Integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device

Abstract

This invention discloses an integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage-driven hydrogen production device, comprising: a hydrogen production reaction mechanism, an anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe, and a photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism. The anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe is laterally fixed within the hydrogen production reaction mechanism, thereby dividing the mechanism into a condensation separation chamber, a hydrogen production reaction chamber, and a phase change energy storage chamber. The condensation separation chamber is located above the hydrogen production reaction chamber and the phase change energy storage chamber, with the phase change energy storage chamber located to the right of the hydrogen production reaction chamber. The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism is fixed to one side of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism and is used to absorb solar radiation, convert it into heat energy, and transfer the heat energy to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe. The phase change energy storage chamber stores the heat energy. Therefore, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage-driven hydrogen production device of this invention efficiently utilizes solar energy, achieves a continuous and stable hydrogen production process, and reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of renewable energy technology, and in particular to an integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device. Background Technology

[0002] With the urgent need for global energy transition and climate change response, developing clean and sustainable energy conversion pathways has become a global consensus. Hydrogen energy, with its high energy density and the fact that its combustion product is only water, is considered a key carrier for building a future zero-carbon energy system.

[0003] However, existing hydrogen production technologies have significant drawbacks: while fossil fuel reforming processes have economic advantages, they inevitably generate large amounts of greenhouse gases, conflicting with the goals of green and low-carbon development; while water electrolysis based on photovoltaic power generation can produce high-purity hydrogen, it is highly dependent on the deployment of large-scale photovoltaic arrays, which not only consumes scarce freshwater resources but also suffers from insufficient overall economic viability due to the dual pressures of photovoltaic power costs and electrolyzer equipment depreciation, seriously hindering the large-scale commercial promotion of green hydrogen.

[0004] At the same time, with the rapid expansion of the solar photovoltaic industry, the massive amount of waste solar panels generated after the end of the lifespan of photovoltaic modules has brought new environmental challenges. The problem of dust recycling and resource utilization of silicon, its core material, is becoming increasingly prominent. Improper handling will exacerbate ecological pollution and waste valuable resources.

[0005] In recent years, photovoltaic-thermal coupled silicon water electrolysis hydrogen production technology has made some progress in material design and system integration, but it still faces multiple bottlenecks in practical applications. Most systems suffer from insufficient hydrolysis reaction depth and the easy formation of passivation layers on the surface of silicon materials, which directly lead to a significant decrease in hydrogen production rate over time, making it difficult to maintain continuous and stable operation of the reaction process.

[0006] This inefficient hydrogen production not only limits the practical potential of the device but also makes it difficult for the technology to move beyond the laboratory stage and achieve industrialization. In-depth analysis reveals that system-level design flaws are the core root cause of these problems, including key shortcomings such as an unreasonable heat transfer path, poor synergy between phase change energy storage and hydrogen production reactions, and insufficient environmental adaptability. Especially in remote scenarios such as pastoral areas and deserts, existing technologies lack effective thermal drive mechanisms and off-grid operation capabilities, failing to fully utilize the graded characteristics of solar energy to achieve efficient energy conversion. Therefore, it is urgent to overcome the technical barriers to heat capture, storage, and precise release through innovative device architecture design, and to establish a deep coupling mechanism between photovoltaic thermal energy and phase change energy storage, thereby achieving stable and continuous distributed hydrogen production under ambient temperature and pressure conditions.

