Space decontamination device

Abstract

The space purification device (1) comprises: an electrolytic cell (10) for storing a first aqueous solution (L1); a supply tank (20) for storing a second aqueous solution (L2) and supplying chloride ions to the first aqueous solution (L1); an electrolytic cell-side anode (11) and an electrolytic cell-side cathode (12) disposed in the electrolytic cell (10); a supply tank-side cathode (21) disposed in the supply tank (20); an anion exchange membrane (30) disposed between the electrolytic cell (10) and the supply tank (20) and capable of allowing anions to pass through based on the voltage applied between the electrolytic cell-side anode (11) and the supply tank-side cathode (21); and a current control unit (40) that controls the current to replenish the chloride ions contained in the first aqueous solution (L1) reduced by electrolysis, thereby allowing the chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution (L2) to pass through the anion exchange membrane (30) and be supplied to the first aqueous solution (L1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a space purification device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an air purification device that uses hypochlorous acid, generated by electrolyzing an aqueous solution containing chloride ions, to remove bacteria, fungi, viruses, odors, etc. from the air.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-174032 Summary of the Invention

[0006] In miniaturizing conventional space purification devices, the tanks used to store the aqueous solutions used in electrolysis also become smaller. When the tanks are miniaturized, the amount of aqueous solution that can be stored is reduced compared to conventional space purification devices. Therefore, when electrolysis is repeatedly performed in the miniaturized space purification device, there is a problem that the chloride ion concentration in the aqueous solution tends to decrease, resulting in unstable hypochlorous acid production.

[0007] This disclosure was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and provides a space purification device capable of stably generating a desired amount of hypochlorous acid gas over a long period of time without external supply of an aqueous solution containing chloride ions.

[0008] The space purification device disclosed herein comprises: an electrolytic cell for storing a first aqueous solution containing chloride ions; a supply tank for storing a second aqueous solution containing chloride ions at a concentration higher than that in the first aqueous solution and supplying chloride ions to the first aqueous solution; an electrolytic cell-side anode and an electrolytic cell-side cathode disposed in the electrolytic cell; a supply tank-side cathode disposed in the supply tank; an anion exchange membrane disposed between the electrolytic cell and the supply tank, capable of allowing anions to pass through based on a voltage applied between the electrolytic cell-side anode and the supply tank-side cathode; and a diaphragm-free electrolysis unit disposed in the electrolytic cell. Hypochlorous acid is generated by diaphragm-free electrolysis of a first aqueous solution by allowing a first current to flow between the anode and cathode on the electrolytic cell side; and a diaphragm electrolysis unit is provided across the electrolytic cell and the supply cell, by allowing a second current to flow between the anode on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode on the supply cell side, to perform diaphragm electrolysis via an anion exchange membrane; and a current control unit controls the second current to replenish the chloride ions contained in the first aqueous solution that are reduced by diaphragm-free electrolysis, thereby allowing the chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution to pass through the anion exchange membrane and be supplied to the first aqueous solution.

[0009] According to this disclosure, a space purification device is provided that can stably generate a desired amount of hypochlorous acid gas even after a long period of time without the supply of an aqueous solution containing chloride ions from the outside. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the space purification device according to Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a partial front cross-sectional view of the space purification device according to Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the current control unit according to Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a front sectional view of a modified example 1 showing the electrolytic cell and supply cell of the space purification device according to embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a front cross-sectional view of a modified example 2 showing the electrolytic cell and supply cell of the space purification device according to embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view of the space purification device according to Embodiment 2.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a top view showing the spatial purification device involved in Embodiment 2. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The specific embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] Furthermore, the right-handed xyz coordinate system shown in the figures is for ease of illustrating the positional relationships of the constituent elements. Unless otherwise stated, the positive z-axis is vertically upward. Additionally, the xy plane is a horizontal plane and is common to all figures.

[0019] <Implementation Method 1>

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an outline of the space purification device 1 according to Embodiment 1. The space purification device 1 electrolyzes a first aqueous solution L1 containing chloride ions in an electrolytic cell 10 (described later) to generate hypochlorous acid, which is then volatilized. The space purification device 1 removes bacteria, fungi, viruses, odors, etc., from the air in the external space of the space purification device 1 by allowing the volatilized hypochlorous acid to flow out into the external space of the housing B constituting the space purification device 1.

[0021] The space purification device 1 is installed indoors. The space purification device 1 is preferably installed in a place where airflow can be generated. More specifically, the space purification device 1 is installed in places such as the interior of an air conditioner (such as an air conditioner), around a fan, around a circulator, around a ceiling fan, inside a humidifier, inside an air purifier, or on a table.

[0022] The space purification device 1 includes a housing B, an electrolytic cell 10, a supply cell 20, an anion exchange membrane 30, and a current control unit 40.

[0023] The housing B houses the electrolytic cell 10, the supply tank 20, the anion exchange membrane 30, and the current control unit 40. That is, the space purification device 1 can also be a unit integrally formed from the housing B. The shape of the housing B can be appropriately changed depending on the location where the space purification device 1 is installed; for example, it can be rectangular or cylindrical. The space purification device 1 has, for example, a small size that can be housed inside an air conditioner, such as approximately 10cm × 7cm × 4cm.

[0024] Electrolytic cell 10 is a tank used to store a first aqueous solution L1 containing chloride ions. Electrolytic cell 10 has, for example, a box-like shape. Figure 1 The diagram shows the state in which a first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 10. The first aqueous solution L1 is, for example, a dilute sodium chloride aqueous solution or a dilute potassium chloride aqueous solution with a specified chloride ion concentration.

[0025] The "specified chloride ion concentration" of the first aqueous solution L1 includes both a chloride ion concentration within a specified numerical range and a chloride ion concentration with a specified numerical value. More specifically, the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 can be, for example, 1 g / L to 50 g / L, or it can be 10 g / L. In other words, the mass percentage concentration of, for example, dilute sodium chloride aqueous solution or dilute potassium chloride aqueous solution can be 0.1% to 5%, or it can be 1%. By setting the specified chloride ion concentration to this numerical range or value, hypochlorous acid required for space purification can be generated and the generation of chlorine that may be generated simultaneously can be suppressed.

[0026] Supply tank 20 is a tank used to store a second aqueous solution L2 containing chloride ions. The chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 in supply tank 20 are supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 in electrolytic cell 10 after passing through anion exchange membrane 30.

[0027] The supply tank 20 is used to store the second aqueous solution L2 containing chloride ions and to supply chloride ions to the first aqueous solution L1. Figure 1The diagram shows a state in which a second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 20. The chloride ion concentration of the second aqueous solution L2 is higher than that of the first aqueous solution L1. The second aqueous solution L2 is, for example, a saturated sodium chloride aqueous solution, a high-concentration sodium chloride aqueous solution, a saturated potassium chloride aqueous solution, a high-concentration potassium chloride aqueous solution, or a high-concentration hydrochloric acid solution. More specifically, the second aqueous solution L2 is, for example, a 10% to 27% sodium chloride aqueous solution, a 10% to 29% potassium chloride aqueous solution, or a 10% to 25% hydrochloric acid solution. Furthermore, the second aqueous solution L2 may also be in a state where sodium chloride or potassium chloride has precipitated and settled at the bottom of the supply tank 20.

[0028] Regarding the volumes of the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply tank 20, assuming continuous use for 8 hours per day for one year, it is preferable, for example, to set the volume of the supply tank 20 to be at least 12 times the volume of the electrolytic cell 10. By setting such a volume ratio, the supply tank 20 can store a second aqueous solution L2 containing a sufficient amount of chloride ions to be supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 of the electrolytic cell 10. Therefore, the supply tank 20 can stably supply chloride ions from the second aqueous solution L2 stored in the supply tank 20 to the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 10. The amount of the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 10 is, for example, about 2 mL to 10 mL.

[0029] An anion exchange membrane 30 is disposed between the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply cell 20, and is a membrane-like member capable of allowing anions to permeate based on a voltage applied between the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply cell 20. More specifically, when a voltage is applied between the electrolytic cell-side anode plate (electrolytic cell-side anode 11 in Embodiment 1) and the supply cell-side cathode plate (supply cell-side cathode 21 in Embodiment 1), a membrane electrolysis via the anion exchange membrane 30 is performed. Through membrane electrolysis using the electrolytic cell-side anode plate and the supply cell-side cathode plate, chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 permeate through the anion exchange membrane 30 and are supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 (in… Figure 1 (Represented by a thick black arrow pointing in the negative x-axis direction).

[0030] The anion exchange membrane 30 in this embodiment is not the type of anion exchange membrane that allows anions to permeate through osmotic pressure without using electricity. Furthermore, the anion exchange membrane 30 does not allow sodium ions, which are cations, to permeate. More specifically, when chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 are permeated through the anion exchange membrane 30 via diaphragm electrolysis using an anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and a cathode plate on the supply cell side, and then supplied to the first aqueous solution L1, sodium ions, which are cations, do not permeate the anion exchange membrane 30. The anion exchange membrane 30 is, for example, a hydrocarbon-based anion exchange membrane, including membranes with properties such as selective permeability to monovalent anions, alkali resistance, and high-temperature resistance.

