dispersing device

Abstract

The application relates to a dispersing device and relates to the field of carbon nanotube production. The dispersing device comprises a dispersing bin, a dispersing wheel assembly and a driving assembly. An operation cavity is arranged in the dispersing bin, and a feeding opening and a discharging opening are oppositely arranged on the two sides of the dispersing bin, and the feeding opening and the discharging opening are communicated with the operation cavity. The dispersing wheel assembly comprises a first dispersing wheel and a second dispersing wheel, the first dispersing wheel and the second dispersing wheel are oppositely arranged, the first dispersing wheel is arranged on one side of the operation cavity close to the feeding opening, and the second dispersing wheel is arranged on one side of the operation cavity close to the discharging opening. The driving assembly is connected with the first dispersing wheel and the second dispersing wheel, and drives the first dispersing wheel and the second dispersing wheel to rotate in opposite directions respectively. The application can crack carbon nanotube agglomerates and guarantee the performance of the carbon nanotubes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of carbon nanotube production technology, and in particular to a dispersion device. Background Technology

[0002] Carbon nanotubes have diameters ranging from 0.1 to 100 nanometers and aspect ratios reaching up to 10. 3 ~10 6 The enormous specific surface area of ​​carbon nanotubes generates extremely strong intermolecular van der Waals forces, with the interaction force between adjacent tubes reaching 10–20 kJ / mol. During the cooling process after the carbon nanotubes are produced, they will approach each other due to Brownian motion or gravitational sedimentation. Once in contact, they will become entangled and aggregated due to van der Waals forces, forming tube bundles or clusters, almost losing the intrinsic properties of carbon nanotubes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a dispersion device to address the problem of loss of intrinsic properties caused by carbon nanotube aggregation.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows:

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a dispersion device for dispersing carbon nanotube aggregates, the dispersion device comprising:

[0006] The dispersion chamber has an internal working chamber, and the two sides of the dispersion chamber are respectively provided with a material inlet and a material outlet, which are connected to the working chamber.

[0007] The dispersing wheel assembly includes a first dispersing wheel and a second dispersing wheel, the first dispersing wheel and the second dispersing wheel are arranged facing each other, and the first dispersing wheel is located on the side of the working chamber near the injection port, and the second dispersing wheel is located on the side of the working chamber near the discharge port;

[0008] A driving component is connected to the first dispersing wheel and the second dispersing wheel, and drives the first dispersing wheel and the second dispersing wheel to rotate in opposite directions, so that the liquid accelerated by the first dispersing wheel collides at high speed with the second dispersing wheel, thereby dispersing the carbon nanotube aggregates.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first dispersing wheel is provided with a plurality of first tooth blocks circumferentially along its own axis, and the second dispersing wheel is provided with a plurality of second tooth blocks circumferentially along its own axis. All the first tooth blocks are inclined along the rotation direction of the first dispersing wheel, and all the second tooth blocks are inclined along the rotation direction of the second dispersing wheel.

[0010] In one embodiment, each of the first tooth blocks is provided with a bent portion, the bent portion extending toward the direction of the second dispersing wheel, and the bent portions enclose and define a receiving space, the inner diameter of the receiving space being larger than the second dispersing wheel, and the second dispersing wheel being embedded in the receiving space.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first dispersing wheel has a plurality of drainage holes, each of the drainage holes being distributed circumferentially along the axis of the first dispersing wheel; along the axial direction of the first dispersing wheel, the projected area of ​​the second dispersing wheel at least partially covers each of the drainage holes.

[0012] In one embodiment, the dispersion chamber includes an outer shell and an inner cylinder, the inner cylinder being fitted inside the outer shell, the inlet and outlet both passing through the outer shell and the inner cylinder in sequence, and the inner cylinder being made of an inert material.

[0013] In one embodiment, the inner cylinder includes a front baffle, a cylinder body, and a rear baffle, wherein the front baffle and the rear baffle are respectively attached to two opposite sides of the cylinder body;

[0014] The dispersion chamber also includes two sealing elements, each of which is respectively fitted around the periphery of the front baffle and the rear baffle and abuts against the inner wall of the outer shell.

[0015] In one embodiment, the outer casing includes a bay seat and a bay cover, the bay cover being sealed and fixed to the open side of the bay seat;

[0016] The dispersion wheel assembly further includes a first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft. One end of the first rotating shaft is fixed to the first dispersion wheel, and the other end passes through the inner cylinder and the bin cover in sequence and is connected to the drive assembly. One end of the second rotating shaft is fixed to the second dispersion wheel, and the other end passes through the inner cylinder and the bin seat in sequence and is connected to the drive assembly.

[0017] The dispersion chamber further includes a first mechanical seal and a second mechanical seal. The first mechanical seal is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and fixed to the chamber cover, and the second mechanical seal is sleeved on the second rotating shaft and fixed to the chamber base.

[0018] In one embodiment, both the first mechanical seal and the second mechanical seal have a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet, which are respectively connected to an external refrigerant.

[0019] In one embodiment, the dispersion device further includes a fluid pump and a heat exchanger, the heat exchanger being provided with a liquid inlet pipe, a liquid outlet pipe, a coolant inlet pipe and a coolant outlet pipe, the coolant inlet pipe and the coolant outlet pipe being respectively connected to an external refrigerant;

[0020] The input end of the fluid pump is connected to the outlet, the output end of the fluid pump is connected to the liquid input pipe, and the liquid output pipe is used to discharge the heat-exchanged liquid.

