Electrochemical reaction device and method for operating electrochemical reaction device

Abstract

Provided is an electrochemical reaction device having a long service life and a simple structure. This electrochemical reaction device is provided with: an electrolysis unit provided with a cathode, an anode, a separator between the cathode and the anode, a cathode chamber facing the cathode, and an anode chamber facing the anode; a first flow path connected to the inlet of the cathode chamber and through which a first fluid containing an object to be reduced flows; a second flow path connected to the inlet of the anode chamber and through which a second fluid containing the object to be oxidized flows; a third flow path which is connected to the outlet of the cathode chamber and through which a third fluid containing a reduction product flows; a fourth flow path connected to the outlet of the anode chamber and through which a fourth fluid containing an oxidation product flows; a humidifier which is provided midway in the first flow path and humidifies the first fluid; and a condenser which is provided in the middle of the first flow path and in the rear stage of the humidifier, processes the humidified first fluid, condenses a portion of the water vapor contained in the humidified first fluid, generates condensed water, and adjusts the ratio of the condensed water in the humidified first fluid.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-152124 (filing date: September 20, 2023), and claims the benefit of priority from the above-mentioned application. This application incorporates the entire contents of the above-mentioned application by reference. Technical Field

[0002] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an electrochemical reaction device. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, there are concerns about the depletion of fossil fuels such as oil and coal, and expectations for renewable energy that can be used sustainably have increased. Examples of renewable energy include solar cells and wind power generation. Their power generation depends on weather and natural conditions, so there is a technical problem that it is difficult to stably supply electricity. Therefore, attempts are made to store the electricity generated by renewable energy in batteries and stabilize the electricity. However, in the case of storing electricity, there are problems such as the cost of batteries or losses during electricity storage.

[0004] In this regard, the following technologies have attracted attention: using electricity generated by renewable energy to electrolyze water to produce hydrogen from water, or electrochemically reducing carbon dioxide to produce carbon compounds such as carbon monoxide, formic acid, methanol, methane, acetic acid, ethanol, ethane, and ethylene, or electrochemically reducing nitrogen to produce ammonia, and converting electrical energy into chemical substances (chemical energy). When these chemical substances are stored in gas cylinders or tanks, compared with storing electricity (electrical energy) in batteries, there are advantages such as being able to reduce energy storage costs and less storage losses.

[0005] Such an electrochemical reaction is usually implemented by a device having an electrolytic unit (cell) and a unit stack formed by stacking the electrolytic units. In the unit stack, the components of the liquid and gas used in the reaction are sometimes precipitated as solid salts. For example, in an electrolytic unit that supplies an electrolyte to the anode and carbon dioxide gas to the cathode, carbonates are precipitated near the cathode, which hinders carbon dioxide from reaching the reaction field on the cathode catalyst surface and causes a decrease in the performance of the electrolytic unit and abnormal pressure inside the unit. Therefore, a method for suppressing salt precipitation and a method for removing the precipitated salt are required. In this regard, it is known that there is a method of supplying flushing materials such as water to the unit flow path from outside the unit, which is difficult to apply in a unit stack in which multiple electrolytic units are stacked. If a flushing material supply mechanism is set for each electrolytic unit, the device will be large-scale. On the other hand, if the flushing material is centrally supplied to the inlet of the unit stack, it is difficult to properly distribute the flushing material to each electrolytic unit.

[0006] In view of this, the following electrochemical reaction device is known: a preparatory flow path is provided to allow the flushing material to flow, and the flow direction is switched by valve operation to perform the flushing operation, thereby being able to appropriately supply the flushing material to each unit of the stack. However, in this method, a complex piping structure with a switching mechanism is required, so a new method for supplying the flushing material is required. Summary of the invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide an electrochemical reaction device with a long life and a simple structure.

[0008] The electrochemical reaction device of the embodiment comprises: an electrolysis section, comprising a cathode, an anode, a diaphragm between the cathode and the anode, a cathode chamber facing the cathode, and an anode chamber facing the anode; a first flow path connected to the inlet of the cathode chamber, through which a first fluid containing a reduction object supplied to the cathode chamber flows; a second flow path connected to the inlet of the anode chamber, through which a second fluid containing an oxidation object supplied to the anode chamber flows; a third flow path connected to the outlet of the cathode chamber, through which a third fluid discharged from the cathode chamber and containing a reduction product flows; a fourth flow path connected to the outlet of the anode chamber, through which a fourth fluid discharged from the anode chamber and containing an oxidation product flows; a humidifier disposed in the middle of the first flow path, for humidifying the first fluid; and a condenser disposed in the middle of the first flow path and at the rear stage of the humidifier, for treating the humidified first fluid to condense a portion of the water vapor contained in the humidified first fluid, thereby generating condensed water, and adjusting the ratio of the condensed water in the humidified first fluid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of an electrochemical reaction device according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 1 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the electrolysis unit 10 .

[0011] Figure 3 1 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the electrolysis unit 10 .

[0012] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a structural example of the condenser 202.

[0013] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 Yes means Figure 6The schematic cross-sectional view of the structural example of the electrolysis unit 10 shown.

[0016] Figure 8 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 221 .

[0017] Fig. 9 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 221 .

[0018] Fig.10 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 221 .

[0019] Fig.11 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 .

[0020] Fig.12 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 .

[0021] Fig.13 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 .

[0022] Fig.14 1 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 .

[0023] Fig.15 1 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 .

[0024] Fig.16 1 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 .

[0025] Fig.17 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 .

[0026] Fig.18 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 .

[0027] Fig.19 It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing another structural example of the electrolysis unit 10 .

[0028] Fig. 20 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 211 .

[0029] Fig.21 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 211 .

[0030] Fig. 22 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 211 .

[0031] Fig.23 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 .

[0032] Fig.24 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 .

[0033] Fig.25 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 .

[0034] Fig.26 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 213 .

[0035] Fig. 27 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 213 .

[0036] Fig.28 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 213 .

[0037] Fig.29 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 .

[0038] Fig.30 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow channel plate 213 .

[0039] Fig.31 It is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment.

[0040] Fig.32 It is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment.

[0041] (Explanation of Reference Numerals)

[0042] 1…electrochemical reaction device, 10…electrolysis unit, 11…cathode, 12…anode, 13…diaphragm, 14…flow plate, 15…flow plate, 16…current collector, 17…current collector, 18…flow plate, 21…cathode supply unit, 22…anode supply unit, 30…control device, 31…receiving unit, 32…calculation unit, 33…control unit, 40…power supply, 100…electrolysis unit, 140…cathode chamber, 141…welding pad, 150…anode chamber, 151…welding pad, 201…humidifier, 202…condenser, 203…liquid removal unit, 204…liquid supply unit, 211…auxiliary flow plate, 212…auxiliary flow plate, 213…auxiliary Flow-assisting plate, 214…humidifying membrane, 215…auxiliary plate, 216…auxiliary plate, 217…flow path, 218…flow path, 219…secondary flow path, 221…auxiliary flow path plate, 222…auxiliary flow path plate, 23, 23…auxiliary flow path plate, 224…auxiliary plate, 225…auxiliary plate, 226…auxiliary plate, 227…flow path, 228…flow path, 229…secondary flow path, 202…pipe, 2021…heater, 2022…cooler, 2023…heat insulating member, D1…detector, D2…detector, D3…detector, MEA…membrane electrode assembly, P1…flow path, P2…flow path, P3…flow path, P4…flow path, S…space. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The following describes the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the embodiments shown below, the same reference numerals are sometimes used to mark substantially the same components, and a portion of the description thereof is omitted. The accompanying drawings are schematic, and the relationship between thickness and plane dimensions, the ratio of thickness of each component, etc., are sometimes different from the actual ones.

[0044] In addition, in this specification, "connected" may include not only direct connection but also indirect connection unless otherwise specified.

[0045] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an electrochemical reaction device according to an embodiment. Figure 1 The following is a structural example of the electrochemical reaction device 1. The electrochemical reaction device 1 includes an electrolysis unit 10, a flow path P1, a flow path P2, a flow path P3, a flow path P4, a cathode supply unit 21, and an anode supply unit 22.

[0046] The electrolysis unit 10 can perform at least one electrolysis reaction, for example. The electrolysis unit 10 includes a cathode 11 , an anode 12 , a diaphragm 13 , a cathode chamber 140 , and an anode chamber 150 .

[0047] The electrolysis unit 10 may include, for example, a membrane electrode assembly. Figure 2 Schematic diagram showing another structural example of the electrolysis unit 10. Figure 2As shown, the electrolysis unit 10 may include a cathode 11 , an anode 12 , a separator 13 , a flow channel plate 14 , a flow channel plate 15 , a current collector 16 , and a current collector 17 . Figure 2 y represents the X-axis, the Y-axis, and the Z-axis. The X-axis, the Y-axis, and the Z-axis intersect each other perpendicularly. The Z-axis is along the thickness direction of the electrolysis unit 10. Figure 2 A part of an XZ cross section including the X axis and the Z axis is shown. The cathode 11 , the anode 12 , and the separator 13 may be stacked to form an electrolytic cell 100 having a membrane electrode assembly MEA.