[0007] The information disclosed in this background section is intended only to enhance the understanding of the overall background of the invention and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that the information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The purpose of this invention is to provide an integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device, which efficiently utilizes solar energy, realizes a continuous and stable hydrogen production process, and reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, this invention provides an integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage-driven hydrogen production device, comprising: a hydrogen production reaction mechanism, an anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe, and a photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism. The anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe is laterally fixed within the hydrogen production reaction mechanism, thereby dividing the hydrogen production reaction mechanism into a condensation separation chamber, a hydrogen production reaction chamber, and a phase change energy storage chamber. The condensation separation chamber is located above the hydrogen production reaction chamber and the phase change energy storage chamber, and the phase change energy storage chamber is located to the right of the hydrogen production reaction chamber. The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism is fixed to one side of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism, used to absorb solar radiation, convert the solar radiation into heat energy, and transfer the heat energy to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe. The phase change energy storage chamber is used to store the heat energy.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism includes: a solar collector housing, a solar photovoltaic thermal panel, a copper foam graphene composite phase change material, and a heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe. The solar photovoltaic thermal panel is disposed outside the solar collector housing, with its front facing outwards. The copper foam graphene composite phase change material is in close contact with the back of the solar photovoltaic thermal panel. The heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe is disposed within the copper foam graphene composite phase change material, and one end of the heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe is connected to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe for providing the thermal energy to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the condensation separation chamber has a trapezoidal structure. The outer surface of the condensation separation chamber is coated with a radiation cooling film to provide a cold source for the condensation separation chamber during the day. The inner surface of the condensation separation chamber is provided with pine needle-shaped condensation columns. A TEC semiconductor cooling array is located in the middle of the condensation separation chamber, and the TEC semiconductor cooling array has a cold side and a hot side. The cold side is used to enhance condensation in the surrounding condensation area, and the hot side is equipped with a forced convection fan. The forced convection fan is used to force the hot air flow from top to bottom into the hydrogen production reaction chamber, forming a convective separation with the mixed gas in the hydrogen production reaction chamber. The mixed gas, driven by heat, enters the condensation area from both sides from bottom to top.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the hydrogen production reaction tank is provided from top to bottom with a polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali pipe, a three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module, and a collection tank, wherein the three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module has two honeycomb corrugated finned superconducting heat pipes. The bottom of the collection tank has a discharge port.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe comprises a heat dissipation section and a heat collection section. The heat dissipation section is located between the condensation separation chamber, the hydrogen production reaction chamber, and the phase change energy storage chamber, and extends into the phase change energy storage chamber. The heat collection section is located outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism and is connected to the heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe. The phase change energy storage chamber is filled with a copper foam / MOFs / graphene composite phase change material.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the honeycomb corrugated finned superconducting heat pipe comprises an evaporation section and an energy storage section. The evaporation section is located within the three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module, and the energy storage section is located within the phase change energy storage chamber. The evaporation section provides a heat source for the hydrogen production reaction chamber, thereby causing the mixed gas to evaporate. The energy storage section stores excess heat energy, which is then released into the hydrogen production reaction chamber at night to provide a heat source and promote the evaporation of the mixed gas. The evaporation section is fitted with tightly and vertically honeycomb corrugated fins. A high-enthalpy copper foam / MOFs / graphene composite phase change material is also tightly and vertically fitted onto the evaporation section.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device further includes: a NaOH solution tank and an external distillation water pipe. The NaOH solution tank is disposed outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism. The external distillation water pipe is disposed inside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism, located between the TEC semiconductor cooling array and the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe, with one end of the external distillation water pipe extending out of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism and connected to the NaOH solution tank. The external distillation water pipe has humic acid-modified acrylic acid water-absorbing porous material on both sides inside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device further includes a circulating water pump disposed outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism. One end of the circulating water pump is connected to the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) spray alkali solution pipe, and the other end of the circulating water pump is connected to the NaOH solution tank. The PTFE spray alkali solution pipe is provided with multiple spray nozzles.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage-driven hydrogen production device further includes a PID controller, which is electrically connected to the circulating water pump, the NaOH solution tank, the TEC semiconductor cooling unit, and the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism. The PID controller can control the start and stop of the circulating water pump, thereby adjusting the humidity inside the hydrogen production reaction chamber through the multiple spray nozzles. The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism provides power to the PID controller and the circulating water pump.