[0021] In one embodiment, the dispersing device includes a circulation assembly comprising a hopper, a return pipe, a tee fitting, and a discharge valve. Along the direction of gravity, the top of the hopper has a return port, and the bottom has a discharge port. The return port is connected to one end of the return pipe, and the discharge port is connected to the injection port. The tee fitting has a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port is connected to the end of the return pipe furthest from the hopper, the second port is connected to the liquid output pipe, and the third port is connected to the discharge valve.

[0022] Compared to related technologies, the advantages of this application are as follows: This application provides a dispersion device, which includes a dispersion chamber, a dispersion wheel assembly, and a drive assembly. The dispersion wheel assembly includes a first dispersion wheel and a second dispersion wheel located within the dispersion chamber, and the first and second dispersion wheels rotate in opposite directions under the control of the drive assembly. In this way, when a liquid mixture containing carbon nanotubes is injected into the dispersion chamber, the first dispersion wheel rotates to draw in the liquid, forming an accelerated fluid. The second dispersion wheel rotates in the opposite direction, and when the accelerated fluid impacts the right-handed dispersion wheel, the collision generates extremely high instantaneous high pressure, inducing a phase change in the liquid phase. At the moment of phase change, thermal stress is generated, which causes the carbon nanotube aggregates to crack, resulting in strong dispersion ability and ensuring the performance of the carbon nanotubes. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the dispersing device in some embodiments of this application;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the distribution chamber in some embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the axial structure of the first dispersing wheel in some embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the axial structure of the second dispersing wheel in some embodiments of this application;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the first dispersing wheel in some embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second dispersing wheel in some embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 7 for Figure 2 A magnified structural diagram of part A;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a front view structural diagram of the distribution chamber in some embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the driving component in some embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fluid pump in some embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the heat exchanger structure in some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the loop component in some embodiments of this application;

[0036] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the circulation of the feed liquid in some embodiments of this application.

[0037] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0038] 100. Dispersion device; 110. Dispersion chamber; 111. Outer shell; 1111. Chamber cover; 1112. Chamber base; 1113. Working chamber; 1114. Inlet; 1115. Outlet; 112. Inner cylinder; 1121. Front baffle; 1122. Cylinder body; 1123. Rear baffle; 113. First mechanical seal; 114. Second mechanical seal; 115. Coolant inlet; 116. Coolant outlet; 117. Seal; 120. Dispersion wheel assembly; 121. First dispersion wheel; 1211. First toothed block; 1212. Drain hole; 1213. Bending part; 1214. Accommodation space; 122. Second dispersion wheel; 1221. Second toothed block; 123. First rotating shaft; 124. Second rotating shaft; 125. Fixed plate; 130. Drive assembly; 131. Motor; 132. Coupling; 133. Bearing housing; 134. Mounting platform; 140. Fluid pump; 141. Input end; 142. Output end; 150. Heat exchanger; 151. Feed liquid input pipe; 152. Feed liquid output pipe; 153. Coolant inlet pipe; 154. Coolant outlet pipe; 160. Circulation assembly; 161. Hopper; 1611. Return port; 1612. Discharge port; 162. Return pipe; 163. T-fitting; 1631. First port; 1632. Second port; 1633. Third port; 164. Discharge valve; 165. Support frame; 170. Frame. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0040] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0041] Furthermore, where the term "and / or" appears, "and / or" merely describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. Where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, features defined with "first" or "second" can explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0042] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., 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, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0043] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0044] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0045] Among related technologies, the dispersion processes for carbon nanotubes mainly include ultrasonic dispersion, ball milling dispersion, high-shear dispersion, high-pressure homogenization dispersion, and chemical modification. However, ultrasonic dispersion, sand milling dispersion, high-shear dispersion, and high-pressure homogenization each have their drawbacks. They generally involve disordered shearing of the carbon nanotubes, shortening their length and damaging their walls. This disrupts the transport paths of electrons and phonons, significantly reducing the electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and mechanical properties of the carbon nanotubes. Chemical modification, on the other hand, has environmental impacts due to wastewater discharge. Treating this wastewater increases costs and is also subject to environmental regulations.

[0046] See Figure 1 As shown, to overcome the above-mentioned technical problems, embodiments of this application provide a dispersion device 100 for dispersing carbon nanotube aggregates. The dispersion device 100 includes a dispersion chamber 110, a dispersion wheel assembly 120, and a drive assembly 130. The dispersion wheel assembly 120 is installed inside the dispersion chamber 110 and can perform rotational separation operations under the drive of the drive assembly 130, so as to complete the separation of carbon nanotube aggregates within the dispersion chamber 110.

[0047] Continue reading Figure 2 As shown, the dispersion chamber 110 has a working chamber 1113 inside, and the two sides of the dispersion chamber 110 are provided with an inlet 1114 and an outlet 1115 facing each other. The inlet 1114 and the outlet 1115 are respectively connected to the working chamber 1113 to inject carbon nanotube aggregate liquid into the working chamber 1113 through the inlet 1114 and to discharge the separated carbon nanotubes through the outlet 1115. The dispersion wheel assembly 120 includes a first dispersion wheel 121 and a second dispersion wheel 122. The first dispersion wheel 121 and the second dispersion wheel 122 are arranged facing each other, and the first dispersion wheel 121 is located on the side of the working chamber 1113 near the inlet 1114, and the second dispersion wheel 122 is located on the side of the working chamber 1113 near the outlet 1115. The drive assembly 130 is connected to the first dispersion wheel 121 and the second dispersion wheel 122, and drives the first dispersion wheel 121 and the second dispersion wheel 122 to rotate in opposite directions, so that the liquid accelerated by the first dispersion wheel 121 collides at high speed with the second dispersion wheel 122, thereby dispersing the carbon nanotube aggregates.