[0031] An anion exchange membrane 30 is disposed between the electrolyzer 10 and the supply tank 20. For example, the surface of the electrolyzer 10 facing the supply tank 20 (the yz plane on the positive x-axis side) and the surface of the supply tank 20 facing the electrolyzer 10 (the yz plane on the negative x-axis side) can each be formed by a frame-like member. When the opposing surfaces of the electrolyzer 10 and the supply tank 20 are each formed by a frame-like member, the anion exchange membrane 30 can be embedded within the frame-like member.

[0032] The current control unit 40 controls the current used in both diaphragm-free electrolysis and diaphragm-based electrolysis. More specifically, the current control unit 40 controls the current used in diaphragm-free electrolysis using a pair of cell-side anodes 11 and cell-side cathodes 12 disposed in the electrolytic cell 10. Additionally, the current control unit 40 controls the current used in diaphragm-based electrolysis using a pair of cell-side anodes 11 and cell-side cathodes 21 across the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply cell 20 via an anion exchange membrane 30. The cell-side anodes 11 are used in both diaphragm-free and diaphragm-based electrolysis. That is, the space purification device 1 according to this embodiment has one anode and two cathodes, providing a total of three electrodes. The supply cell 20 only has a cathode, therefore, no chlorine is generated during the chemical reaction described later in the supply cell 20.

[0033] Next, use Figures 1-3 The details of each structure will be explained in more detail.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the electrolytic cell 10 includes an electrolytic cell-side anode 11, an electrolytic cell-side cathode 12, wiring 13, wiring 14, an inlet 15, a mixing space 16, and an outlet 17.

[0035] The anode 11 and cathode 12 on the electrolytic cell side are a pair of electrodes used in the electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1. For example... Figure 1 As shown, no diaphragm, such as an ion exchange membrane, is disposed between the anode 11 and cathode 12 on the electrolytic cell side. That is, the electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1 using a pair of anodes 11 and cathodes 12 on the electrolytic cell side is diaphragm-free electrolysis. Hypochlorous acid used in space purification is generated through diaphragm-free electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1 using a pair of anodes 11 and cathodes 12 on the electrolytic cell side.

[0036] The electrolytic cell-side anode 11 and the electrolytic cell-side cathode 12 each have a plate-like shape. That is, the electrolytic cell-side anode 11 is an electrolytic cell-side anode plate with a plate-like shape, and the electrolytic cell-side cathode 12 is an electrolytic cell-side cathode plate with a plate-like shape. The plate-like shape includes a rectangular shape and a rectangular shape. Hereinafter, the electrolytic cell-side anode 11 will also be referred to as an electrolytic cell-side anode plate. In addition, the electrolytic cell-side cathode 12 will also be referred to as an electrolytic cell-side cathode plate.

[0037] As an example, the case where the plate-shaped anode and cathode plates of the electrolytic cell side are rectangular will be described. The shorter sides of the rectangles of the electrolytic cell side anode and cathode plates are arranged along the vertical direction (z-axis direction). This arrangement can suppress the adhesion of bubbles generated by the chemical reaction to both sides of the rectangles of each electrode. Furthermore, when the shorter sides are arranged along the vertical direction (z-axis direction), compared to when the longer sides of the rectangles are arranged along the vertical direction (z-axis direction), it is possible to suppress the adhesion of bubbles generated at the lower part (negative z-axis side) of the electrolytic cell side anode and cathode plates to the upper part (positive z-axis side).

[0038] Furthermore, the long sides of the rectangles of the anode and cathode plates on the electrolytic cell side are arranged along the horizontal direction (y-axis direction). In other words, the rectangular planes (yz planes) of each of the anode and cathode plates on the electrolytic cell side are arranged facing each other with a predetermined interval. The predetermined interval is suitable for electrolysis using a pair of anode and cathode plates on the electrolytic cell side.

[0039] The anode plate on the electrolytic cell side includes an immersion portion 11a and a protrusion portion 11b. Similarly, the cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side includes an immersion portion 12a and a protrusion portion 12b.

[0040] The anode plate and cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side are inserted from the outside to the inside of the electrolytic cell 10. Figure 1 In this example, the anode plate and cathode plate of the electrolytic cell are inserted from the side (the xz plane side of the negative y-axis) towards the horizontal direction (y-axis direction) of the electrolytic cell 10. The anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a inserted into the electrolytic cell 10 are arranged on the inner side of the electrolytic cell 10 and are completely immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. In other words, the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 10 such that the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a are completely immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. That is, the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 10 such that the liquid level S1 of the first aqueous solution L1 is higher than the upper ends (ends on the positive z-axis side) of the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a.

[0041] The anode plate protrusion 11b and the cathode plate protrusion 12b on the side of the electrolytic cell are disposed on the outer side of the electrolytic cell 10. Wiring 13 and wiring 14 are wires for carrying current. The anode plate protrusion 11b on the side of the electrolytic cell is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 13, and the cathode plate protrusion 12b on the side of the electrolytic cell is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 14.

[0042] For example, platinum-iridium titanium electrodes, platinum electrodes, ruthenium titanium electrodes, or iridium-titanium oxide electrodes can be used as anode plates and cathode plates on the electrolytic cell side.

[0043] Inlet 15 is an opening for allowing air from the external space of housing B to flow in. That is, inlet 15 is an opening for allowing air from the external space of space purification device 1 to flow in. Figure 1 In this example, an inlet 15 is provided on the upper surface (xy plane on the positive z-axis side) of the electrolytic cell 10, but the inlet 15 can be positioned above the liquid surface S1 of the first aqueous solution L1. The shape of the inlet 15 can be, for example, as shown in the figure. Figure 1 It can be cylindrical as shown, or it can be square.

[0044] The mixing space 16 is formed on the upper side (positive z-axis side) of the electrolytic cell 10 when the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 10. The mixing space 16 is used to mix hypochlorous acid generated by the diaphragmless electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1 using a pair of cell-side anode plates and a cell-side cathode plate with air flowing into the external space from the inlet 15. The hypochlorous acid generated by the diaphragmless electrolysis includes vaporized hypochlorous acid gas and hypochlorous acid dissolved in the first aqueous solution L1. The hypochlorous acid gas is contained in the air flowing into the inlet 15 and flows out to the external space from the outlet 17 (described later). The hypochlorous acid dissolved in the first aqueous solution L1 comes into gas-liquid contact with the air flowing into the inlet 15, thereby flowing out to the external space from the outlet 17 (described later).

[0045] Outlet 17 is an opening for allowing the mixed air, resulting from the mixing of air flowing in from inlet 15 with hypochlorous acid generated by the diaphragmless electrolysis of the first aqueous solution L1, to flow out into the external space of housing B. In other words, outlet 17 is an opening for allowing the mixed air to flow out into the external space of the space purification device 1. Figure 1 Similarly to inlet 15, as an example, outlet 17 is provided on the upper surface (xy plane on the positive z-axis side) of electrolytic cell 10, but outlet 17 can be positioned above the liquid surface S1 of the first aqueous solution L1. The shape of outlet 17 is the same as that of inlet 15, for example, it can be as follows: Figure 1 It can be cylindrical as shown, or it can be square.

[0046] At least one of the inlet 15 and the outlet 17 may also have a cover (not shown) that can be opened, closed, or removed. The cover may be configured to be closed when transporting or moving the space purification device 1, and to be opened or removed when using the space purification device 1. In addition, the inlet 15 and the outlet 17 are described as separate structures, but the inlet 15 and the outlet 17 may also function as both an inlet and an outlet depending on the direction of the airflow into the space purification device 1.

[0047] The external space is purified by using air containing hypochlorous acid flowing out from outlet 17 into the external space of the space purification device 1. That is, bacteria, fungi, viruses, odors, etc. contained in the air of the external space of the casing B are removed by using air containing hypochlorous acid.

[0048] The supply tank 20 includes a supply tank-side cathode 21, wiring 22, and an outlet 23. The supply tank-side cathode 21 is an electrode used in pair with the electrolytic cell-side anode 11 during the electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2. Figure 1 As shown, an anion exchange membrane 30 is disposed between the anode 11 on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode 21 on the supply cell side. That is, the electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2 using a pair of anodes 11 on the electrolytic cell side and cathodes 21 on the supply cell side is a membrane electrolysis. In other words, the anode 11 on the electrolytic cell side is used for both membrane-free electrolysis and membrane electrolysis. Chloride ions are supplied from the second aqueous solution L2 to the first aqueous solution L1 through membrane electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2 using a pair of anodes 11 on the electrolytic cell side and cathodes 21 on the supply cell side.

[0049] The supply tank side cathode 21 is a supply tank side cathode plate with a plate-like shape. The plate-like shape includes a rectangular shape and a rectangular shape. Hereinafter, the supply tank side cathode 21 will also be referred to as a supply tank side cathode plate.

[0050] As an example, we will explain the case where the plate-like shape of the cathode plate on the supply cell side is also rectangular, just like the plate-like shape of the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the shorter side of the rectangle of the cathode plate on the supply tank side is arranged along the vertical direction (z-axis direction). Conversely, the longer side of the rectangle of the cathode plate on the supply tank side is arranged along the horizontal direction (y-axis direction).

