte leaves the dripper. The dripper itself can remain filled with liquid electrolyte throughout its operation. Furthermore, the dripper can be configured to reliably and dependably (if not fault-free) control the size of liquid electrolyte droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) over relatively long periods of time. For example, even over relatively long periods (e.g., days, weeks, or months of continuous operation), the liquid electrolyte droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions (all referred to herein as 'droplets') can become consistently and uniformly very small. This combination of immediate interruption of the liquid electrolyte flow and the generation of small-sized droplets allows for small height and lateral dimensions of the gas-filled 'drip chamber' positioned below the dripper. That is, the components required to generate the overflow weir and the interrupted flow of the liquid electrolyte can be miniaturized, making these components suitable for use in thin, flat electrochemical cells, such as those typically used in industrial electrosynthesis or electric energy 'cell stacks' (e.g., 'filter press' type cell stacks used in commercial electrolyzers, fuel cells, etc.).

[0107] Accordingly, example embodiments may be implemented using: one or more small overflow weirs (e.g., one or more miniature overflow weirs) for reliably regulating the level and volume of the liquid electrolyte in the cell (or half-cell); and one or more small droppers and drip chambers (e.g., one or more miniature droppers and drip chambers) for reliably and dependably (if not fault-free) generating a broken or segmented flow of liquid electrolyte, wherein liquid electrolyte droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions are interspersed with air gaps or gas gaps. Furthermore, electrochemical cells incorporating these features may also be 'stackable' and inherently polymeric, machined, or molded (e.g., injection molded).

[0108] Figure 1 An example electrochemical cell 1 is schematically depicted in cross-section. Cell 1 includes an electrode diaphragm 10 positioned between, and preferably sandwiched between, a cathode 20 (i.e., the first electrode 20) and an anode 30 (i.e., the second electrode 30). Cell 1 has a power supply or power receiver 6, and a first electrical conductor 7 and a second electrical conductor 8 (i.e., conductors 7, 8) respectively connected to the cathode 20 and the anode 30. Optionally, the cathode 20 may be configured to be in direct contact with a cathode electrolyte liquid electrolyte 21 (i.e., liquid cathode electrolyte 21), such as... Figure 1Alternatively, the anode 30 may be configured to be in direct contact with the anolyte liquid electrolyte 31 (ie, liquid anolyte 31), as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. (As described in International Patent Publications WO2022056603, WO 2022056604, WO 2022056605 and WO 2022056606 (these International Patent Publications are hereby incorporated by reference), optionally, the cathode 20 and anode 30 may be respectively less than Figure 1 ). Thus, the battery cell 1 is divided into two half-cells—a cathode half-cell 200 and an anode half-cell 300. The cathode half-cell 200 may require the liquid cathode electrolyte 21 to be maintained at a first liquid level 201 (or a first height 201) at all times of operation. The anode half-cell 300 may require the liquid anode electrolyte 31 to be maintained at a second liquid level 301 (or a second height 301) at all times of operation.

[0109] Preferably, if Figure 1 As shown in FIG, the first liquid level 201 is different from the second liquid level 301, however, in some examples, the first liquid level 201 can be equal to the second liquid level 301. It should be noted that although Figure 1 Example cell 1 shows a first liquid level 201 (associated with cathode half cell 200) higher than a second liquid level 301 (associated with anode half cell 300), but other example cells may have a first liquid level 201 (associated with cathode half cell 200) lower than the second liquid level 301 (associated with anode half cell 300).

[0110] That is, in various examples:

[0111] (i) a first level of the first overflow weir (associated with the cathode half-cell) is higher than a second level of the second overflow weir (associated with the anode half-cell);

[0112] (ii) a first level of the first overflow weir (associated with the cathode half-cell) is lower than a second level of the second overflow weir (associated with the anode half-cell); or

[0113] (iii) The first level of the first overflow weir (associated with the cathode half-cell) is equal to the second level of the second overflow weir (associated with the anode half-cell).

[0114] Therefore, reference Figure 1The device provides an electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell 1, which includes a cathode half-cell 200 and an anode half-cell 300. The cathode half-cell 200 includes a cathode 20, which is optionally configured to contact a liquid cathode electrolyte 21. A second cathode electrolyte inlet section 25 (i.e., an electrolyte inlet section providing the cathode electrolyte inlet) is used to supply liquid cathode electrolyte 21 to the cathode half-cell 200. A first cathode electrolyte outlet section 26 is used to remove liquid cathode electrolyte 21 from the cathode half-cell 200. The inlet or opening of the first cathode electrolyte outlet section 26 (i.e., an electrolyte outlet section providing the cathode electrolyte outlet) is located at a first horizontal plane (or height) 201, above the outlet or opening of the second cathode electrolyte inlet section 25 (i.e., the cathode electrolyte inlet) in the cathode half-cell 200. The first cathode electrolyte outlet section 26 (i.e., the cathode electrolyte outlet) provides a first overflow weir 261 over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte 21 flows out of the cathode half-cell 200.

[0115] The anode half-cell 300 includes an anode 30, which is optionally configured to contact a liquid anode electrolyte 31. A second anode electrolyte inlet section 35 (i.e., an electrolyte inlet section providing an anode electrolyte inlet) is used to supply liquid anode electrolyte 31 to the anode half-cell 300. A first anode electrolyte outlet section 36 (i.e., an electrolyte outlet section providing an anode electrolyte outlet) is used to remove liquid anode electrolyte 31 from the anode half-cell 300. The inlet or opening of the first anode electrolyte outlet section 36 (i.e., the anode electrolyte outlet) is located at a second horizontal plane (or height) 301, above the outlet or opening of the second anode electrolyte inlet section 35 (i.e., the anode electrolyte inlet) in the anode half-cell 300. The first anode electrolyte outlet section 36 (i.e., the anode electrolyte outlet) provides a second overflow weir 361 over which excess liquid anode electrolyte 31 flows out of the anode half-cell 300. An electrode diaphragm 10 is positioned between the cathode 20 and the anode 30.

[0116] In one example, the inlet and outlet are openings or orifices at the ends of the inlet and outlet pipes. Any inlet and / or outlet can be provided as an opening or orifice in an inlet section and / or outlet section, or other type of end, which can be provided as a pipe, channel, conduit, tube, or similar structure for guiding liquid flow. The liquid cathode electrolyte level 201 can be generated and maintained indefinitely by the following steps: placing the outlet pipe 26 (i.e., the cathode electrolyte outlet first section 26) in the cathode half-cell 200, and then continuously pumping excess liquid cathode electrolyte 21 from the inlet pipe 25 (i.e., the cathode electrolyte inlet second section 25) into the cathode half-cell 200.

[0117] The liquid electrolyte inlet is provided as an opening or orifice at the end of the liquid electrolyte inlet segment (e.g., cathode electrolyte inlet second segment 25 and anode electrolyte inlet second segment 35). The liquid electrolyte inlet segment can be a pipe, a conduit, a channel, etc. At least one dripper (e.g., dripper 23, 33) is positioned in the liquid electrolyte inlet segment, for example, positioned inside the liquid electrolyte inlet segment and in line with it. That is, at least one dripper (e.g., dripper 23, 33) is in fluid communication with the liquid electrolyte inlet.

[0118] The liquid electrolyte outlet is provided as an opening or orifice at the end of the liquid electrolyte outlet segment (e.g., cathode electrolyte outlet first segment 26 and anode electrolyte outlet first segment 36). The liquid electrolyte outlet segment can be a pipe, a conduit, a channel, etc. At least one dripper (e.g., dripper 27, 37) is positioned in the liquid electrolyte outlet segment, for example, positioned inside the liquid electrolyte outlet segment and in line with it. That is, at least one dripper (e.g., dripper 27, 37) is in fluid communication with the liquid electrolyte outlet.

[0119] That is, the outlet conduit 26 forms an overflow weir 261 over which excess liquid catholyte 21 continuously flows to maintain the liquid catholyte level 201 of liquid catholyte 21 in the cathode half-cell 200 constant indefinitely.

[0120] The liquid anode electrolyte level 301 can similarly be generated and maintained indefinitely by placing an outlet conduit 36 ​​(i.e., the anode electrolyte outlet first section 36) in the anode half-cell 300, and then continuously pumping excess liquid anode electrolyte 31 from the inlet conduit 35 (i.e., the anode electrolyte inlet second section 35) into the anode half-cell 300.

[0121] That is, the outlet conduit 36 ​​forms an overflow weir 361 over which excess liquid anolyte 31 flows to maintain the liquid anolyte level 301 of liquid anolyte 31 in the anode half-cell 300 constant indefinitely.

[0122] In this way, it becomes possible to reliably maintain the amount and level of liquid electrolyte (i.e., liquid cathode electrolyte and / or liquid anolyte) in each half-cell at a predetermined level or height without the need for electronic or mechanical level sensors. Additionally, corrosive electrolytes can be contained by using corrosion-resistant materials and tubing. Most electronic level sensors and many mechanical level sensors cannot operate indefinitely with corrosive electrolytes.

[0123] Will understand, although Figure 1In the embodiment of the present invention, a separate inlet and outlet are depicted for each of the two different half-cells, but in another example, only a single inlet can be used in the cell. For example, if the electrode separator 10 is porous and allows the liquid electrolyte to pass freely through it and the electrodes (cathode 20 and anode 30) are porous and allow liquid to flow through them, it may be possible to adjust the liquid level of the liquid electrolyte in the cell by having a single inlet (for example, into the cathode half-cell or into the anode half-cell). Similarly, if only one half-cell requires adjustment of its liquid electrolyte level, or if the liquid level in the two half-cells must be maintained at the same level, in other examples, the liquid level of the liquid electrolyte in the cell can be adjusted by having a single outlet (for example, into the cathode half-cell or into the anode half-cell). Depending on the properties of the cell, its components, and the electrochemical reaction itself, a variety of inlet and outlet arrangements are possible. Such changes fall within the scope of the preferred embodiments and are included herein.

[0124] In this type of electrochemical cell 1, the desired current will flow from one electrode to another, for example, from cathode 20 to anode 30, or from anode 30 to cathode 20. However, if the cathode electrolyte 21 is used in conjunction with other cells ( Figure 1 If the cathode and electrolyte are fluidly connected in a cell (not shown), and the cathode in such a separate cell is polarized at a significantly different voltage than cathode 20, the voltage difference may cause unwanted current to flow between the two cathodes. Such current is called 'shunt' current (also known as 'bypass' current or 'corrosion' current).