[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device further includes: multiple temperature sensors and multiple humidity sensors. The multiple temperature sensors are respectively disposed within the condensation separation chamber, the hydrogen production reaction chamber, and the phase change energy storage chamber, and are electrically connected to the PID controller. The multiple humidity sensors are respectively disposed within the condensation separation chamber and the hydrogen production reaction chamber, and are electrically connected to the PID controller.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device of the present invention includes components such as a hydrogen production reaction mechanism and an anti-gravity finned heat superconducting pipe. The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism absorbs solar radiation and converts it into heat energy, which is then transferred and stored in the phase change energy storage box to drive the hydrogen production reaction to proceed continuously and stably. It has the advantages of efficiently utilizing solar energy and achieving continuous and stable hydrogen production. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1This is a front view structural schematic diagram of an integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0022] 1- Hydrogen production reaction mechanism, 2- Anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe, 3- Condensation separation box, 4- Hydrogen production reaction box, 5- Phase change energy storage box, 6- Photovoltaic photothermal phase change energy storage mechanism, 7- Solar photovoltaic thermal panel, 8- Foamed copper graphene composite phase change material, 9- Heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe, 10- Radiation cooling film, 11- Condensation column, 12- TEC semiconductor cooling array, 13- Fan, 14- Polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali solution pipe, 15- Flexible silicon-based porous composite material module, 16- Collection tank, 17- Honeycomb corrugated finned superconducting heat pipe, 18- Discharge port, 19- NaOH solution tank, 20- External distilled water pipe, 21- Humic acid modified acrylic water-absorbing porous material, 22- Circulating water pump, 23- Spray nozzle, 24- PID controller, 25- Hydrogen discharge port. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but it should be understood that the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments.

[0024] Unless otherwise expressly stated, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprising" or its variations such as "including" or "comprises" shall be understood to include the stated elements or components without excluding other elements or other components.

[0025] In traditional silicon-based water electrolysis hydrogen production technology, a silicon dioxide passivation layer easily forms on the surface of silicon materials during the reaction process. This passivation layer blocks the contact interface between the reactants and the silicon substrate, resulting in incomplete hydrolysis. At the same time, an unreasonable design of the heat transfer path causes uneven temperature distribution in the reaction area, and the hydrogen production rate continues to decline over time. The system cannot maintain continuous and stable operation, which seriously restricts the hydrogen production efficiency and the potential for large-scale application. Key performance indicators such as reaction continuity and heat utilization rate are significantly affected.

[0026] For example, in a distributed hydrogen production system in a pastoral area, the system relies on solar energy to drive the silicon hydrolysis reaction. During actual operation, a dense passivation layer is formed on the surface of the silicon-based reaction module in the initial reaction stage, and the reaction rate drops sharply in a short period of time. Furthermore, insufficient thermal management leads to temperature fluctuations in the mixed gas in the condensation separation area, resulting in unstable condensation effects. In particular, the airflow generated by the forced convection fan 13 and the convective separation efficiency of the mixed gas decrease. As a result, the system needs to be frequently interrupted for surface regeneration treatment, which seriously affects the continuity of hydrogen production and fails to meet the stable demand of local hydrogen-using equipment.

[0027] If the above problems are not solved, silicon-based hydrogen production systems will be difficult to operate continuously for long periods, hydrogen production efficiency will continue to deteriorate, and system maintenance frequency will increase. In particular, low thermal energy utilization efficiency will lead to a decrease in the overall solar energy conversion rate, hindering the promotion and application of this technology in remote areas, preventing photovoltaic hydrogen production from realizing its clean and sustainable advantages, and limiting the commercialization process of distributed hydrogen production systems.

[0028] In this regard, such as Figure 1 As shown, this application proposes an integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device, including: a hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1, an anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2, and a photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6. The anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2 is laterally fixed within the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1, thereby dividing the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1 into a condensation separation chamber 3, a hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, and a phase change energy storage chamber 5. The condensation separation chamber 3 is located above the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4 and the phase change energy storage chamber 5, and the phase change energy storage chamber 5 is located to the right of the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4. The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6 is fixed to one side of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1, used to absorb solar radiation, convert the solar radiation into heat energy, and transfer the heat energy to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2. The phase change energy storage chamber 5 is used to store the heat energy. A hydrogen exhaust port 25 is provided at the top of the condensation separation chamber 3.

[0029] In one embodiment of the present invention, the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6 includes: a solar collector housing, a solar photovoltaic thermal panel 7, a copper foam graphene composite phase change material 8, and a heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe 9. The solar photovoltaic thermal panel 7 is disposed outside the solar collector housing, with its front facing outwards. The copper foam graphene composite phase change material 8 is in close contact with the back of the solar photovoltaic thermal panel 7. The heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe 9 is disposed within the copper foam graphene composite phase change material 8, and one end of the heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe 9 is connected to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2 for providing the thermal energy to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2.