[0048] For example, the dispersion chamber 110 has a sealed working chamber 1113 inside for containing the carbon nanotube liquid to be dispersed. The opposing side walls of the dispersion chamber 110 are respectively provided with an inlet 1114 and an outlet 1115 communicating with the working chamber 1113. Further, the inlet 1114 is located on the upper part of one side of the dispersion chamber 110, and the outlet 1612 is oppositely located on the lower part of the other side of the dispersion chamber 110. Through the staggered arrangement of the inlet 1114 and outlet 1115, not only can gravity be used to naturally fill the entire working chamber 1113, extending the flow path and processing time of the liquid within the working chamber 1113, but it also facilitates the smooth discharge of the dispersed liquid from the outlet 1115 at the bottom under the action of gravity, avoiding residue in the chamber.

[0049] The first dispersing wheel 121 and the second dispersing wheel 122 are arranged facing each other in the working chamber 1113, that is, their rotation axes are parallel to each other and opposite each other in the axial direction. Specifically, the first dispersing wheel 121 is located in the working chamber 1113 on the side near the injection port 1114, and is used to draw in the liquid material from the injection port 1114 and initially accelerate it; the second dispersing wheel 122 is located in the working chamber 1113 on the side near the discharge port 1115, and is used to collide with the high-speed liquid material from the first dispersing wheel 121 to complete the final dispersion.

[0050] When the working chamber 1113 is filled with liquid material, the first dispersing wheel 121 and the second dispersing wheel 122, which are positioned opposite each other, rotate in opposite directions under the control of the drive assembly 130. The first dispersing wheel 121, located near the injection port 1114, draws liquid material radially from the working chamber 1113. Under the action of inertial force, the drawn-in liquid material forms an accelerated fluid, which impacts the second dispersing wheel 122. At this time, the second dispersing wheel 122 rotates in the opposite direction, and the accelerated fluid collides at high speed with the high-speed rotating second dispersing wheel 122. The high-speed collision generates extremely high instantaneous high pressure in the contact area, dispersing the carbon nanotube aggregates. After dispersion is complete, the discharge port 1115 is opened to collect the dispersed liquid material, realizing the large-scale dispersion of carbon nanotubes.

[0051] Specifically, the aforementioned instantaneous high pressure mainly produces the following two synergistic dispersion effects:

[0052] Stress wave fracture effect: High-speed collisions generate extremely high instantaneous pressure in the contact area, forming a strong shock wave or stress wave. This stress wave propagates within the solid, inducing a series of stress effects in the solid material (carbon nanotube aggregates) in the molten material, including yielding, plastic deformation, crack initiation and propagation, and delamination or rupture. When the stress wave intensity exceeds the bonding strength of the aggregates, it directly leads to delamination or breakage of the aggregates.

[0053] Cavitation effect: Cavitation bubbles are formed in the high-speed flow and pressure change areas of the liquid (such as the edge of the dispersing wheel). When these bubbles flow into the high-pressure area (such as the collision point or the surface of the dispersing wheel) with the liquid, they collapse rapidly, generating micro-jet and shock wave with local high temperature and high pressure. These micro-jet and shock wave have penetrating power in carbon nanotube aggregates and can penetrate into the micropores of carbon nanotube aggregates. When the cavitation bubbles collapse in the high-pressure area, the instantaneous pressure increases sharply, causing the carbon nanotube aggregates to deagglomerate, and further deagglomerate and peel them off.

[0054] Compared with the dispersion process of related technologies, this device uses high-speed collision dispersion of pure liquid phase, which avoids the introduction of traditional grinding media, thereby eliminating the contamination of metal wear materials, ensuring the intrinsic properties of carbon nanotubes, and greatly improving the processing capacity to meet the needs of industrial mass production.

[0055] Continue reading Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the first dispersing wheel 121 is provided with a plurality of first tooth blocks 1211 circumferentially along its own axis, and the second dispersing wheel 122 is provided with a plurality of second tooth blocks 1221 circumferentially along its own axis. All the first tooth blocks 1211 are inclined along the rotation direction of the first dispersing wheel 121, and all the second tooth blocks 1221 are inclined along the rotation direction of the second dispersing wheel 122.

[0056] For example, the first dispersion wheel 121 has a plurality of first tooth blocks 1211 circumferentially arranged on the outer periphery of its hub along its own axial direction. Similarly, the second dispersion wheel 122 has a plurality of second tooth blocks 1221 circumferentially arranged on the outer periphery of its hub along its own axial direction.