[0125] Similarly, if the anode electrolyte 31 is connected to another cell ( Figure 1 If the anode electrolyte is fluidly connected in the cell (not shown), and the anode in such a separate cell is polarized at a voltage significantly different from that of anode 30, the voltage difference may cause a shunt current to flow between the two anodes.

[0126] Shunt currents constitute undesirable currents that may reduce the efficiency of electrochemical reactions, induce unwanted electrochemical effects (such as the formation of incorrect products in unintended locations (or the absence of products)), or induce unwanted corrosion, thereby shortening the cell's lifespan.

[0127] It will also be understood that shunt current can flow between any conductive surfaces or electrodes having significantly different voltages within an electrochemical system, provided that these conductive surfaces or electrodes share a common / connected liquid electrolyte and are in contact via that liquid electrolyte.

[0128] The inventors recognized that shunt currents could be prevented by disconnecting potential conductive pathways in shared or common liquid electrolytes.

[0129] Figure 1 It describes how potential conductive pathways via a shared or common liquid electrolyte can be disconnected, thereby electrically isolating cell 1 from other cells or other parts of the electrochemical system and preventing shunt current.

[0130] To help electrically isolate the cathode 20 and the liquid cathode electrolyte 21, the liquid cathode electrolyte flowing into the cathode half-cell 200 via the cathode electrolyte inlet first section 22 can pass through a first dripper 23 (or multiple drippers, not shown) that breaks the liquid stream or flow into droplets 24 (or droplets, slugs, or other segments of liquid) interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) within a gas-filled first drip chamber 231 positioned below the first dripper 23. The droplets 24 fall through the gas 232 in the first drip chamber 231 and then recombine at the base of the first drip chamber 231 into a bulk homogeneous liquid phase that flows through the cathode electrolyte inlet second section 25 into the cell 1. Because the gas is non-conductive, there is then no conductive path between the liquid cathode electrolyte in the cathode electrolyte inlet first section 22 and the liquid cathode electrolyte in the cathode electrolyte inlet second section 25. That is, the conductive path between the liquid cathode electrolyte in the first section 22 of the cathode electrolyte inlet and the liquid cathode electrolyte in the second section 25 of the cathode electrolyte inlet is broken by the dripping action. The first dripper 23 and the first drip chamber 231 are positioned in a straight line between the first section 22 of the cathode electrolyte inlet and the second section 25 of the cathode electrolyte inlet.

[0131] In order to completely electrically isolate the cathode 20 and the liquid cathode electrolyte 21, the liquid electrolyte (i.e., liquid cathode electrolyte 21) flowing out of the cathode half-cell 200 via the cathode electrolyte outlet first section 26 can pass through a second dripper 27 (or multiple drippers, not shown) that breaks the liquid flow into droplets 28 (or droplets, slugs, or other segments of liquid) interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) within a second drip chamber 271 filled with gas 272 and positioned below the second dripper 27. The droplets 28 fall through the gas 272 and then recombine at the base of the second drip chamber 271 into a bulk liquid homogeneous phase that flows through the cathode electrolyte outlet second section 29 to exit the cathode half-cell 200 and exit the cell 1. Since the gas is non-conductive, there is then no conductive path between the liquid cathode electrolyte in the cathode electrolyte outlet first section 26 and the liquid cathode electrolyte in the cathode electrolyte outlet second section 29. That is, the conductive path between the liquid cathode electrolyte in the first section 26 of the cathode electrolyte outlet and the liquid cathode electrolyte in the second section 29 of the cathode electrolyte outlet is broken by the dripping action. The second dripper 27 and the second drip chamber 271 are positioned in a straight line between the first section 26 and the second section 29 of the cathode electrolyte outlet.

[0132] The anode 30 and the liquid anode electrolyte 31 can be similarly electrically isolated by introducing the third dripper 33 and the fourth dripper 37 into the anode electrolyte inlet and the anode electrolyte outlet, respectively.

[0133] To help electrically isolate the anode 30 and the liquid anolyte 31, the liquid anolyte flowing into the anode half-cell 300 via the anolyte inlet first section 32 can pass through a third dripper 33 (or multiple drippers, not shown) that breaks the liquid stream into droplets 34 (or droplets, slugs, or other segments of liquid) interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) within a third gas-filled drip chamber 331 positioned below the third dripper 33. The droplets 34 fall through the gas 332 in the third drip chamber 331 and then recombine at the base of the third drip chamber 331 into a bulk homogeneous liquid phase that flows through the anolyte inlet second section 35 into the cell 1. Because the gas is non-conductive, there is then no conductive path between the liquid anolyte in the anolyte inlet first section 32 and the liquid anolyte in the anolyte inlet second section 35. That is, the conductive path between the liquid anolyte in the first section 32 of the anolyte inlet and the liquid anolyte in the second section 35 of the anolyte inlet is broken by the dripping action. The third dripper 33 and the third drip chamber 331 are positioned in a straight line between the first section 32 of the anolyte inlet and the second section 35 of the anolyte inlet.

[0134] In order to completely electrically isolate the anode 30 and the liquid anolyte 31, the liquid electrolyte (i.e., liquid anolyte 31) flowing out of the anode half-cell 300 via the anolyte outlet first section 36 can pass through a fourth dripper 37 (or multiple drippers, not shown), which breaks the liquid flow into droplets 38 (or droplets, slugs, or other segments of liquid) interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) within a fourth drip chamber 371 filled with gas 372 and positioned below the fourth dripper 37. The droplets 38 fall through the gas 372 and then recombine at the base of the fourth drip chamber 371 into a bulk liquid homogeneous phase that flows out of the anode half-cell 300 and out of the cell 1 through the anolyte outlet second section 39. Since the gas is non-conductive, there is then no conductive path between the liquid anolyte in the anolyte outlet first section 36 and the liquid anolyte in the anolyte outlet second section 39. That is, the conductive path between the liquid anolyte in the first section 36 of the anolyte outlet and the liquid anolyte in the second section 39 of the anolyte outlet is broken by the dripping action. The fourth dripper 37 and the fourth drip chamber 371 are positioned in a straight line between the first section 36 of the anolyte outlet and the second section 39 of the anolyte outlet.

[0135] In this way, it becomes possible to prevent shunting current between components within the cell 1 and other parts of the electrochemical system (including other cells). However, this depends on the inherent ability of each dripper to reliably and reliably (if not faultlessly) interrupt the flow of liquid through it into a continuous, consistent, uniform and / or regular flow of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) therebetween over a relatively long period of time.

[0136] Preferably, the gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) constitute non-conductive voids (i.e., non-conductive gas gaps) that effectively disrupt the conductivity of the incoming flow of liquid electrolyte, which is otherwise conductive along the incoming flow. That is, preferably, the conductive liquid electrolyte body on one side of the dripper is not in conductive contact with the conductive liquid electrolyte body on the other side of the dripper due to the dripper interrupting the liquid flow into a continuous, consistent, uniform, and / or regular flow of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) therebetween. In order to properly break the conductive path, the action of the dripper is preferably reliable and dependable (if not largely trouble-free) over a relatively long period of continuous or sustained operation.

[0137] Therefore, reference Figure 1, provides an electric energy or electrosynthesis cell comprising a cathode and an anode, and a liquid electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid electrolyte to the cell and a liquid electrolyte outlet for removing liquid electrolyte from the cell. The liquid electrolyte outlet includes an overflow weir over which excess liquid electrolyte flows.

[0138] In another embodiment, reference Figure 1 The electric or electrosynthetic battery cell includes a cathode and an anode, a liquid electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid electrolyte to the cell, and a liquid electrolyte outlet for removing liquid electrolyte from the cell. The liquid electrolyte inlet and / or liquid electrolyte outlet are part (e.g., at their ends) of a liquid electrolyte inlet section and a liquid electrolyte outlet section, each of which may include, or both may include, at least one dripper.

[0139] In another embodiment, reference Figure 1 , the electric energy or electrosynthesis cell comprises a cathode and an anode, and a liquid electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid electrolyte to the cell and a liquid electrolyte outlet for removing liquid electrolyte from the cell, and the liquid electrolyte outlet forms or comprises an overflow weir, excess liquid electrolyte flows over the overflow weir, and the liquid electrolyte inlet and / or the liquid electrolyte outlet are in fluid communication with at least one dripper.

[0140] In one example, the liquid electrolyte outlet includes an overflow weir over which excess liquid electrolyte flows.

[0141] In another example, the liquid electrolyte is a liquid cathode electrolyte; the liquid electrolyte inlet is a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid cathode electrolyte to the cathode half-cell; and the liquid electrolyte outlet is a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet for removing liquid cathode electrolyte from the cathode half-cell, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet forming or including an overflow weir over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte flows.

[0142] In another example, the liquid electrolyte is a liquid anode electrolyte; the liquid electrolyte inlet is a liquid anode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid anode electrolyte to the anode half-cell; and the liquid electrolyte outlet is a liquid anode electrolyte outlet for removing liquid anode electrolyte from the anode half-cell, the liquid anode electrolyte outlet forming or including an overflow weir over which excess liquid anode electrolyte flows.

[0143] In other examples, an overflow weir sets the level of liquid electrolyte in the cell; an overflow weir sets the level of liquid cathode electrolyte in the cathode half-cell, and / or an overflow weir sets the level of liquid anode electrolyte in the anode half-cell.

[0144] In other examples, the liquid electrolyte inlet segment includes a dripper, the liquid electrolyte outlet segment includes a dripper, the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet segment includes a dripper and / or the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet segment includes a dripper, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet segment includes a dripper and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet segment includes a dripper, and / or the dripper breaks the liquid electrolyte flow into liquid electrolyte droplets interspersed with gas gaps.

[0145] In another example aspect, the drip chamber need not be a distinct or separate cavity or chamber, but instead can be a segment or part of a channel, pipe, conduit or similar structure. In this case, the height of the drip chamber can be defined as the distance between the endpoint of the dripper (from which the droplet emerges) and the surface of the liquid below the dripper. For example, the first drip chamber 231 can be provided as a portion or segment of the cathode electrolyte inlet conduit, which is still positioned in a straight line between the cathode electrolyte inlet first segment 22 and the cathode electrolyte inlet second segment 25. For example, the second drip chamber 271 can be provided as a portion or segment of the cathode electrolyte outlet conduit, which is still positioned in a straight line between the cathode electrolyte outlet first segment 26 and the cathode electrolyte outlet second segment 29. For example, the third drip chamber 331 can be provided as a portion or segment of the anode electrolyte inlet conduit, which is still positioned in a straight line between the anode electrolyte inlet first segment 32 and the anode electrolyte inlet second segment 35. For example, the fourth drip chamber 371 can be provided as part or a section of the anode electrolyte outlet conduit, which is still positioned in a straight line between the first anode electrolyte outlet section 36 and the second anode electrolyte outlet section 39.