[0051] The anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side are respectively close to the anion exchange membrane 30. In this specification, "close to" includes two states: the state in which the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side are close to the anion exchange membrane 30 with a specified interval, and the state in which the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side are in contact with the anion exchange membrane 30.

[0052] like Figure 2As shown, the rectangular plane (yz plane on the positive x-axis side) of the plate-shaped anode plate on the electrolytic cell side, adjacent to the anion exchange membrane 30, is designated as plane P1. The rectangular plane (yz plane on the negative x-axis side) of the plate-shaped cathode plate on the feed cell side, adjacent to the anion exchange membrane 30, is designated as plane P2. Planes P1 and P2 are arranged facing each other across the anion exchange membrane 30. This arrangement enables a uniform electric field to be generated between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the feed cell side.

[0053] The anode plate on the electrolytic cell side is positioned between the cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the anion exchange membrane 30. This configuration minimizes the potential difference between the anode plate and the cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side, as well as the potential difference between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the feed cell side.

[0054] The supply tank side cathode plate has a supply tank side cathode plate immersion portion 21a and a supply tank side cathode plate protrusion portion 21b. The supply tank side cathode plate is inserted from the outside of the supply tank 20 toward the inside. Figure 1 In this example, a supply tank-side cathode plate is inserted from the side of the supply tank 20 (the xz plane side on the negative y-axis side) towards the horizontal direction (y-axis direction). The supply tank-side cathode plate immersion portion 21a inserted into the supply tank 20 is disposed on the inner side of the supply tank 20 and is entirely immersed in the second aqueous solution L2. In other words, the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 20 such that the entire supply tank-side cathode plate immersion portion 21a is immersed in the second aqueous solution L2. That is, the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 20 such that the liquid level S2 of the second aqueous solution L2 is higher than the upper end (the end on the positive z-axis side) of the supply tank-side cathode plate immersion portion 21a.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, the cathode plate protrusion 21b on the supply tank side is disposed on the outer side of the supply tank 20. The wiring 22 is a current-carrying wire. The cathode plate protrusion 21b on the supply tank side is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via the wiring 22.

[0056] As the cathode plate for the supply tank side, for example, a platinum-iridium titanium electrode, a platinum electrode, a ruthenium titanium electrode, or an iridium titanium oxide electrode can be used.

[0057] The outlet 23 is an opening for discharging hydrogen gas generated by the diaphragm electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2 to the external space of the housing B. The outlet 23 can also be, for example, a check valve. When a check valve is used as the outlet 23, hydrogen gas inside the supply tank 20 is discharged to the external space, but the inflow of gases such as air from the external space is suppressed. When the diaphragm electrolysis of the second aqueous solution L2 is repeatedly performed, hydrogen gas accumulates inside the supply tank 20, and the internal pressure of the supply tank 20 increases. This pressure causes the check valve to open, and hydrogen gas is discharged to the external space of the supply tank 20.

[0058] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the front of the space purification device 1. Figure 2 In the middle, the following was omitted. Figure 1 The casing B is shown. (As shown in the image) Figure 2 As shown, the space purification device 1 may also include a water level detection unit 18 and a water supply unit 19. The water level detection unit 18 detects the position of the liquid level S1 of the first aqueous solution L1. The water level detection unit 18 is, for example, a water level sensor. The water level detection unit 18 is positioned at least above (on the positive z-axis side) the upper ends (ends on the positive z-axis side) of the anode plate immersion part 11a on the electrolytic cell side, the cathode plate immersion part 12a on the electrolytic cell side, and the cathode plate immersion part 21a on the supply tank side.

[0059] The water supply unit 19 supplies water to the electrolytic cell 10 based on the position of the liquid level S1 detected by the water level detection unit 18. More specifically, the water supply unit 19 supplies water to the electrolytic cell 10 such that the liquid level is not lower than the upper ends (the ends on the positive z-axis side) of the anode plate immersion part 11a, the cathode plate immersion part 12a, and the cathode plate immersion part 21a on the supply tank side. The water supply unit 19 may be, for example, a Peltier element that can cool and condense moisture contained in the air into water droplets, or a water tank that can store water. The water supply unit 19 only needs to be arranged in a position that can supply water to the electrolytic cell 10; it can be arranged on the upper side of the electrolytic cell 10, or on the side or bottom side of the electrolytic cell 10.

[0060] When the space purification device 1 is equipped with a water level detection unit 18 and a water supply unit 19, the anode plate immersion part 11a and the cathode plate immersion part 12a on the electrolytic cell side can be kept immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the anode plate immersion part 11a and the cathode plate immersion part 12a on the electrolytic cell side from being exposed to air as the first aqueous solution L1 decreases, and the electrolysis efficiency of diaphragm-free electrolysis can be maintained.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, the space purification device 1 according to this embodiment includes a diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1 and a diaphragm electrolysis unit E2. The current control unit 40 can control the chemical reactions occurring in the diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1 and the diaphragm electrolysis unit E2 by controlling the first current flowing in the diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1 and the second current flowing in the diaphragm electrolysis unit E2.

[0062] A diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1 is provided in the electrolytic cell 10. The diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1 generates hypochlorous acid by electrolyzing a first aqueous solution L1 without a diaphragm by allowing a first current to flow between the anode 11 and the cathode 12 on the electrolytic cell side. In other words, the diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1 includes an anode 11 on the electrolytic cell side and a cathode 12 on the electrolytic cell side.

[0063] The diaphragm electrolysis unit E2 is arranged across the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply cell 20. Diaphragm electrolysis is performed via the anion exchange membrane 30 by allowing a second current to flow between the anode 11 on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode 21 on the supply cell side. In other words, the diaphragm electrolysis unit E2 includes the anode 11 on the electrolytic cell side, the cathode 21 on the supply cell side, and the anion exchange membrane 30.

[0064] Here, we will describe in detail the chemical reactions occurring in the diaphragmless electrolysis section E1 provided in the electrolytic cell 10 and the chemical reactions occurring in the diaphragm electrolysis section E2 provided across the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply tank 20. Next, we will explain the cases where the first aqueous solution L1 and the second aqueous solution L2 containing chloride ions are sodium chloride aqueous solutions.

[0065] [Separatorless Electrolysis Unit E1 (Electrolytic Cell 10)]

[0066] Sodium chloride (NaCl) in an aqueous solution ionizes into Na+ and Cl-. When a specified voltage is applied to the diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1, current flows between the anode 11 on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode 21 on the supply cell side, electrons move, and the following chemical reaction occurs.

[0067] • Reaction (a): Electrolytic cell side anode 11 (producing chlorine)

[0068] [Chemical Formula 1]

[0069]

[0070] • Reaction (b): Electrolyzer side cathode 12 (generating hydrogen)

[0071] [Chemical Formula 2]

[0072]

[0073] • Reaction (c): Electrolytic cell side anode 11 (producing oxygen)

[0074] [Chemical Formula 3]

[0075]

[0076] • Reaction (d): Hypochlorous acid is produced in the first aqueous solution L1.

[0077] [Chemical Formula 4]

[0078]

[0079] • Reaction (e): Hypochlorous acid in anode 11 of the electrolytic cell undergoes a reaction (equation (a) + equation (d))

[0080] [Chemical Formula 5]

[0081]

[0082] • Reaction formula (f): Anion exchange membrane 30

[0083] A voltage is applied to the diaphragmless electrolysis section E1 to make current flow. When the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolysis cell 10 loses an electron (e-), chloride ions Cl- are supplied from the second aqueous solution L2 stored in the supply tank 20 through the anion exchange membrane 30 to the first aqueous solution L1 in the electrolysis cell 10.

[0084] [Chemical Formula 6]

[0085]

[0086] Here, the proportion of the current used in the hypochlorous acid generation reaction in reaction (e) is set as "x", and the proportion of the current used in the oxygen generation reaction in reaction (c) is set as "1-x". Furthermore, the proportion of the current used in reaction (b) without a diaphragm is set as "y", and the proportion of the current used in reaction (f) with a diaphragm is set as "1-y". Substituting x and y into reaction (b)+(c)+(e)+(f) yields the following reaction (g).

[0087] • Reaction (g): Reaction (b) + (c) + (e) + (f)

[0088] [Chemical Formula 7]

[0089]

[0090] When diaphragmless electrolysis is performed in the diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1, the chloride ions in the electrolysis cell 10 are reduced due to consumption. However, in the space purification device 1 according to this embodiment, chloride ions are supplied from the second aqueous solution L2 stored in the supply tank 20 to the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolysis cell 10.

[0091] Here, the second aqueous solution L2 stored in the supply tank 20 is supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 10 with the amount of chloride ions (Cl-) consumed by diaphragmless electrolysis, so that the apparent increase or decrease of Cl- in the electrolytic cell 10 does not occur, as follows. In this reaction, hypochlorous acid (HClO) volatilizes in gaseous form and is therefore not included in the following formula.

[0092] • Reaction formula (h): Conditions under which Cl- appears to neither increase nor decrease.