[0030] In one embodiment of the present invention, the condensation separation chamber 3 has a trapezoidal structure. The outer surface of the condensation separation chamber 3 is coated with a radiation cooling film 10, thereby providing a cold source for the condensation separation chamber 3 during the day. The inner surface of the condensation separation chamber 3 is provided with pine needle-shaped condensation columns 11. A TEC semiconductor cooling array 12 is provided in the middle of the condensation separation chamber 3, and the TEC semiconductor cooling array 12 has a cold side and a hot side. The cold side is used to enhance condensation in the surrounding condensation area, and the hot side is provided with a forced convection fan 13. The forced convection fan 13 is used to force the hot air flow from top to bottom into the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, forming a convective separation with the mixed gas in the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4. The mixed gas, driven by heat, enters the condensation area from both sides from bottom to top.

[0031] In one embodiment of the present invention, the hydrogen production reaction tank 4 is provided with a polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali pipe 14, a three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module 15, and a collection tank 16 from top to bottom, and the three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module 15 has two honeycomb corrugated finned superheated conduits 17. The bottom of the collection tank 16 has a discharge port 18.

[0032] In one embodiment of the present invention, the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2 comprises a heat dissipation section and a heat collection section. The heat dissipation section is located between the condensation separation chamber 3, the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, and the phase change energy storage chamber 5, and extends into the phase change energy storage chamber 5. The heat collection section is located outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1 and is connected to the heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe 9. The phase change energy storage chamber 5 is filled with a copper foam / MOFs / graphene composite phase change material.

[0033] In one embodiment of the present invention, the honeycomb corrugated finned superconducting heat pipe 17 comprises an evaporation section and an energy storage section. The evaporation section is located within the three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module 15, and the energy storage section is located within the phase change energy storage tank 5. The evaporation section provides a heat source for the hydrogen production reaction tank 4, thereby causing the mixed gas to evaporate. The energy storage section stores excess heat energy, which is then released into the hydrogen production reaction tank 4 at night to provide a heat source and promote the evaporation of the mixed gas. The evaporation section is fitted with tightly and vertically honeycomb corrugated fins. A high-enthalpy copper foam / MOFs / graphene composite phase change material is also tightly and vertically fitted onto the evaporation section. The phase change temperature of this composite phase change material is selected to be below 60°C.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device further includes: a NaOH solution tank 19 and an external distillation water pipe 20. The NaOH solution tank 19 is disposed outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1. The external distillation water pipe 20 is disposed inside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1, located between the TEC semiconductor cooling array 12 and the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2, and one end of the external distillation water pipe 20 extends out of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1 and is connected to the NaOH solution tank 19. The external distillation water pipe 20 has humic acid-modified acrylic water-absorbing porous material 21 on both sides inside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1.

[0035] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device further includes a circulating water pump 22, which is disposed outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1. One end of the circulating water pump 22 is connected to the polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkaline solution pipe 14, and the other end of the circulating water pump 22 is connected to the NaOH solution tank 19. The polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkaline solution pipe 14 is provided with multiple spray nozzles 23.

[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device further includes a PID controller 24, which is electrically connected to the circulating water pump 22, the NaOH solution tank 19, the TEC semiconductor cooling unit 12, and the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6. The PID controller 24 can control the opening and closing of the circulating water pump 22, thereby adjusting the humidity inside the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4 through the multiple spray nozzles 23. The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6 provides power to the PID controller 24 and the circulating water pump 22.

[0037] In one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device further includes: multiple temperature sensors and multiple humidity sensors. The multiple temperature sensors are respectively disposed within the condensation separation chamber 3, the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, and the phase change energy storage chamber 5, and are electrically connected to the PID controller 24. The multiple humidity sensors are respectively disposed within the condensation separation chamber 3 and the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, and are electrically connected to the PID controller 24.

[0038] In practical applications, this invention provides an integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage-driven hydrogen production device. The device presents a compact box structure, aiming to achieve efficient cascade utilization of solar energy and stable all-weather hydrogen production through deep integration and coupling of functional components. Its core design concept lies in the effective capture, storage, and precise release of waste heat from photovoltaic power generation and the thermal energy converted from photovoltaic power, thereby driving a silicon-based water electrolysis hydrogen production reaction under mild conditions, while simultaneously solving the problems of efficient hydrogen separation and closed-loop management of internal moisture.