[0146] In another example ( Figure 1 In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for providing a liquid electrolyte solution in a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, a liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, or a liquid anode electrolyte outlet section, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section is located in a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, a liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, or a liquid anode electrolyte outlet section. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for providing a liquid electrolyte solution in a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, a liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, or a liquid anode electrolyte outlet section, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section is located in a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, a liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, and / or a liquid anode electrolyte outlet section, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section is located in a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, and / or a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section.

[0147] In other examples, the gas gap is an air gap, or the gas gap is a non-conductive gas gap.The gas gap may be provided via a drip chamber gas line.

[0148] In other examples, the level of liquid electrolyte within the cell or component half-cell remains substantially constant during operation of the cell. The liquid electrolyte within the cell can be electrically isolated from the liquid electrolyte outside the cell. The liquid electrolyte on one side of the drip chamber can be electrically isolated from the liquid electrolyte on the other side of the drip chamber. The liquid electrolyte within the cell can be electrically isolated from the liquid electrolyte in an adjacent cell.

[0149] In some examples, the resistance between the liquid electrolyte on one side of the drip chamber and the liquid electrolyte on the other side of the drip chamber is greater than 1Ω, greater than 10Ω, greater than 50Ω, greater than 100Ω, greater than 400Ω, greater than 700Ω, greater than 900Ω, greater than 1kΩ, greater than 5kΩ, greater than 10kΩ, greater than 50kΩ, greater than 100kΩ, greater than 1MΩ, greater than 5MΩ, greater than 10MΩ, greater than 50MΩ, greater than 100MΩ, or greater than 1,000MΩ.

[0150] In some examples, the liquid electrolyte inlet segment(s), liquid electrolyte inlet(s), liquid electrolyte outlet segment(s), and / or liquid electrolyte outlet(s) of the battery cell, and associated means for breaking the liquid electrolyte flow into droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with air gaps or gas gaps therebetween (i.e., a dripper or drip chamber) are small in size, having a thickness or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0151] In some examples, the liquid electrolyte inlet(s) and / or outlet(s) of the battery cell, and the associated means for breaking the liquid electrolyte flow into droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions interspersed with air gaps or gas gaps (i.e., drippers), incorporate small orifices that break the flow into small droplets. Preferably, the orifices have a thickness of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0152] In some examples, the droplets, microdroplets, slugs, or other portions produced by the at least one dispenser in the at least one dispenser in the at least one liquid electrolyte inlet section and the at least one dispenser in the at least one liquid electrolyte outlet section of the cell, interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps), are small and have a diameter or thickness of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0153] In some examples, the gas-filled drip chamber positioned below the dripper has a height of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 15 mm, less than 12 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 9 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 7 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 5 mm, or less than 3 mm.

[0154] Preferably, the gas-filled drip chamber positioned below the dripper has a diameter or width of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0155] In another example, the dispenser is impermeable to corrosive liquid electrolytes. In another example, multiple liquid electrolyte inlets, multiple liquid electrolyte inlet sections, multiple liquid electrolyte outlets, multiple liquid electrolyte outlet sections, and multiple dispensers are miniaturized. In another example, multiple liquid electrolyte inlets, multiple liquid electrolyte inlet sections, multiple liquid electrolyte outlets, multiple liquid electrolyte outlet sections, and multiple dispensers are integrated into the cell frame.

[0156] porous capillary structure

[0157] The inventors have further discovered devices for preventing gas in the system from entering and becoming entrained in the liquid pathways of the battery cells.

[0158] For example, the gas in the drip chamber is effectively located below the liquid in the associated liquid passage above the associated dripper. To prevent the gas from the drip chamber from moving upwards into the liquid passage and mixing with it, a porous capillary structure with a bubble point exceeding the gas's pressure on the liquid can be included in the liquid passage above the drip chamber. For example, the porous capillary structure can be included in the dripper or placed in the liquid passage, immediately above and adjacent to the dripper, or positioned within the liquid passage in a way that prevents gas from entering and mixing with the liquid in the liquid passage.

[0159] A 'porous capillary structure' is a porous material that draws in liquid by capillary action and holds the liquid therein, wherein the porous capillary structure has a 'bubble point' that is higher than the pressure exerted by the gas to enter the liquid stream. The bubble point is defined as the non-zero gas pressure required to push the liquid out of the largest capillaries within the porous capillary structure. Effectively, the porous capillary structure facilitates the entry of liquid but resists or blocks the entry of gas. Non-limiting examples of porous capillary structures include various porous hydrophilic membranes, porous hydrophilic plugs, and the like. For example, the porous capillary structure sold by Pall Corporation Polyether sulfonate water purification membranes may include porous hydrophilic membranes that act as porous capillary structures.

[0160] Figure 2 Depicts Figure 1 The battery cell 1, but additionally wherein a first porous capillary structure 233 is installed in the liquid path provided by the first section 22 of the cathode electrolyte inlet, and the first porous capillary structure is positioned above the first dripper 23 and preferably adjacent to the first dripper, so as to ensure that the gas 232 does not enter the first dripper 23, the first porous capillary structure 233, and the liquid path provided by the first section 22 of the cathode electrolyte inlet.

[0161] Figure 2 A second porous capillary structure 273 is also depicted, which is similarly mounted and positioned above and preferably adjacent to the second dropper 27 in the liquid passage provided by the first section 26 of the cathode electrolyte outlet, thereby ensuring that gas 272 does not enter the second dropper 27, the second porous capillary structure 273, and the liquid passage provided by the first section 26 of the cathode electrolyte outlet.

[0162] Figure 2 A third porous capillary structure 333 is also depicted, which is similarly mounted and positioned above and preferably adjacent to the third dropper 33 in the liquid passage provided by the first section 32 of the anode electrolyte inlet, thereby ensuring that gas 332 does not enter the third dropper 33, the third porous capillary structure 333, and the liquid passage provided by the first section 32 of the anode electrolyte inlet.

[0163] Figure 2 A fourth porous capillary structure 373 is also depicted, which is similarly mounted and positioned above and preferably adjacent to the fourth dropper 37 in the liquid passage provided by the first section 36 of the anode electrolyte outlet, thereby ensuring that gas 372 does not enter the fourth dropper 37, the fourth porous capillary structure 373, and the liquid passage provided by the first section 36 of the anode electrolyte outlet.

[0164] In some examples, any one or more of the drip chambers may be incorporated into or include a porous capillary structure, or the drip chamber may be positioned adjacent to and preferably abut or touch the porous capillary structure.

[0165] Gas may also become entrained in the liquid overflowing over the weir, and thus become mixed with the liquid flow. To prevent this, a porous capillary structure with a bubble point exceeding the gas's pressure on the liquid can be included in the liquid passage at the weir. For example, the porous capillary structure can be included in the opening of the weir or placed in the liquid passage, immediately below and adjacent to the weir, or positioned to prevent gas from entering and mixing with the liquid passing over the weir.

[0166] Figure 2 Depicts Figure 1 cell in, but additionally wherein the porous capillary structure 263 is located in the liquid path provided by the cathode electrolyte outlet first section 26 (i.e., the weir 261), at or below the mouth or opening of the weir 261, to thereby ensure that the gas 202 (above the liquid level 201) is not drawn in and does not mix with the liquid flow passing through the weir 261 and along the liquid path provided by the cathode electrolyte outlet first section 26.

[0167] Figure 2 A porous capillary structure 363 is also depicted at the mouth or opening of the first section 36 (i.e., weir 361) of the anode electrolyte outlet, thereby ensuring that gas 302 (above the liquid level 301) is not drawn in and does not mix with the liquid flow passing through the weir 361 and along the liquid pathway provided by the first section 36 of the anode electrolyte outlet. Therefore, a first porous capillary structure positioned at or downstream of the first overflow weir and a second porous capillary structure positioned at or downstream of the second overflow weir are provided.

[0168] Example drip chamber for interrupting liquid flow

[0169] The drippers 23, 27, 33, or 37 have the following properties: they interrupt the liquid flow into a series of droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) interspersed therebetween. Preferably, the liquid flow is interrupted immediately after it leaves the dripper and enters the gas atmosphere of the drip chamber, thereby minimizing the height of the gas-filled drip chamber required below it. Preferably, the liquid flow is interrupted into droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions of controlled size with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) interspersed therebetween. Preferably, the droplets, droplets, slugs, or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) interspersed therebetween are of small size, thereby minimizing the width or thickness of the gas-filled drip chamber. These features can be implemented in many ways. Preferably, the dripper reliably and reliably (if not fail-safe) breaks the flow of liquid through it into a continuous, consistent, uniform and / or regular stream of liquid electrolyte droplets, droplets, slugs or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) therebetween over relatively long periods of continuous or sustained operation.

[0170] Figure 3 An example dripper 250 is depicted (shown as a half-piece for illustration purposes, so as to be mated with another similar half-piece to form a complete dripper) that includes a very fine internal orifice with a diameter d (e.g., a diameter of 0.2 mm) through which a liquid electrolyte passes. The dripper 250 has an outer diameter D (e.g., a diameter of 3.0 mm). The dripper 250 has a length L (e.g., a length of 10 mm). When the liquid electrolyte flows through the internal orifice with a diameter d at a specific rate, the liquid electrolyte is induced to break into droplets separated by gas gaps (e.g., air gaps). Preferably, in other examples, the dripper has an internal orifice with a diameter d less than or equal to 0.2 mm, the dripper has an outer diameter D less than or equal to 3.0 mm, and the dripper has a length L less than or equal to 10 mm. By varying the orifice diameter d and / or by varying the flow rate of the liquid electrolyte through the orifice of the dripper, the droplet size (i.e., droplet diameter or droplet thickness) can be controlled, reduced, or minimized.

