Electrochemical synthesis ammonia electrolysis device
By designing an electrolysis channel and turbulent mass transfer in the electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device, direct contact between the cathode and anode reaction surfaces is achieved, solving the problems of high temperature, high pressure, and pressure-resistant containers in existing technologies, and realizing the effect of efficient ammonia synthesis under normal pressure.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-03
AI Technical Summary
Among existing ammonia synthesis technologies, the traditional Haber process requires high temperature and pressure, resulting in high equipment costs and energy consumption. Electrochemical ammonia synthesis units require pressure vessels, which pose low gas mass transfer efficiency and safety risks.
An electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device is designed, comprising an electrolysis layer, a cathode layer, and an anode layer. The electrolyte in the electrolysis channel forms turbulence, carrying hydrogen ions for conduction. The cathode and anode reaction surfaces directly contact the electrolyte, forming a sealed electrolysis reaction chamber. No external pressure-resistant container is required, enabling operation at atmospheric pressure.
Simplify the device structure, reduce equipment costs, improve ammonia synthesis efficiency, enhance proton transfer efficiency and reaction rate, and reduce energy consumption.
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Figure CN121781177A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of ammonia synthesis technology, and in particular to an electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device. Background Technology
[0002] Among the existing ammonia synthesis technologies, the mainstream schemes include two types: one is the traditional Haber process ammonia synthesis unit, which requires a high temperature of 300-500℃ and a high pressure of 15-30MPa to produce ammonia by reacting nitrogen and hydrogen with a catalyst; the other is the existing electrochemical ammonia synthesis unit, which currently needs to be sealed in a pressure-resistant container. An electric field is formed between the electrodes by an external DC power supply, which causes nitrogen to undergo a reduction reaction at the cathode to produce ammonia. The reaction needs to be carried out at a pressure of 0.1MPa and a temperature of room temperature to 100℃, and the reaction pressure is maintained by a pressure-resistant container.
[0003] The disadvantages of existing technologies are: the traditional Haber process requires high temperature and high pressure conditions, resulting in extremely high energy consumption, equipment costs and maintenance costs, and it does not meet environmental protection requirements; existing electrochemical ammonia synthesis devices also require certain pressure conditions and need to be maintained by pressure vessels, which increases the complexity of the equipment and safety risks, and there is also the problem of low gas mass transfer efficiency, resulting in low ammonia synthesis rate and current efficiency.
[0004] In summary, there is an urgent need to design an electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device to improve the shortcomings of existing technologies. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide an electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device that can reduce energy consumption, equipment costs, and maintenance costs, while enhancing ammonia synthesis efficiency.
[0006] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: An electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device includes an electrolysis layer, a cathode layer, and an anode layer, wherein the cathode layer and the anode layer are disposed on opposite sides of the electrolysis layer along a first direction, wherein: The cathode layer is provided with a cathode reaction surface, which can receive nitrogen gas and undergo a reduction reaction. The anode layer is provided with an anode reaction surface, which can receive hydrogen and undergo an oxidation reaction. The electrolytic layer includes an electrolyte carrier, which has electrolytic channels. Multiple electrolytic channels are arranged along a second direction, and the electrolytic channels are connected to and attached to the cathode reaction surface and the anode reaction surface on both sides along the first direction, respectively. Electrolyte flows in the electrolytic channels along a third direction. When the electrolyte flows, it can form turbulence at the cathode reaction surface and carry hydrogen ions generated after the oxidation reaction to realize the conduction of hydrogen ions to the cathode reaction surface. The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are all perpendicular to each other.
[0007] Preferably, the electrolyte carrier has an opening, and a plurality of flow dividers are arranged parallel to and spaced apart in the opening along the second direction to divide the opening into a plurality of electrolysis channels, and the length of the flow dividers extends along the third direction. A support plate is also provided inside the opening. The support plate extends along the second direction and is connected to the inner sidewall of the opening. The flow divider is connected to the support plate at both ends along the third direction. The cathode reaction surface and the anode reaction surface are attached to both sides of the flow divider and the support plate along the first direction.
[0008] Preferably, along the third direction, an inlet is provided on the inner wall of one end of the opening, and a outlet is provided on the inner wall of the other end. The inlet is connected to the infusion device and is used to transfer the electrolyte into the electrolysis channel. The support plate has a liquid passage in the third direction corresponding to each of the diversion baffles. The liquid inlet and the liquid outlet are connected to the electrolysis channel through the liquid passage.
[0009] Preferably, the electrolyte carrier is further provided with a sensor, which is embedded in the inner wall of the electrolyte carrier and arranged corresponding to the electrolysis channel, and is used to capture the data signal of the electrolyte in the electrolysis channel; The sensor is communicatively connected to the control system, and the control system is electrically connected to the infusion device.