[0039] This device mainly comprises three core components: a hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1, an anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2, and a photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6. Please refer to... Figure 1 An anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2 is transversely inserted and fixed inside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1. This structural layout cleverly divides the inner cavity of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1 into three functionally distinct chambers: a condensation separation chamber 3 located above the device, a hydrogen production reaction chamber 4 located below, and a phase change energy storage chamber 5 located to the right of the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4. This integrated layout is not only compact in structure but also provides a physical path for the directional flow of heat between different functional areas.

[0040] The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6 is fixed to one side (e.g., the left side) of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1, serving as the energy capture front end of the entire device. Its function is to absorb solar radiation to the maximum extent and efficiently convert this radiant energy into heat energy. The converted heat energy is then transferred to the anti-gravity finned heat superconductor 2 via the tightly connected heterogeneous tube-type heat superconductor 9. The anti-gravity finned heat superconductor 2, as the main channel for heat transfer, not only distributes heat energy to the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4 to drive the reaction, but also transports and stores excess heat energy in the phase change energy storage chamber 5 filled with high-performance composite phase change material. This design effectively solves the problem of intermittent and unstable solar energy, ensuring that the latent heat energy stored in the phase change energy storage chamber 5 can be continuously released at night or on cloudy days, providing a stable heat source for the hydrogen production reaction.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6 specifically includes a solar collector housing, a solar photovoltaic thermal panel 7, a copper foam graphene composite phase change material 8, and a heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe 9. The solar photovoltaic thermal panel 7 is installed on the front of the collector housing, with its light-receiving surface directly facing the outside to receive solar radiation. This photovoltaic thermal panel achieves synergy between photovoltaic power generation and solar thermal utilization: its front photovoltaic modules convert part of the solar radiation into electrical energy, which can be used by auxiliary equipment such as the circulating water pump 22 and the PID controller 24 within the system; the heat generated by its back panel during power generation becomes the main heat source for the hydrogen production reaction.

[0042] To efficiently capture this heat, a layer of copper foam and graphene composite phase change material 8 with high thermal conductivity is attached to the back of the solar photovoltaic thermal panel 7. This material utilizes the three-dimensional interconnected framework of copper foam as a thermally conductive network and graphene as a thermally conductive reinforcing phase, significantly improving the thermal conductivity rate of traditional phase change materials. It can quickly absorb the dissipated heat from the photovoltaic backsheet and store it in the form of latent heat. The heterogeneous tube-type superheater duct 9 arranged inside this composite phase change material fully absorbs the heat in the phase change material in its evaporation section, causing the working fluid inside the tube to vaporize. The vapor then flows to the condensation section (i.e., the connection with the heat collection section of the anti-gravity finned superheater duct 2) to release latent heat, thereby efficiently transferring the heat to the interior of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism 1.

[0043] To address the challenge of efficiently separating the high-temperature mixed gas (hydrogen and water vapor) produced in the hydrogen production reaction, the condensation separation chamber 3 in this device employs a multi-stage enhanced condensation design combining active and passive methods. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the condensation separation chamber 3 has a trapezoidal structure. This configuration, which is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, or optimized according to airflow organization, is conducive to the uniform diffusion of airflow and the collection and guidance of condensate. A layer of radiative cooling film 10 is uniformly coated on the outer surface of the chamber. During the day, this film can radiate heat into outer space through atmospheric windows (8μm-13μm band), achieving self-cooling and providing a basic cold source for the interior of the chamber without additional energy consumption.

[0044] Inside the chamber, the inner surface is densely covered with pine needle-like condensation columns 11, which greatly increases the contact area between water vapor and the cold wall surface. Utilizing the nucleation effect of the surface micro-nano structures, it accelerates the formation and shedding of tiny droplets. As a core component for enhanced condensation, a TEC semiconductor cooling array 12 is installed in the middle of the condensation separation chamber 3. This cooling array has cold and hot sides. The cold side faces the condensation areas on both sides, actively cooling the wall surface temperature below the dew point, greatly enhancing the condensation efficiency in this area. A forced convection fan 13 is installed on the hot side. The operation of this fan 13 has a dual function: first, forced air cooling removes the heat generated on the hot side of the TEC cooling array, maintaining its cooling performance; second, and more ingeniously, the fan 13 propels the heat-carrying airflow from top to bottom into the upper space of the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, forming a counter-current convection with the humid, hot mixture generated by the reaction flowing upwards. This promotes preliminary heat exchange and pre-separation of water vapor in the mixture before it enters the condensation area, improving the overall separation efficiency.