[0048] The cathode 11 is, for example, a reduction electrode for performing a reduction reaction of at least one reduction object (substance to be reduced) to generate a reduction product. The at least one reduction object includes, for example, carbon dioxide or nitrogen. The cathode 11 reduces carbon dioxide to generate carbon compounds, or reduces nitrogen to generate nitrogen compounds such as ammonia. Examples of carbon compounds include carbon monoxide, formic acid, methanol, methane, ethanol, ethane, ethylene, formaldehyde, ethylene glycol, acetic acid, propanol, and the like. The cathode 11 sometimes generates a side reaction of generating hydrogen due to the reduction reaction of water together with the reduction reaction of carbon dioxide and the reduction reaction of nitrogen.

[0049] The cathode 11 has, for example, a cathode catalyst that promotes a reduction reaction of reducing at least one reduction object. The cathode catalyst can be formed, for example, using a material that reduces the activation energy for reducing at least one reduction object. In other words, the cathode catalyst can be formed, for example, using a material that reduces the overvoltage when a reduction product is generated by a reduction reaction of at least one reduction object.

[0050] The cathode 11 may have a first surface in contact with the diaphragm 13 and a second surface facing the cathode chamber 140. In addition, the cathode 11 may have, for example, a gas diffusion layer and a cathode catalyst layer. The cathode 11 may have a porous layer denser than the gas diffusion layer between the gas diffusion layer and the cathode catalyst layer. The gas diffusion layer is arranged on the cathode chamber 140 side, and the cathode catalyst layer is arranged on the diaphragm 13 side. The cathode catalyst layer may enter the gas diffusion layer. The cathode catalyst layer preferably has catalyst nanoparticles, catalyst nanostructures, etc. The gas diffusion layer is composed of, for example, carbon paper, carbon cloth, etc., and a water repellent treatment is applied. Electrolytic solution and ions are supplied to the cathode catalyst layer from the anode 12 side via the diaphragm 13. In the gas diffusion layer, a cathode supply fluid is supplied from the cathode chamber 140 to discharge the product of the reduction reaction. The reduction reaction occurs near the boundary between the gas diffusion layer and the cathode catalyst layer, and the gaseous product passes through the gas diffusion layer and is discharged from the cathode flow path to the outside of the electrolysis unit 100.

[0051] As cathode catalysts, metals such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), copper (Cu), platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), titanium (Ti), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), indium (In), gallium (Ga), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), alloys or intermetallic compounds containing at least one of these metals, carbon (C), graphene, CNT (carbon nanotube), fullerene, ketjen black and other carbon materials, metal complexes such as Ru complexes or Re complexes can be cited. The cathode catalyst layer can be applied in various shapes such as plate, mesh, wire, particle, porous, thin film, island, etc.

[0052] The anode 12 is, for example, an oxidation electrode for generating an oxidation product by performing an oxidation reaction of at least one oxidation target (substance to be oxidized). The at least one oxidation target includes, for example, water. The anode 12 oxidizes the oxidation target such as a substance or ion in the electrolyte (anode solution) to generate oxygen.

[0053] The anode 12 may have a first surface in contact with the diaphragm 13 and a second surface facing the anode chamber 150. The anode 12 may have, for example, an anode catalyst that promotes an oxidation reaction in which water is oxidized to generate oxygen. The anode catalyst may be formed, for example, using a material that reduces the activation energy when the oxidized object is oxidized, in other words, a material that reduces the overvoltage of the reaction. Examples of oxidation reactions at the anode 12 include oxidation of water to generate oxygen, a reaction of hydrogen peroxide water, and oxidation of chloride ions (Cl - ) is oxidized to produce chlorine, and carbonate ions or bicarbonate ions are oxidized to produce carbon dioxide.

[0054] Examples of anode catalysts include metals such as platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), iridium (Ir), and nickel (Ni), alloys containing these metals, intermetallic compounds, manganese oxide (Mn-O), iridium oxide (Ir-O), nickel oxide (Ni-O), cobalt oxide (Co-O), iron oxide (Fe-O), tin oxide (Sn-O), indium oxide (In-O), ruthenium oxide (Ru-O), lithium oxide (Li-O), and lanthanum oxide (La-O) and other binary metal oxides, Ni-Co-O, Ni-Fe-O, La-Co-O, Ni-La-O, and Sr-Fe-O and other ternary metal oxides, Pb-Ru-Ir-O, La-Sr-Co-O and other quaternary metal oxides, and metal complexes such as Ru complexes and Fe complexes.

[0055] The anode 12 may also have a structure that enables the anode to supply fluid and ions to move between the diaphragm 13 and the anode chamber 150, such as a substrate having a porous structure such as a mesh material, a punching material, a porous body, a metal fiber sintered body, etc. The substrate may be composed of metal materials such as titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), alloys containing at least one of these metals (such as SUS), or the above-mentioned anode catalyst. When an oxide is used as the anode catalyst, it is preferred to form a catalyst layer by attaching or stacking the anode catalyst on the surface of the substrate composed of the above-mentioned metal material. The anode catalyst may have nanoparticles, nanostructures, nanowires, etc. on the basis of improving the oxidation reaction. The nanostructure is a structure with nano-scale concave-convex shapes formed on the surface of the catalyst material.

[0056] The diaphragm 13 is provided between the cathode 11 and the anode 12. The diaphragm 13 can separate the cathode chamber 140 and the anode chamber 150. The diaphragm 13 can allow hydrogen ions (H + ), hydroxide ion (OH - ), bicarbonate ion (HCO 3 - ), carbonate ions (CO 3 2- ) plasma movement. The diaphragm 13 can form an electrolytic cell 100 having a two-chamber structure. The diaphragm 13 can also be provided in contact with the cathode 11 and the anode 12.

[0057] The diaphragm 13 is composed of an ion exchange membrane or the like that can allow ions and electrolyte to move between the cathode 11 and the anode 12 and can separate the cathode chamber 140 from the anode chamber 150. Examples of the ion exchange membrane include Neosepta (registered trademark) of ASTOM, Selemion (registered trademark) of AGC, Aciplex (registered trademark) of Asahi Kasei, Fumasep (registered trademark) and Fumapem (registered trademark) of Fumatech, Nafion (registered trademark) of DuPont, Lewabrane (registered trademark) of LANXESS, IONSEP (registered trademark) of IONTECH, Mustang (registered trademark) of PALL, RALEX (registered trademark) of mega, and Gore-Tex (registered trademark) of Gore-Tex. However, in addition to the ion exchange membrane, as long as it is a material that allows ions to move between the anode and the cathode, a glass filter, a porous polymer membrane, a porous insulating material, and the like can be used for the diaphragm 13.

[0058] In addition to the ion exchange membrane, for example, silicone resin, fluorine resin (perfluoroalkoxyalkane (PFA), perfluoroethylene propylene copolymer (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE), etc.), polyethersulfone (PES), ceramic porous membrane, filler filled with glass filter or agar, zeolite or oxide insulating porous body, etc. can also be used. In particular, hydrophilic porous membranes do not cause clogging due to bubbles, so they are preferably used as the diaphragm 13.

[0059] The cathode chamber 140 is, for example, disposed facing the cathode 11 and can form a cathode flow path. Figure 1 As shown, the cathode 11 may also be disposed in a cathode chamber 140. The cathode chamber 140 has an inlet for supplying a cathode supply fluid to the cathode chamber 140 and an outlet for discharging a cathode exhaust fluid from the cathode chamber 140.

[0060] The composition of the cathode supply fluid changes as it passes through the cathode chamber 140, and the cathode supply fluid is discharged outside the electrolysis unit 10. The fluid discharged from the electrolysis unit 10 is called the cathode discharge fluid. The cathode discharge fluid contains the target product, which is separated and recovered as needed. The cathode discharge fluid can also be subjected to gas-liquid separation so that part of the gas phase merges with the cathode supply fluid. This method is effective for improving the conversion rate of the reactants in the cathode supply fluid. In addition, the cathode discharge fluid can also be subjected to gas-liquid separation so that part or all of the liquid phase merges with the anode supply fluid.

[0061] The anode chamber 150 is, for example, disposed facing the anode 12 and can form an anode flow path. Figure 1 As shown, the anode chamber 150 has an inlet for supplying an anode supply fluid to the anode chamber 150 and an outlet for discharging an anode exhaust fluid from the anode chamber 150 .

[0062] The composition of the anode supply fluid changes as it passes through the anode chamber 150, and the anode supply fluid is discharged to the outside of the electrolysis unit 10. The fluid discharged from the anode chamber 150 is called the anode discharge fluid. The anode discharge fluid contains gases such as oxygen generated at the anode 12. The anode discharge fluid can also be subjected to gas-liquid separation so that part or all of the liquid phase merges with the anode supply fluid. By not supplying the anode supply fluid from outside the system, but treating the liquid phase of the anode discharge fluid as the anode supply fluid and supplying it to the anode chamber 150, the anode supply fluid can be circulated.

[0063] The flow path plate 14 forms, for example, a cathode chamber 140. The cathode chamber 140 is provided on the surface of the flow path plate 14 facing the cathode 11, and can form a cathode flow path.