[0057] All the first toothed blocks 1211 are inclined along the preset rotation direction of the first dispersing wheel 121. In other words, viewed from the axial perspective of the first dispersing wheel 121, each first toothed block 1211 is not radially straight, but rather inclined forward in the direction of rotation, like a fan blade. This inclined design allows the teeth of the first dispersing wheel 121 to not only simply slap the liquid when rotating, but also to "cut" and "project" the liquid more smoothly and efficiently, converting more mechanical energy into the kinetic energy of the liquid, thus forming a high-speed jet. Similarly, all the second toothed blocks 1221 are inclined along the preset rotation direction of the second dispersing wheel 122. The inclination direction of the second toothed blocks 1221 is consistent with the rotation direction of the second dispersing wheel 122, so that when the second dispersing wheel 122 receives the high-speed liquid from the first dispersing wheel 121, its tooth surface can intercept and collide with the liquid at the maximum relative speed, concentrating the collision energy at the leading edge of the toothed block, thereby generating extreme instantaneous high pressure.

[0058] Continue reading Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, in some embodiments, each first tooth block 1211 is provided with a bent portion 1213. The bent portion 1213 extends toward the direction close to the second dispersing wheel 122. Each bent portion 1213 encloses and defines a receiving space 1214. The inner diameter of the receiving space 1214 is larger than that of the second dispersing wheel 122. The second dispersing wheel 122 is embedded in the receiving space 1214.

[0059] For example, the first toothed block 1211 is generally L-shaped or hook-shaped, with its root fixed to the hub of the first dispersing wheel 121, and its free end forming a bent portion 1213. This bent portion 1213 extends and protrudes towards the second dispersing wheel 122 (i.e., in the axial direction). Since each bent portion 1213 extends in the same direction, they collectively enclose and define a generally cylindrical receiving space 1214. The inner diameter of this receiving space 1214 is larger than the outer diameter of the second dispersing wheel 122, and the second dispersing wheel 122 is at least partially embedded within the receiving space 1214, resulting in an axial overlap between the first dispersing wheel 121 and the second dispersing wheel 122, which greatly shortens the effective working distance between them and alters the fluid's movement path.

[0060] Due to the presence of the bend 1213, the projected liquid is guided to flow along the extension direction of the bend 1213. The receiving space 1214 formed by multiple bends 1213 creates a natural convergence zone. The high-speed liquid is further concentrated, compressed, and accelerated within this relatively enclosed receiving space 1214, forming a highly focused jet of energy, which violently impacts the second dispersing wheel 122 embedded within the receiving space 1214. Simultaneously, the second dispersing wheel 122 is rotating at high speed in the opposite direction. When this highly focused jet impacts the inclined tooth surface of the high-speed rotating second dispersing wheel 122, extremely violent relative motion occurs between the two. Because the second dispersing wheel 122 is embedded within the receiving space 1214, this impact occurs in a very localized, confined space, greatly improving the collision efficiency and energy density.

[0061] In this embodiment, the bending portion 1213 significantly improves the dispersion efficiency, achieving efficient deagglomeration while maximizing the protection of the aspect ratio and crystal structure integrity of the carbon nanotubes, avoiding contamination from metal wear materials, and realizing a solution for large-scale industrial preparation of high-quality carbon nanotubes.

[0062] Continue reading Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the first dispersing wheel 121 has a plurality of drainage holes 1212, and each drainage hole 1212 is distributed circumferentially along the axis of the first dispersing wheel 121. Along the axial direction of the first dispersing wheel 121, the projected area of ​​the second dispersing wheel 122 at least partially covers each drainage hole 1212.

[0063] For example, each drain hole 1212 is circumferentially distributed along the axis of the first dispersing wheel 121, and the drain holes 1212 penetrate the wheel body of the first dispersing wheel 121, connecting the two side areas of the first dispersing wheel 121. The number and diameter of the drain holes 1212 can be designed according to the processing capacity and the characteristics of the liquid. For example, 6 to 12 drain holes 1212 with a diameter of 5 mm to 20 mm can be set, so that their total flow area accounts for 5% to 30% of the flow-facing area of ​​the first dispersing wheel 121.

[0064] Projecting along the axis of the first dispersing wheel 121, the projected area of ​​the second dispersing wheel 122 at least partially covers each of the drain holes 1212, meaning the second dispersing wheel 122 blocks at least a portion of the outlet area of ​​the drain holes 1212. Thus, the liquid flowing out of the drain holes 1212 will not flow smoothly backward directly, but will instead impact the surface of the second dispersing wheel 122 or the second toothed block 1221.

[0065] During the dispersion process, most of the liquid material is accelerated along the outer circumferential surface of the first dispersing wheel 121 under the centrifugal force and the push of the first toothed block 1211, forming a high-speed jet that directly impacts the second dispersing wheel 122 for collision dispersion. Additionally, driven by the pressure difference, some of the liquid material is drawn from the high-pressure front side to the low-pressure back side through the drain hole 1212 on the first dispersing wheel 121, forming several independent micro-jet streams. Since the axial projection of the second dispersing wheel 122 at least partially covers the drain hole 1212, the micro-jet streams ejected from the drain hole 1212 do not directly dissipate in the rear space of the working chamber 1113, but immediately collide head-on with the second dispersing wheel 122 embedded in the receiving space 1214, generating instantaneous high pressure and cavitation effects to disperse the carbon nanotube aggregates.

[0066] With the design of the vent hole 1212, when the liquid feed passes through the small-diameter vent hole 1212 under high pressure, the flow velocity increases sharply and the pressure drops sharply, generating cavitation bubbles. When these microjets carrying a large number of nascent cavitation bubbles are ejected from the vent hole 1212 and instantly collide with the high-speed rotating second dispersion wheel 122, the bubbles collapse on a large scale under the drastic pressure change and collision, generating strong shock waves. This cavitation effect induced by the vent hole 1212 and the cavitation effect generated by the mainstream collision superimpose and reinforce each other, forming a "synergistic cavitation" phenomenon, which fills the entire working chamber 1113 with high-density cavitation energy, thereby disintegrating the carbon nanotube aggregates in a gentler and more efficient manner.