[0010] Preferably, the cathode layer includes a cathode pressure plate, a cathode plate, and a cathode electrode arranged sequentially toward the electrolyte carrier along the first direction. The cathode pressure plate is provided with a first gas channel, the inlet end of which is connected to the nitrogen input side. The cathode plate is provided with a first gas flow channel, which is correspondingly connected to the first gas channel so that the nitrogen can be transferred to the first gas flow channel through the first gas channel. The first gas flow channel is connected to and attached to one side of the cathode electrode along the first direction. The side of the cathode electrode facing away from the first gas flow channel serves as the cathode reaction surface. And / or, the anode layer includes an anode pressure plate, an anode plate, and an anode electrode disposed sequentially toward the electrolyte carrier along the first direction. The anode pressure plate is provided with a second gas channel, the inlet end of which is connected to the hydrogen input side. The anode plate is provided with a second gas flow channel, which is correspondingly connected to the second gas channel so that the hydrogen can be transferred to the second gas flow channel through the second gas channel. The second gas flow channel is connected to and attached to one side of the anode electrode along the first direction. The side of the anode electrode facing away from the second gas flow channel serves as the anode reaction surface.
[0011] Preferably, the cathode plate is provided with a first transparent portion, which is arranged corresponding to the first gas flow channel; and / or, the anode plate is provided with a second transparent portion, which is arranged corresponding to the second gas flow channel.
[0012] Preferably, a first viewing window is provided through the cathode pressure plate, and the cathode layer further includes a first transparent plate. The first transparent plate is sandwiched between the cathode pressure plate and the cathode plate and is disposed opposite to the first viewing window. A first clearance channel is provided on the first transparent plate, and the first gas channel is connected to the first gas flow channel through the first clearance channel. And / or, a second viewing window is provided through the anode plate, and the anode layer further includes a second transparent plate, which is sandwiched between the anode plate and the anode plate and is disposed opposite to the second viewing window. A second clearance channel is provided on the second transparent plate, and the second gas channel is connected to the second gas flow channel through the second clearance channel.
[0013] Preferably, the cathode layer further includes a cathode-side first sealing ring and a cathode-side second sealing ring. The cathode-side first sealing ring is pressed between the cathode plate and the side of the electrolyte carrier facing the cathode electrode, and a portion of the cathode-side first sealing ring is pressed circumferentially onto the cathode electrode. The cathode-side second sealing ring is sandwiched between the cathode plate and the cathode-side first sealing ring. And / or, the anode layer further includes an anode-side first sealing ring and an anode-side second sealing ring, wherein the anode-side first sealing ring is pressed between the anode plate and the side of the electrolyte carrier facing the anode electrode, and a portion of the anode-side first sealing ring is pressed circumferentially onto the anode electrode, and the anode-side second sealing ring is sandwiched between the anode plate and the anode-side first sealing ring.
[0014] Preferably, the cathode electrode is a structural layer made of porous material, and a reduction reaction catalytic layer is attached to the cathode reaction surface of the cathode electrode; and / or, the anode electrode is a structural layer made of porous material, and an oxidation reaction catalytic layer is attached to the anode reaction surface of the anode electrode.
[0015] Preferably, the electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device further includes fasteners, and the cathode layer, the anode layer and the electrolysis layer are pressed and fixed by the fasteners.
[0016] Beneficial Effects: The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device provided in this embodiment of the invention features electrolysis channels within the electrolyte carrier. Multiple electrolysis channels are arranged along a second direction, and both sides of the channels along the first direction are respectively attached to and connected to the cathode and anode reaction surfaces. Electrolyte flows within the channels along a third direction, ensuring full contact between the electrolyte and the two electrode reaction surfaces. This allows the electrolyte to flow in turbulence at the cathode reaction surface, carrying hydrogen ions generated after the oxidation reaction and enabling directional conduction of hydrogen ions to the cathode reaction surface, providing a sufficient proton source for the cathode layer. Through this arrangement, the cathode layer, anode layer, and electrolysis layer can collectively form a sealed electrolysis reaction chamber, eliminating the need for an external pressure vessel. Stable electrochemical ammonia synthesis can be achieved directly under normal pressure, simplifying the device structure, reducing equipment costs, and addressing the technical shortcomings of existing devices such as low proton transfer efficiency and slow reaction rates through turbulent mass transfer optimization. Attached Figure Description
[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is an explosion diagram of the electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrolyte carrier provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a front view of the electrolyte carrier provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of a section at point A in the middle; Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the cathode layer structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the anode layer structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] In the picture: 1. Electrolysis layer; 11. Electrolyte carrier; 111. Electrolysis channel; 112. Liquid inlet; 113. Liquid outlet; 114. Flow gap; 12. Diverter plate; 13. Support plate; 131. Liquid flow channel; 14. Sensing element; 2. Cathode layer; 201. Cathode reaction surface; 21. Cathode pressure plate; 211. First gas channel; 212. First viewing window; 22. Cathode plate; 221. First gas flow channel; 222. First groove; 23. Cathode electrode; 24. First transparent plate; 241. First clearance channel; 25. First sealing ring on the cathode side; 26. Second sealing ring on the cathode side; 3. Anode layer; 301. Anode reaction surface; 31. Anode pressure plate; 311. Second gas channel; 312. Second viewing window; 32. Anode plate; 321. Second gas flow channel; 33. Anode electrode; 34. Second transparent plate; 341. Second clearance channel; 35. First sealing ring on the anode side; 36. Second sealing ring on the anode side; 4. Fasteners. Detailed Implementation
[0019] To make the technical problems solved by this invention, the technical solutions adopted, and the technical effects achieved clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It is understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the invention and not intended to limit it. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this invention. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, the accompanying drawings show only the parts relevant to this invention, not the entire structure.