[0093] [Chemical Formula 8]

[0094]

[0095] If modified, it becomes the following reaction formula (i).

[0096] • Reaction (i): A variation of reaction (h)

[0097] [Chemical Formula 9]

[0098]

[0099] If y is substituted into the above reaction formula (g), it becomes the following reaction formula (j).

[0100] • Reaction (j): Reaction (g) + (i)

[0101] [Chemical Formula 10]

[0102]

[0103] If modified, it becomes the following reaction formula (k).

[0104] • Reaction (k): A transformation of reaction (j)

[0105] [Chemical Formula 11]

[0106]

[0107] According to the above reaction formula (k), for example, if two electrons flow in the membraneless electrolysis unit E1, one hypochlorous acid (HClO) is generated. For example, if four electrons flow in the membraneless electrolysis unit E1, one oxygen atom is generated. For example, if two electrons flow in the membraneless electrolysis unit E1, one hydrogen atom is generated.

[0108] Furthermore, hypochlorous acid (HClO) has an acid dissociation constant of approximately 7.5, therefore the pH of the first aqueous solution L1 needs to be maintained constant. In the above reaction formula (k), hydroxide ions, which are the main cause of pH change, react with hydrogen ions to become water, and disappear from the reaction formula. Therefore, when the condition of supplying the second aqueous solution L2 stored in the supply tank 20 to the first aqueous solution L1 stored in the electrolytic cell 10 with the amount of chloride ions (Cl-) consumed by diaphragmless electrolysis is met, so that the Cl- content in the electrolytic cell 10 does not appear to increase or decrease, the increase or decrease of pH can also be suppressed.

[0109] When the number of electrons flowing in the diaphragmless electrolysis section E1 changes as described above, that is, when the ratio of the current flowing in the diaphragmless electrolysis section E1 to the current flowing in the diaphragm electrolysis section E2 changes, the amount of chloride ions supplied from the supply tank 20 to the electrolysis tank 10 changes. For example, when the ratio of the current used in the diaphragmless electrolysis is greater than the ratio of the current that satisfies the condition of supplying chloride ions (Cl-) from the supply tank 20 so that the Cl- in the electrolysis tank 10 does not appear to increase or decrease (reaction formula (l) below), the amount of Cl- supplied from the supply tank 20 to the electrolysis tank 10 decreases, and the amount of Cl- in the electrolysis tank 10 decreases.

[0110] • Reaction formula (l)

[0111] [Chemical Formula 12]

[0112]

[0113] When the Cl- in the electrolytic cell 10 decreases, the electrolysis efficiency of diaphragmless electrolysis decreases. If diaphragmless electrolysis continues under the condition of decreased electrolysis efficiency, the Cl- in the electrolytic cell 10 will gradually increase until it reaches a level in the electrolytic cell 10 where the Cl- appears to neither increase nor decrease.

[0114] On the other hand, when the current used in diaphragmless electrolysis is greater than the current that satisfies the condition that chloride ions (Cl-) are supplied from the supply cell 20 so that the Cl- in the electrolytic cell 10 does not appear to increase or decrease (reaction formula (m) below), the amount of Cl- supplied from the supply cell 20 to the electrolytic cell 10 increases, and the amount of Cl- in the electrolytic cell 10 increases.

[0115] • Reaction formula (m)

[0116] [Chemical Formula 13]

[0117]

[0118] As the Cl- concentration in electrolytic cell 10 increases, the electrolysis efficiency of diaphragmless electrolysis increases. If diaphragmless electrolysis continues under the condition of increased electrolysis efficiency, the Cl- concentration in electrolytic cell 10 gradually decreases until it reaches a level where the Cl- concentration in electrolytic cell 10 does not appear to increase or decrease.

[0119] Furthermore, when the Cl- concentration in electrolytic cell 10 increases, the equilibrium of reaction (d) shifts to the left, and the amount of chlorine produced increases. In other words, if the current flowing in the diaphragmless electrolysis section E1 and the current flowing in the diaphragm electrolysis section E2 are adjusted so that the Cl- concentration in electrolytic cell 10 does not appear to increase or decrease, hypochlorous acid can be generated while suppressing the production of chlorine.

[0120] [E2 with diaphragm electrolysis section]

[0121] The reaction within the supply tank 20 will be explained. The electrode disposed in the supply tank 20 is only the cathode 21 on the supply tank side. When a specified voltage is applied to the diaphragm electrolysis section E2, current flows, electrons move, and the following chemical reaction occurs.

[0122] • Reaction (n): Electrolytic cell side cathode 12 (produces hydrogen)

[0123] [Chemical Formula 14]

[0124]

[0125] • Reaction formula (o): Anion exchange membrane 30

[0126] When a voltage is applied to the diaphragm electrolysis section E2 to make current flow, chloride ions (Cl-) contained in the second aqueous solution L2 stored in the supply tank 20 are supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 after passing through the anion exchange membrane 30, and the second aqueous solution L2 gains an electron (e-).

[0127] [Chemical Formula 15]

[0128]

[0129] The above details the chemical reactions occurring in the diaphragmless electrolysis section E1 provided in the electrolysis cell 10 and the chemical reactions occurring in the diaphragm electrolysis section E2 provided across the electrolysis cell 10 and the supply tank 20.

[0130] The current control unit 40 controls the aforementioned chemical reaction. More specifically, the second current is controlled to replenish the chloride ions contained in the first aqueous solution L1, which are reduced by the diaphragmless electrolysis in the diaphragmless electrolysis unit E1. The current control unit 40 controls the second current to supply chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution L2 to the first aqueous solution L1 after passing through the anion exchange membrane 30. Referring here... Figure 3 A detailed explanation will be provided.

[0131] Figure 3 This is a block diagram showing the current control unit 40 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 3 As shown, the current control unit 40 includes a voltage acquisition unit 41, a calculation unit 42, and an estimation unit 43.

[0132] The voltage acquisition unit 41 acquires the voltage between the anode 11 and the cathode 12 on the electrolytic cell side. The voltage acquisition unit 41 is, for example, a voltmeter. The calculation unit 42 calculates the conductivity of the first aqueous solution L1 based on the voltage acquired by the voltage acquisition unit 41. The estimation unit 43 estimates the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 based on the conductivity of the first aqueous solution L1 calculated by the calculation unit 42.

[0133] Current control unit 40 controls in Figure 2 The first current flowing in the diaphragmless electrolysis section E1 and the second current flowing in the diaphragm electrolysis section E2 are used to maintain the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 at a predetermined concentration. Below, three examples of current control in the current control section 40 will be described.

[0134] [1. The situation where the first current and the second current flow simultaneously]

[0135] When the first current and the second current flow simultaneously, the current control unit 40 performs the following control (1) to (3).

[0136] (1) If the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is lower than the specified concentration: the current ratio of the first current to the second current is changed so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 after passing through the anion exchange membrane 30 from the second aqueous solution L2 increases. More specifically, the current ratio of the first current is decreased and the current ratio of the second current is increased.

[0137] (2) If the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is higher than the specified concentration: the current ratio of the first current to the second current is changed so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 after passing through the anion exchange membrane 30 from the second aqueous solution L2 is reduced. More specifically, the current ratio of the first current is increased and the current ratio of the second current is decreased.

[0138] (3) When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is the specified concentration: the current ratio of the first current to the second current is not changed.

[0139] [2. The case where the second current is controlled while the first current flows at a specified value]

[0140] When the current control unit 40 controls the second current while making the first current flow at a predetermined value, it performs the following control (1) to (3).

[0141] (1) When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is lower than the specified concentration: the second current is flowed so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 after passing through the anion exchange membrane 30 from the second aqueous solution L2 increases.

[0142] (2) If the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is higher than the specified concentration: the second current is stopped, so that the supply of chloride ions from the second aqueous solution L2 to the first aqueous solution L1 is stopped.

[0143] (3) When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is the specified concentration: the first current and the second current are not changed.

[0144] [3. The situation where the first current or the second current flows]

[0145] When the first current or the second current flows, the current control unit 40 performs the following control (1) to (3).

[0146] (1) When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is lower than the specified concentration: while stopping the first current, the second current is made to flow, so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 after passing through the anion exchange membrane 30 from the second aqueous solution L2 increases.

[0147] (2) When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is higher than the specified concentration: the first current is flowed while the second current is stopped, so that the supply of chloride ions from the second aqueous solution L2 to the first aqueous solution L1 is stopped.

[0148] (3) When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 estimated by the estimation unit 43 is the specified concentration: the first current and the second current are not changed.

[0149] By controlling the first current and the second current through the current control unit 40 as described above, the required amount of chloride ions can be supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 of the electrolytic cell 10, and the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 can be maintained at a specified concentration.

[0150] The above-mentioned "1. The case where the first current and the second current flow simultaneously" refers to changing the current ratio of the first current and the second current when the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 increases or decreases. Because the first current and the second current flow simultaneously, the increase or decrease in the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 can be minimized, and the chloride ion concentration can be maintained at the optimal specified concentration.

[0151] Furthermore, "2. Controlling the second current while keeping the first current flowing at a specified value" primarily involves controlling the flow or stopping of the second current when the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution L1 increases or decreases. Therefore, it is possible to maintain the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 at a specified concentration.