[0067] See again Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the dispersion chamber 110 includes an outer shell 111 and an inner cylinder 112. The inner cylinder 112 is fitted inside the outer shell 111. The inlet 1114 and the outlet 1115 pass through the outer shell 111 and the inner cylinder 112 in sequence. The inner cylinder 112 is made of an inert material.

[0068] For example, the dispersion device 100 designs the dispersion chamber 110 as a combination structure of an outer shell 111 and an inner cylinder 112, and uses an inert material to make the inner cylinder 112, which is in direct contact with the liquid, thereby ensuring structural strength and fundamentally eliminating the leaching and contamination of metal ions during the dispersion process, thus ensuring the high purity of the carbon nanotube product.

[0069] The outer shell 111 forms the external support frame of the dispersion chamber 110, mainly bearing the pressure from the internal liquid and the vibration and torque generated by the high-speed rotation of the dispersion wheel assembly 120. Therefore, the outer shell 111 can be made of high-strength metal materials, such as stainless steel, carbon steel, or alloy steel, to ensure the structural stability and safety of the dispersion device 100 under long-term high-speed operation. The outer shell 111 is generally cylindrical or a closed cavity structure with end caps at both ends, and its interior has space to accommodate the inner cylinder 112 and the dispersion wheel assembly 120.

[0070] The inner cylinder 112 is fitted to the inner wall of the outer shell 111, forming the lining of the dispersion chamber 110. Its inner wall directly contacts the carbon nanotube liquid to be dispersed, forming the boundary of the working chamber 1113. The inner cylinder 112 can be made of inert materials such as alumina, zirconium oxide, and silicon nitride, which have the characteristics of high hardness, high resistivity, good bioinertness, corrosion resistance, high thermal stability, and high chemical stability, thus avoiding contamination of the dispersed material by other active ingredients.

[0071] Continue reading Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the inner cylinder 112 includes a front baffle 1121, a cylinder body 1122, and a rear baffle 1123, with the front baffle 1121 and the rear baffle 1123 respectively abutting against two opposite sides of the cylinder body 1122. The dispersion chamber 110 also includes two sealing elements 117, each sealing element 117 being sleeved on the periphery of the front baffle 1121 and the rear baffle 1123, and abutting against the inner wall surface of the outer shell 111.

[0072] Specifically, the inner cylinder 112 adopts a split assembly structure, including a front baffle 1121, a cylinder body 1122, and a rear baffle 1123, to facilitate processing, installation, and maintenance. The cylinder body 1122 is cylindrical, and its inner wall surface forms the main circumferential boundary of the working cavity 1113. The front baffle 1121 and the rear baffle 1123 are respectively attached to the axial ends of the cylinder body 1122, forming the front end wall and the rear end wall of the working cavity 1113, respectively.

[0073] Each seal 117 is respectively fitted around the periphery of the front baffle 1121 and the rear baffle 1123. Specifically, there is a certain gap between the outer periphery of the front baffle 1121 and the rear baffle 1123 and the outer shell 111. The seal 117 is embedded in this gap. When the inner cylinder 112 is assembled and then inserted into the outer shell 111, the seal 117 will come into close contact with the inner wall surface of the outer shell 111 and undergo elastic deformation, thereby forming a radially compressed seal.

[0074] For example, the seal 117 may be a star-shaped sealing ring to compensate for the installation dimensional tolerances between the outer shell 111 and the inner cylinder 112 through the elastic deformation of the seal 117. The seal 117 may be made of one of the following polymer materials: EPDM rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene, perfluororubber, polyurethane rubber, etc.

[0075] Continue reading Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the outer shell 111 includes a bin seat 1112 and a bin cover 1111, with the bin cover 1111 sealed and fixed to the open side of the bin seat 1112. The dispersion wheel assembly 120 also includes a first rotating shaft 123 and a second rotating shaft 124. One end of the first rotating shaft 123 is fixed to the first dispersion wheel 121, and the other end passes through the inner cylinder 112 and the bin cover 1111 in sequence before being connected to the drive assembly 130. One end of the second rotating shaft 124 is fixed to the second dispersion wheel 122, and the other end passes through the inner cylinder 112 and the bin seat 1112 in sequence before being connected to the drive assembly 130. The dispersion bin 110 also includes a first mechanical seal 113 and a second mechanical seal 114. The first mechanical seal 113 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 123 and fixed to the bin cover 1111, and the second mechanical seal 114 is sleeved on the second rotating shaft 124 and fixed to the bin seat 1112.

[0076] For example, the outer shell 111 is a split structure combining the bin seat 1112 and the bin cover 1111, and each of the two opposing dispersion wheels is equipped with an independent rotating shaft and mechanical seal. While ensuring the assemblability and maintainability of the device, it achieves a reliable dynamic seal for the high-pressure working chamber 1113, effectively preventing the leakage of liquid along the rotating shaft, and further improving the operational stability and cleanliness of the device.

[0077] Specifically, the bin seat 1112 is generally a cylindrical structure with one end open, and its interior forms the main space for accommodating the inner cylinder 112 and the dispersion wheel assembly 120. The bin cover 1111 is sealed and fixed to the open side of the bin seat 1112 by high-strength bolts. The use of a split outer shell 111 structure facilitates the installation and maintenance of the internal components.