[0020] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.
[0021] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0022] In the description of this embodiment, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," and "left," etc., refer to the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used only for distinction in description and have no special meaning.
[0023] Combination Figures 1 to 7 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides an electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device, which includes an electrolysis layer 1, a cathode layer 2 and an anode layer 3, wherein the cathode layer 2 and the anode layer 3 are disposed on opposite sides of the electrolysis layer 1 along a first direction. The cathode layer 2 has a cathode reaction surface 201, which can receive nitrogen and undergo a reduction reaction to generate ammonia under the action of a catalytic medium. The anode layer 3 has an anode reaction surface 301, which can receive hydrogen and undergo a hydrogen oxidation reaction to generate hydrogen ions. The electrolysis layer 1 includes an electrolyte carrier 11, which has electrolysis channels 111. Multiple electrolysis channels 111 are arranged along a second direction, and the electrolysis channels 111 are attached to and connected to the cathode reaction surface 201 and the anode reaction surface 301 on both sides along the first direction, respectively. Electrolyte is provided in the electrolysis channels 111 along a third direction to ensure that the electrolyte is in full contact with the two electrode reaction surfaces and to form turbulence at the cathode reaction surface 201 when the electrolyte flows. At the same time, it carries the hydrogen ions generated after the oxidation reaction to achieve directional conduction of hydrogen ions to the cathode reaction surface 201, so as to provide a sufficient proton source for the cathode layer 2. With the above configuration, the cathode layer 2, anode layer 3 and electrolysis layer 1 can jointly form a sealed electrolysis reaction chamber, eliminating the need for an external pressure vessel. Stable electrochemical ammonia synthesis can be achieved directly under normal pressure. This not only simplifies the device structure and reduces equipment costs, but also solves the technical defects of low proton transfer efficiency and slow reaction rate in existing devices through turbulent mass transfer optimization.
[0024] Specifically, in this embodiment, reference is made to... Figures 2 to 4As shown, the electrolyte carrier 11 has an opening extending through it along a first direction (refer to the X-axis in the figure). Multiple flow dividers 12 are arranged parallel to and spaced apart along a second direction (refer to the Y-axis in the figure) within the opening to divide it into multiple electrolytic channels 111. The length of each flow divider 12 extends along a third direction (refer to the Z-axis in the figure) to allow the electrolyte to flow continuously along its length. The flow dividers 12 not only guide and limit the electrolyte, preventing irregular diffusion within the opening, but also ensure uniform electrolyte distribution within the multiple spaced electrolytic channels 111. This ensures stable turbulence within each channel, thereby guaranteeing efficient mass transfer in all areas of the cathode reaction surface 201 through turbulence.
[0025] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 As shown, along a third direction, an inlet 112 is connected to the inner wall of one end of the opening, and a outlet 113 is connected to the inner wall of the other end of the opening. The inlet 112 is connected to a delivery device, which pre-stores the electrolyte to be delivered, allowing the delivery device to transfer the electrolyte into the electrolysis channel 111. Because the delivery device can provide a continuous and stable driving force to the electrolyte, the electrolyte can continuously flow directionally along the path of "inlet 112 - electrolysis channel 111 - outlet 113". Simultaneously, during the flow of the electrolyte within the electrolysis channel 111, hydrogen ions are directionally conducted to the cathode reaction surface 201, allowing the hydrogen ions to fully contact the nitrogen gas formed after the reduction reaction on the cathode reaction surface 201, thereby generating ammonia. At the same time, the electrolyte carries the ammonia generated in the reaction out of the outlet 113, thus completing the circulation and delivery of the electrolyte and the removal of the reaction products, achieving efficient separation of synthesized ammonia without a high-pressure environment.