[0064] The flow channel plate 15 forms, for example, an anode chamber 150. The anode chamber 150 is provided on the surface of the flow channel plate 15 facing the anode 12, and can form an anode flow channel.

[0065] At least one of the flow path plate 14 and the flow path plate 15 preferably has at least one of the pad (convex portion) 141 and the pad 151. The pad 141 and the pad 151 are provided for mechanical retention and electrical conduction. The pad 141 is provided in contact with the cathode 11. The pad 151 is provided in contact with the anode 12. In order to make the flow of the fluid uniform, the pad 141 and the pad 151 are preferably provided differently from each other. With such pads 141 and 151, the cathode flow path and the anode flow path have a shape that snakes along the surface.

[0066] The flow path plate 14 and the flow path plate 15 are preferably formed of a material with low chemical reactivity and high electrical conductivity. As such a material, metal materials such as titanium and SUS, carbon materials, etc. can be cited. In addition, components such as sealing members not shown in the figure can also be inserted between each flow path plate and adjacent components as required.

[0067] The current collector 16 is stacked on the opposite side of the cathode 11 of the flow path plate 14 and is electrically connected to the cathode 11. The current collector 17 is stacked on the opposite side of the anode 12 of the flow path plate 15 and is electrically connected to the anode 12. The current collectors 16 and 17 are electrically connected to the power source 40, for example, via wiring or the like. The current collectors 16 and 17 are preferably formed using a material with high conductivity.

[0068] The power supply 40 can, for example, supply power to the electrolysis unit 10. The power supply 40 is electrically connected to the cathode 11 and the anode 12 via, for example, the flow path plate 14, the flow path plate 15, the collector 16, and the collector 17. The power supply 40 can be input into the electrolysis unit 10 for generating electric power for electrolysis reactions such as oxidation reactions and reduction reactions, and is electrically connected to the cathode 11 and the anode 12. Using the electric energy supplied from the power supply 40, the reduction reaction at the cathode 11 and the oxidation reaction at the anode 12 are performed. The power supply 40 and the collector 16, and the power supply 40 and the collector 17 are connected, for example, by wiring. Between the electrolysis unit 10 and the power supply 40, electrical equipment such as inverters, converters, batteries, etc. can also be provided as needed. The driving mode of the electrolysis unit 10 can be a constant voltage mode or a constant current mode.

[0069] The power supply 40 can be a common commercial power supply or battery, or it can be a power supply that converts renewable energy into electric energy. As an example of such a power supply, a power supply that converts kinetic energy and potential energy such as wind power, water power, geothermal energy, tidal force into electric energy, a power supply such as a solar cell with a photoelectric conversion element that converts light energy into electric energy, a power supply such as a fuel cell, a storage battery, and a device that converts vibration energy such as sound into electric energy can be cited. The photoelectric conversion element has the function of utilizing the energy of light such as sunlight irradiated to carry out charge separation. As an example of a photoelectric conversion element, include pin junction solar cell, pn junction solar cell, amorphous silicon solar cell, multi-junction solar cell, monocrystalline silicon solar cell, polycrystalline silicon solar cell, dye-sensitized solar cell, organic thin film solar cell, etc. In addition, the photoelectric conversion element can also be stacked with at least one of the cathode 11 and the anode 12 inside the electrolysis unit 10.

[0070] The electrolytic unit 100 is sandwiched between a pair of support plates (not shown) and further fastened with bolts or the like. The electrolytic unit 100 may be arranged so that the membrane electrode assembly MEA is horizontal or vertical. When the membrane electrode assembly MEA is horizontal, the arrangement may be such that one of the cathode 11 and the anode 12 is on top.

[0071] The electrolysis unit 10 may include, for example, a cell stack formed by stacking a plurality of electrolysis cells 100 . Figure 3 1 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the electrolysis unit 10 . Figure 3 Indicates a portion of the XZ section that includes the X-axis and the Z-axis. Figure 3 As shown, the electrolysis unit 10 may include a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies MEA, a flow channel plate 14 , a flow channel plate 15 , a current collector 16 , a current collector 17 , and a flow channel plate 18 . Figure 3 A plurality of cathodes 11, a plurality of anodes 12, a plurality of diaphragms 13, a plurality of cathode chambers 140, and a plurality of anode chambers 150 are shown. A plurality of membrane electrode assemblies MEA are disposed between a current collector 16 and a current collector 17 to form a unit stack. By forming a unit stack, for example, the amount of reaction of the reduction object per unit area increases, so the amount of reduction product generated can be increased. The number of stacks of the plurality of electrolytic cells 100 is preferably, for example, 10 or more and 150 or less.

[0072] When the electrolysis section 10 has a plurality of electrolysis cells 100, the cathode supply fluid and the anode supply fluid supplied to each cell can be distributed to each cell from a pipe whose number is less than the number of the electrolysis cells 100. In addition, the cathode discharge fluid and the anode discharge fluid discharged from each cell can be concentrated in a pipe whose number is less than the number of the electrolysis cells 100. The distribution of the cathode supply fluid and the anode supply fluid and the confluence of the cathode discharge fluid and the anode discharge fluid can be performed outside the electrolysis section 10 or inside the electrolysis section 10. Here, the inside of the electrolysis section 10 refers to a range where the plurality of electrolysis cells 100 are sandwiched by a pair of support plates and then fastened with bolts or the like.

[0073] The flow plate 18 is, for example, a bipolar plate having a cathode chamber 140 and an anode chamber 150. The flow plate 18 is disposed between a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies MEA to divide a plurality of electrolysis units 100. Adjacent cathodes 11 and anodes 12 may also be electrically connected via the flow plate 18. A plurality of electrolysis units 100 are stacked, clamped by a pair of support plates, and then fixed by fastening with bolts or the like. The unit stack may be arranged so that the membrane electrode assembly MEA becomes horizontal or vertical. When the membrane electrode assembly MEA becomes horizontal, the cathode 11 or the anode 12 may also be arranged at the top of the unit stack.

[0074] The cathode chamber 140 of the flow path plate 18 is provided on the first surface of the bipolar plate, for example, facing the cathode 11 of one of the plurality of MEAs. The inlet of the cathode chamber 140 of the flow path plate 18 is connected to the flow path P1. The outlet of the cathode chamber 140 of the flow path plate 18 is connected to the flow path P3.

[0075] The anode chamber 150 of the flow path plate 18 is provided, for example, on the second surface opposite to the first surface of the bipolar plate, facing another anode 12 of the plurality of MEAs. The inlet of the anode chamber 150 of the flow path plate 18 is connected to the flow path P1. The outlet of the anode chamber 150 of the flow path plate 18 is connected to the flow path P3.

[0076] The cathode supply fluid is, for example, a cathode supply gas, or a two-phase flow (gas-liquid two-phase flow) of a cathode supply gas and a cathode supply liquid. The cathode supply gas, for example, contains at least one gas selected from carbon dioxide, nitrogen, argon, and water vapor. The cathode supply gas may be a mixed gas of at least two gases selected from carbon dioxide, nitrogen, argon, and water vapor. The cathode supply liquid, for example, contains water.

[0077] The cathode supply fluid is modulated by, for example, the cathode supply unit 21 and supplied to the electrolysis unit 10. The cathode supply unit 21 includes a humidifier 201 and a condenser 202. The cathode supply unit 21 may also include a bypass pipe that allows the fluid to flow by bypassing the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202 when the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202 are not used. The cathode supply fluid supply system including the cathode supply unit 21 may also include a gas cylinder, a flow control unit, a pressure control unit, and the like.

[0078] The anode supply fluid includes, for example, water. The water may be in the form of liquid water or water vapor. In particular, when the anode supply fluid does not include a gas phase but is only in a liquid phase, it is also referred to as an anode aqueous solution below. Examples of the anode aqueous solution include aqueous solutions containing any electrolyte. Examples of aqueous solutions containing electrolytes include hydroxide ions (OH - ), hydrogen ion (H + ), potassium ion (K + ), sodium ion (Na + ), lithium ion (Li + ), chloride ion (Cl - ), bromide ion (Br - ), iodide ion (I - ), nitrate ion (NO 3 - ), sulfate ion (SO 4 2- ), phosphate ion (PO 4 2- ), borate ion (BO 3 3- ), carbonate ions (CO 3 2- ) and bicarbonate ions (HCO 3 - ) in an aqueous solution of at least one of the following. In order to reduce the resistance of the liquid, an alkaline solution in which an electrolyte such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide is dissolved at a high concentration may be used as the anode aqueous solution.

[0079] The anode supply fluid is supplied to the electrolysis unit 10 via the anode supply unit 22. The anode supply fluid supply system on the inlet side of the anode chamber 150 including the anode supply unit 22 includes a pressure control unit, an anode aqueous solution tank, a flow control unit (pump), a reference electrode, a pressure gauge, a temperature control mechanism, and other devices when the anode supply fluid is an anode aqueous solution. The anode aqueous solution is supplied to the anode chamber 150 with the flow rate, pressure, and temperature controlled in the anode supply fluid supply system.