[0152] Furthermore, "3. The situation where the first current or the second current flows" refers to the situation where, if the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 increases or decreases, one of the first current and the second current flows while the other is stopped. Therefore, it is possible to maintain the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 at a specified concentration.

[0153] In cases 2 and 3 above, it is only necessary to control either the first current or the second current, so current control is easy.

[0154] As described above, chloride ions consumed in the first aqueous solution L1 can be appropriately supplied from the second aqueous solution L2, thus providing a space purification device 1 capable of stably generating the desired amount of hypochlorous acid gas. Therefore, a space purification device 1 capable of stably generating the desired amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be provided even after a long period of time, such as one year, without the supply of an aqueous solution containing chloride ions from the outside.

[0155] In addition, multiple current control units 40 can be provided to control the first current and the second current respectively.

[0156] In addition, Figure 1 In the electrolytic cell 10, when viewed from above, the inlet 15 is positioned on the rear right side (positive y-axis and positive x-axis), and the outlet 17 is positioned on the front left side (negative y-axis and negative x-axis), but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, the positions of the inlet 15 and outlet 17 can be reversed, or they can be at the same position on the x-axis, or they can be at the same position on the y-axis. However, when configuring the inlet 15 and outlet 17, it is preferable that they are positioned as far apart as possible on the xy-plane. By configuring them in this way, the time for the incoming air and hypochlorous acid to mix in the mixing space 16 is increased, thus allowing the mixed air to contain more hypochlorous acid.

[0157] Furthermore, the case where the rectangular plane P1 (the yz plane on the positive x-axis side) of the plate-shaped anode plate on the electrolytic cell side, adjacent to the anion exchange membrane 30, and the rectangular plane P2 (the yz plane on the negative x-axis side) of the plate-shaped cathode plate on the supply cell side, adjacent to the anion exchange membrane 30, are not facing each other, will be explained. When each rectangular plane is arranged parallel to the xy plane, a non-uniform electric field may be generated between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side. When a non-uniform electric field is generated between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side, the current distribution between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side also becomes non-uniform.

[0158] When the current distribution between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the feed cell side becomes uneven, regions with high current density and regions with low current density are created. In the high current density regions, the catalyst layer on the surfaces of the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the feed cell side (hereinafter also referred to as each electrode plate) is prone to degradation, while in the low current density regions, degradation of the catalyst layer on the surfaces of each electrode plate is less likely to progress. That is, when an uneven electric field is generated between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the feed cell side, the current distribution becomes uneven, and regions with different current densities may exist simultaneously on the same electrode plate. Therefore, uneven degradation of the catalyst layer due to the use of each electrode plate may occur. If the degree of degradation of the catalyst layer on the surface of each electrode plate is different, then under repeated electrolysis, at a certain point in time, regions on each electrode plate may simultaneously exist that can be used as electrodes and regions that have deteriorated to the point of being unusable. When electrolysis is performed using electrode plates containing regions that cannot be used as electrodes, there is a risk that the electrolysis efficiency may easily decrease.

[0159] In contrast, in the space purification device 1 according to this embodiment, planes P1 and P2 are arranged facing each other across an anion exchange membrane 30. This arrangement allows for the uniform generation of an electric field between the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the feed cell side, resulting in a uniform current distribution between the two electrodes. Consequently, catalyst layer degradation occurs uniformly on the surface of each electrode plate, thus suppressing uneven degradation of the catalyst layer on the surface of each electrode plate due to an uneven electric field, even during repeated electrolysis. Therefore, the reduction in electrolysis efficiency can be suppressed.

[0160] <Variation Example 1>

[0161] Next, use Figure 4 A variation 1 of the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply cell 20 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 4 This is a front sectional view showing a modified example 1 of the electrolytic cell 10 and supply tank 20 included in the space purification device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Structures identical to the electrolytic cell 10 and supply tank 20 are labeled with the same reference numerals and descriptions are omitted.

[0162] First, the electrolytic cell 50, which is a modified example 1 of the electrolytic cell 10, will be described. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the electrolytic cell 50 has a roughly L-shaped shape when viewed from the front. The electrolytic cell 50 has a first top surface 51 and a second top surface 52, which are two top surfaces with different heights (positions in the z-axis direction). The first top surface 51 is a top surface with a lower height (position in the z-axis direction) than the second top surface 52. An electrolytic cell-side anode plate and an electrolytic cell-side cathode plate are inserted from the upper side (positive z-axis side) of the first top surface 51 toward the interior of the electrolytic cell 50 (negative z-axis direction).

[0163] The anode plate immersion portion 11a and cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side, which are inserted into the electrolytic cell 50, are disposed on the inner side of the electrolytic cell 50 and are entirely immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. In other words, the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 50 such that the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side are entirely immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. That is, the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 50 such that the liquid level S1 of the first aqueous solution L1 is higher than the upper ends (ends on the positive z-axis side) of the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side.

[0164] The anode plate protrusion 11b and the cathode plate protrusion 12b on the side of the electrolytic cell are disposed on the outer side of the electrolytic cell 50. The anode plate protrusion 11b on the side of the electrolytic cell is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 13, and the cathode plate protrusion 12b on the side of the electrolytic cell is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 14.

[0165] Here, on Figure 4 The electrolytic cell 50 shown will be described with a water level detection unit 18 and a water supply unit 19. Similar to the electrolytic cell 10, the water level detection unit 18 is positioned at least above (on the positive z-axis side) the upper ends (ends on the positive z-axis side) of both the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side. As an example, the water supply unit 19 can be provided on the second top surface 52, but it only needs to be positioned to supply water to the electrolytic cell 50.

[0166] Next, the supply tank 60, which is a variation of the supply tank 20, will be described. Figure 4 As shown, the supply tank 60, when viewed from the front, has the shape of the electrolytic cell 50 flipped left and right. The supply tank 60 has a first top surface 61 and a second top surface 62, which are two top surfaces with different heights (positions in the z-axis direction). The first top surface 61 is a top surface with a lower height (position in the z-axis direction) than the second top surface 62. The supply tank side cathode plate is inserted from above the first top surface 61 (positive z-axis direction) toward the interior of the supply tank 60 (negative z-axis direction).

[0167] The cathode plate immersion portion 21a on the supply tank side, which is inserted into the supply tank 60, is disposed on the inner side of the supply tank 60 and is entirely immersed in the second aqueous solution L2. In other words, the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 60 such that the cathode plate immersion portion 21a on the supply tank side is entirely immersed in the second aqueous solution L2. That is, the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 60 such that the liquid level S2 of the second aqueous solution L2 is higher than the upper end (the end on the positive z-axis side) of the cathode plate immersion portion 21a on the supply tank side.

[0168] The cathode plate protrusion 21b on the supply tank side is disposed on the outer side of the supply tank 60. The cathode plate protrusion 21b on the supply tank side is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 22.

[0169] <Variation Example 2>

[0170] Next, use Figure 5 A modified example 2 of the electrolytic cell 10 and the supply cell 20 involved in Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 5 This is a front sectional view of a modified example 2 showing the electrolytic cell 10 and supply tank 20 included in the space purification device 1 according to Embodiment 1. Structures identical to the electrolytic cell 10 and supply tank 20 are labeled with the same reference numerals and descriptions are omitted. Figure 5 As shown, the electrolytic cell 70 and the supply cell 80 have the shape after the electrolytic cell 50 and the supply cell 60 of Modified Example 1 are flipped up and down.

[0171] First, the electrolytic cell 70, which is a modified example 2 of the electrolytic cell 10, will be described. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the electrolytic cell 70, when viewed from the front, has a shape that is roughly L-shaped when flipped vertically. The electrolytic cell 70 has a first bottom surface 71 and a second bottom surface 72, which are two bottom surfaces with different heights (positions in the z-axis direction). The first bottom surface 71 is the bottom surface of the electrolytic cell 70 located above the second bottom surface 72 (in the positive z-axis direction). An anode plate and a cathode plate are inserted from below the first bottom surface 71 (negative z-axis side) towards the interior of the electrolytic cell 70 (positive z-axis direction).

[0172] The anode plate immersion portion 11a and cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side, which are inserted into the electrolytic cell 70, are disposed on the inner side of the electrolytic cell 70 and are entirely immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. In other words, the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 70 such that the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side are entirely immersed in the first aqueous solution L1. That is, the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 70 such that the liquid level S1 of the first aqueous solution L1 is higher than the upper ends (ends on the positive z-axis side) of the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side.

[0173] The anode plate protrusion 11b and the cathode plate protrusion 12b on the side of the electrolytic cell are disposed on the outer side of the electrolytic cell 70. The anode plate protrusion 11b on the side of the electrolytic cell is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 13, and the cathode plate protrusion 12b on the side of the electrolytic cell is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 14.

[0174] Furthermore, the case where the electrolytic cell 70 includes a water level detection unit 18 and a water supply unit 19 will be described. Similar to the electrolytic cell 10, the water level detection unit 18 is positioned at least above (on the positive z-axis side) the upper ends (ends on the positive z-axis side) of both the anode plate immersion portion 11a and the cathode plate immersion portion 12a on the electrolytic cell side. The water supply unit 19 only needs to be positioned to supply water to the electrolytic cell 10; it can be positioned on the upper side of the electrolytic cell 70, or on the side or bottom side of the electrolytic cell 70.