[0026] More specifically, in this embodiment, a support plate 13 is also provided inside the opening. The support plate 13 extends along the second direction and is connected to the inner wall of the opening. The two ends of the diversion baffle 12 along the third direction are connected to the support plate 13, so as to limit and fix the multiple diversion baffles 12 through the support plate 13, and ensure the installation stability of the diversion baffles 12. In addition, the cathode reaction surface 201 and the anode reaction surface 301 are attached to both sides of the diversion baffle 12 and the support plate 13 along the first direction to ensure the sealing of the electrolysis reaction chamber. Furthermore, the support plate 13 is spaced apart from the inner wall of the opening to form a flow gap 114 at the interval. The flow gap 114 is connected to the same end of multiple flow dividers 12, so that after the electrolyte enters the flow gap 114 from the inlet 112, it can be uniformly distributed in the flow gap 114 and enter multiple electrolysis channels 111 simultaneously. This avoids the problem of uneven electrolyte flow and excessive flow velocity difference in a single electrolysis channel 111, thereby ensuring that the electrolyte entering each electrolysis channel 111 can reach the critical turbulent flow velocity and stably form turbulence.
[0027] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as Figure 5 As shown, the support plate 13 has a liquid passage 131 in the third direction corresponding to each diversion baffle 12. The liquid inlet 112 and the liquid outlet 113 are connected to the electrolysis channel 111 through the liquid passage 131, so that the electrolyte in the flow gap 114 can smoothly enter the corresponding electrolysis channel 111 through the liquid passage 131, and can carry the generated ammonia from the liquid passage 131 set at the other end to the flow gap 114 set at the other end, and then be discharged from the liquid outlet 113. At the same time, it also ensures the sealing safety of the electrolysis channel 111 and avoids electrolyte leakage.
[0028] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a sensor 14 is also provided on the electrolyte carrier 11. The sensor 14 is embedded in the inner wall of the electrolyte carrier 11 and is arranged correspondingly to the electrolysis channel 111, so that the sensor 14 can capture data signals of the electrolyte in the electrolysis channel 111. In addition, the sensor 14 is also communicatively connected to the control system, and the control system is electrically connected to the infusion device. The sensor 14 can centrally send the captured data signals such as the flow rate and temperature of the electrolyte to the control system. After processing and analyzing the data signals, the control system sends corresponding control commands to the infusion device, so that the infusion device can automatically and accurately adjust the flow rate of the electrolyte delivered to the electrolysis channel 111, thereby providing good environmental conditions for ammonia synthesis.
[0029] Specifically, refer to Figure 2 , Figure 6As shown, in this embodiment, the cathode layer 2 includes a cathode pressure plate 21, a cathode plate 22, and a cathode electrode 23 arranged sequentially toward the electrolyte carrier 11 along a first direction. The cathode pressure plate 21 is provided with a first gas channel 211, the inlet end of which is connected to the nitrogen input side. The cathode plate 22 is provided with a first gas flow channel 221, which is correspondingly connected to the first gas channel 211, so that nitrogen can be transferred to the first gas flow channel 221 through the first gas channel 211. In addition, the first gas flow channel 221 is connected to and attached to one side of the cathode electrode 23 along the first direction, so that the nitrogen can always maintain contact with the cathode electrode 23 during the flow of nitrogen in the first gas flow channel 221. The side of the cathode electrode 23 away from the first gas flow channel 221 serves as the aforementioned cathode reaction surface 201. With the above configuration, nitrogen gas can be evenly dispersed along the first gas flow channel 221 after entering the first gas flow channel 211, and then permeate to the cathode reaction surface 201 through the cathode electrode 23. At the same time, the layered arrangement of the cathode pressure plate 21 and the cathode plate 22 can also support and fix the cathode electrode 23, ensuring the installation stability of the overall structure of the cathode layer 2, avoiding the impact of electrolyte turbulence and the displacement of the cathode electrode 23 during nitrogen gas transmission, and ensuring the fit and sealing between the cathode reaction surface 201 and the electrolysis flow channel 111.
[0030] In addition, a first transparent part is provided on the cathode plate 21. The first transparent part is arranged corresponding to the first gas flow channel 221. The flow state of nitrogen in the first gas flow channel 221 and whether there are any abnormalities such as blockage or leakage can be observed through the first transparent part, which facilitates the real-time monitoring and operation and maintenance of the device and timely troubleshooting of faults in the nitrogen transmission process.