[0171] For example, Figure 4The image depicts a liquid electrolyte passing through a 0.51 mm diameter metal orifice at the tip of a syringe and entering a gas-filled dosing chamber within a gas atmosphere. As can be seen, when flowing into the gas-containing volume at a rate less than 7 mL / min, the flow is broken into droplets (or microdroplets) separated by gas gaps (leftmost image). Since the gas is essentially non-conductive, the conductive path between the liquid in the orifice and the liquid in the bottommost droplet (or microdroplet) is interrupted. However, as the flow rate through the orifice increases to 8 mL / min, 9 mL / min, 10 mL / min, and finally 11 mL / min (rightmost image), the droplets (or microdroplets) progressively recombine to eventually form a continuous liquid flow that does not contain gas gaps and therefore does not interrupt the conductive path.

[0172] This method can also be used to 'design' the size of the droplets (or droplets) formed. For example, Figure 5 The measured relationship between the diameter (or thickness) of droplets (or microdroplets) as they fall (shown on the y-axis) and the velocity of the liquid electrolyte (6M KOH) through the orifice (shown on the x-axis) is depicted. As can be seen, droplets (or microdroplets) with diameters as small as 0.3 mm can be reliably and reproducibly produced within a temperature range between 20°C and 80°C. Such droppers can reliably and dependably operate continuously or for relatively long periods.

[0173] (If not trouble-free) operation, thereby breaking the flow of liquid electrolyte through it into a continuous, consistent, uniform and / or regular flow of liquid electrolyte droplets, microdroplets, slugs or other portions with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps) between them.

[0174] Preferably, the gas in the drip chamber is not a relatively small, fixed volume of isolated gas, because the flow of liquid into such a volume can induce pressure fluctuations that affect and alter the dripping action, thereby impacting its reliability and dependability. Drip systems that rely on a fixed, relatively small gas volume in the drip chamber (e.g., intravenous drip systems and chambers) are generally unreliable in electrosynthesis or battery cells because, although initially fixed, the gas volume typically varies over time, affecting the reliability and dependability of the dripping action. To avoid a fixed and small gas volume in the drip chamber, a gas line from a larger gas mass to the drip chamber can be incorporated, as described below. Such a gas line allows gas to flow freely between the larger gas mass and the drip chamber, thereby maintaining the gas atmosphere in the drip chamber. This gas flow also avoids or mitigates pressure fluctuations within the gas in the drip chamber, thereby preventing the possibility that such pressure fluctuations would affect and alter the dripping action, thus impacting its reliability and dependability, as described above.

[0175] Thus, the use of a narrow orifice in combination with a predetermined fixed flow rate can be used to produce a liquid stream to be reliably and repeatedly broken into droplets (or droplets) that do not allow continued electrical conduction over relatively long periods of continuous or sustained operation.

[0176] Other example embodiments that may be used as drippers and / or employed to interrupt or introduce a non-conductive gas body into a liquid stream include:

[0177] (1) Leaf-shaped dripper : Flowing a liquid stream over a structure that terminates in a sharp tip may cause the stream to break up into droplets (or droplets). Figure 6 A 'leaf-type dripper' of this type is depicted, in which a liquid flows over a structure having a sharp tip which causes the stream to break up into a series of droplets (or microdroplets).

[0178] (2) Slug flow : Flowing liquid into a tubular 'slug chamber' 800 (which has a connection to a gas body via a 'slug chamber gas line' 801) may cause the liquid flow to break up into a liquid body (e.g., liquid body or slug 802) interspersed with a gas body (e.g., gas body 803). Figure 7 This type of fitting is schematically depicted, wherein liquid flowing through a drip chamber 804 (e.g., a syringe needle) at 9 mL / min is delivered into a vertically disposed slug chamber 800 having a diameter of 3 mm (or less than 3 mm in other examples) with a horizontally disposed slug chamber gas line 801 having an orifice size of 2.5 mm (or less than 2.5 mm in other examples) near the tip of the drip chamber 804. Gas drawn by the liquid stream 805 through the horizontal slug chamber gas line 801 causes the liquid stream 805 to break into 'slugs (e.g., slug 802)' separated by gas gaps (e.g., air gaps 803), which can break the conductive path of the liquid stream through the slug chamber 800. The slugs (e.g., slug 802) comprise droplets or microdroplets of liquid that may touch the walls of the slug chamber 800. A slug chamber that produces a non-uniform slug of liquid and gas may be capable of interrupting or introducing a body of non-conductive gas into a liquid stream, but may not be suitable as a 'dripper' that can reliably and reliably (if not fail-safely) break a conductive pathway over a relatively long period of continuous or sustained operation.

[0179] (3) Current limiter: A 'restrictor' is a thin channel that may contain multiple bends (i.e., a tortuous orifice) that may have the effect of creating a pressure drop in the liquid passing through the restrictor. A restrictor may also slow and / or regulate the flow rate along the liquid path. A restrictor may be used to create a more controlled flow of droplets, microdroplets, or slugs exiting the drip chamber. Figure 8 An example flow restrictor 91 is schematically depicted, comprising a tortuous, finely serrated channel. A liquid inlet 90 leads to the flow restrictor 91. The flow restrictor may also have a bubble point (i.e., the pressure required in the gas to force the liquid out of the tortuous orifice). The flow restrictor may be formed of a polymer or metal, such as an injection-molded polymer flow restrictor or a sintered metal flow restrictor. Preferably, the flow restrictor is positioned upstream of the dripper.

[0180] (4) Combination of flow restrictor, slug chamber and dripper A combination of a flow restrictor and / or a slug chamber and / or a drip chamber can be used to interrupt a liquid flow in a more controlled manner. For example, a flow restrictor can be combined with a slug chamber to better control the flow rate and uniformity of the slugs produced. In another example, a slug chamber can be combined with a drip chamber to better control the flow rate and size of the droplets or droplets exiting the drip chamber. A drip chamber can similarly be combined with a slug chamber to better control the flow rate and size of the slugs exiting the slug chamber. Alternatively, a flow restrictor and a slug chamber can be used to better control the flow rate and size of the droplets or droplets exiting the drip chamber. A flow restrictor, a slug chamber, and a drip chamber can be used simultaneously. It will be understood that in this regard, any combination of a flow restrictor, a slug chamber, and / or a drip chamber can be used.

[0181] Figure 8 A non-limiting example is schematically depicted in FIG. A liquid inlet 90 leads to a flow restrictor 91 that includes a tortuous, finely zigzag structure. The flow restrictor 91 can create a pressure drop in the liquid passing through it and also slow and / or regulate the flow rate. Thus, for example, the liquid passing through the flow restrictor changes from having a higher pressure at the inlet 90 to a lower pressure and a more controlled flow as it descends along the flow restrictor 91. The flow restrictor is positioned upstream of the slug chamber and the dripper. The flow restrictor 91 deposits the liquid in the slug chamber 93, which contains a slug chamber gas line 92. The slug chamber gas line 92 induces the liquid flow entering the slug chamber 93 to uniformly break into uniformly sized liquid slugs 933 interspersed with uniformly sized gas bodies 934, including liquid slugs 933 separated by gas gaps 934. This flow then passes through an orifice-based dripper 94, which converts the flow into droplets / microdroplets 951 within a drip chamber 95, as... Figure 8 As depicted in the diagram. The drip chamber 95 includes a drip chamber gas line 96 to ensure that the drip chamber 95 remains filled with gas. The microdroplets 951 recombine into a homogeneous liquid 97 at the bottom of the drip chamber 95, wherein the liquid 97 flows downward along the liquid channel 98.

[0182] Therefore, in one example, a flow restrictor 91 is provided, which is positioned above a slug chamber 93 with a slug chamber gas line 92, and the slug chamber 93 is positioned above a dripper 94, which is positioned above a dripper chamber 95 with a dripper gas line 96.

[0183] The dripper, slug chamber, and flow restrictor can be formed from polymer or metal, such as an injection molded polymer dripper, slug chamber, or flow restrictor, or a sintered metal dripper, slug chamber, or flow restrictor. The dripper, slug chamber, and flow restrictor can be manufactured separately and then incorporated into the cell or cell frame after manufacturing.

[0184] (5) Gas-filled bends in liquid pipelines : Incorporating air bubbles into bends in liquid lines can be used to electrically isolate the bulk of the liquid electrolyte and provide 'self-filling' capability. Figure 9 (Left) A cross section of a spherical half-cell 80 is depicted, containing liquid electrolyte 81 filled to a liquid level 82. Liquid level 82 is set by the height of an elbow 83 in a liquid electrolyte outlet tube 84, which is connected on the right-hand side of half-cell 80. A liquid electrolyte inlet tube 85 is also attached to half-cell 80 (on its left-hand side). A volume of gas 86 present at an elbow 87 in liquid electrolyte inlet tube 85 can be used to break the conductive path between liquid 81 in half-cell 80 and liquid 88 in liquid electrolyte inlet tube 85. Reference Figure 9 (On the right), when the liquid electrolyte (e.g., water) is consumed during the operation of the half-cell 80, its liquid level may drop. This causes a rearrangement of the gas volume 86 above the bend 87 in the liquid electrolyte inlet pipe 85, thereby drawing the liquid across the bend 87 in the liquid electrolyte inlet pipe 85 and into the cell 80. The liquid will flow across the bend 87 until the cell liquid level returns to its original level 82 (i.e., height), after which the gas volume 86 at the bend 87 will be readjusted again, causing it to disconnect the conductive path once more.

[0185] Miniaturization and integration into the cell frame

[0186] The ability to design the above-described drippers so that the droplets (or droplets or slugs) they produce are of very small size allows them to be easily miniaturized. As noted above, the overflow weir described above can also be miniaturized. Such miniaturization allows these devices to be incorporated into cell frames used industrially for many electrochemical cells. Such cells and their frames can be flat and as thin as 1 cm or less, making them 'stackable'. That is, they can be stacked in a multi-cell stack, such as a filter press type cell stack. The cell frames are preferably flat.

[0187] Figure 10An example polymer cell frame 1000 for use in electrochemical cells is depicted, which will be stacked in a filter press arrangement of the type used in the electrochemical industry. The frame is flat and square, and in one particular example is only 8 mm thick (or less than 8 mm thick in other examples). The frame is intended to be used with other identical cell frames (e.g., frames 1001 and 1002, etc.). Figure 10 Once stacked, the frames are pressed tightly against each other to create a filter press arrangement.