[0045] The hydrogen production reaction chamber 4 is the site where the hydrolysis hydrogen production reaction takes place in this device. To optimize reaction kinetics and improve the hydrogen production rate and stability, the interior of the chamber adopts a top-down layered progressive structure. Specifically, a polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali solution pipe 14 is horizontally arranged at the top of the chamber, with multiple spray nozzles 23 on the pipe to evenly spray the alkali solution from the external NaOH solution tank 19 onto the reaction module below.

[0046] The reaction module consists of a three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module 15. This module is made of flexible silicon-based material through sintering or weaving, possessing high porosity and a large specific surface area, and is pre-loaded with a highly efficient hydrogen production catalyst. Its plug-and-play modular design facilitates replacement and maintenance. Two honeycomb corrugated finned superheated conduits 17 are longitudinally embedded in the reaction module, penetrating the module and extending into the phase change energy storage tank 5 on the right side. During the hydrogen production reaction, these conduits serve as a direct heat source, providing and maintaining a constant temperature of 52℃-56℃ for the exothermic or mildly endothermic reaction between silicon particles and the alkaline solution, ensuring the reaction proceeds stably within a safe and efficient kinetic range. The mixed gas produced by the reaction escapes upwards, while the reaction byproduct, sodium silicate solution, seeps downwards, eventually collecting in a collection tank 16 at the bottom of the tank, and is periodically discharged through an outlet 18 at the bottom of the collection tank 16.

[0047] As a key component connecting the heat capture end and the heat consumption end, the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2 consists of a heat collection section located outside the hydrogen production reaction unit 1 and an internal heat dissipation section. The heat collection section is tightly connected to the heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe 9 led out from the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage unit 6 by welding or flanges, achieving efficient heat transfer. The heat dissipation section is laid flat at the junction of the condensation separation box 3, the hydrogen production reaction box 4, and the phase change energy storage box 5, and extends deep into the phase change energy storage box 5. The surface of the heat dissipation section is integrated with high-density fins, increasing the heat exchange area with the surrounding medium (such as air, phase change material). To enhance corrosion resistance, the surface of the pipe is coated with a corrosion-resistant, high thermal conductivity boron nitride coating. The phase change energy storage box 5 is filled with an optimized copper foam / MOFs / graphene composite phase change material. The introduction of MOFs material further enriches the microporous structure and enhances the adsorption and shaping ability of the phase change matrix. At the same time, its metal-organic framework structure also contributes to the thermal conductivity, ensuring the rapid storage and release of thermal energy in the box.

[0048] The honeycomb corrugated finned superconducting heat pipe 17, located inside the hydrogen production reactor 4, is further subdivided into an evaporation section and an energy storage section. Its evaporation section is tightly embedded within a three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module 15, directly heating the reaction. To enhance heat transfer, a regular array of honeycomb corrugated fins (preferably made of alkali-resistant silicon carbide) is vertically embedded on the evaporation section. This structure utilizes its large specific surface area and turbulence effect to ensure uniform and rapid heat transfer to the reactants. Simultaneously, a high-enthalpy copper foam / MOFs / graphene composite phase change material is also tightly embedded in a specific region of the evaporation section. This material configuration gives the superconducting heat pipe itself a certain thermal buffering capacity, allowing it to autonomously adjust its exothermic power when there are minor fluctuations in the heat source, further stabilizing the reaction temperature. Its energy storage section is deeply inserted into the phase change energy storage box 5 on the right side. During the day when there is sufficient sunlight, it stores excess heat energy in the phase change material of the box. At night, it acts as a heat source extractor, transferring the heat stored in the box back to the evaporation section to maintain the continuous operation of the hydrogen production reaction.