[0031] To facilitate manufacturing, in this embodiment, a first viewing window 212 is provided through the cathode plate 21, serving as the aforementioned first transparent portion. The cathode layer 2 also includes a first transparent plate 24, which is sandwiched between the cathode plate 21 and the cathode plate 22 and is positioned opposite to the first viewing window 212. A first clearance channel 241 is provided on the first transparent plate 24, through which the first gas channel 211 connects to the first gas flow channel 221, ensuring that nitrogen can smoothly enter the first gas flow channel 221. This design allows for observation of the nitrogen flow state within the first gas flow channel 221, facilitating real-time monitoring, and significantly reduces the manufacturing difficulty of the cathode plate 21—only the through-type first viewing window 212 needs to be fabricated on the cathode plate 21, eliminating the need for an integrally formed complex transparent structure. This simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces costs.
[0032] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a first groove 222 is provided on the side of the cathode plate 22 facing the first transparent plate 24, and the aforementioned first gas flow channel 221 is formed at the bottom of the first groove 222. The outer dimensions of the first groove 222 match the outer dimensions of the first transparent plate 24, so that the first transparent plate 24 can be embedded in the first groove 222 and completely fit and connect with the inner sidewall of the first groove 222. This ensures sealing safety and eliminates the assembly gap between the cathode pressure plate 21 and the cathode plate 22, ensuring that the cathode pressure plate 21 can be completely fitted and pressed on the side surface of the cathode plate 22, thereby further improving the installation stability between the various module structures of the cathode layer 2.
[0033] Furthermore, the first gas flow channel 221 on the cathode plate 22 can be a serpentine flow field, a direct current field, a waveform flow field, or a biomimetic flow field, etc., and the present invention is not limited to this.
[0034] Furthermore, the cathode electrode 23 is a structural layer composed of porous material. This porous structure endows the cathode electrode 23 with a high specific surface area, while facilitating the rapid permeation of nitrogen gas from the first gas flow channel 221 to the cathode reaction surface 201. A reduction reaction catalytic layer is attached to the cathode reaction surface 201 of the cathode electrode 23. This reduction reaction catalytic layer is a dedicated catalyst layer for the nitrogen reduction reaction and is uniformly covered on the cathode reaction surface 201, enabling a highly efficient nitrogen reduction reaction. Moreover, combined with the high specific surface area of the cathode electrode 23, the catalyst loading and the contact area of reactants (nitrogen gas and hydrogen ions) can be significantly increased. Combined with the turbulent mass transfer effect of the electrolyte in the electrolysis flow channel 111, the current efficiency can be increased to over 25% (more than 60% higher than existing electrochemical devices).
[0035] Preferably, the porous material can be a metallic material (e.g., titanium fiber, stainless steel mesh) or a non-metallic material (e.g., carbon fiber), and the present invention is not limited thereto.
[0036] Optionally, in this embodiment, the cathode layer 2 further includes a cathode-side first sealing ring 25 and a cathode-side second sealing ring 26. The cathode-side first sealing ring 25 is pressed between the cathode plate 22 and the side of the electrolyte carrier 11 facing the cathode electrode 23, and a portion of the cathode-side first sealing ring 25 is pressed onto the cathode electrode 23 circumferentially. The cathode-side second sealing ring 26 is sandwiched between the cathode plate 22 and the cathode-side first sealing ring 25. The first sealing ring 25 on the cathode side is tightly attached between the cathode plate 22 and the electrolyte carrier 11, achieving a sealed connection between them and preventing electrolyte leakage from the gap. Furthermore, since part of the first sealing ring 25 is pressed onto the cathode electrode 23, a sealed connection is achieved between the cathode electrode 23 and the electrolyte carrier 11, ensuring no electrolyte leakage from the gap. The second sealing ring 26 on the cathode side is sandwiched between the cathode plate 22 and the first sealing ring 25, achieving a sealed connection between the cathode plate 22 and the cathode electrode 23. This ensures stable and orderly flow of nitrogen gas within the first gas flow channel 221, reducing nitrogen leakage from the gap between the cathode plate 22 and the cathode electrode 23. Through these arrangements, multiple sealing barriers are formed between the cathode plate 21 and the electrolyte carrier 11, providing higher safety compared to the single-seal structure of existing technologies.
[0037] Specifically, in this embodiment, reference is made to... Figure 2 , Figure 7 As shown, the anode layer 3 includes an anode pressure plate 31, an anode plate 32, and an anode electrode 33 arranged sequentially towards the electrolyte carrier 11 along a first direction. The anode pressure plate 31 is provided with a second gas channel 311, the inlet end of which is connected to the hydrogen input side. The anode plate 32 is provided with a second gas flow channel 321, which is correspondingly connected to the second gas channel 311 so that hydrogen can be transferred through the second gas channel 311 into the second gas flow channel 321. The second gas flow channel 321 is connected to and attached to one side of the anode electrode 33 along the first direction, so that when hydrogen flows in the second gas flow channel 321, it can maintain contact with the anode electrode 33. The side of the anode electrode 33 facing away from the second gas flow channel 321 serves as the aforementioned anode reaction surface 301. With the above configuration, hydrogen gas enters the second gas flow channel 321 through the second gas channel 311, diffuses uniformly along the second gas flow channel 321, and then permeates through the anode electrode 33 to the anode reaction surface 301, where it undergoes an oxidation reaction to generate the required hydrogen ions. Furthermore, the anode layer 3 has a simple and rationally designed structure, and possesses the same safety and stability as the cathode layer 2.