[0080] The humidifier 201 can, for example, humidify the cathode supply fluid supplied from a cathode supply fluid supply source such as a gas cylinder. The humidifier 201 is disposed in the middle of the flow path P1. In the preceding stage of the humidifier 201, the cathode supply fluid is preferably only in the gas phase. The humidifier 201 can mix water vapor with the cathode supply fluid supplied from the preceding stage of the humidifier 201. Examples of humidification methods of the humidifier 201 include a method of bubbling gas in liquid water, a method of providing a vaporizer in the flow path of the gas and injecting liquid water therein and evaporating it, a method of spraying liquid water in the gas and evaporating it, and the like, but are not limited to these methods.

[0081] The humidifier 201 is preferably capable of adjusting the amount of water vapor mixed with the cathode supply fluid supplied from the front stage of the humidifier 201. As an example of a method for adjusting the amount of water vapor, a method of specifying the temperature of the liquid water used in bubbling, a method of specifying the total amount and speed of liquid water injected into the vaporizer, and a method of specifying the total amount and speed of liquid water released from the sprayer can be cited, but it is not limited to these methods. The humidified cathode supply fluid discharged from the humidifier 201 is preferably only a gas phase, but may also include a liquid phase.

[0082] The condenser 202 is disposed at the rear stage of the humidifier 201 in the middle of the flow path P1, and generates condensed water by partially condensing the water vapor contained in the humidified cathode supply fluid supplied to the condenser 202. The condenser 202 can adjust the amount of condensed water generated in the humidified cathode supply fluid (the ratio of condensed water). As a method for adjusting the amount of condensed water, a method for adjusting the temperature of the processing chamber of the condenser 202 and a method for adjusting the pressure of the processing chamber of the condenser 202 can be cited. As other methods for adjusting the amount of condensed water, there are methods for specifying the temperature of the cathode supply fluid in the condenser 202, a method for heat exchange, a method for specifying the pressure of the cathode supply fluid in the condenser 202, etc., but it is not limited to these methods. The condenser 202 may also have a temperature regulator.

[0083] It is preferable to be able to quantitatively grasp the amount of condensed water generated by the condenser 202. Therefore, it is preferable to grasp the amount of water vapor contained in the cathode supply fluid supplied from the front stage of the condenser 202. As a method for grasping the amount of water vapor, a method of setting a dew point meter before the condenser 202 can be cited. The dew point meter can also be assembled as a part of the condenser 202. In particular, when condensed water is generated by temperature adjustment, condensed water can be generated by making the fluid temperature inside the condenser 202 lower than the dew point of the cathode supply fluid of the front stage of the condenser 202.

[0084] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a structural example of the condenser 202. Figure 4 Indicates a portion of the YZ section that includes the Y and Z axes. Figure 4 As shown, the condenser 202 may also have a heater 2021 , a cooler 2022 , and a heat insulating member 2023 .

[0085] The heater 2021 is provided around the pipe 2020. The heater 2021 is provided between the pipe 2020 and the heat insulating member 2023. Figure 4 As shown, the condenser 202 may include a plurality of heaters 2021. The plurality of heaters 2021 are provided along the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2020, for example.

[0086] The cooler 2022 is provided around the pipe 2020. The cooler 2022 is provided between the pipe 2020 and the heat insulating member 2023. Figure 4 As shown, the condenser 202 may include a plurality of coolers 2022. The plurality of coolers 2022 may be provided, for example, along the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2020. The heaters 2021 and the coolers 2022 may be alternately arranged along the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 2020, for example.

[0087] The heat insulating material 2023 is provided so as to cover the pipe 2020 , the heater 2021 , and the cooler 2022 .

[0088] The pipe 2020 has an inner circumferential surface surrounding a space S for the cathode supply fluid to flow. The pipe 2020 forms a flow path P1. The pipe 2020 is preferably formed of a material having high thermal conductivity. The condenser 202 may have a temperature sensor on the inner circumferential surface of the pipe 2020, or the temperature of the cathode supply fluid flowing in the space S may be directly measured using the temperature sensor.

[0089] Examples of the condenser 202 may include a heat exchanger, etc. The heat exchanger may include a temperature sensor, and the temperature of the cathode supply fluid flowing in the space S may be directly measured by the temperature sensor.

[0090] An example of an electrochemical reaction device of an embodiment can be operated, for example, by performing the following electrolysis reaction: a cathode supply fluid is supplied to a cathode chamber 140 via a flow path P1, an anode supply fluid is supplied to an anode chamber 150 via a flow path P2, a current or voltage is supplied from a power supply 40 to an electrolysis unit 10, a reduction object is reduced at the cathode 11 to generate a reduction product, and an oxidation object is oxidized at the anode 12 to generate an oxidation product. Figure 1 The arrows shown indicate the flow direction of the respective fluids.

[0091] An example of an electrochemical reaction device in an embodiment has a condenser 202 at the subsequent stage of a humidifier 201, and does not use a complex piping structure with a switching mechanism based on a valve such as a multi-port valve, or an auxiliary machine such as a pump as a power source, so that water can be mixed in the cathode supply fluid with a simple device structure.

[0092] When water vapor is supplied to the cathode chamber 140, the relative humidity of the gas phase in the catalyst layer and the gas diffusion layer of the cathode 11 becomes high, which can inhibit the evaporation of water from the liquid phase. Therefore, the effect of inhibiting the generation of solid salts is expected. However, from the perspective of removing the generated salts, the effect brought by water vapor is small. On the other hand, when liquid water is supplied to the cathode chamber 140, the liquid water reduces the salt concentration in the liquid phase present in the catalyst layer and the gas diffusion layer of the cathode, so the effect of inhibiting the generation of solid salts is expected. Furthermore, the effect of dissolving and flushing the solid salts present in the cathode chamber 140 by liquid water is also expected. Therefore, even if the same amount of water is used, compared with supplying all of it with water vapor, the salt removal effect is greater when a part is condensed and supplied to the cathode chamber 140. The example of the electrochemical reaction device of the embodiment can operate an electrochemical reaction device with a high salt removal effect by condensing a part of the water vapor contained in the cathode supply fluid and mixing it with liquid water. Therefore, an electrochemical reaction device with a long life and a simple structure can be realized.

[0093] Liquid water invades the pores provided in the catalyst layer and gas diffusion layer of the cathode 11, and it is possible to block these pores. The blockage of the pores prevents the gas as a reactant from being supplied to the reaction field in the cathode catalyst layer, causing an increase in the unit resistance and a decrease in the selectivity of the target product. Such a phenomenon is called flooding. Therefore, it is preferred to use the amount of condensed water generated by the condenser 202 (for example, the amount of matter per unit time, the volume, or the total amount of generation obtained by accumulating them at the time of implementing the condensed water generation) to be reduced as much as possible within the range that can suppress salt precipitation and remove the salt effect. Depending on the situation, based on the purpose of suppressing salt precipitation and removing salt, on the basis of the judgment that avoiding flooding is more important, even if the salt precipitation suppression and salt removal effects are insufficient, the amount of condensed water generated needs to be set small. The appropriate value of the amount of condensed water varies according to the operating conditions of the electrolysis unit 10, the characteristics of the components used, etc., so it is preferably determined at any time. The determination can monitor the performance indicators of the electrolysis unit 10 in operation and is based on the results. The determination may be performed by the operator of the electrolysis unit 10 or by an algorithm installed in a computer.

[0094] Figure 5 Schematic diagram showing another structural example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment. Figure 5As shown, the cathode supply unit 21 may also include a plurality of condensers 202. For example, when the electrolysis unit 10 includes a plurality of electrolysis units 100, the number of the plurality of condensers 202 may be the same as the number of the electrolysis units 100, or may be greater than the number of the plurality of electrolysis units 100. In addition, the cathode supply unit 21 may also include a plurality of humidifiers 201. The number of the plurality of humidifiers 201 may be the same as the number of the plurality of condensers 202, or may be greater than the number of the plurality of condensers 202. By making the number of the plurality of condensers 202 less than the number of the plurality of electrolysis units 100, and making the number of the plurality of humidifiers 201 less than the number of the plurality of condensers 202, the electrochemical reaction device can be miniaturized.

[0095] When a common humidifier 201 and a common condenser 202 are shared by a plurality of electrolysis cells 100, the cathode supply fluid needs to be distributed in order to supply the cathode supply fluid to each electrolysis cell 100. The distribution may be performed at one of the preceding stage of the humidifier 201, between the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202, and between the condenser 202 and the electrolysis cell 100.

[0096] In the case of implementing an electrolytic reaction using gas as a reactant using each cathode 11 of a plurality of electrolysis units 100, the flow path P1 is preferably designed so that the gas in the cathode supply fluid is appropriately distributed to each electrolysis unit 100. Appropriate distribution refers to, for example, evenly distributing the gas to all electrolysis units 100, but is not limited to this. On the other hand, the flow path P1 designed with a view to such gas distribution may not necessarily be able to appropriately distribute the liquid to each electrolysis unit 100. Therefore, if the cathode supply fluid is distributed in the rear stage of the condenser 202, there is a possibility that the distribution ratio of the generated condensed water will deviate. Gas is distributed to each electrolysis unit 100 in the front stage of the condenser 202, at a stage where the cathode supply fluid is mainly composed of a gas phase, and condensed water is generated by each condenser 202 after distribution, thereby enabling condensed water to be appropriately supplied to each electrolysis unit 100.