[0188] The cell frame 1000 includes a central window 1003 into which the electrode spacer is attached. The electrode spacer (which is 0.5 mm thick in one example) is thermally bonded to a ledge 1004. The anode and cathode electrodes are assembled into the central window on opposite sides of the electrode spacer. The anode electrode (which is 0.5 mm thick in one example) is positioned to fit snugly against the electrode spacer within a cutout 1005, which is, for example, 4 mm thick. The cathode electrode (which is 0.5 mm thick in one example) is positioned to fit snugly against the electrode spacer within a cutout 1006, which is, for example, 4 mm thick. In other examples, the anode electrode is less than 0.5 mm thick, and the cathode electrode is less than 0.5 mm thick.

[0189] The cell frames have liquid manifold apertures 1007 for transporting liquid electrolyte to the cells. When other cell frames (e.g., 1001 and 1002) are pressed against cell frame 1000, the liquid manifold apertures 1007 will join with equivalent liquid manifold apertures in the other cell frames to form a liquid-carrying 'manifold,' which is a pipe, channel, or conduit that extends through all cells in the filter press arrangement, formed by the combination of the above-mentioned liquid manifold apertures 1007 in all cells in the cell stack. The header is in fluid communication with each cell in the cell stack.

[0190] On the cell frame 1000, a liquid manifold orifice 1007 connects to a liquid passage 1008, which is etched into or formed in the surface 1009 of the cell frame 1000. When the cell frame 1002 is pressed tightly against the cell frame 1000, the passage 1008 is sealed and becomes a liquid passage or liquid conduit, such as... Figure 10 The cell frame 1000 is flat.

[0191] Channel 1008 is connected to a small porous capillary structure 1010 and a small dripper 1011, which has been manufactured separately and inserted into the cell frame 1000. The liquid electrolyte flowing from the liquid electrolyte inlet manifold orifice 1007 will pass through the porous capillary structure 1010 along the pipe or conduit formed by the channel 1008 and into the dripper 1011. When the liquid flow passes through the dripper 1011 and enters the gas-filled drip chamber 1012, the dripper 1011 breaks the incoming liquid flow into droplets interspersed with gas gaps. The purpose of the porous capillary structure 1010 is to prevent the gas in the gas-filled drip chamber 1012 from moving upward through the dripper 1011 and into the channel 1008. That is, the porous capillary structure 1010 has a sufficiently high 'bubble point' to prevent gas from moving through the porous capillary structure and into the channel 108. After passing through the drip chamber 1011, the liquid droplets will fall to the bottom of the gas-filled drip chamber 1012 and then flow into the inlet channel 1013, which deposits the liquid electrolyte in the anolyte chamber formed in the thickness cut 1005. The anolyte chamber will fill to the liquid level 1015, after which the excess liquid electrolyte will flow over the overflow weir formed by the outlet 1014 into the outlet channel 1016. At or near the outlet 1014, another porous capillary structure 1141 can be positioned to prevent gas from above the liquid level 1015 from being drawn into the liquid flow in the outlet channel 1016. At the base of the outlet channel 1016, there can be another porous capillary structure and drip chamber (not shown) that will break the liquid flow into droplets interspersed with gas gaps, which fall into the outlet manifold orifice 1017. The purpose of the porous capillary structure in this location is to prevent gas from the liquid level above the manifold 1017 from passing upward through the dropper into the outlet channel 1016.

[0192] To avoid unreliability in the dripping operation due to the small, fixed gas volume in the dripping chamber 1012 (as discussed above), the dripping chamber 1012 can be connected to a gas line (conduit) between the dripping chamber 1012 and the gas body above the liquid level 1015. Although in Figure 10 Although not shown, such a gas line provides gas flow between the gas body above the liquid level 1015 and the gas in the drip chamber 1012, thereby preventing or mitigating pressure fluctuations in the gas volume in the drip chamber 1012, which could cause unreliable dripping action of the dripper 1011.

[0193] In the filter press arrangement of the cells squeezed together (e.g. Figure 10(Schematally shown in the upper left for cells 1000, 1001 and 1003) Each individual cell will therefore be: electrically isolated to prevent shunt current, and (ii) maintained at level 1015 of liquid anode electrolyte during operation, provided that a small excess of liquid electrolyte is continuously supplied to the cell via inlet manifold orifice 1007.

[0194] In the context of this specification, the above components may be considered 'small' if they have dimensions falling within the following ranges.

[0195] - Battery cells (e.g., cells 1001, 1002, or 1003) have a width or thickness of less than 50 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, less than 0.25 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, or less than 5 mm.

[0196] - A liquid cathode electrolyte outlet or a liquid anode electrolyte outlet (e.g., overflow weir 1014) having a width, thickness, or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0197] - A liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte inlet (e.g., channel 1008 or channel 1013) having a width, thickness, or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0198] - A dripper (e.g., dripper 1011) having a thickness or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0199] - A dripper (e.g., dripper 1011) having an orifice through which liquid flows and is interrupted, wherein the orifice has a diameter of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0200] - A dropper (e.g., dropper 1011) that produces droplets having a diameter or thickness of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0202] - A drip chamber (e.g., drip chamber 1012) having a height of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 15 mm, less than 12 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 9 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 7 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 5 mm, or less than 3 mm.

[0203] - A drip chamber (e.g., drip chamber 1012) having a diameter or width of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0204] - Porous capillary structures (e.g., porous capillary structures 1010 or 1141) having a diameter or width less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0205] Ensure equal electrolyte flow through multiple cells stacked in the cell stack.

[0206] Preferably, for efficient operation, in the case of the cell arrangement discussed above, an equal amount of liquid should flow through each of the cells stacked together in a filter press arrangement. A typical problem in this regard is that the cell closest to the water inlet may experience a faster rate of liquid passing through it than the cell farthest from the water inlet of the cell stack. This may be due to the difference in pressure changes experienced by the liquid as it passes through different cells. That is, the cell through which the liquid experiences the greatest pressure drop may experience the greatest liquid flow through it.

[0207] One way to overcome this problem is Figure 11 The figure illustrates, schematically, a cell stack 1100 comprising three cells: a first cell 1101, a second cell 1102, and a third cell 1103, in a filter press-type cell stack. Three cells are shown for illustrative purposes and are not limiting; various examples may include cell stacks with different numbers of cells. Figure 11In the arrangement depicted in , the upper liquid inlet header 1107 is pressurized to a higher pressure than the liquid in each of the first cell 1101, the second cell 1102, and the third cell 1103, while the lower liquid outlet header 1108 is at a lower pressure than the pressure in each cell. The effect of such an arrangement is that each cell 1101, 1102, and 1103 in the cell stack 1100 is induced to have an equal or substantially equal amount of liquid passing through it because the pressure drop experienced by the liquid passing through each cell is substantially the same. That is, Figure 11 The arrangement described minimizes the pressure drop differences experienced by the liquid passing through each of the cells.

[0208] Detailed consideration Figure 11 : The liquid in the upper liquid inlet header 1107 is pressurized to a higher pressure than the pressure within each cell itself (i.e., the first cell 1101, the second cell 1102, and the third cell 1103), and higher than within the lower liquid outlet header 1108. The liquid inlet channel to each cell (the first cell 1101, the second cell 1102, and the third cell 1103) can also be patterned into a flow restrictor 1104 (which involves a very thin channel with many abrupt bends). Figure 8 Structure 91 in the diagram depicts an example of a flow restrictor. A flow restrictor has the function of creating a pressure drop in the liquid passing through it. For example, passing through... Figure 11 The liquid in the current limiter changes from a higher pressure in the upper liquid inlet manifold 1107 to a lower pressure in the battery cell.

[0209] After passing through the restrictor 1104, the liquid then passes through the porous capillary structure and the dripper 1105, causing the liquid flow to break into a series of droplets, microdroplets, slugs or other parts interspersed with gas gaps (e.g., air gaps). The dripper 1105 serves to disconnect the liquid in the cell (e.g., the liquid below the cell liquid level 1109) ( Figure 10 The liquid level 1015 in the manifold and the liquid in the header (e.g., the upper liquid inlet header 1107) are connected. Figure 10 Conductivity between the liquid in the manifold 1007 (formed in the manifold 1007).

[0210] After entering the cell and helping to maintain the cell liquid level 1109, excess liquid flows over the outlet weir and into the liquid outlet channel (e.g., Figure 10 In the outlet weir 1016). Afterwards, the liquid in the liquid outlet channel can pass through the second flow restrictor ( Figure 11 (Not shown in the image) and the second dripper 1106 (having an associated porous capillary structure) enter the lower liquid outlet manifold 1108 (e.g., Figure 10 In the manifold 1017). The lower liquid outlet manifold 1108 (e.g., Figure 10 The 1017 in the middle is pressurized to a pressure lower than the cell pressure.

[0211] Figure 11 The effect of the arrangement of the cell stack 1100 depicted in FIG is that, due to the upper liquid supply manifold 1107 (e.g., Figure 10 The manifold 1007 is pressurized with a liquid (e.g., in the cell 1101) than the liquid in the cell 1101. Figure 10 The liquid below level 1015 in the cells has a higher pressure, so an equal or substantially equal amount of liquid passes through each of the first drippers 1105 in cells 1101, 1102, and 1103 per unit time. Similarly, due to the pressure inside cells 1101, 1102, and 1103 (e.g., Figure 10 The liquid level below 1015 in the middle is higher than the lower liquid outlet manifold 1108 (e.g., Figure 10 The pressure in the manifold 1017 in the battery cells ensures that equal or substantially equal amounts of liquid pass through each of the lower drippers 1106 in cells 1101, 1102 and 1103 per unit time.

[0212] These methods enable the reliable fabrication of very thin cell stacks in filter press arrangements to maintain a predetermined liquid electrolyte level during operation without the need for electronic or mechanical level sensors, while simultaneously avoiding shunt current.

[0213] electrolytes

[0214] Although the above example uses aqueous 6M KOH as the liquid electrolyte, a wide range of other liquids can be used as electrolytes, including but not limited to:

[0215] - Water containing one or more dissolved ions, such as but not limited to: Na + , K + , Ca 2+ Mg 2+ OH - 、SO4 2- 、HSO4 - 、Cl - 、NO3 - 、ClO4 - , phosphates (including HPO4 - ), carbonates (including HCO3 - ), PF6 - 、BF4 - 、(CF3SO2)2N - or polyelectrolytes comprising polymers having functional groups, such as but not limited to polystyrene sulfonate, DNA, polypeptides;

[0216] - a non-aqueous liquid containing a solute (such as, but not limited to, propylene carbonate or dimethoxyethane), or a propionitrile liquid containing a solute (such as, but not limited to, LiClO4 or Bu4NPF6); or

[0217] - Conductive liquids such as, but not limited to, ambient temperature molten salts or ionic liquids comprising alkyl-substituted ammonium, imidazolium or pyridinium cations paired with suitable anions.