[0038] More specifically, the anode plate 31 is also provided with a second transparent part, which is arranged in relation to the second gas flow channel 321. This allows the staff to observe the flow state of hydrogen in the second gas flow channel 321 through the second transparent part, avoiding situations such as stagnation, blockage, or leakage of hydrogen during the flow process. This makes monitoring more convenient and helps to stabilize the flow of hydrogen.
[0039] For example, in this embodiment, a second viewing window 312 is provided through the anode plate 31. The anode layer 3 also includes a second transparent plate 34, which is sandwiched between the anode plate 31 and the anode plate 32 and is positioned opposite to the second viewing window 312. A second clearance channel 341 is provided on the second transparent plate 34, and the second gas channel 311 is connected to the second gas flow channel 321 through the second clearance channel 341 to ensure that hydrogen can smoothly enter the second gas flow channel 321. Through the above design, it is possible to observe the hydrogen flow state in the second gas flow channel 321, and the manufacturing difficulty of the anode plate 31 is reduced. The anode plate 31 only needs to be processed with a through-type second viewing window 312, without the need to integrally form a transparent structure on the anode plate 31, thereby simplifying the processing technology and reducing the design cost.
[0040] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a second groove (not shown in the figure) is also provided on the side of the anode plate 32 facing the second transparent plate 34. The bottom of the second groove forms the aforementioned second gas flow channel 321, and the outer dimensions of the second groove match the outer dimensions of the second transparent plate 34. In this way, the second transparent plate 34 can be completely embedded in the second groove, avoiding any part protruding from the surface of the anode plate 32, and is in close contact with the inner wall of the second groove. Through the above arrangement, while ensuring sealing safety, the assembly gap between the anode pressure plate 31 and the anode plate 32 can also be eliminated, so that the anode pressure plate 31 and the anode plate 32 can be completely fitted together when connected, which helps to enhance the connection stability and safety between the various parts of the anode layer 3.
[0041] Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the second gas flow channel 321 on the anode plate 32 is the same as that of the first gas flow channel 221, and can be any one of the following: serpentine flow field, direct current field, wave flow field, and biomimetic flow field. This invention does not limit this.
[0042] Furthermore, the anode electrode 33 is a structural layer composed of porous materials, such as titanium fiber, stainless steel mesh, carbon fiber, etc. By designing and manufacturing the anode electrode 33 as a porous material structural layer, the specific surface area of the anode electrode 33 can be increased, which also facilitates the rapid permeation of hydrogen gas in the second gas flow channel 321 to the anode reaction surface 301. An oxidation reaction catalytic layer is also attached to the anode reaction surface 301 of the anode electrode 33. This oxidation reaction catalytic layer is a dedicated catalyst layer for the hydrogen oxidation reaction and is uniformly covered on the anode reaction surface 301, enabling a highly efficient hydrogen oxidation reaction. The oxidation reaction catalytic layer can be a platinum-based catalyst layer, a palladium-based catalyst layer, etc., which will not block the porous channels of the anode electrode 33 and can efficiently activate hydrogen molecules, accelerating the reaction process of hydrogen losing electrons to generate hydrogen ions.
[0043] Optionally, in this embodiment, the anode layer 3 further includes an anode-side first sealing ring 35 and an anode-side second sealing ring 36. The anode-side first sealing ring 35 is pressed between the anode plate 32 and the side of the electrolyte carrier 11 facing the anode electrode 33, and a portion of the anode-side first sealing ring 35 is pressed circumferentially onto the anode electrode 33. The anode-side second sealing ring 36 is sandwiched between the anode plate 32 and the anode-side first sealing ring 35. In the above arrangement, both the anode-side first sealing ring 35 and the anode-side second sealing ring 36 are annular rubber rings. The anode-side first sealing ring 35 is tightly attached between the anode plate 32 and the electrolyte carrier 11, which can achieve a sealed and fitted connection between the anode plate 32 and the electrolyte carrier 11, ensuring that the electrolyte will not leak from the anode layer 3 side. Moreover, since a portion of the anode-side first sealing ring 35 is pressed onto the anode electrode 33, a sealed connection between the anode electrode 33 and the electrolyte carrier 11 is achieved, ensuring that the electrolyte will not leak from the gap between them. By cooperating with the cathode layer 2, good sealing performance of the electrolysis reaction chamber can be ensured.