[0097] Figure 6 Schematic diagram showing another structural example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment. Figure 6As shown, the cathode supply unit 21 may also be provided with a plurality of condensers 202 in the electrolysis unit 10. In particular, when a condenser 202 is provided for each electrolysis unit 100, it is preferred that the plurality of condensers 202 are provided in the electrolysis unit 10. When the electrolysis unit 10 has a plurality of electrolysis units 100, the number of the plurality of condensers 202 may be the same as the number of the electrolysis units 100, or may be greater than the number of the plurality of electrolysis units 100. In addition, the cathode supply unit 21 may also have a plurality of humidifiers 201. The number of the plurality of humidifiers 201 may be the same as the number of the plurality of condensers 202, or may be greater than the number of the plurality of condensers 202. By making the number of the plurality of condensers 202 less than the number of the plurality of electrolysis units 100 and making the number of the plurality of humidifiers 201 less than the number of the plurality of condensers 202, the electrochemical reaction device can be miniaturized. In addition, when the plurality of condensers 202 are provided in the electrolysis unit 10, Figure 5 Similarly to the illustrated configuration example, it is necessary to distribute the cathode supply fluid in order to supply the cathode supply fluid to each electrolysis unit 100 .

[0098] Figure 7 Yes means Figure 6 The schematic cross-sectional view of the structural example of the electrolysis unit 10 shown. Figure 7 represents a part of the XZ section. Figure 7 As shown, the electrolysis unit 10 has a first region forming a unit stack including a plurality of electrolysis units 100 and a second region forming a condenser 202. The second region is configured adjacent to the first region. The first region can be heated and cooled. The second region can also be heated and cooled, in which case the temperature of the second region is regulated independently of the temperature of the first region. The current or voltage from the power supply 40 is only supplied to the first region. The first region and the second region can also be fastened by a pair of support plates, for example. The first region and the second region are arranged inside the electrolysis unit 10.

[0099] Figure 7 The unit stack including a plurality of electrolytic cells 100 shown in the figure includes a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies MEA, a flow path plate 14, a flow path plate 15, a current collector 16, a current collector 17, and a flow path plate 18. Other descriptions of the electrolytic cells 100 can be appropriately referred to. Figure 3 An illustration of an electrolysis cell 100 is shown.

[0100] Figure 7 The illustrated condenser 202 has an auxiliary flow path plate 221 , an auxiliary flow path plate 222 , an auxiliary flow path plate 223 , an auxiliary plate 224 , an auxiliary plate 225 , and an auxiliary plate 226 .

[0101] Figure 8 , Fig. 9 , Fig.10 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 221 . Figure 8 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow channel plate 221 when viewed from above. Fig. 9 2 is a schematic XZ cross-sectional view of the auxiliary flow path plate 221 . Fig.10 This is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow channel plate 221 when viewed from below.

[0102] The auxiliary flow path plate 221 is a cathode auxiliary flow path plate having a flow path 227. The flow path 227 is a cathode auxiliary flow path connected to the cathode flow path formed by the cathode chamber 140. The auxiliary flow path plate 221 may be arranged to extend from the side surface of the flow path plate 14, for example.

[0103] Fig.11 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 . Fig.11 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 222 when viewed from above. Fig.12 2 is a schematic XZ cross-sectional view of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 . Fig.13 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 222 when viewed from below.

[0104] The auxiliary flow path plate 222 is an anode auxiliary flow path plate having a flow path 228. The flow path 228 is an anode auxiliary flow path and is connected to the anode flow path formed by the anode chamber 150. The auxiliary flow path plate 222 may be arranged to extend from the side surface of the flow path plate 15, for example.

[0105] Fig.14 , Fig.15 , Fig.16 1 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 . Fig.14 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 223 when viewed from above. Fig.15 2 is a schematic XZ cross-sectional view of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 . Fig.16 This is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 223 when viewed from below.

[0106] The auxiliary flow path plate 223 is, for example, an inter-unit auxiliary flow path plate provided between the auxiliary flow path plate 221 and the auxiliary flow path plate 222. The auxiliary flow path plate 223 has a flow path 227 and a flow path 228. The flow path 227 is a cathode auxiliary flow path connected to the cathode flow path formed by the cathode chamber 140 of the flow path plate 18. The flow path 228 is an anode auxiliary flow path connected to the anode flow path formed by the anode chamber 150 of the flow path plate 18. The auxiliary flow path plate 223 may also be configured to extend from the side of the flow path plate 18, for example.

[0107] The auxiliary plate 224 is disposed between the auxiliary flow path plate 221 or the auxiliary flow path plate 222 and the auxiliary flow path plate 223 . Figure 7The figure shows a plurality of auxiliary plates 224 provided between the auxiliary flow path plate 221, the auxiliary flow path plate 222, and the auxiliary flow path plate 223. Each auxiliary plate 224 may be arranged to extend from a side surface of the membrane electrode assembly MEA, for example.

[0108] The auxiliary plate 225 is provided, for example, on the side of the auxiliary flow path plate 221 opposite to the auxiliary flow path plate 223. The auxiliary plate 225 is provided at the end of the condenser 202. The auxiliary plate 225 may be arranged to extend from the side surface of the current collector 16, for example.

[0109] The auxiliary plate 226 is provided, for example, on the side of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 opposite to the auxiliary flow path plate 223. The auxiliary plate 226 is provided at the end of the condenser 202. The auxiliary plate 226 may be arranged to extend from the side surface of the current collector 17, for example.

[0110] The cathode supply fluid flowing in the cathode auxiliary flow path can be condensed by heating and cooling the second region forming the condenser 202. Thus, the cathode auxiliary flow path connected to each electrolytic cell 100 can function as a condenser.

[0111] Methods for heating and cooling the second area include, for example, a method of setting a heater 2021 and a cooler 2022 on the auxiliary plates 225 and 226, a method of setting a heater 2021 and a cooler 2022 on the auxiliary flow plates 221, 222 and 223, a method of setting a secondary flow path for a heat exchange fluid to pass through the auxiliary flow plates 221, 222 and 223, etc., but are not limited to these methods.

[0112] Fig.17 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 . Fig.17 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 222 when viewed from above.

[0113] Fig.18 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 . Fig.18 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 223 when viewed from above.

[0114] like Fig.17 and Fig.18As shown, the auxiliary flow path plate 222 and the auxiliary flow path plate 223 may also have a secondary flow path 229. In the case where the secondary flow path 229 is provided, the secondary flow path 229 is preferably not connected to the flow path 227 and the flow path 228. The secondary flow path 229 is formed, for example, on the surface of the auxiliary flow path plate 222 where the flow path 228 is formed, or on the surface of the auxiliary flow path plate 223 where the flow path 228 is formed (the surface on the opposite side of the flow path 227). By allowing the heat exchange fluid whose temperature is adjusted to flow through the secondary flow path 229, the temperature of the second region can be adjusted, so that the flow path 227 functions as the condenser 202.

[0115] All components of the condenser 202 may be formed of an insulator. As long as the insulation between the first region and the second region is ensured, at least a portion of the components of the condenser 202 may be formed of a conductive material. Each component of the condenser 202 is preferably formed of a material having a high thermal conductivity. Thus, heat conduction in the second region is promoted, and the temperature of the flow path 227 functioning as the condenser 202 can be adjusted with high precision.

[0116] The thickness of the auxiliary flow plate 221 is preferably the same as the thickness of the flow plate 14. The thickness of the auxiliary flow plate 222 is preferably the same as the thickness of the flow plate 15. The thickness of the auxiliary flow plate 223 is preferably the same as the thickness of the flow plate 18. The thickness of the auxiliary plate 225 is preferably the same as the thickness of the collector 16. The thickness of the auxiliary plate 226 is preferably the same as the thickness of the collector 17. In addition, it is further preferred that the compression rates between the components when fastened with a pair of support plates not shown are also of the same degree. The compression rates of the auxiliary plate 224 and the membrane electrode assembly MEA may be different, but the thickness of the auxiliary plate 224 when fastened with a pair of support plates not shown is preferably the same as the thickness of the membrane electrode assembly MEA when fastened with a pair of support plates not shown. The auxiliary flow plate 221 may also be pre-bonded to the flow plate 14. The auxiliary flow plate 222 may also be pre-bonded to the flow plate 15. The auxiliary flow plate 223 may also be pre-bonded to the flow plate 18. The auxiliary plate 225 may be previously bonded to the current collector 16. The auxiliary plate 226 may be previously bonded to the current collector 17. Instead of the auxiliary plate 224, the membrane electrode assembly MEA may be formed to extend from the first region to the second region.