[0218] Example: Capillary-based battery cells

[0219] The following examples relate to capillary-based electrosynthesis or power cells of the type described, for example, in International Patent Publication Nos. WO 2022056603, WO 2022056604, WO 2022056605, and WO 2022056606, which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0220] Before describing the characteristics of the liquid in such capillary-based cells, it is necessary to describe how the cells can be assembled. Figure 12 Schematically depicts how the components of an example preferred embodiment capillary-based electrosynthesis or power cell 1190 may be assembled.

[0221] exist Figure 12 Starting at the upper left of FIG, along row A, the cell comprises: a polymer cell frame 1110 having a relatively large open window (i.e., a window cutout) at its center; and an inter-electrode porous capillary spacer 1120 (also referred to as an inter-electrode porous capillary membrane 1120), which is capable of drawing liquid upward from a reservoir at the base of the cell by capillary action. Preferably, but not exclusively, the base material of the inter-electrode porous capillary spacer 1120 comprises a polymer material that is the same as or substantially similar to the material of the cell frame 1110.

[0222] Figure 12 Row B in FIG. 1 shows the inter-electrode porous capillary spacer 1120 welded to the cell frame 1110 to form an assembly 1121. Figure 12 Other elements in the exploded view shown in row B of FIG include electrodes 1130 and 1140, which may be porous and include a metal base. Electrodes 1130 and 1140 are pre-cut to fit within the windows of cell frame 1110. On the exterior of these electrodes are conductive, metallic, extruded (e.g., spring-type) elements 1150 and 1160, which are also cut to fit within the windows of cell frame 1110. Figure 12On the outside of the exploded view at row B are solid metal bipolar plates 1170 and 1180. These have been pre-cut to be larger than the windows and overlap the outside of the cell frame 1121 (including the top, bottom and side edges of the frame 1110).

[0223] Figure 12 Row C in FIG depicts the next stage in assembly. Electrodes 1130 and 1140 are placed within the windows of cell frame 1121, positioned tightly against opposite sides of inter-electrode porous capillary spacer 1120, which has been welded to cell frame 1110. The assembly of cell frame 1110, inter-electrode porous capillary spacer 1120, and electrodes 1130 and 1140 is labeled assembly 1112.

[0224] As can be seen in the image in line C, compressible (e.g., spring-loaded) elements 1150 and 1160 are to be inserted into the window of the cell frame 1112. Subsequently, metal bipolar plates 1170 and 1180 are securely attached (e.g., by ultrasonic or pressure plate welding) to the uncovered, exposed polymer surface on the front and back sides of the cell frame 1110 at their top, bottom, and around the sides, respectively, thereby sealing the cell into a closed loop. Another function of attaching the bipolar plates 1170 and 1180 to the cell frame assembly 1112 is that the compressible (e.g., spring-loaded) elements 1150 and 1160 located between the bipolar plates 1170 and 1180 and the electrodes 1130 and 1140 will then also apply clamping forces to the electrodes 1130 and 1140, respectively, thereby pressing them tightly against opposite sides of the inter-electrode porous capillary diaphragm 1120.

[0225] Figure 12 The image in the lower right corner depicts a fully assembled cell 1190, which is a flat, thin cell that can be used, for example, in a filter press-type cell stack.

[0226] like Figure 12 What can be seen in:

[0227] (1) To the extent necessary to press electrodes 1130 and 1140 against opposite sides of the porous capillary spacer 1120 between electrodes, cell 1190 has been partially or completely pressed by the following steps: bipolar plates 1170 and 1180 are securely attached, at their top, bottom, and around their sides, on the front and back sides of cell frame 1110, respectively. In doing so, compressible (e.g., spring-loaded) elements 1150 and 1160 are pressed against electrodes 1130 and 1140, respectively.

[0228] (2) To the extent that cell 1190 can be sealed, it has been sealed as completely as possible at this stage by the following steps: the bipolar plates 1170 and 1180 are securely attached to the uncovered, exposed polymer surface at their top, bottom and around the sides on the front and back of cell frame 1110, respectively.

[0229] Figure 13 Schematically depicts how example capillary-based electrosynthesis or power cells 1190 may be stacked in a cell stack 2100. The header apertures at the top of each cell (e.g., header apertures 2120, 2130, and 2140) and the header apertures at the bottom of each cell (e.g., header apertures 2150 and 2160) are aligned in different cells in the stack so that they effectively form top and bottom headers through the cell stack 2100.

[0230] In filter press-type cell stacks, manifolds (e.g., manifolds formed by manifold orifices 2120, 2130, 2140, 2150, and 2160) are typically sealed to each other by tightly pressing the cells in the stack between two end plates and then maintaining such pressure. Typically, this pressure will be necessary to ensure that liquid and / or gas in the manifolds cannot flow into the spaces between the cells.

[0231] Furthermore, current can be applied through the stack via the electrical series connection of the bipolar plates in the stack. When this is done, the stack will act as a uniformly operating electrosynthesis or collection of power cells.

[0232] Figure 14 The liquid characteristics of this type of cell 1190 are schematically depicted. Figure 14 A porous capillary spacer 1120 between electrodes of a single cell 1190 is shown. The porous capillary spacer between electrodes is welded to the cell frame 1110 to form an assembly 1121. Figure 14 (a) to Figure 14 The image sequence in (f) depicts how the liquid electrolyte can pass through such capillary-fed cells 1190 within such cell stack 2100. The liquid is shown as the area filled with solid. In a specific example, the cell frame has an outer diameter of 23 cm, where these features are shown in scale.

[0233] exist Figure 14 In (a), liquid is transferred from liquid inlet manifold 3100 into and through current limiter 3110, which has been injection molded into polymer cell frame.

[0234] exist Figure 14In (b), liquid passes from the restrictor 3110 into the liquid access channel 3120 and then into the porous capillary structure 3130, where the drip chamber is located below.

[0235] exist Figure 14 In (c), a drip chamber below the porous capillary structure 3130 breaks the liquid stream into droplets 3140 (i.e., microdroplets), which fall through a gas-filled drip chamber 3150. The drip chamber has a drip chamber gas line 3151 that connects the drip chamber to an area where a larger body of gas exists to thereby maintain the gas atmosphere in the drip chamber and prevent pressure fluctuations of the gas in the gas chamber that could affect the reliability of the dripping action.

[0236] exist Figure 14 In (d), the droplets 3140 coalesce into a homogeneous liquid phase at the bottom of the drip chamber 3150 and flow into the liquid access channel 3160 and then into the base of the cell, where a reservoir 3170 is formed on the front of the porous capillary spacer 1120. The liquid in the reservoir 3170 is drawn upward along the porous capillary spacer 1120 in direction 3180, thereby filling the porous capillary spacer 1120 with liquid.

[0237] exist Figure 14 In (e), the height of the reservoir 3171 is set by the height of the overflow weir 3190, over which excess liquid passes into the liquid flow channel 3200. A porous capillary structure is incorporated into the mouth of the overflow weir 3190. By this means, the liquid level 3171 in the reservoir 3170 is maintained constant.

[0238] exist Figure 14 In (f), the liquid in the channel 3200 flows into the porous capillary structure 3210 adjacent to the dripper 3220. The dripper breaks the liquid stream into droplets 3230 (i.e., droplets), which fall through a gas-filled drip chamber included in part on the liquid outlet manifold 3240.

[0239] When the cell is operated as an electrosynthetic cell and Figure 14 When gas is generated in the half-cell shown in Figure 14 In (d) the gas channels (arrows) into the gas manifold 3190 and out of the half-cell.

[0240] Along Figure 14 The liquid channels shown in (a)-(f) can be sealed by stacking multiple such cells in a stack and then pressing them together. Alternatively, they can be sealed by welding a cover (e.g., a thin polymer cover) over them.

[0241] This can be repeated on the other side of assembly 1121 for the other half of the cells. Figure 14 The liquid and gas characteristics are depicted in the diagram. In this way, the liquid level in the reservoir 3170 at the base of cell 3190 can be maintained at a constant level, while ensuring that the liquid in reservoir 3170 is electrically disconnected from the liquid in the reservoirs of other cells 1190 in the stack 2100. This also eliminates shunt current.

[0242] In a further specific example, there is provided:

[0243] (i) A battery cell having at least one dripper and at least one weir, wherein the battery cell is an alkaline water electrolyzer or a fuel cell, and wherein the electrolyte is a hydroxide with a pH greater than 12.

[0244] (ii) A battery cell having at least one drip chamber and at least one weir together with an electrode separator having a thickness of less than 0.2 mm.

[0245] (iii) A battery cell having at least one dripper and at least one weir, and having a pressure of more than 2 bar on the electrode diaphragm against the electrode.

[0246] (iv) A cell having at least one dripper and at least one weir together with an electrode membrane less than 200 micrometers thick, wherein the cell is an alkaline water electrolyzer or a fuel cell, and wherein the electrolyte is a hydroxide with a pH greater than 12.

[0247] (v) A cell having at least one dripper and at least one weir, and having a compression of more than 2 bar on an electrode diaphragm, wherein the cell is an alkaline water electrolyzer or a fuel cell, and wherein the electrolyte is a hydroxide with a pH greater than 12.

[0248] (vi) A cell having at least one dripper and at least one weir together with an electrode diaphragm of less than 200 micrometers thickness and having a compression of more than 2 bar on the electrode diaphragm, wherein the cell is an alkaline water electrolyzer or a fuel cell, and wherein the electrolyte is a hydroxide with a pH value greater than 12.

[0249] Electrosynthesis and Electric Energy Cells

[0250] Optionally, the battery cell having the above liquid characteristics is an electric energy battery cell, such as: (i) a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell, including a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell or an alkaline fuel cell, (ii) a direct alcohol fuel cell, including a direct methanol or direct ethanol fuel cell, (iii) a phosphoric acid fuel cell, or (iv) an ammonia fuel cell.

[0251] Optionally, the cell having the above liquid characteristics is an electrosynthetic cell, such as: (i) a water electrolyzer, (ii) a chlor-alkali electrolyzer, (iii) a cell for ammonia production, or (iv) a CO2 electrolyzer, including a combination of carbon capture and CO2 electrolyzers.