[0175] Next, the supply tank 80, which is a variation of the supply tank 20, will be described. When viewed from the front, the supply tank 80 has a shape that resembles the electrolytic cell 70 rotated left and right. The supply tank 80 has a first bottom surface 81 and a second bottom surface 82, which are two bottom surfaces with different heights (positions in the z-axis direction). The first bottom surface 81 is the bottom surface of the supply tank 80 located above the second bottom surface 82 (in the positive z-axis direction). A cathode plate for the supply tank side is inserted from the lower side (negative z-axis side) of the first bottom surface 81 toward the interior of the supply tank 80 (in the positive z-axis direction).

[0176] The supply tank side cathode plate immersion portion 21a, which is inserted into the supply tank 80, is disposed on the inner side of the supply tank 80 and is entirely immersed in the second aqueous solution L2. In other words, the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 80 such that the entire supply tank side cathode plate immersion portion 21a is immersed in the second aqueous solution L2. That is, the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply tank 80 such that the liquid level S2 of the second aqueous solution L2 is higher than the upper end (the end on the positive z-axis side) of the supply tank side cathode plate immersion portion 21a.

[0177] The cathode plate protrusion 21b on the supply tank side is disposed on the outer side of the supply tank 80. The cathode plate protrusion 21b on the supply tank side is electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring 22.

[0178] <Implementation Method 2>

[0179] Next, use Figure 6 and Figure 7 The space purification device 2 according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Furthermore, for structures identical to those in Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals will be used, and descriptions will be omitted. Additionally, while the shapes of each structure differ from those in Embodiment 1, the functions of each structure are the same as in Embodiment 1; therefore, descriptions of the functions of each structure will be omitted.

[0180] Figure 6 This is a schematic front view showing the space purification device 2 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 7 This is a top view showing the space purification device 2 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 7 The shading shown is for the purpose of clarifying the various structures. Figure 7 It is not a sectional view.

[0181] like Figure 6 As shown, the space purification device 2 according to this embodiment includes an electrolytic cell 110, a supply tank 120, an anion exchange membrane 130, and a current control unit 40. The electrolytic cell 110 and the supply tank 120 are cylindrical in shape, with an opening on the upper surface (the xy plane on the positive z-axis) and a bottom surface (the xy plane on the negative z-axis). The anion exchange membrane 130 is also cylindrical. The anion exchange membrane 130 is disposed between the electrolytic cell 110 and the supply tank 120. Figure 6 As shown, the electrolytic cell 110 is the inner diameter side of the anion exchange membrane 130. The cylindrical shapes of the electrolytic cell 110, the supply tank 120, and the anion exchange membrane 130 include cylindrical and rectangular shapes. Furthermore, although in Figure 6 and Figure 7 Not shown in the figure, but the first aqueous solution L1 is stored in the electrolytic cell 110 and the second aqueous solution L2 is stored in the supply cell 120.

[0182] like Figure 6 As shown, the electrolytic cell 110 includes an electrolytic cell-side anode 111 and an electrolytic cell-side cathode 112. The electrolytic cell-side anode 111 is a cylindrical electrolytic cell-side anode tube. The electrolytic cell-side cathode 112 is either a cylindrical electrolytic cell-side cathode tube or a rod-shaped electrolytic cell-side cathode rod. The supply tank 120 includes a supply tank-side cathode 121. The supply tank-side cathode 121 is a cylindrical supply tank-side cathode tube. The cylindrical shapes of the electrolytic cell-side anode 111, electrolytic cell-side cathode 112, and supply tank-side cathode 121 include cylindrical and square cylindrical shapes. The rod-shaped shapes include cylindrical and spiral shapes. The electrolytic cell-side anode 111, electrolytic cell-side cathode 112, and supply tank-side cathode 121 are electrically connected to the current control unit 40 via wiring (not shown).

[0183] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, for example, the cylindrical structures of the space purification device 2 according to this embodiment are nested. More specifically, the supply tank 120, the supply tank-side cathode 121, the anion exchange membrane 130, the electrolytic cell 110, the electrolytic cell-side anode 111, and the electrolytic cell-side cathode 112 are arranged sequentially from the outside in this order. That is, the diameter of each component is in the order of supply tank 120 > supply tank-side cathode 121 > anion exchange membrane 130 = electrolytic cell 110 > electrolytic cell-side anode 111 > electrolytic cell-side cathode 112, and each component is arranged with a predetermined interval between them.

[0184] The entire anode cylinder on the electrolytic cell side, and the entire cathode cylinder or cathode rod on the electrolytic cell side, are immersed in a first aqueous solution L1. Additionally, the entire cathode cylinder on the supply cell side is immersed in a second aqueous solution L2. Figure 6 As shown, the space purification device 2 according to this embodiment may also include a water level detection unit 18 and a water supply unit 19. The water level detection unit 18 is disposed above (on the positive z-axis side) the upper ends (ends on the positive z-axis side) of the electrolytic cell-side anode 111, the electrolytic cell-side cathode 112, and the supply cell-side cathode 121. The water supply unit 19 can be disposed at a position where water can be supplied to the electrolytic cell 110, for example, it may be disposed above (on the positive z-axis side) the electrolytic cell 110.

[0185] In addition, the electrolytic cell side anode 111, the electrolytic cell side cathode 112, and the supply cell side cathode 121 can also be composed of plate-shaped members, mesh-shaped members, or metal mesh.

[0186] The space purification device 2 according to this embodiment includes the same current control unit 40 as in Embodiment 1. By controlling the first current and the second current through the current control unit 40, the required amount of chloride ions can be supplied to the first aqueous solution L1 of the electrolytic cell 110, and the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution L1 can be maintained at a predetermined concentration. Therefore, a space purification device 2 capable of purifying space by stably generating a desired amount of hypochlorous acid gas can be provided.

[0187] Furthermore, the space purification device 2 according to this embodiment can accommodate the electrolytic cell 110 and the anion exchange membrane 130 inside the supply tank 120. Therefore, a more space-saving and smaller space purification device 2 can be provided.

[0188] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and variations, and appropriate changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the subject.

[0189] A summary of one aspect of this disclosure is as follows.

[0190] (Project 1)

[0191] A space purification device (1) comprising:

[0192] An electrolytic cell (10) is used to store a first aqueous solution (L1) containing chloride ions;

[0193] The supply tank (20) is used to store a second aqueous solution (L2) containing chloride ions with a higher concentration than those contained in the first aqueous solution (L1) and to supply chloride ions to the first aqueous solution (L1);

[0194] Electrolytic cell side anode (11) and electrolytic cell side cathode (12) are disposed in the electrolytic cell (10);

[0195] A cathode (21) is provided in the supply tank (20);

[0196] An anion exchange membrane (30) is disposed between the electrolytic cell (10) and the supply cell (20) and is capable of allowing anions to pass through based on the voltage applied between the anode (11) on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode (21) on the supply cell side.

[0197] A diaphragmless electrolysis unit (E1) is provided in the electrolysis cell (10). By allowing a first current to flow between the anode (11) on the electrolysis cell side and the cathode (12) on the electrolysis cell side, the first aqueous solution (L1) is electrolyzed without a diaphragm to generate hypochlorous acid.

[0198] A diaphragm electrolysis unit (E2), which is arranged across the electrolytic cell (10) and the supply cell (20), performs diaphragm electrolysis via the anion exchange membrane (30) by allowing a second current to flow between the anode (11) on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode (21) on the supply cell side; and

[0199] The current control unit (40) controls the second current to replenish the chloride ions contained in the first aqueous solution (L1) that are reduced by the diaphragmless electrolysis, thereby supplying the chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution (L2) to the first aqueous solution (L1) after passing through the anion exchange membrane (30).

[0200] (Project 2)

[0201] According to the space purification device (1) described in Project 1, wherein,

[0202] The current control unit (40) maintains the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution (L1) at a specified concentration by causing the first current and the second current to flow in a specified ratio.

[0203] (Project 3)

[0204] According to the space purification device (1) described in Project 1 or Project 2, wherein,

[0205] The current control unit (40) includes:

[0206] The voltage acquisition unit (41) acquires the voltage between the anode (11) on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode (12) on the electrolytic cell side;

[0207] The calculation unit (42) calculates the conductivity of the first aqueous solution (L1) based on the voltage acquired by the voltage acquisition unit (41); and

[0208] The estimation unit (43) estimates the concentration of the first aqueous solution (L1) based on the conductivity calculated by the calculation unit (42).

[0209] The current control unit (40) causes the first current and the second current to flow simultaneously, and performs the following processing:

[0210] When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution (L1) is lower than a predetermined concentration, the current ratio of the first current to the second current is changed to increase the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution (L1) after passing through the anion exchange membrane (30) from the second aqueous solution (L2); and

[0211] When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution (L1) is higher than the specified concentration, the current ratio of the first current to the second current is changed so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution (L1) after passing through the anion exchange membrane (30) from the second aqueous solution (L2) is reduced.