[0117] The cathode supply unit 21 may include a humidifier 201 and a condenser 202 provided in the electrolysis unit 10 . Fig.19 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing another structural example of the electrolysis unit 10. Fig.19As shown, the electrolysis unit 10 has a first region forming a unit stack including a plurality of electrolysis units 100, a second region forming a condenser 202, and a third region forming a humidifier 201. The second region is arranged in the front stage of the first region and is adjacent to the first region. The third region is arranged in the front stage of the second region and is adjacent to the second region. The first region can be heated and cooled. The second region and the third region can also be heated and cooled, in which case the temperature of the second region and the temperature of the third region are independently adjusted from the temperature of the first region. The current or voltage from the power supply 40 is only supplied to the first region. The first region, the second region and the third region can also be fastened by a pair of support plates, for example. The first region, the second region and the third region are arranged inside the electrolysis unit 10.

[0118] Fig.19 The unit stack including a plurality of electrolytic cells 100 shown in the figure has a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies MEA, a flow path plate 14, a flow path plate 15, a current collector 16, a current collector 17, and a flow path plate 18. Other descriptions of the electrolytic cells 100 can be appropriately referred to. Figure 3 and Figure 7 An illustration of an electrolysis cell 100 is shown.

[0119] Fig.19 The condenser 202 shown in the figure has an auxiliary flow path plate 221, an auxiliary flow path plate 222, an auxiliary flow path plate 223, an auxiliary plate 224, an auxiliary plate 225, and an auxiliary plate 226. Other descriptions of the condenser 202 can be appropriately referred to. Figures 7 to 18 Description.

[0120] Fig.19 The humidifier 201 shown in the figure has an auxiliary flow path plate 211, an auxiliary flow path plate 212, an auxiliary flow path plate 213, a humidifying film 214, an auxiliary plate 215, and an auxiliary plate 216. Other descriptions of the humidifier 201 can be appropriately referred to. Figure 1 An illustration of a humidifier 201 is shown.

[0121] Fig. 20 , Fig.21 , Fig. 22 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 211 . Fig. 20 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 211 when viewed from above. Fig.21 2 is a schematic XZ cross-sectional view of the auxiliary flow path plate 211 . Fig. 22 This is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 211 when viewed from below.

[0122] Auxiliary flow path plate 211 is a cathode auxiliary flow path plate having flow path 217. Flow path 217 is a cathode auxiliary flow path, connected to flow path 227, and connected to the cathode flow path formed by cathode chamber 140 via flow path 227. Auxiliary flow path plate 211 may be configured to extend from the side of auxiliary flow path plate 221, for example.

[0123] Fig.23 , Fig.24 , Fig.25 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 . Fig.23 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 212 when viewed from above. Fig.24 2 is a schematic XZ cross-sectional view of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 . Fig.25 This is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 212 when viewed from below.

[0124] The auxiliary flow path plate 212 is an anode auxiliary flow path plate having a flow path 218. The flow path 218 is an anode auxiliary flow path, connected to the flow path 228, and connected to the anode flow path formed by the anode chamber 150 via the flow path 228. The auxiliary flow path plate 212 may be configured to extend from the side of the auxiliary flow path plate 222, for example.

[0125] Fig.26 , Fig. 27 , Fig.28 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the auxiliary flow path plate 213 . Fig.26 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 213 when viewed from above. Fig. 27 2 is a schematic XZ cross-sectional view of the auxiliary flow path plate 213 . Fig.28 This is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 213 when viewed from below.

[0126] The auxiliary flow path plate 213 is, for example, an inter-unit auxiliary flow path plate provided between the auxiliary flow path plate 211 and the auxiliary flow path plate 212. The auxiliary flow path plate 213 has a flow path 217 and a flow path 218. The flow path 217 is a cathode auxiliary flow path, connected to the flow path 227 of the auxiliary flow path plate 223, and connected to the cathode flow path formed by the cathode chamber 140 of the flow path plate 18 via the flow path 227. The flow path 218 is an anode auxiliary flow path, connected to the flow path 227 of the auxiliary flow path plate 223, and connected to the anode flow path formed by the anode chamber 150 of the flow path plate 18 via the flow path 227. The auxiliary flow path plate 213 may also be configured to extend from the side of the auxiliary flow path plate 223, for example.

[0127] The humidifying film 214 is provided in the auxiliary flow path plate 211 or between the auxiliary flow path plate 212 and the auxiliary flow path plate 213 . Fig.19A plurality of humidifying membranes 214 are shown disposed between the auxiliary flow path plate 211, the auxiliary flow path plate 212, and the auxiliary flow path plate 213. Each humidifying membrane 214 may be configured to extend from the side of each auxiliary plate 224, for example. Examples of each humidifying membrane 214 include a hydrophobic porous membrane, etc. The hydrophobic porous membrane may have a contact angle of 45 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less with respect to water, for example.

[0128] Flow path 217 and flow path 218 are opposite to each other via humidifying membrane 214, and auxiliary flow path is formed in such a way that the shapes of these flow paths are consistent. Thus, the moisture in the anode supply fluid flowing in flow path 218 is supplied to the cathode supply fluid flowing in flow path 217 via humidifying membrane 214, and the third area can function as a humidifier 201.

[0129] The auxiliary plate 215 is provided, for example, on the side of the auxiliary flow path plate 211 opposite to the auxiliary flow path plate 213. The auxiliary plate 215 is provided at the end of the humidifier 201. The auxiliary plate 215 may be arranged to extend from the side surface of the auxiliary plate 225, for example.

[0130] The auxiliary plate 216 is provided, for example, on the side of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 opposite to the auxiliary flow path plate 213. The auxiliary plate 216 is provided at the end of the humidifier 201. The auxiliary plate 216 may be arranged to extend from the side surface of the auxiliary plate 226, for example.

[0131] It is preferable that each component of the humidifier 201 is formed of a material having high thermal conductivity. This promotes heat conduction in the third region, and the temperature of the region where the humidifier 201 functions can be adjusted with high accuracy.

[0132] The thickness of the auxiliary flow path plate 211 is preferably the same as the thickness of the flow path plate 14 and the thickness of the auxiliary flow path plate 221, respectively. The thickness of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 is preferably the same as the thickness of the flow path plate 15 and the thickness of the auxiliary flow path plate 222, respectively. The thickness of the auxiliary flow path plate 213 is preferably the same as the thickness of the flow path plate 18 and the thickness of the auxiliary flow path plate 223, respectively. The thickness of the auxiliary plate 215 is preferably the same as the thickness of the collector 16 and the thickness of the auxiliary plate 225, respectively. The thickness of the auxiliary plate 216 is preferably the same as the thickness of the collector 17 and the thickness of the auxiliary plate 226, respectively. In addition, it is further preferred that the compression rate between the components when fastened by a pair of support plates not shown is also of the same degree. The compression rates of the humidifying membrane 214, the auxiliary plate 224, and the membrane electrode assembly MEA may be different, but the thickness of the humidifying membrane 214 when fastened by a pair of support plates not shown is preferably the same as the thickness of the membrane electrode assembly MEA and the thickness of the auxiliary plate 224 when fastened by a pair of support plates not shown. The auxiliary flow path plate 211 may also be pre-bonded to the auxiliary flow path plate 221. The auxiliary flow path plate 212 may also be pre-bonded to the auxiliary flow path plate 222. The auxiliary flow path plate 213 may also be pre-bonded to the auxiliary flow path plate 223. The auxiliary plate 215 may also be pre-bonded to the auxiliary plate 225. The auxiliary plate 216 may also be pre-bonded to the auxiliary plate 226.

[0133] exist Fig.19 In the method of using the anode supply fluid flowing in the flow path 218 as a humidified water vapor source, a secondary flow path may be formed on the auxiliary flow path plate 212 or the auxiliary flow path plate 213, and a liquid with other water as the main component may be circulated in the secondary flow path as a humidified water vapor source.

[0134] Fig.29 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 . Fig.29 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 212 when viewed from above.

[0135] Fig.30 Schematic diagram showing another configuration example of the auxiliary flow channel plate 213 . Fig.30 It is an XY plan view schematically showing the auxiliary flow path plate 213 when viewed from above.

[0136] like Fig.29 and Fig.30As shown, the auxiliary flow path plate 212 and the auxiliary flow path plate 213 may also have a secondary flow path 219. When the secondary flow path 219 is provided, the secondary flow path 219 is preferably not connected to the flow path 217 and the flow path 218. The secondary flow path 219 is formed, for example, on the surface of the auxiliary flow path plate 212 that forms the flow path 218, or on the surface of the auxiliary flow path plate 213 that forms the flow path 218 (the surface on the opposite side of the flow path 217). The secondary flow path 219 is designed to make the flow path shape as consistent as possible with the flow path 217 that is opposite to the humidifying membrane 214. If cooling water used inside the electrochemical reaction device is used as a humidifying water vapor source, the device will be simplified, but considering the necessity of being able to independently adjust the temperature of the first region, the second region, and the third region, it is preferred not to use the cooling water of the second region as the humidifying water vapor source of the third region.