[0078] The side of the bin seat 1112 opposite to the open side has a shaft hole for mounting the rotating shaft and the seal 117. The center of the bin cover 1111 also has a corresponding shaft hole, so that the two first rotating shafts 123 and the second rotating shaft 124 extend from both ends of the dispersion bin 110, respectively. One end of the first rotating shaft 123 is fixedly connected to the first dispersing wheel 121, and the other end passes through the front baffle 1121 of the inner cylinder 112 and the bin cover 1111 in sequence before extending to the outside of the dispersion bin 110 and connecting to the drive assembly 130. Similarly, one end of the second rotating shaft 124 is fixedly connected to the second dispersing wheel 122, and the other end passes through the rear baffle 1123 of the inner cylinder 112 and the bin seat 1112 in sequence before extending to the outside of the dispersion bin 110 and connecting to the drive assembly 130.

[0079] Since the first rotating shaft 123 and the second rotating shaft 124 need to penetrate the inner cylinder 112 and the outer shell 111, a reliable dynamic seal must be provided at the penetration point to prevent the high-pressure liquid in the working chamber 1113 from leaking outwards along the rotating shaft. Therefore, a first mechanical seal 113 is fitted on the outside of the first rotating shaft 123, and a second mechanical seal 114 is fitted on the outside of the second rotating shaft 124. The stationary ring of the first mechanical seal 113 is fixedly connected to and seals the hopper cover 1111 by fastening bolts, while its rotating ring is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 123 and rotates with it. The precision-ground sealing end face fits tightly under the action of spring force and medium pressure, achieving a dynamic seal during rotation. Similarly, the stationary ring of the second mechanical seal 114 is fixedly connected to and seals the hopper seat 1112 by fastening bolts, while its rotating ring is fixedly connected to the second rotating shaft 124.

[0080] See again Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the first dispersing wheel 121 has a through hole at its center for the first rotating shaft 123 to pass through, and a groove is provided around the periphery of the through hole. Similarly, the second dispersing wheel 122 has a through hole at its center for the second rotating shaft 124 to pass through, and a groove is provided around the periphery of the through hole. The dispersing wheel assembly 120 also includes two fixing plates 125, which are circular in shape and have the same inner diameter as the grooves so that they can be embedded in the grooves. Thus, after the first rotating shaft 123 passes through the first dispersing wheel 121, the fixing plate 125 covers the end of the first rotating shaft 123 and is locked to the center of the first rotating shaft 123 by fastening bolts. After the second rotating shaft 124 passes through the second dispersing wheel 122, the fixing plate 125 is also used to cover the end of the second rotating shaft 124 and is locked to the center of the second rotating shaft 124 by fastening bolts.

[0081] Furthermore, to ensure the sealing between the rotating shaft and the dispersing wheel, sealing rings are provided at the connection between the first rotating shaft 123 and the first dispersing wheel 121, and at the connection between the second rotating shaft 124 and the second dispersing wheel 122, to prevent the liquid from leaking from the circumference of the rotating shaft and improve the overall airtightness of the device.

[0082] Continue reading Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the drive assembly 130 includes two motors 131, two couplings 132, and two bearing seats 133. A set of motors 131, couplings 132, and bearing seats 133 are respectively arranged opposite each other on both sides of the dispersion chamber 110. The output shaft of each motor 131 is connected to a corresponding coupling 132. The end of the first rotating shaft 123 away from the first dispersion wheel 121 passes through the bearing seat 133 on the same side and is connected to the corresponding coupling 132. Correspondingly, the end of the second rotating shaft 124 away from the second dispersion wheel 122 passes through the bearing seat 133 on the same side and is connected to the corresponding coupling 132. This allows the two motors 131 to drive the first rotating shaft 123 and the second rotating shaft 124 to rotate in opposite directions, thereby causing the first dispersion wheel 121 and the second dispersion wheel 122 to rotate in opposite directions, precisely controlling the speed and direction of the two dispersion wheels.

[0083] Furthermore, the drive assembly 130 also includes a mounting platform 134, on which the motor 131, bearing housing 133, and dispersion chamber 110 are sequentially fixed. The dispersion device 100 also includes a frame 170, which can be composed of multiple metal rods. The mounting platform 134 is fixed to the top side of the frame 170 to support the various components.

[0084] In some other embodiments, the drive assembly 130 may also include only one motor 131, which enables the two dispersing wheels to rotate in opposite directions through a transmission mechanism such as a gear set or a pulley. This will not be explained in detail here, as long as it can simultaneously satisfy the reverse operation of the first dispersing wheel 121 and the second dispersing wheel 122.

[0085] See again Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, both the first mechanical seal 113 and the second mechanical seal 114 are provided with a coolant inlet 115 and a coolant outlet 116, and the coolant inlet 115 and the coolant outlet 116 are respectively connected to an external refrigerant.

[0086] For example, the coolant inlet 115 is located on the lower side of the mechanical seal, and the coolant outlet 116 is located on the upper side of the mechanical seal. The coolant inlet 115 is connected to a refrigerant supply source via a pipeline, and the coolant outlet 116 is connected to a refrigerant return source via a pipeline, thereby achieving circulating cooling. Through circulating cooling, overheating of the first mechanical seal 113 and the second mechanical seal 114 during high-speed rotation is prevented, damage to components in the sealing assembly is avoided, and the service life of the mechanical seal is extended. The refrigerant may include tap water, chilled water used for cooling in a refrigeration unit, etc., and is not specifically limited here.