[0044] In addition, in this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the main body of the first sealing ring 35 on the anode side is larger than that of the main body of the second sealing ring 36 on the anode side. This helps to more stably press and seal the anode electrode 33, and also facilitates the second sealing ring 36 on the anode side to fit and connect to the first sealing ring 35 on the anode side. This achieves a sealed and fitted connection between the anode plate 32 and the anode motor, ensuring that hydrogen can flow stably in the second gas flow channel 321 and reducing hydrogen leakage. Through the above arrangement, multiple sealing barriers can be formed between the anode pressure plate 31 and the electrolyte carrier 11, improving the safety of the anode layer 3.
[0045] Preferably, in this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the main body of the first sealing ring 25 on the cathode side is larger than the cross-sectional area of the main body of the second sealing ring 26 on the cathode side, which can achieve a similar technical effect as the anode layer 3. This embodiment will not be described in detail here.
[0046] Optionally, in this embodiment, the electrolysis device further includes a fastener 4, which is used to press and fix the cathode layer 2, the electrolysis layer 1, and the anode layer 3. Exemplarily, in a preferred embodiment, the fastener 4 is a locking bolt, and mounting holes for the locking bolt to pass through are provided on the cathode pressure plate 21, cathode plate 22, electrolyte carrier 11, anode plate 32, and anode pressure plate 31. The mounting holes on the cathode pressure plate 21 or anode pressure plate 31 are bolt holes, while the holes on other components are through holes, and each component has multiple mounting holes along its circumference. During assembly, the components of the cathode layer 2 and anode layer 3 are stacked layer by layer on both sides of the electrolyte carrier 11, and after aligning the mounting holes in the same position, the locking bolt is inserted into the corresponding multiple mounting holes and threadedly connected to the mounting holes on the cathode pressure plate 21 or anode pressure plate 31, thus forming a stable and integrated structure of the cathode layer 2, electrolysis layer 1, and anode layer 3. The electrolysis unit can provide pressure to the entire electrolysis unit through fastener 4, thus eliminating the need for an external pressure vessel and allowing it to operate directly in an ambient temperature and pressure environment. This eliminates the need for high-pressure vessels and heating equipment, reducing the energy consumption per unit of ammonia production to below 20 GJ / ton, which is about 40% lower than that of the traditional Haber process ammonia synthesis unit.
[0047] In the description of this specification, the terms "some embodiments," "other embodiments," "an embodiment," "example," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity, and those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in the various embodiments can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments understood by those skilled in the art.
[0048] The technical principles of the present invention have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. These descriptions are merely for explaining the principles of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention in any way. Based on this explanation, those skilled in the art can readily conceive of other specific embodiments of the invention without inventive effort, and these embodiments will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. An electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis device, characterized in that, It includes an electrolytic layer (1), a cathode layer (2), and an anode layer (3), wherein the cathode layer (2) and the anode layer (3) are disposed on opposite sides of the electrolytic layer (1) along a first direction, wherein: The cathode layer (2) is provided with a cathode reaction surface (201), which can receive nitrogen gas and undergo a reduction reaction; The anode layer (3) is provided with an anode reaction surface (301), which is capable of receiving hydrogen and undergoing an oxidation reaction; The electrolytic layer (1) includes an electrolyte carrier (11), and the electrolyte carrier (11) is provided with an electrolytic flow channel (111). Multiple electrolytic flow channels (111) are arranged along a second direction, and the electrolytic flow channels (111) are connected to and attached to the cathode reaction surface (201) and the anode reaction surface (301) on both sides along the first direction, respectively. An electrolyte is provided in the electrolytic flow channel (111) along a third direction. When the electrolyte flows, it can form turbulence at the cathode reaction surface (201) and carry hydrogen ions generated after the oxidation reaction, so as to realize the conduction of hydrogen ions to the cathode reaction surface (201). The first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are all perpendicular to each other.
2. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolyte carrier (11) has an opening, and a plurality of flow dividers (12) are arranged parallel to and spaced apart in the second direction to divide the opening into a plurality of electrolysis channels (111), and the length of the flow dividers (12) extends along the third direction. A support plate (13) is also provided inside the opening. The support plate (13) extends along the second direction and is connected to the inner wall of the opening. The flow divider (12) is connected to the support plate (13) at both ends along the third direction. The cathode reaction surface (201) and the anode reaction surface (301) are attached to both sides of the flow divider (12) and the support plate (13) along the first direction.
3. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, Along the third direction, an inlet (112) is provided on the inner wall of one end of the opening, and a outlet (113) is provided on the inner wall of the other end. The inlet (112) is connected to the infusion device and is used to transfer the electrolyte into the electrolysis channel (111). The support plate (13) has a liquid passage (131) in the third direction corresponding to each of the diversion baffles (12). The liquid inlet (112) and the liquid outlet (113) are connected to the electrolysis channel (111) through the liquid passage (131).
4. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The electrolyte carrier (11) is also provided with a sensor (14), which is embedded in the inner wall of the electrolyte carrier (11) and is arranged corresponding to the electrolysis channel (111), and is used to capture the data signal of the electrolyte in the electrolysis channel (111). The sensor (14) is communicatively connected to the control system, and the control system is electrically connected to the infusion device.
5. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The cathode layer (2) includes a cathode pressure plate (21), a cathode plate (22), and a cathode electrode (23) arranged sequentially toward the electrolyte carrier (11) along the first direction. The cathode pressure plate (21) is provided with a first gas channel (211), the inlet end of which is connected to the nitrogen input side. The cathode plate (22) is provided with a first gas flow channel (221), which is correspondingly connected to the first gas channel (211) so that the nitrogen can be transferred through the first gas channel (211) to the first gas flow channel (221). The first gas flow channel (221) is connected to and attached to one side of the cathode electrode (23) along the first direction. The side of the cathode electrode (23) facing away from the first gas flow channel (221) serves as the cathode reaction surface (201). And / or, the anode layer (3) includes an anode pressure plate (31), an anode plate (32) and an anode electrode (33) arranged sequentially toward the electrolyte carrier (11) along the first direction. The anode pressure plate (31) is provided with a second gas channel (311), the inlet end of the second gas channel (311) is connected to the hydrogen input side, and the anode plate (32) is provided with a second gas flow channel (321). The second gas flow channel (321) is correspondingly connected to the second gas channel (311) so that the hydrogen can be transferred to the second gas flow channel (321) through the second gas channel (311). The second gas flow channel (321) is connected to and attached to one side of the anode electrode (33) along the first direction. The side of the anode electrode (33) away from the second gas flow channel (321) serves as the anode reaction surface (301).
6. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cathode plate (21) is provided with a first transparent part, which is arranged in relation to the first gas flow channel (221); and / or, the anode plate (31) is provided with a second transparent part, which is arranged in relation to the second gas flow channel (321).
7. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, A first viewing window (212) is provided through the cathode pressure plate (21). The cathode layer (2) also includes a first transparent plate (24). The first transparent plate (24) is sandwiched between the cathode pressure plate (21) and the cathode plate (22) and is disposed opposite to the first viewing window (212). A first clearance channel (241) is provided on the first transparent plate (24). The first gas channel (211) is connected to the first gas flow channel (221) through the first clearance channel (241). And / or, a second viewing window (312) is provided through the anode pressure plate (31), and the anode layer (3) further includes a second transparent plate (34). The second transparent plate (34) is sandwiched between the anode pressure plate (31) and the anode plate (32) and is disposed opposite to the second viewing window (312). A second clearance channel (341) is provided on the second transparent plate (34), and the second gas channel (311) is connected to the second gas flow channel (321) through the second clearance channel (341).
8. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cathode layer (2) further includes a cathode-side first sealing ring (25) and a cathode-side second sealing ring (26). The cathode-side first sealing ring (25) is pressed between the cathode plate (22) and the side of the electrolyte carrier (11) facing the cathode electrode (23), and a portion of the cathode-side first sealing ring (25) is pressed circumferentially onto the cathode electrode (23). The cathode-side second sealing ring (26) is sandwiched between the cathode plate (22) and the cathode-side first sealing ring (25). And / or, the anode layer (3) further includes an anode-side first sealing ring (35) and an anode-side second sealing ring (36), the anode-side first sealing ring (35) being pressed between the anode plate (32) and the side of the electrolyte carrier (11) facing the anode electrode (33), and a portion of the anode-side first sealing ring (35) being pressed circumferentially onto the anode electrode (33), and the anode-side second sealing ring (36) being sandwiched between the anode plate (32) and the anode-side first sealing ring (35).
9. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The cathode electrode (23) is a structural layer made of porous material, and a reduction reaction catalytic layer is attached to the cathode reaction surface (201) of the cathode electrode (23); and / or, the anode electrode (33) is a structural layer made of porous material, and an oxidation reaction catalytic layer is attached to the anode reaction surface (301) of the anode electrode (33).
10. The electrochemical ammonia synthesis electrolysis apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The electrochemical ammonia electrolysis device also includes fasteners (4), and the cathode layer (2), the anode layer (3) and the electrolysis layer (1) are pressed and fixed by the fasteners (4).