[0137] Fig.31 Schematic diagram showing another structural example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment. Fig.31 As shown, the electrochemical reaction device 1 may also have a liquid removal unit 203 connected to the flow path P1 and arranged at the front stage of the humidifier 201. The liquid removal unit 203 can remove the liquid contained in the cathode supply fluid supplied to the humidifier 201. The liquid removal unit 203, for example, has a bottle that captures the liquid from the cathode supply fluid flowing in the flow path P1. By setting the bottle below the flow path P1, for example, the liquid can also be captured in the bottle by gravity. The liquid removal unit 203 may also have a gas-liquid separator in the middle of the flow path P1. The liquid removal unit 203 may also be arranged at other places as long as it is connected to the flow path P1 in the cathode supply unit 21. In the case where the cathode supply fluid at the front stage of the humidifier 201 forms a gas-liquid two-phase flow due to reasons such as connecting the electrochemical reaction device to other devices, it is possible to remove the liquid from the cathode supply fluid supplied to the humidifier 201 and only become a gas phase by setting the liquid removal unit 203, and it is easy to manage the amount of water vapor contained in the cathode supply fluid after humidification. The liquid removal unit 203 may also be provided between the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202, or in the post stage of the condenser 202. Thus, for example, when liquid water is accidentally mixed in due to a malfunction of the humidifier 201 or the condenser 202, the liquid can be removed from the cathode supply fluid supplied to the electrolysis unit 10 and only the gas phase can be obtained.

[0138] The cathode supply unit 21 may also include a liquid supply unit 204. This means that the condenser 202 can be used in conjunction with a previously known method of supplying flushing materials from outside the system. The liquid supply unit 204 is connected to the flow path P1, for example, and is disposed at a subsequent stage of the condenser 202. The liquid supply unit 204 includes, for example, an injection pump. The condenser 202 cannot generate more liquid water than the amount of water vapor mixed by the humidifier 201. Therefore, for example, by mixing liquid water with the cathode supply fluid from outside the system using the liquid supply unit 204, a large amount of liquid water can be supplied.

[0139] The liquid water supply method using the condenser 202 is suitable for continuously supplying liquid water in small amounts each time. Therefore, it is well suited for preventing salt precipitation and suppressing the growth of salt by removing salt when the generated salt is small. On the other hand, the supply of liquid from outside the system based on the liquid supply unit 204 is suitable for supplying a large amount of liquid water at once. In order to remove the salt that has grown and become larger in a short time, it is preferably suitable for mixing the liquid from outside the system based on the liquid supply unit 204.

[0140] The electrochemical reaction device of the embodiment may include at least one detector and a control device. Examples of the detector include a thermometer, a pressure gauge, a dew point meter, an ammeter, a voltmeter, a gas flow meter, a gas composition analyzer, etc., but are not limited to these detectors. Fig.32 Schematic diagram showing another structural example of the electrochemical reaction device according to the embodiment. Fig.32 As shown, the electrochemical reaction device 1 may further include a detector D1 , a detector D2 , a detector D3 and a control device 30 .

[0141] The detector D1 is provided in the middle of the flow path P1, for example, between the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202. The detector D1 can detect, for example, at least one parameter of the humidified cathode supply fluid from the humidifier 201. Examples of the at least one parameter include temperature, pressure, dew point, current, voltage, flow rate, composition, etc. Examples of the detector D1 include a thermometer, a pressure gauge, a dew point meter, an ammeter, a voltmeter, a gas flow meter, a gas composition analyzer, etc., but are not limited to these detectors.

[0142] The detector D2 is provided in the middle of the flow path P1, for example, between the condenser 202 and the electrolysis unit 10. The detector D2 can detect, for example, at least one parameter of the cathode supply fluid containing condensed water from the condenser 202. Examples of the at least one parameter include temperature, pressure, dew point, current, voltage, flow rate, composition, etc. Examples of the detector D2 include thermometers, pressure gauges, dew point meters, ammeters, voltmeters, gas flow meters, gas composition analyzers, etc., but are not limited to these detectors.

[0143] The detector D3 is provided in the middle of the flow path P3, for example, in the rear stage of the electrolysis unit 10. The detector D3 can detect, for example, at least one parameter of the cathode discharge fluid from the electrolysis unit 10. Examples of the at least one parameter include temperature, pressure, dew point, current, voltage, flow rate, composition, etc. Examples of the detector D3 include thermometers, pressure gauges, dew point meters, ammeters, voltmeters, flow meters, composition analyzers, etc., but are not limited to these detectors.

[0144] The electrochemical reaction device 1 may also have a detector in at least one of the humidifier 201, the condenser 202 and the electrolysis unit 10, in the middle of the flow path P2 and the flow path P4. These detectors can, for example, detect at least one parameter related to the operating state of at least one of the humidifier 201, the condenser 202 and the electrolysis unit 10, the cathode supply fluid, the cathode discharge fluid, the anode supply fluid flowing through any of the above-mentioned components, and at least one parameter related to the state of the anode discharge fluid. Examples of these at least one parameter include temperature, pressure, dew point, current, voltage, flow rate, composition, etc. Examples of these detectors include thermometers, pressure gauges, dew point meters, ammeters, voltmeters, flow meters, composition analyzers, etc., but are not limited to these detectors. These parameters are sent to the receiving unit 31 as detection signals (data signals), respectively.

[0145] The control device 30 includes: a receiving unit 31 that receives detection signals from at least one of the detectors D1, D2, D3, and at least one of the detectors provided in the humidifier 201, the condenser 202, and the electrolysis unit 10; a computing unit 32 that performs computing based on the detection signals; and a control unit 33 that generates a control signal for controlling the operation of the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202 based on the result of the computing. The control device 30 may also be configured using hardware such as a processor. In addition, each action may be stored as an action program in a computer-readable recording medium such as a memory, and each action may be executed by appropriately reading the action program stored in the recording medium through hardware.

[0146] As described above, by mixing liquid water in the cathode supply fluid, the precipitation of salt in the cathode chamber 140 of the electrolysis unit 10, the cathode catalyst layer of the cathode 11, the cathode gas diffusion layer, etc. can be suppressed. In addition, by removing the precipitated salt, the effect of preventing salt growth can be expected. On the other hand, liquid water hinders the gas as a reactant from being supplied to the reaction field in the cathode catalyst layer, causing an increase in unit resistance and a decrease in the selectivity of the target product (flooding). Therefore, the amount of condensed water generated by the condenser 202, such as the amount of substance per unit time, the volume, or the total amount of condensed water generated by accumulating them during the time of implementing condensed water generation is preferably determined by considering the balance between the salt precipitation suppression effect and the salt removal effect and the performance degradation caused by flooding. Therefore, the control of the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202 is preferably performed using the control device 30 to monitor the salt precipitation status and performance indicators of the electrolysis unit 10 in operation, and based on the results.

[0147] The receiving unit 31 receives detection signals from at least one of the detectors D1, D2, D3, and at least one of the detectors provided in the humidifier 201, the condenser 202, and the electrolysis unit 10, and transmits the detection signals to the operation unit 32. The operation unit 32 includes, for example, a computer on which a calculation algorithm is installed. The operation unit 32 performs a calculation process (calculation) based on the information of the received detection signal, and determines how to operate the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202. Then, the judgment result is transmitted to the control unit 33. The control unit 33 transmits a control signal to the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202 based on the judgment result (calculation result) received from the operation unit 32, and controls them to the desired operating state.

[0148] The humidification amount in the humidifier 201 can be controlled based on the information of the temperature, pressure, and dew point before and after the humidifier 201 inside the humidifier 201. The amount of condensed water generated in the condenser 202 can be controlled based on the information of the temperature, pressure, and dew point before and after the condenser 202 inside the condenser 202. As an indicator for confirming the salt precipitation inhibition effect and the salt removal effect, for example, the pressure loss of the cathode system including the cathode 11 and the cathode chamber 140 can be used. The pressure loss is defined as the difference in fluid pressure measured at the inlet and outlet of the electrolysis unit 100. If salt is precipitated in the cathode flow path, cathode catalyst layer, cathode gas diffusion layer, etc., the pressure loss of the cathode system increases. By monitoring the pressure loss, the condition of the salt inside the unit stack can be indirectly grasped.

[0149] As an index for determining the presence or absence of flooding, the voltage of the electrolysis unit 100, the product selectivity at the cathode outlet, etc. can be cited. The voltage of the electrolysis unit 100 can be measured by providing a voltmeter in the electrolysis unit 100. When the product is a gas, a gas composition analyzer can be provided in the gas piping after the gas-liquid separation of the cathode discharge fluid to measure the composition and calculate based on the result. As a gas composition analyzer, a gas chromatograph or various types of sensors can be used. Faraday efficiency can also be used as an index. Faraday efficiency can be obtained based on product selectivity, gas flow rate, and current.

[0150] Based on the above, as an example of the control of the humidifier 201 and the condenser 202, for example, it can be implemented as follows. In order to avoid flooding, first, the condenser 202 is operated in a state where no condensed water is generated or the generated amount is small. After that, if the pressure loss of the cathode system of the electrolysis unit 100 increases, the required amount of condensed water to be added to the cathode supply fluid as a flushing material is determined in the calculation unit 32 based on this information. Then, the condenser 202 is controlled to increase the humidification amount in the humidifier 201, and more condensed water is generated in the condenser 202 than before. If the humidifier 201 is a method of changing the humidification amount by temperature adjustment, a control signal for increasing the temperature of the humidifier 201 is sent from the control unit 33. If the condenser 202 is a method of changing the humidification amount by temperature adjustment, a control signal for reducing the temperature of the condenser 202 is sent from the control unit 33. Continue to monitor the cathode pressure loss, reduce the humidification amount after reducing the pressure loss, and reduce the amount of condensed water generated. Condensed water can also be completely eliminated. During this period, information on the voltage of the electrolytic cell 100 and the selectivity of the product is also obtained. When a sign of flooding such as an increase in voltage and a decrease in selectivity is observed, the humidification amount is also reduced to reduce the amount of condensed water generated. Condensed water can also be completely eliminated. Even when a sign of flooding is observed, by reducing or eliminating condensed water later, liquid water accumulated near the cathode 11 can be discharged outside the cell stack. In this way, flooding can be eliminated.