[0087] Continue reading Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the dispersion device 100 further includes a fluid pump 140 and a heat exchanger 150. The heat exchanger 150 is provided with a liquid inlet pipe 151, a liquid outlet pipe 152, a coolant inlet pipe 153, and a coolant outlet pipe 154. The coolant inlet pipe 153 and the coolant outlet pipe 154 are respectively connected to an external refrigerant. The inlet end 141 of the fluid pump 140 is connected to the outlet port 1115, and the outlet end 142 of the fluid pump 140 is connected to the liquid inlet pipe 151. The liquid outlet pipe 152 is used to discharge the heat-exchanged liquid.

[0088] For example, a fluid pump 140 is used to provide power for the circulation of the feed liquid, and the input end 141 of the fluid pump 140 is connected to the outlet 1115 of the dispersion chamber 110. The fluid pump 140 can be one of a screw pump, a peristaltic pump, or a diaphragm pump, and the specific type is selected according to the viscosity, solids content, and flow rate requirements of the feed liquid. For carbon nanotube feed liquids with high viscosity or high solids content, a screw pump or a diaphragm pump is preferred to avoid shear damage to the carbon nanotube structure.

[0089] The heat exchanger 150 is used for heat exchange with the liquid feed, achieving cooling or heating of the liquid feed. The heat exchanger 150 is equipped with a liquid feed inlet pipe 151, a liquid feed outlet pipe 152, a coolant inlet pipe 153, and a coolant outlet pipe 154. The liquid feed inlet pipe 151 is connected to the output end 142 of the fluid pump 140; that is, the liquid feed flowing out from the outlet 1115 of the dispersion chamber 110 is pressurized by the fluid pump 140 and then enters the heat exchanger 150 through the liquid feed inlet pipe 151. The liquid feed outlet pipe 152 is used to discharge the heat-exchanged liquid feed, which can be connected to a downstream storage tank or directly returned to the inlet 1114 of the dispersion chamber 110 for circulation dispersion. The coolant inlet pipe 153 and the coolant outlet pipe 154 are respectively connected to an external refrigerant, forming a cooling circuit for the heat exchanger 150. The heat exchanger 150 can be either a shell-and-tube heat exchanger 150 or a plate heat exchanger 150, and no specific limitation is made here.

[0090] During high-speed dispersion of carbon nanotubes, intense collisions and shearing generate a large amount of heat, causing the temperature of the feed solution to rise. Excessive temperature may damage the graphitized structure of the carbon nanotubes, affecting their intrinsic properties. By activating the fluid pump 140, the high-temperature feed solution is drawn from the outlet 1115 and sent to the heat exchanger 150, where it exchanges heat with the cooling medium flowing through it, rapidly reducing the feed solution temperature. The solution is then discharged through the feed output pipe 152 or returned to the dispersion chamber 110, thus effectively controlling the temperature during the dispersion process.

[0091] Continue reading Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, the dispersing device 100 includes a circulation assembly 160, which includes a hopper 161, a return pipe 162, a tee fitting 163, and a discharge valve 164. Along the direction of gravity, the hopper 161 has a return port 1611 at the top and a discharge port 1612 at the bottom. The return port 1611 is connected to one end of the return pipe 162, and the discharge port 1612 is connected to the injection port 1114. The tee fitting 163 has a first port 1631, a second port 1632, and a third port 1633. The first port 1631 is connected to the end of the return pipe 162 away from the hopper 161, the second port 1632 is connected to the liquid output pipe 152, and the third port 1633 is connected to the discharge valve 164.

[0092] For example, hopper 161 is used to temporarily contain and buffer the circulating liquid. Along the direction of gravity, hopper 161 has a return port 1611 at the top and a discharge port 1612 at the bottom, allowing the liquid to flow naturally into subsequent pipelines under gravity, preventing gas accumulation. The internal volume of hopper 161 can be designed according to the system's processing capacity, serving as a buffer and defoaming agent. Return port 1611 is connected to one end of return pipe 162, and the other end of return pipe 162 is connected to a subsequent tee fitting 163, used to guide the circulating liquid to hopper 161. Discharge port 1612 is connected to the inlet 1114 of dispersion chamber 110. After buffering and defoaming, the liquid flows out from discharge port 1612 at the bottom of hopper 161 and directly enters the inlet 1114 of dispersion chamber 110, completing the closed circulation loop.

[0093] The tee fitting 163 is used to switch the flow direction of the liquid. The tee fitting 163 is a tee connector with a first port 1631, a second port 1632 and a third port 1633. The first port 1631 is connected to the end of the return pipe 162 away from the hopper 161, the second port 1632 is connected to the liquid output pipe 152 of the heat exchanger 150, and the third port 1633 is connected to the discharge valve 164.

[0094] Through the cooperation of the tee fitting 163 and the discharge valve 164, the dispersion device 100 provided in this application can switch between two working modes:

[0095] In the circulating dispersion mode, the discharge valve 164 is closed. The temperature-regulated liquid flowing from the liquid output pipe 152 of the heat exchanger 150 enters through the second port 1632 of the tee fitting 163, flows out from the first port 1631, and enters the return pipe 162. The liquid is transported through the return pipe 162 to the return port 1611 at the top of the hopper 161, falls into the hopper 161 for buffering and natural defoaming, and then flows out from the discharge port 1612 at the bottom of the hopper 161, enters the injection port 1114 of the dispersion chamber 110 through the pipeline, and participates in the dispersion process again. In this way, the liquid continuously circulates in the closed loop of "dispersion chamber 110 → fluid pump 140 → heat exchanger 150 → tee fitting 163 → return pipe 162 → hopper 161 → dispersion chamber 110", and is continuously dispersed and temperature-controlled until the desired dispersion effect is achieved.