[0252] Combination of features

[0253] According to various non-limiting example embodiments, the following highlights disclose combinations of features that provide various example battery cells, multi-cell stacks, systems, and / or example methods of operation.

[0254] 1. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell, comprising:

[0255] A cathode half-cell, the cathode half-cell comprising:

[0256] cathode;

[0257] A liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section having a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid cathode electrolyte to the cathode half-cell; and

[0258] a liquid catholyte outlet section having a liquid catholyte outlet for removing liquid catholyte from the cathode half-cell;

[0259] Anode half-cell, the anode half-cell comprising:

[0260] anode;

[0261] A liquid anode electrolyte inlet section having a liquid anode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid anode electrolyte to the anode half-cell; and

[0262] a liquid anolyte outlet section having a liquid anolyte outlet for removing liquid anolyte from the anode half-cell;

[0263] An electrode diaphragm, positioned between the cathode and the anode; and

[0264] A dropper is positioned in a straight line in a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, a liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, or a liquid anode electrolyte outlet section, wherein the dropper breaks the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte into droplets, and these droplets are received in a drop chamber positioned below the dropper, wherein the drop chamber has a height of less than 50 mm.

[0265] 2. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell as described in point 1, wherein the drip chamber includes a drip chamber gas pipeline.

[0266] 3. An electric energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in point 1 or 2, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on one side of the dripper is electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on the other side of the dripper.

[0267] 4. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the dispenser is at least one of the following:

[0268] The first dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section;

[0269] The second dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section;

[0270] The third dripper is positioned in the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section; and / or

[0271] The fourth dripper is positioned in the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

[0272] 5. An electric energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte within the cell are electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte outside the cell, respectively.

[0273] 6. An electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the dripper breaks up the liquid cathode electrolyte flow or the liquid anolyte flow into droplets, with gas gaps interspersed between the droplets.

[0274] 7. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the gas gap is an air gap.

[0275] 8. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the gas gap is a non-conductive gas gap.

[0276] 9. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the gas gap is provided via a gas line in the drip chamber.

[0277] 10. An electric energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet and the liquid anode electrolyte outlet each have a thickness or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0278] 11. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the dripper has a thickness or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0279] 12. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the dispenser includes an orifice having a diameter of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0280] 13. An electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the droplet has a diameter or thickness of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

[0281] 14. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the drip chamber has a height of less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 15 mm, less than 12 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 9 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 7 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 5 mm, or less than 3 mm.

[0282] 15. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the drip chamber has a diameter or width of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0283] 16. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the resistance between the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on one side of the dripper and the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on the other side of the dripper is greater than 1Ω, greater than 10Ω, greater than 50Ω, greater than 100Ω, greater than 400Ω, greater than 700Ω, greater than 900Ω, greater than 1kΩ, greater than 5kΩ, greater than 10kΩ, greater than 50kΩ, greater than 100kΩ, greater than 1MΩ, greater than 5MΩ, greater than 10MΩ, greater than 50MΩ, greater than 100MΩ, or greater than 1,000MΩ.

[0284] 17. The electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, wherein a further drip chamber and a further drip chamber positioned below the further drip chamber are provided in fluid communication with the drip chamber and the drip chamber.

[0285] 18. An electric energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein a further dripper and a further drip chamber are positioned in a straight line with the dripper and the drip chamber in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

[0286] 19. The electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, wherein the drip chamber is a slug chamber and the droplets are slugs.

[0287] 20. The electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, wherein the drip chamber gas line is a slug chamber gas line.

[0288] 21. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, further comprising a current limiter.

[0289] 22. An electric energy or electric synthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section includes a flow restrictor or is fluidically connected to a flow restrictor, which produces a pressure drop in the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte passing through the flow restrictor.

[0290] 23. The electrical energy or electrosynthetic cell as claimed in any of the preceding points, wherein the current limiter is a moulded or machined polymer and comprises a plurality of bends.

[0291] 24. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, wherein the current restrictor is positioned above a slug chamber provided with a slug chamber gas line, the slug chamber is positioned above a drip chamber provided with a drip chamber gas line.

[0292] 25. An electric energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet provides an overflow weir over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte and / or excess liquid anode electrolyte flows out of the cell.

[0293] 26. An electric energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet provides a first overflow weir over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte flows out of the cathode half-cell, and wherein the first overflow weir is positioned at a first level in the cathode half-cell that is higher than the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet.

[0294] 27. An electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein a liquid anode electrolyte outlet provides a second overflow weir over which excess liquid anode electrolyte flows out of the anode half-cell, and wherein the second overflow weir is positioned at a second horizontal level in the anode half-cell that is higher than the liquid anode electrolyte inlet.

[0295] 28. The electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, wherein during operation of the cell the level of the liquid cathode electrolyte and the level of the liquid anode electrolyte remain substantially constant.

[0296] 29. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the porous capillary structure is positioned above the dripper and is positioned in a straight line in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

[0297] 30. The electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, wherein the drip chamber is coupled to or adjacent to the porous capillary structure.

[0298] 31. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, further comprising wherein the porous capillary structure is at least one of the following:

[0299] a first porous capillary structure positioned in the cathode electrolyte inlet section and positioned above the first drip chamber;

[0300] a second porous capillary structure positioned in the cathode electrolyte outlet section and positioned above the second drip chamber;

[0301] a third porous capillary structure positioned in the anode electrolyte inlet section and positioned above the third drip chamber; and / or

[0302] A fourth porous capillary structure is positioned in the anode electrolyte outlet section and above the fourth drip chamber.

[0303] 32. An electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, a liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, a liquid anode electrolyte outlet section, a dripper, and a drip chamber are formed in one or more frames of the cell.

[0304] 33. An electric energy or electric synthesis cell comprising:

[0305] Cathode half-cell, the cathode half-cell comprising:

[0306] cathode;

[0307] A liquid cathode electrolyte inlet, used to supply liquid cathode electrolyte to the cathode half-cell; and

[0308] A liquid cathode electrolyte outlet is provided with a first overflow weir, through which excess liquid cathode electrolyte flows out of the cathode half cell.

[0309] The first overflow weir is located at a first horizontal plane in the cathode half-cell that is higher than the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet;

[0310] Anode half-cell, the anode half-cell comprising:

[0311] anode;

[0312] A liquid anode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid anode electrolyte to the anode half-cell; and

[0313] A second overflow weir is provided for the liquid anode electrolyte outlet, through which excess liquid anode electrolyte flows out of the anode half-cell.

[0314] The second overflow weir is located at a second horizontal level within the anode half-cell, higher than the liquid anode electrolyte inlet; and

[0315] An electrode diaphragm is positioned between the cathode and the anode.

[0316] 34. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points further includes a first porous capillary structure located at or downstream of the first overflow weir.

[0317] 35. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points further includes a second porous capillary structure located at or downstream of the second overflow weir.

[0318] 36. The electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet and the liquid anode electrolyte outlet have a diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0319] 37. An electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the first overflow weir sets a first liquid level of the liquid cathode electrolyte in the cathode half-cell.

[0320] 38. An electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the second overflow weir sets a second liquid level of the liquid anode electrolyte in the anode half-cell.

[0321] 39. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the first liquid level is higher than the second liquid level.

[0322] 40. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the first liquid level is lower than the second liquid level.

[0323] 41. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the first liquid level is equal to the second liquid level.

[0324] 42. The electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell as recited in any of the preceding points, wherein during operation the liquid cathode electrolyte is maintained at a first level and the liquid anode electrolyte is maintained at a second level.

[0325] 43. An electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet are in fluid communication with the drip chamber.

[0326] 44. An electric energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet is an opening of the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet is an opening of the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet is an opening of the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, and the liquid anode electrolyte outlet is an opening of the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

[0327] 45. An electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

[0328] 46. ​​An electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell as described in any of the preceding points, wherein the dripper breaks the liquid cathode electrolyte flow or the liquid anode electrolyte flow into droplets, which are received in a drip chamber positioned below the dripper.

[0329] 47. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the drip chamber includes a drip chamber gas line.

[0330] 48. An electrical energy or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein:

[0331] The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet is in fluid communication with the first dripper;

[0332] The liquid cathode electrolyte outlet is in fluid communication with the second dripper;

[0333] The liquid anode electrolyte inlet is in fluid communication with the third dripper; and / or

[0334] The liquid anode electrolyte outlet is in fluid communication with the fourth drip chamber.

[0335] 49. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of the preceding points, wherein:

[0336] The first dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section;

[0337] The second dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section;

[0338] The third dripper is positioned in the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section; and / or

[0339] The fourth dripper is positioned in the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

[0340] 50. An electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on one side of the dripper is electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on the other side of the dripper.

[0341] 51. An electrical or electrosynthetic battery cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte and liquid anode electrolyte inside the battery cell are electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte and liquid anode electrolyte outside the battery cell, respectively.

[0342] 52. An electrical or electrosynthetic cell as described in any of the foregoing points, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section include or are in fluid communication with a current limiter, the current limiter generating a pressure drop in the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte passing through the current limiter.

[0343] 53. The electrical energy or electrocombination cell as in any of the preceding points, wherein the current limiter is a molded or machined polymer and comprises a plurality of bends.

[0344] 54. The electrical energy or electrosynthesis cell according to any of the preceding points, wherein the current limiter is positioned upstream of the drip chamber.

[0345] 55. A stack of electric energy or electric synthesis cells, the stack comprising:

[0346] A plurality of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as described in any one of the preceding points;

[0347] 56. A stack of electrical energy or electrosynthetic cells as described in point 55, wherein the stack is formed in a filter press arrangement.

[0348] 57. A stack of electrical energy or electrosynthetic cells as described in point 55 or 56, comprising a header in fluid communication with each cell in the stack.

[0349] 58. A stack of electrical energy or electrosynthetic cells as described in any of the preceding points 55 to 57, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte in the collector is pressurized to a higher pressure than the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte in each cell, respectively.

[0350] 59. The stack of electrical energy or electrosynthetic cells as described in any of the preceding points 55 to 58, wherein the stacked cells are formed using a flat cell frame.

[0351] 60. A stack of electrical energy or electrosynthetic cells as described in any of the preceding points 55 to 59, wherein the cell frame has a thickness of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

[0352] 61. A stack of electrical energy or electrosynthetic cells as described in any of the preceding points 55 to 60, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte and liquid anode electrolyte in one cell of the stack are electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte and liquid anode electrolyte in an adjacent cell of the stack, respectively.