[0049] This device employs a near-zero-emission closed-loop water management system. An external distillation water pipe 20 is installed in the low-temperature region between the TEC semiconductor cooling unit 12 and the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2. Water vapor condenses into liquid water in the condensation region and is rapidly adsorbed by humic acid-modified acrylic water-absorbing porous material 21 located on both sides of the region. This material has a high water absorption rate and excellent water retention performance, ensuring that condensate does not drip and affect the reaction zone. The saturated water is led out of the hydrogen production reaction unit 1 through the external distillation water pipe 20 and ultimately flows into the external NaOH solution tank 19. This replenishes the solvent water consumed in the reaction and lost through evaporation, maintaining a stable alkali concentration; furthermore, it allows for the connection of an external water source during system cold starts or when concentration adjustments are needed.

[0050] Meanwhile, a circulating water pump 22 and a PID controller 24 are installed outside the hydrogen production reaction unit 1. The inlet of the circulating water pump 22 is connected to the NaOH solution tank 19, and the outlet is connected to the polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali pipe 14. Under the command of the PID controller 24, the circulating water pump 22 starts as needed, pumping the alkali solution into the spray pipe. Through multiple spray nozzles 23, the solution is evenly covered to the reaction module below in the form of atomization or spraying, realizing the dynamic circulation and uniform distribution of the alkali solution.

[0051] To achieve unattended operation and optimal performance, this device is equipped with a comprehensive sensing and control system. Specifically, multiple temperature sensors are installed inside the condensation separation chamber 3, the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, and the phase change energy storage chamber 5; multiple humidity sensors are installed inside the condensation separation chamber 3 and the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4. These sensors are all electrically connected to the PID controller 24, transmitting real-time temperature and humidity data for each functional area. The PID controller 24 incorporates an intelligent control algorithm, which can precisely adjust the start / stop and speed of the circulating water pump 22 (controlling the spray volume, i.e., humidity), the cooling power of the TEC semiconductor cooling array 12 (controlling condensation efficiency), and other possible actuators based on preset process parameters (such as reaction zone temperature 52℃-56℃, humidity range, etc.) and real-time feedback data. Furthermore, the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules in the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6 is converted and directly provides power to the PID controller 24, the circulating water pump 22, and various sensors, enabling the entire device to operate independently and autonomously even off-grid.

[0052] Under daytime sunlight, the photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism 6 absorbs solar energy, storing electrical energy and transferring thermal energy to the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe 2. The thermal energy is divided into three paths: one path directly heats the hydrogen production reaction chamber 4, driving the silicon-based composite material and sprayed alkaline solution to react stably at 52℃-56℃ to generate a mixture of hydrogen and water vapor; another path maintains the temperature gradient of the condensation separation chamber 3, coordinating radiative cooling and semiconductor cooling to achieve efficient condensation; the remaining heat is stored in the phase change energy storage chamber 5. Under the synergistic effect of thermal drive and forced convection fan 13, the mixed gas enters the condensation zone, where water vapor condenses and is collected by the water-absorbing material and returned to the alkaline solution tank for recycling, while high-purity hydrogen is collected from the top outlet 18. At night or when there is no sunlight, the phase change energy storage chamber 5 releases latent heat, continuously providing thermal energy for the hydrogen production reaction through the superconducting heat pipe, maintaining the continuous and stable operation of the device.

[0053] The foregoing description of specific exemplary embodiments of the invention is for illustrative and explanatory purposes. These descriptions are not intended to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and it will be apparent that many changes and variations can be made in accordance with the foregoing teachings. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the specific principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to implement and utilize various different exemplary embodiments of the invention, as well as various different choices and variations. The scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device, characterized in that, include: Hydrogen production reaction unit; An anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe is horizontally fixed inside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism, thereby dividing the hydrogen production reaction mechanism into a condensation separation chamber, a hydrogen production reaction chamber, and a phase change energy storage chamber. The condensation separation chamber is located above the hydrogen production reaction chamber and the phase change energy storage chamber, and the phase change energy storage chamber is located to the right of the hydrogen production reaction chamber. A photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism is fixed to one side of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism to absorb solar radiation, convert the solar radiation into heat energy, and transfer the heat energy to the anti-gravity finned heat superconductor. The phase change energy storage box is used to store the thermal energy.

2. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism includes: Solar collector housing; A solar photovoltaic thermal panel is installed outside the solar collector housing, with the front of the solar photovoltaic thermal panel facing outwards; A copper foam graphene composite phase change material is attached tightly to the back of the solar photovoltaic thermal panel; A heterocentric tube-type thermal superconductor is disposed within the foamed copper graphene composite phase change material, and one end of the heterocentric tube-type thermal superconductor is connected to the anti-gravity finned thermal superconductor for providing the thermal energy to the anti-gravity finned thermal superconductor.

3. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The condensation separation chamber has a trapezoidal structure. The outer surface of the condensation separation chamber is coated with a radiation cooling film, which provides a cold source for the condensation separation chamber during the day. The inner surface of the condensation separation chamber is provided with pine needle-shaped condensation columns. The condensation separation chamber is provided with a TEC semiconductor refrigeration unit in the middle, and the TEC semiconductor refrigeration unit has a cold side and a hot side; The cold side is used to enhance condensation in the surrounding condensation area, and the hot side is equipped with a forced convection fan. The forced convection fan is used to push the hot air into the hydrogen production reaction chamber from top to bottom, forming a convective separation with the mixed gas in the hydrogen production reaction chamber, and the mixed gas enters the condensation area from both sides from bottom to top under the action of heat.

4. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The hydrogen production reaction chamber is equipped with a polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali pipe, a three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module and a collection tank from top to bottom, and the three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module has two honeycomb corrugated finned heat superconductors. The bottom of the collection tank has a discharge port.

5. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The anti-gravity finned heat superconductor consists of a heat dissipation section and a heat collection section; The heat dissipation section is located between the condensation separation box, the hydrogen production reaction box, and the phase change energy storage box, and extends into the phase change energy storage box. The heat collection section is located outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism and is connected to the heterogeneous tube-type superconducting heat pipe. The phase change energy storage box is filled with a composite phase change material of copper foam / MOFs / graphene.

6. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The honeycomb corrugated finned superconducting heat pipe consists of an evaporation section and an energy storage section. The evaporation section is located in the three-layer flexible silicon-based porous composite material module, and the energy storage section is located in the phase change energy storage box. The evaporation section is used to provide a heat source for the hydrogen production reaction chamber, thereby causing the mixed gas to evaporate; The energy storage section is used to store excess heat energy, which is then released into the hydrogen production reaction tank at night to provide a heat source and promote the evaporation of the mixed gas. The evaporation section is fitted with honeycomb corrugated fins that are tightly and vertically embedded. The evaporation section is densely and vertically embedded with a high-enthalpy copper foam / MOFs / graphene composite phase change material.

7. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: The NaOH solution tank is located outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism; An external distilled water pipe is installed inside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism and located between the TEC semiconductor cooling unit and the anti-gravity finned superconducting heat pipe. One end of the external distilled water pipe extends out of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism and is connected to the NaOH solution tank. The external distilled water pipes located on both sides of the hydrogen production reaction mechanism are respectively made of humic acid-modified acrylic water-absorbing porous material.

8. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a circulating water pump, which is located outside the hydrogen production reaction mechanism. One end of the circulating water pump is connected to the polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali pipe, and the other end of the circulating water pump is connected to the NaOH solution tank. The polytetrafluoroethylene spray alkali pipe is equipped with multiple spray nozzles.

9. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, It also includes a PID controller, which is electrically connected to the circulating water pump, the NaOH solution tank, the TEC semiconductor refrigeration unit and the photovoltaic photothermal phase change energy storage mechanism, respectively; The PID controller can control the start and stop of the circulating water pump, thereby adjusting the humidity inside the hydrogen production reaction tank through the multiple spray nozzles. The photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage mechanism is used to provide power to the PID controller and the circulating water pump.

10. The integrated photovoltaic-thermal phase change energy storage thermally driven hydrogen production device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: Multiple temperature sensors are respectively installed in the condensation separation chamber, the hydrogen production reaction chamber, and the phase change energy storage chamber, and each of the multiple temperature sensors is electrically connected to the PID controller; and Multiple humidity sensors are respectively installed in the condensation separation chamber and the hydrogen production reaction chamber, and the multiple humidity sensors are electrically connected to the PID controller.

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