[0212] (Project 4)

[0213] According to the space purification device (1) described in Project 3, wherein,

[0214] When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution (L1) is at the specified concentration, the current ratio of the first current to the second current is not changed.

[0215] (Project 5)

[0216] According to the space purification device (1) described in Project 1 or Project 2, wherein,

[0217] The current control unit (40) includes:

[0218] The voltage acquisition unit (41) acquires the voltage between the anode (11) on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode (12) on the electrolytic cell side;

[0219] The calculation unit (42) calculates the conductivity of the first aqueous solution (L1) based on the voltage acquired by the voltage acquisition unit (41); and

[0220] The estimation unit (43) estimates the concentration of the first aqueous solution (L1) based on the conductivity calculated by the calculation unit (42).

[0221] The current control unit (40) controls the second current while causing the first current to flow at a predetermined value.

[0222] The current control unit (40) performs the following processing in the control of the second current:

[0223] When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution (L1) is lower than a predetermined concentration, the second current is applied, thereby increasing the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution (L1) after passing through the anion exchange membrane (30) from the second aqueous solution (L2); and

[0224] When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution (L1) is higher than the specified concentration, the second current is stopped, thereby stopping the supply of chloride ions from the second aqueous solution (L2) to the first aqueous solution (L1).

[0225] (Project 6)

[0226] According to the space purification device (1) described in Project 1 or Project 2, wherein,

[0227] The current control unit (40) includes:

[0228] The voltage acquisition unit (41) acquires the voltage between the anode (11) on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode (12) on the electrolytic cell side;

[0229] The calculation unit (42) calculates the conductivity of the first aqueous solution (L1) based on the voltage acquired by the voltage acquisition unit (41); and

[0230] The estimation unit (43) estimates the concentration of the first aqueous solution (L1) based on the conductivity calculated by the calculation unit (42).

[0231] The current control unit (40) performs the following processing:

[0232] When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution (L1) is lower than a predetermined concentration, the second current is flowed while the first current is stopped, thereby increasing the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution (L1) after passing through the anion exchange membrane (30) from the second aqueous solution (L2); and

[0233] When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution (L1) is higher than the specified concentration, the first current is allowed to flow while the second current is stopped, thereby stopping the supply of chloride ions from the second aqueous solution (L2) to the first aqueous solution (L1).

[0234] (Project 7)

[0235] The space purification device (1) according to any one of Projects 1 to 6, wherein,

[0236] The electrolytic cell-side anode (11), the electrolytic cell-side cathode (12), and the supply tank-side cathode (21) are respectively electrolytic cell-side anode plate, electrolytic cell-side cathode plate, and supply tank-side cathode plate with plate-like shapes.

[0237] The anode plate and cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side are inserted into the interior of the electrolytic cell (10) from the outside, and the cathode plate on the supply cell side is inserted into the interior of the supply cell (20) from the outside.

[0238] The electrolytic cell-side anode plate has an electrolytic cell-side anode plate immersion portion (11a) disposed on the inner side of the electrolytic cell (10) and an electrolytic cell-side anode plate protrusion portion (11b) disposed on the outer side of the electrolytic cell (10).

[0239] The electrolytic cell side cathode plate has an electrolytic cell side cathode plate immersion portion (12a) disposed on the inner side of the electrolytic cell (10) and an electrolytic cell side cathode plate protrusion portion (12b) disposed on the outer side of the electrolytic cell (10).

[0240] The supply tank side cathode plate has a supply tank side cathode plate immersion portion (21a) disposed on the inner side of the supply tank (20) and a supply tank side cathode plate protrusion portion (21b) disposed on the outer side of the supply tank (20).

[0241] The entire anode plate immersion portion (11a) and cathode plate immersion portion (12a) on the electrolytic cell side are immersed in the first aqueous solution (L1).

[0242] The cathode plate immersion section (21a) on the supply tank side is entirely immersed in the second aqueous solution (L2).

[0243] (Project 8)

[0244] According to the space purification device (1) of claim 7, wherein,

[0245] The anode plate and cathode plate on the side of the electrolytic cell are inserted into the interior of the electrolytic cell (10) from the side, and the cathode plate on the side of the supply cell (20) is inserted into the interior of the supply cell (20) from the side.

[0246] (Project 9)

[0247] According to the space purification device (1) of claim 7, wherein,

[0248] The anode plate and cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side are inserted into the interior of the electrolytic cell (10) from above, and the cathode plate on the supply cell side is inserted into the interior of the supply cell (20) from above.

[0249] (Project 10)

[0250] According to the space purification device (1) of claim 7, wherein,

[0251] The anode plate and cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side are inserted into the interior of the electrolytic cell (10) from below, and the cathode plate on the supply cell side is inserted into the interior of the supply cell (20) from below.

[0252] (Project 11)

[0253] The space purification device (2) according to any one of Projects 1 to 6, wherein,

[0254] The electrolytic cell-side anode (111) and the supply cell-side cathode (121) are respectively a cylindrical or square-shaped electrolytic cell-side anode cylinder and a supply cell-side cathode cylinder.

[0255] The electrolytic cell side cathode (121) is an electrolytic cell side cathode tube with a cylindrical or square tube shape, or an electrolytic cell side cathode rod with a rod shape.

[0256] The entire anode cylinder on the electrolytic cell side, and the entire cathode cylinder or cathode rod on the electrolytic cell side, are immersed in the first aqueous solution (L1).

[0257] The cathode cylinder on the supply tank side is completely immersed in the second aqueous solution (L2).

[0258] (Project 12)

[0259] According to claim 11, the space purification device (2) wherein,

[0260] The electrolytic cell (110) and the anion exchange membrane (130) are housed on the inner side of the supply tank (120).

[0261] (Project 13)

[0262] The space purification device (1) described in Project 7 has the following features:

[0263] The water level detection unit (18) detects the position of the liquid level of the first aqueous solution (L1); and

[0264] The water supply unit (19) supplies water to the electrolytic cell (10) such that the position of the liquid level detected by the water level detection unit (18) is not lower than the upper end of the anode plate immersion part (11a) and the cathode plate immersion part (12a) on the side of the electrolytic cell.

[0265] (Project 14)

[0266] The space purification device (2) according to Project 11 or Project 12 further comprises:

[0267] The water level detection unit (18) detects the position of the liquid level of the first aqueous solution (L1); and

[0268] The water supply unit (19) supplies water to the electrolytic cell (110) such that the position of the liquid level detected by the water level detection unit (18) is not lower than the upper end of the anode cylinder on the electrolytic cell side, the cathode cylinder on the electrolytic cell side, or the cathode rod on the electrolytic cell side.

[0269] (Project 15)

[0270] According to any one of Projects 7 to 10, the space purification device (1) wherein,

[0271] The anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side are respectively close to the anion exchange membrane (30).

[0272] The plane of the plate-shaped anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the plane of the plate-shaped cathode plate on the supply cell side are arranged facing each other across the anion exchange membrane (30).

[0273] The plane of the plate-shaped cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side is arranged facing the plane of the plate-shaped anode plate on the electrolytic cell side.

[0274] (Project 16)

[0275] According to any one of Projects 7 to 10, the space purification device (1) wherein,

[0276] In each of the electrolytic cell-side anode plate, the electrolytic cell-side cathode plate, and the supply cell-side cathode plate,

[0277] The plate-like shape is rectangular.

[0278] The shorter side of the rectangle is arranged along the vertical direction.

[0279] The long side of the rectangle is arranged along the horizontal direction.

[0280] (Project 17)

[0281] According to any one of Projects 1 to 16, the space purification device (1, 2) wherein,

[0282] The diaphragmless electrolysis unit (E1) includes:

[0283] The electrolytic cell side anodes (11, 111); and

[0284] The cathodes (12, 112) on the side of the electrolytic cell,

[0285] The diaphragm electrolysis unit (E2) includes:

[0286] The electrolytic cell side anodes (11, 111);

[0287] The supply tank side cathodes (21, 121); and

[0288] The anion exchange membranes (30, 130).

[0289] (Project 18)

[0290] The space purification device (1, 2) according to any one of Projects 1 to 10 has the following features:

[0291] A housing (B) that houses the electrolytic cell (10) and the supply tank (20);

[0292] An inlet (15) is located inside the housing (B) above the liquid level of the first aqueous solution (L1) stored in the electrolytic cell (10), and air from the external space of the housing (B) flows in through the inlet (15).

[0293] A mixing space (16) for mixing the volatilized hypochlorous acid with the air flowing in from the inlet (15); and

[0294] Outlet (17) from which the mixed air after mixing in the mixing space flows out to the external space.

[0295] (Project 19)

[0296] The space purification device (1) according to any one of Projects 1 to 10, wherein,

[0297] The opposing surfaces of the electrolytic cell (10) and the supply cell (20) are each formed by frame-like components.

[0298] The anion exchange membrane (30) is disposed between the electrolytic cell (10) and the supply cell (20) by embedding the anion exchange membrane (30) in the frame member.