[0353] Throughout this specification and the following claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" and variations such as, "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or groups of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or groups of integers or steps.

[0354] Alternative embodiments may also be broadly defined as any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements, and features mentioned or referred to individually or collectively herein, and wherein specific integrals having known equivalents in the field to which this invention relates are referred to herein as if described individually.

[0355] Although the preferred embodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood that many modifications, changes, substitutions, and alterations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An electric energy or electric synthesis battery cell, comprising: A cathode half cell, the cathode half cell comprising: cathode; a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section having a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid cathode electrolyte to the cathode half-cell; and a liquid catholyte outlet section having a liquid catholyte outlet for removing liquid catholyte from the cathode half-cell; An anode half-cell, the anode half-cell comprising: anode; a liquid anolyte inlet section having a liquid anolyte inlet for supplying liquid anolyte to the anode half-cell; and a liquid anolyte outlet section having a liquid anolyte outlet for removing liquid anolyte from the anode half-cell; an electrode separator positioned between the cathode and the anode; and a dripper positioned in a straight line in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section, wherein the dripper breaks the liquid cathode electrolyte or the liquid anode electrolyte into droplets, and the droplets are received in a drip chamber positioned below the dripper, wherein the liquid cathode electrolyte or the liquid anode electrolyte on one side of the dripper is electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte or the liquid anode electrolyte on the other side of the dripper, and wherein the drip chamber has a height of less than 50 mm.

2. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 1, wherein: The drip chamber includes a drip chamber gas line.

3. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein: The drip chamber is at least one of the following: A first dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section; a second dripper positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section; A third dripper is positioned in the liquid anolyte inlet section; and / or A fourth dripper is positioned in the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

4. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 3, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte within the cell are electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte outside the cell, respectively.

5. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The dripper breaks the liquid cathode electrolyte flow or the liquid anode electrolyte flow into droplets interspersed with gas gaps.

6. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 5, wherein: These gas gaps are air gaps.

7. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 5, wherein: These gas gaps are non-conductive gas voids.

8. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell as claimed in claims 2 and 5, wherein: The gas gaps are provided via the drip chamber gas line.

9. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet and the liquid anode electrolyte outlet each have a thickness or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

10. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The drip chamber has a thickness or diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

11. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The drip chamber comprises an orifice having a diameter of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

12. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The droplets have a diameter or thickness of less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.8 mm, less than 0.6 mm, less than 0.4 mm, less than 0.2 mm, less than 0.1 mm, less than 0.05 mm, or less than 0.025 mm.

13. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The drip chamber has a height of less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 15 mm, less than 12 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 9 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 7 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 5 mm, or less than 3 mm.

14. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The drip chamber has a diameter or width of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

15. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The resistance between the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on one side of the dripper and the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on the other side of the dripper, respectively, is greater than 1Ω, greater than 10Ω, greater than 50Ω, greater than 100Ω, greater than 400Ω, greater than 700Ω, greater than 900Ω, greater than 1kΩ, greater than 5kΩ, greater than 10kΩ, greater than 50kΩ, greater than 100kΩ, greater than 1MΩ, greater than 5MΩ, greater than 10MΩ, greater than 50MΩ, greater than 100MΩ, or greater than 1,000MΩ.

16. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: A further drip chamber and a further drip chamber positioned below the further drip chamber are provided in fluid communication with the drip chamber and the drip chamber.

17. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 16, wherein: The further dripper and the further drip chamber are positioned in line with the dripper and the drip chamber in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

18. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein: The drip chamber is a slug chamber and the droplets are slugs.

19. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claims 2 and 18, wherein: The drip chamber gas line is a slug chamber gas line.

20. The electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell of any one of claims 1 to 19, further comprising a current limiter.

21. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 20, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet segment, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet segment, the liquid anolyte inlet segment or the liquid anolyte outlet segment comprises or is in fluid communication with the restrictor, which creates a pressure drop in the liquid cathode electrolyte or the liquid anolyte passing through the restrictor.

22. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 20 or 21, wherein: The flow restrictor is a molded or machined polymer and includes a plurality of bends.

23. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell as claimed in claims 2, 18 and 20, wherein: The restrictor is positioned above a slug chamber provided with a slug chamber gas line, the slug chamber is positioned above the dripper, and the dripper is positioned above a drip chamber provided with the drip chamber gas line.

24. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte outlet and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet provide an overflow weir over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte and / or excess liquid anode electrolyte flows out of the cell.

25. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte outlet provides a first overflow weir over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte flows out of the cathode half-cell, and wherein the first overflow weir is positioned at a first level in the cathode half-cell that is higher than the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet.

26. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 25, wherein: The liquid anolyte outlet provides a second overflow weir over which excess liquid anolyte flows out of the anode half-cell, and wherein the second overflow weir is positioned at a second, higher level in the anode half-cell than the liquid anolyte inlet.

27. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 26, wherein: During operation of the cell, the level of the liquid cathode electrolyte and the level of the liquid anode electrolyte remain substantially constant.

28. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein: A porous capillary structure is positioned above the drip chamber and is positioned in line in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section, or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

29. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell according to claim 28, wherein: The drip chamber is coupled to or adjacent to the porous capillary structure.

30. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claims 3 and 28 or 29, further comprising wherein the porous capillary structure is at least one of the following: a first porous capillary structure positioned in the cathode electrolyte inlet section and positioned above the first drip chamber; a second porous capillary structure positioned in the cathode electrolyte outlet section and positioned above the second dripper; a third porous capillary structure positioned in the anode electrolyte inlet section and positioned above the third drip chamber; and / or A fourth porous capillary structure is positioned in the anode electrolyte outlet section and above the fourth dripper.

31. An electric energy or electric synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet segment, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet segment, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet segment, the liquid anode electrolyte outlet segment, the dripper and the drip chamber are formed into one or more frames of the battery cell.

32. An electric energy or electric synthesis cell, comprising: A cathode half cell, the cathode half cell comprising: cathode; a liquid cathode electrolyte inlet for supplying liquid cathode electrolyte to the cathode half-cell; and providing a liquid cathode electrolyte outlet at a first overflow weir over which excess liquid cathode electrolyte flows out of the cathode half-cell; wherein the first overflow weir is positioned at a first level in the cathode half-cell that is higher than the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet; An anode half-cell, the anode half-cell comprising: anode; a liquid anolyte inlet for supplying liquid anolyte to the anode half-cell; and providing a liquid anolyte outlet for a second overflow weir over which excess liquid anolyte flows out of the anode half-cell; wherein the second overflow weir is positioned at a second level in the anode half-cell that is higher than the liquid anode electrolyte inlet; and An electrode separator is positioned between the cathode and the anode.

33. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claim 32, further comprising a first porous capillary structure positioned at or downstream of the first overflow weir.

34. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claim 32 or 33, further comprising a second porous capillary structure positioned at or downstream of the second overflow weir.

35. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte outlet and the liquid anode electrolyte outlet have a diameter of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

36. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein: The first overflow weir sets a first level of the liquid cathode electrolyte in the cathode half-cell.

37. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 36, wherein: The second overflow weir sets a second level of the liquid anolyte in the anode half-cell.

38. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein: The first liquid level is higher than the second liquid level.

39. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein: The first liquid level is lower than the second liquid level.

40. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein: The first liquid level is equal to the second liquid level.

41. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 40, wherein: During operation, the liquid cathode electrolyte is maintained at the first level and the liquid anode electrolyte is maintained at the second level.

42. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 41, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet are in fluid communication with the drip chamber.

43. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell as claimed in claim 42, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet is an opening of the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet segment, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet is an opening of the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet segment, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet is an opening of the liquid anode electrolyte inlet segment, and the liquid anode electrolyte outlet is an opening of the liquid anode electrolyte outlet segment.

44. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell as claimed in claim 43, wherein: The dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section, the liquid anode electrolyte inlet section and / or the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

45. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claim 42, wherein: The dripper breaks the liquid cathode electrolyte flow or the liquid anode electrolyte flow into droplets, which are received in a drip chamber positioned below the dripper.

46. ​​The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claim 45, wherein: The drip chamber includes a drip chamber gas line.

47. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 46, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet is in fluid communication with the first drip chamber; The liquid cathode electrolyte outlet is in fluid communication with a second drip chamber; The liquid anolyte inlet is in fluid communication with a third drip chamber; and / or The liquid anode electrolyte outlet is in fluid communication with a fourth drip chamber.

48. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claim 43, wherein: A first dripper is positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte inlet section; a second dripper positioned in the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet section; A third dripper is positioned in the liquid anolyte inlet section; and / or A fourth dripper is positioned in the liquid anode electrolyte outlet section.

49. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claim 42, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on one side of the dripper is electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte on the other side of the dripper.

50. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell as claimed in claim 47 or 48, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte within the cell are electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte outside the cell, respectively.

51. An electrical energy or electrical synthesis cell as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 50, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte inlet segment, the liquid cathode electrolyte outlet segment, the liquid anolyte inlet segment and / or the liquid anolyte outlet segment include or are in fluid communication with a flow restrictor that creates a pressure drop in the liquid cathode electrolyte or the liquid anolyte passing through the flow restrictor.

52. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell of claim 51, wherein: The flow restrictor is a molded or machined polymer and includes a plurality of bends.

53. The electric energy or electric synthesis cell as claimed in claim 51 or 52, wherein: The flow restrictor is positioned upstream of the drip chamber.

54. A stack of electric energy or electric synthesis cells, the stack comprising: A plurality of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 53.

55. A stack of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as claimed in claim 54, wherein: The stack is formed in a filter press arrangement.

56. A stack of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as claimed in claim 54 or 55, including a header in fluid communication with each cell in the stack.

57. A stack of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as claimed in claim 56, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte in the header is pressurized to a higher pressure than the liquid cathode electrolyte or liquid anode electrolyte, respectively, in each cell.

58. A stack of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 57, wherein: The stacked cells are formed using a flat cell frame.

59. A stack of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as claimed in claim 58, wherein: The cell frame has a thickness of less than 50 mm, less than 30 mm, less than 20 mm, less than 10 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1 mm, less than 0.5 mm, or less than 0.25 mm.

60. A stack of electrical energy or electrical synthesis cells as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 59, wherein: The liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte in one cell of the stack are electrically isolated from the liquid cathode electrolyte and the liquid anode electrolyte, respectively, in an adjacent cell of the stack.

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