[0151] For the purpose of preventing salt precipitation, condensed water may be generated periodically even when there is no sign of salt precipitation such as an increase in the pressure loss of the cathode system. The generation of condensed water may be performed intermittently or continuously.

[0152] The calculation algorithm installed in the calculation unit 32 can be created based on the knowledge of preliminary experiments, etc. In addition, the algorithm can also be updated based on the accumulated operation data like a machine learning model.

[0153] In addition, refer to Figures 1 to 32 The constituent elements of the electrochemical reaction device described above can be combined as appropriate.

[0154] In addition, the structures of the above-mentioned embodiments can be used in combination, and a part of them can also be replaced. Here, several embodiments of the present invention are described, but these embodiments are proposed as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, replacements, changes, etc. can be made without departing from the scope of the main purpose of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and main purpose of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the scope of their equivalents.

[0155] The embodiments of the present invention can be summarized as follows:

[0156] (Technical Solution 1)

[0157] An electrochemical reaction device, comprising:

[0158] An electrolysis unit comprising a cathode, an anode, a separator between the cathode and the anode, a cathode chamber facing the cathode, and an anode chamber facing the anode;

[0159] a first flow path connected to the inlet of the cathode chamber and through which a first fluid containing a reduction target supplied to the cathode chamber flows;

[0160] a second flow path connected to the inlet of the anode chamber and through which a second fluid containing an oxidation target supplied to the anode chamber flows;

[0161] A third flow path connected to the outlet of the cathode chamber and allowing a third fluid discharged from the cathode chamber and containing a reduction product to flow;

[0162] a fourth flow path connected to the outlet of the anode chamber and through which a fourth fluid discharged from the anode chamber and containing an oxidation product flows;

[0163] a humidifier, disposed in the middle of the first flow path, for humidifying the first fluid; and

[0164] The condenser is provided at a subsequent stage of the humidifier in the middle of the first flow path, processes the humidified first fluid to condense a part of the water vapor contained in the humidified first fluid to generate condensed water, and adjusts the ratio of the condensed water in the humidified first fluid.

[0165] (Technical Solution 2)

[0166] According to the electrochemical reaction device described in technical solution 1,

[0167] The condenser has a temperature regulator.

[0168] (Technical Solution 3)

[0169] According to the electrochemical reaction device described in technical solution 2,

[0170] The condenser processes the first fluid so that a temperature of the processed first fluid discharged from the condenser is lower than a dew point of the humidified first fluid supplied to the condenser.

[0171] (Technical Solution 4)

[0172] The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 3,

[0173] There are a plurality of the above-mentioned condensers.

[0174] (Technical Solution 5)

[0175] The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 4,

[0176] The electrolysis unit includes the condenser.

[0177] (Technical Solution 6)

[0178] The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 5,

[0179] The device further includes a liquid supply unit for supplying a liquid containing water to the first flow path.

[0180] (Technical Solution 7)

[0181] The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 6,

[0182] The invention further includes a liquid removal unit for removing liquid included in the first fluid.

[0183] (Technical Solution 8)

[0184] The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 7,

[0185] The invention further includes a control device for controlling the humidifier and the condenser.

[0186] (Technical Solution 9)

[0187] According to the electrochemical reaction device described in technical solution 8,

[0188] The device further comprises at least one detector for detecting a parameter of at least one of the humidifier, the condenser, the electrolysis unit, the first flow path, the second flow path, the third flow path, the fourth flow path, the first fluid, the second fluid, the third fluid, and the fourth fluid.

[0189] The above control device comprises:

[0190] A receiving unit, receiving a detection signal from the at least one detector;

[0191] a computing unit that performs computing processing based on the detection signal; and

[0192] The control unit controls at least one of the humidifier and the condenser based on a result of the calculation process.

[0193] (Technical Solution 10)

[0194] According to the electrochemical reaction device described in technical solution 9,

[0195] The at least one detector is selected from the group consisting of a thermometer, a pressure gauge, a dew point meter, an ammeter, a voltmeter, a gas flow meter, and a gas composition analyzer.

[0196] (Technical Solution 11)

[0197] A method for operating an electrochemical reaction device,

[0198] The electrochemical reaction device comprises:

[0199] An electrolysis unit comprising a cathode, an anode, a separator between the cathode and the anode, a cathode chamber facing the cathode, and an anode chamber facing the anode;

[0200] a first flow path connected to the inlet of the cathode chamber and through which a first fluid containing a reduction target supplied to the cathode chamber flows;

[0201] a second flow path connected to the inlet of the anode chamber and through which a second fluid containing an oxidation target supplied to the anode chamber flows;

[0202] a third flow path connected to the outlet of the cathode chamber and through which a third fluid discharged from the cathode chamber and containing a reduction product flows; and

[0203] a fourth flow path connected to the outlet of the anode chamber and through which a fourth fluid discharged from the anode chamber and containing an oxidation product flows;

[0204] The above operation method is:

[0205] humidifying the first fluid flowing in the first flow path; and

[0206] The humidified first fluid is treated to condense a part of water vapor contained in the humidified first fluid to generate condensed water, and the ratio of the condensed water in the humidified first fluid is adjusted.

Claims

1. An electrochemical reaction device, comprising: An electrolysis unit including a cathode, an anode, a separator between the cathode and the anode, a cathode chamber facing the cathode, and an anode chamber facing the anode; a first flow path connected to the inlet of the cathode chamber and through which a first fluid containing a reduction target supplied to the cathode chamber flows; a second flow path connected to the inlet of the anode chamber and through which a second fluid containing an oxidation target supplied to the anode chamber flows; a third flow path connected to the outlet of the cathode chamber and allowing a third fluid discharged from the cathode chamber and containing a reduction product to flow; a fourth flow path connected to the outlet of the anode chamber and through which a fourth fluid discharged from the anode chamber and containing an oxidation product flows; a humidifier, disposed in the middle of the first flow path, for humidifying the first fluid; as well as The condenser is provided at a subsequent stage of the humidifier in the middle of the first flow path, processes the humidified first fluid to condense a part of the water vapor contained in the humidified first fluid to generate condensed water, and adjusts the ratio of the condensed water in the humidified first fluid.

2. The electrochemical reaction device according to claim 1, The condenser has a temperature regulator.

3. The electrochemical reaction device according to claim 2, The condenser processes the first fluid so that a temperature of the processed first fluid discharged from the condenser is lower than a dew point of the humidified first fluid supplied to the condenser.

4. The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, There are a plurality of said condensers.

5. The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The electrolysis unit includes the condenser.

6. The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The device further includes a liquid supply unit for supplying a liquid containing water to the first flow path.

7. The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The invention further includes a liquid removal unit for removing liquid included in the first fluid.

8. The electrochemical reaction device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The invention further includes a control device for controlling the humidifier and the condenser.

9. The electrochemical reaction device according to claim 8, further comprising at least one detector for detecting a parameter of at least one of the humidifier, the condenser, the electrolysis unit, the first flow path, the second flow path, the third flow path, the fourth flow path, the first fluid, the second fluid, the third fluid, and the fourth fluid, The control device comprises: A receiving unit, receiving a detection signal from the at least one detector; A computing unit that performs computing processing based on the detection signal; as well as The control unit controls at least one of the humidifier and the condenser based on a result of the calculation process.

10. The electrochemical reaction device according to claim 9, The at least one detector is selected from the group consisting of a thermometer, a pressure gauge, a dew point meter, an ammeter, a voltmeter, a gas flow meter, and a gas composition analyzer.

11. A method for operating an electrochemical reaction device, The electrochemical reaction device comprises: An electrolysis unit including a cathode, an anode, a separator between the cathode and the anode, a cathode chamber facing the cathode, and an anode chamber facing the anode; a first flow path connected to the inlet of the cathode chamber and through which a first fluid containing a reduction target supplied to the cathode chamber flows; a second flow path connected to the inlet of the anode chamber and through which a second fluid containing an oxidation target supplied to the anode chamber flows; a third flow path connected to the outlet of the cathode chamber and allowing a third fluid discharged from the cathode chamber and containing a reduction product to flow; as well as a fourth flow path connected to the outlet of the anode chamber and through which a fourth fluid discharged from the anode chamber and containing an oxidation product flows; The operation method is as follows: humidifying the first fluid flowing in the first flow path; as well as The humidified first fluid is processed to condense a part of water vapor contained in the humidified first fluid to generate condensed water, and the ratio of the condensed water in the humidified first fluid is adjusted.

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