[0299] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0300] 1, 2: Space purification device; 10, 50, 70, 110: Electrolytic cell; 11, 111: Electrolytic cell side anode; 11a: Electrolytic cell side anode plate immersion part; 11b: Electrolytic cell side anode plate protrusion part; 12, 112: Electrolytic cell side cathode; 12a: Electrolytic cell side cathode plate immersion part; 12b: Electrolytic cell side cathode plate protrusion part; 15: Inlet; 16: Mixing space; 17: Outlet; 18: Water level detection unit; 19: Water supply Supply section; 20, 60, 80, 120: Supply tank; 21, 121: Cathode on the side of the supply tank; 21a: Immersion part of cathode plate on the side of the supply tank; 21b: Protrusion part of cathode plate on the side of the supply tank; 30, 130: Anion exchange membrane; 40: Current control section; 41: Voltage acquisition section; 42: Calculation section; 43: Estimation section; B: Shell; E1: Electrolysis section without diaphragm; E2: Electrolysis section with diaphragm; L1: First aqueous solution; L2: Second aqueous solution.

Claims

1. A space purification device, comprising: An electrolytic cell used to store a first aqueous solution containing chloride ions; A supply tank is used to store a second aqueous solution containing chloride ions with a higher concentration than those in the first aqueous solution and to supply chloride ions to the first aqueous solution. A housing that houses the electrolytic cell and the supply cell; The anode and cathode on the electrolytic cell side are disposed in the electrolytic cell. A cathode on the supply tank side is disposed in the supply tank; An anion exchange membrane connects the electrolyzer and the supply cell in such a way that anions can pass through based on a voltage applied between the anode on the electrolyzer side and the cathode on the supply cell side. A diaphragm-free electrolysis unit is provided in the electrolysis cell. By allowing a first current to flow between the anode and cathode on the electrolysis cell side, the first aqueous solution is electrolyzed without a diaphragm to generate hypochlorous acid. A diaphragm electrolysis unit is provided across the electrolytic cell and the supply cell, and diaphragm electrolysis is performed via the anion exchange membrane by allowing a second current to flow between the anode on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode on the supply cell side. The current control unit controls the second current in a manner that replenishes the chloride ions contained in the first aqueous solution that are reduced by the diaphragm-free electrolysis, thereby allowing the chloride ions contained in the second aqueous solution to be supplied to the first aqueous solution after passing through the anion exchange membrane. An inlet is located inside the housing above the surface of the first aqueous solution stored in the electrolytic cell, and air from the external space of the housing flows in through the inlet. A mixing space for mixing the volatilized hypochlorous acid gas with the air flowing in from the inlet, and for making the hypochlorous acid dissolved in the first aqueous solution come into gas-liquid contact with the air flowing in from the inlet. as well as The outlet is through which the mixed air in the mixing space flows out into the external space. Specifically, the air containing hypochlorous acid flowing out from the outlet into the external space is used to purify the external space.

2. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The current control unit maintains the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution at a predetermined concentration by causing the first current and the second current to flow in a predetermined ratio. This predetermined concentration is the concentration of the first aqueous solution stored in the electrolytic cell before the diaphragm-free electrolysis. The specified ratio is the proportion of chloride ions consumed by the diaphragmless electrolysis that are supplied to the first aqueous solution stored in the electrolytic cell, so that the chloride ions in the electrolytic cell do not appear to increase or decrease.

3. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The current control unit includes: The voltage acquisition unit acquires the voltage between the anode and the cathode on the electrolytic cell side. The calculation unit calculates the conductivity of the first aqueous solution based on the voltage obtained by the voltage acquisition unit. as well as The estimation unit estimates the concentration of the first aqueous solution based on the conductivity calculated by the calculation unit. The current control unit causes the first current and the second current to flow simultaneously, and performs the following processing: When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution is lower than the specified concentration, the current ratio of the first current to the second current is changed so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution after passing through the anion exchange membrane from the second aqueous solution increases. The specified concentration is the concentration of the first aqueous solution stored in the electrolytic cell before the diaphragm-free electrolysis. as well as When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution is higher than the specified concentration, the current ratio of the first current to the second current is changed so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution after passing through the anion exchange membrane from the second aqueous solution is reduced.

4. The space purification device according to claim 3, wherein, When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution is at the specified concentration, the current ratio of the first current to the second current remains unchanged.

5. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The current control unit includes: The voltage acquisition unit acquires the voltage between the anode and the cathode on the electrolytic cell side. The calculation unit calculates the conductivity of the first aqueous solution based on the voltage obtained by the voltage acquisition unit. as well as The estimation unit estimates the concentration of the first aqueous solution based on the conductivity calculated by the calculation unit. The current control unit controls the second current while simultaneously allowing the first current to flow. In the control of the second current When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution is lower than a specified concentration, the second current is flowed, thereby increasing the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution after passing through the anion exchange membrane from the second aqueous solution. The specified concentration is the concentration of the first aqueous solution stored in the electrolytic cell before the diaphragm-free electrolysis. as well as When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution is higher than the specified concentration, the second current is stopped, thereby stopping the supply of chloride ions from the second aqueous solution to the first aqueous solution.

6. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The current control unit includes: The voltage acquisition unit acquires the voltage between the anode and the cathode on the electrolytic cell side. The calculation unit calculates the conductivity of the first aqueous solution based on the voltage obtained by the voltage acquisition unit. as well as The estimation unit estimates the concentration of the first aqueous solution based on the conductivity calculated by the calculation unit. The current control unit performs the following processing: When the chloride ion concentration of the first aqueous solution is lower than a specified concentration, the second current is flowed while the first current is stopped, so that the amount of chloride ions supplied to the first aqueous solution after passing through the anion exchange membrane from the second aqueous solution increases, wherein the specified concentration is the concentration of the first aqueous solution stored in the electrolytic cell before the diaphragm-free electrolysis. as well as When the chloride ion concentration in the first aqueous solution is higher than the specified concentration, the first current is allowed to flow while the second current is stopped, thereby stopping the supply of chloride ions from the second aqueous solution to the first aqueous solution.

7. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The electrolytic cell-side anode, the electrolytic cell-side cathode, and the supply tank-side cathode are respectively plate-shaped electrolytic cell-side anode plate, electrolytic cell-side cathode plate, and supply tank-side cathode plate. The anode plate and cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side are inserted into the interior of the electrolytic cell from the outside, and the cathode plate on the supply cell side is inserted into the interior of the supply cell from the outside. The anode plate on the electrolytic cell side has an immersion portion disposed on the inner side of the electrolytic cell and a protrusion portion disposed on the outer side of the electrolytic cell. The electrolytic cell side cathode plate has an electrolytic cell side cathode plate immersion portion disposed on the inner side of the electrolytic cell and an electrolytic cell side cathode plate protrusion portion disposed on the outer side of the electrolytic cell. The supply tank side cathode plate has a supply tank side cathode plate immersion portion disposed on the inner side of the supply tank and a supply tank side cathode plate protrusion portion disposed on the outer side of the supply tank. The entire portion of the anode plate and the cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side are immersed in the first aqueous solution. The cathode plate immersion section on the supply tank side is entirely immersed in the second aqueous solution.

8. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The electrolytic cell-side anode and the supply cell-side cathode are respectively a cylindrical or square-shaped electrolytic cell-side anode cylinder and a supply cell-side cathode cylinder. The electrolytic cell side cathode is an electrolytic cell side cathode tube with a cylindrical or square tube shape, or an electrolytic cell side cathode rod with a rod shape. The entire anode cylinder on the electrolytic cell side, and the entire cathode cylinder or cathode rod on the electrolytic cell side, are immersed in the first aqueous solution. The cathode cylinder on the supply tank side is completely immersed in the second aqueous solution.

9. The space purification device according to claim 7 or 8, comprising: A water level detection unit detects the position of the liquid level in the first aqueous solution; and A water supply unit supplies water to the electrolytic cell, such that the liquid level detected by the water level detection unit is not lower than the upper end of the anode plate immersion part and the cathode plate immersion part on the electrolytic cell side, or the upper end of the anode cylinder on the electrolytic cell side, and the cathode rod or cathode cylinder on the electrolytic cell side.

10. The space purification device according to claim 9, wherein, The water supply section is a Peltier element that can cool the moisture contained in the air into water droplets.

11. The space purification device according to claim 7, wherein, The anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the cathode plate on the supply cell side are respectively located close to the anion exchange membrane. The plane of the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side and the plane of the cathode plate on the supply cell side are arranged facing each other across the anion exchange membrane. The plane of the cathode plate on the electrolytic cell side is arranged facing the plane of the anode plate on the electrolytic cell side.

12. The space purification device according to claim 7, wherein, In the electrolytic cell-side anode plate, the electrolytic cell-side cathode plate, and the supply cell-side cathode plate... The plate is rectangular. The shorter side of the rectangle is arranged along the vertical direction. The long side of the rectangle is arranged along the horizontal direction.

13. The space purification device according to claim 1, wherein, The diaphragmless electrolysis unit comprises: The electrolytic cell side anode; and The cathode on the side of the electrolytic cell The diaphragm electrolysis unit includes: The anode on the side of the electrolytic cell; The cathode on the supply tank side; and The anion exchange membrane.

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