[0096] When the required dispersion is achieved, the dispersion device 100 enters the discharge mode, and the discharge valve 164 is open. The liquid flowing from the liquid output pipe 152 of the heat exchanger 150 enters through the second port 1632 of the three-way fitting 163. A portion can still enter the circulation loop through the first port 1631, but most of the liquid, under pressure, will choose the path of least resistance, flowing from the third port 1633 to the open discharge valve 164, and finally discharged to the external finished product collection tank. By adjusting the opening of the discharge valve 164, the discharge flow rate can be controlled, achieving a continuous production mode of simultaneous circulation and discharge, or batch discharge by opening the discharge valve 164 all at once after the entire circulation reaches the dispersion endpoint.

[0097] Furthermore, the circulation assembly 160 also includes a support frame 165, one end of which is fixed to the bottom of the hopper 161 and the other end is fixed to the mounting platform 134 to mount the hopper 161 onto the mounting platform 134.

[0098] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0099] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dispersing device, characterized in that, For dispersing carbon nanotube aggregates, the dispersion device includes: The dispersion chamber has an internal working chamber, and the two sides of the dispersion chamber are respectively provided with a material inlet and a material outlet, which are connected to the working chamber. The dispersing wheel assembly includes a first dispersing wheel and a second dispersing wheel, the first dispersing wheel and the second dispersing wheel are arranged facing each other, and the first dispersing wheel is located on the side of the working chamber near the injection port, and the second dispersing wheel is located on the side of the working chamber near the discharge port; A driving component is connected to the first dispersion wheel and the second dispersion wheel, and drives the first dispersion wheel and the second dispersion wheel to rotate in opposite directions, so that the liquid accelerated by the first dispersion wheel collides at high speed with the second dispersion wheel, thereby dispersing the carbon nanotube aggregates. The first dispersing wheel is provided with a plurality of first tooth blocks circumferentially along its own axis, and the second dispersing wheel is provided with a plurality of second tooth blocks circumferentially along its own axis. All the first tooth blocks are inclined along the rotation direction of the first dispersing wheel, and all the second tooth blocks are inclined along the rotation direction of the second dispersing wheel. Each of the first tooth blocks is provided with a bent portion, the bent portion extends toward the direction of the second dispersing wheel, and each of the bent portions encloses and defines a receiving space, the inner diameter of the receiving space is larger than the second dispersing wheel, and the second dispersing wheel is embedded in the receiving space; The first dispersing wheel has a plurality of drainage holes, and each drainage hole is distributed circumferentially along the axis of the first dispersing wheel; along the axial direction of the first dispersing wheel, the projected area of ​​the second dispersing wheel at least partially covers each drainage hole; The dispersion chamber includes an outer shell and an inner cylinder, the inner cylinder being fitted inside the outer shell, the inlet and outlet both passing through the outer shell and the inner cylinder in sequence, and the inner cylinder being made of an inert material; The outer shell includes a bin seat and a bin cover, the bin cover being sealed and fixed to the open side of the bin seat; The dispersion wheel assembly further includes a first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft. One end of the first rotating shaft is fixed to the first dispersion wheel, and the other end passes through the inner cylinder and the bin cover in sequence and is connected to the drive assembly. One end of the second rotating shaft is fixed to the second dispersion wheel, and the other end passes through the inner cylinder and the bin seat in sequence and is connected to the drive assembly. The dispersion chamber further includes a first mechanical seal and a second mechanical seal. The first mechanical seal is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and fixed to the chamber cover, and the second mechanical seal is sleeved on the second rotating shaft and fixed to the chamber base.

2. The dispersing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner cylinder includes a front baffle, a cylinder body, and a rear baffle, with the front baffle and the rear baffle respectively attached to two opposite sides of the cylinder body; The dispersion chamber also includes two sealing elements, each of which is respectively fitted around the periphery of the front baffle and the rear baffle and abuts against the inner wall of the outer shell.

3. The dispersing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first mechanical seal and the second mechanical seal have a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet, and the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet are respectively connected to an external refrigerant.

4. The dispersing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dispersion device also includes a fluid pump and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is provided with a liquid inlet pipe, a liquid outlet pipe, a coolant inlet pipe and a coolant outlet pipe. The coolant inlet pipe and the coolant outlet pipe are respectively connected to an external refrigerant. The input end of the fluid pump is connected to the outlet, the output end of the fluid pump is connected to the liquid input pipe, and the liquid output pipe is used to discharge the heat-exchanged liquid.

5. The dispersing device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dispersing device includes a circulation assembly, which includes a hopper, a return pipe, a three-way fitting, and a discharge valve. Along the direction of gravity, the top of the hopper has a return port and the bottom has a discharge port. The return port is connected to one end of the return pipe, and the discharge port is connected to the injection port. The three-way fitting has a first port, a second port, and a third port. The first port is connected to the end of the return pipe away from the hopper, the second port is connected to the liquid output pipe, and the third port is connected to the discharge valve.

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