Electrolytic bath and flow battery

Abstract

The utility model discloses an electrolytic bath and a flow battery. The electrolytic bath comprises an anode metal current collector layer, a first insulating layer, a second insulating layer and a cathode metal current collector layer which are sequentially stacked from bottom to top, wherein the first insulating layer is provided with an anode liquid accommodating cavity; the second insulating layer is provided with a cathode liquid accommodating cavity; the anolyte accommodating chamber penetrates through the upper surface and the lower surface of the first insulating layer, and a first annular sealing piece is embedded in the anolyte accommodating chamber; the catholyte accommodating chamber penetrates through the upper surface and the lower surface of the second insulating layer, and a second annular sealing piece is embedded in the catholyte accommodating chamber; the cathode metal current collector layer is provided with a cathode gas accommodating chamber, a first gas inlet channel and a first exhaust channel, and the cathode gas accommodating chamber is a blind groove; and the anolyte accommodating chamber, the catholyte accommodating chamber and the cathode gas accommodating chamber are communicated with one another. The distance between the cathode and the anode of the flow battery using the electrolytic bath is reduced, so that the internal resistance is reduced, and the overall structure is also reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of battery technology, and in particular to an electrolytic cell and a flow battery. Background Technology

[0002] A flow battery is an electrochemical energy storage battery that can carry out electrochemical reactions in a liquid electrolyte. In a flow battery, the electrolytes for the positive and negative electrodes are separate and circulate independently, and it has the characteristics of high capacity and wide range of applications.

[0003] Currently, in order to prevent leakage of the anolyte and catholyte during the application of flow batteries, sealing layers are respectively provided on the insulating layers containing the catholyte and the insulating layers containing the anolyte in the electrolytic cell. The upper surface of the sealing layer containing the catholyte is in contact with the lower surface of the insulating layer containing the catholyte, and the upper surface of the sealing layer containing the anolyte is in contact with the lower surface of the insulating layer containing the anolyte. This sealing method of the catholyte and anolyte makes the distance between the anode and cathode of the flow battery greater, thereby increasing the internal resistance of the flow battery and making the overall structure larger.

[0004] Therefore, existing technologies still need to be improved and developed. Utility Model Content

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this utility model is to provide an electrolytic cell and a flow battery to solve the problem that the sealing method of the cathode liquid and the anode liquid in the prior art flow battery makes the distance between the anode and the cathode of the flow battery too far, thereby increasing the internal resistance of the flow battery and making the overall structure large.

[0006] This utility model provides an electrolytic cell for use in flow batteries. The electrolytic cell includes: an anode metal current collector layer, a first insulating layer with an anode liquid receiving chamber, a second insulating layer with a cathode liquid receiving chamber, and a cathode metal current collector layer, which are stacked sequentially from bottom to top.

[0007] The anolyte containment chamber extends through the upper and lower surfaces of the first insulating layer, and a first annular sealing element for sealing the anolyte in the anolyte containment chamber is embedded therein.

[0008] The cathode liquid receiving chamber penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the second insulating layer, and a second annular sealing element for sealing the cathode liquid in the cathode liquid receiving chamber is embedded in the cathode liquid receiving chamber.

[0009] The cathode metal current collector layer is provided with a cathode gas receiving chamber, a first air inlet channel and a first exhaust channel. The cathode gas receiving chamber is a blind slot. The first air inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the cathode gas receiving chamber and one side wall of the cathode metal current collector layer. The first exhaust channel penetrates the other side wall of the cathode gas receiving chamber and the other side wall of the cathode metal current collector layer.

[0010] The anolyte chamber, the catholyte chamber, and the cathode gas chamber are connected.

[0011] In a further embodiment of this invention, a first liquid inlet channel and a first liquid outlet channel are provided on the first insulating layer. The first liquid inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the anolyte containing chamber and one side wall of the first insulating layer, and the first liquid outlet channel penetrates the other side wall of the anolyte containing chamber and the other side wall of the first insulating layer.

[0012] The inlet of the first liquid inlet channel and the outlet of the first liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the first insulating layer, and the outlet of the first liquid inlet channel and the inlet of the first liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the anolyte receiving chamber.

[0013] The distance between the central axis of the first liquid inlet channel and the side surface of the first insulating layer is greater than or less than the distance between the central axis of the first liquid outlet channel and the side surface of the first insulating layer.

[0014] In a further embodiment of this invention, a second liquid inlet channel and a second liquid outlet channel are provided on the second insulating layer. The second liquid inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber and one side wall of the second insulating layer, and the second liquid outlet channel penetrates the other side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber and the other side wall of the second insulating layer.

[0015] The inlet of the second liquid inlet channel and the outlet of the second liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the second insulating layer, and the outlet of the second liquid inlet channel and the inlet of the second liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the cathode liquid receiving chamber.

[0016] The distance between the central axis of the second liquid inlet channel and the side surface of the second insulating layer is greater than or less than the distance between the central axis of the second liquid outlet channel and the side surface of the second insulating layer.

[0017] In a further embodiment of this invention, a first channel for connecting the cathode liquid and the reference electrode is provided on the second insulating layer. The first channel penetrates the side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber and the side wall of the second insulating layer.

[0018] In a further embodiment of this invention, the anode metal current collector layer is provided with an anode gas receiving chamber, a second air inlet channel, and a second exhaust channel, so that the anode metal current collector layer serves as an anode metal current collector layer, the anode gas receiving chamber is a blind slot, the second air inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the anode gas receiving chamber and one side wall of the anode metal current collector layer, and the second exhaust channel penetrates the other side wall of the anode gas receiving chamber and the other side wall of the anode metal current collector layer.

[0019] In a further embodiment of this invention, the anolyte receiving chamber is a stepped chamber, with the larger end of the inner contour of the anolyte receiving chamber closer to the anode metal current collector layer.

[0020] The cathode liquid containing chamber is a stepped chamber, with the smaller inner contour end of the cathode liquid containing chamber close to the anode metal current collector layer;

[0021] The outline of the projection of the anolyte containing chamber onto the second insulating layer coincides with the outline of the projection of the catholyte containing chamber onto the second insulating layer.

[0022] The outline of the projection of the cathode gas containing chamber onto the second insulating layer coincides with the outline of the projection of the smaller end of the inner outline of the cathode liquid containing chamber onto the second insulating layer, or the outline of the projection of the cathode gas containing chamber onto the second insulating layer is within the outline of the projection of the smaller end of the inner outline of the cathode liquid containing chamber onto the second insulating layer.

[0023] In a further embodiment of this invention, the electrolytic cell further includes a first support layer, which is made of a transparent material and is stacked on the cathode metal current collector layer.

[0024] In a further embodiment of this invention, the electrolytic cell further includes a first support layer, which is stacked on the cathode metal current collector layer. A viewing window is provided on the first support layer, and a transparent layer for encapsulating the viewing window is installed inside the viewing window. The cathode gas containing chamber penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the cathode metal current collector layer, and the projection of the cathode gas containing chamber on the first support layer is located within the outline of the viewing window.

[0025] In a further embodiment of this invention, the electrolytic cell further includes: a first sealing layer, a second sealing layer, a third sealing layer, and a fourth sealing layer;

[0026] The first sealing layer is disposed between the anode metal current collector layer and the first insulating layer;

[0027] The second sealing layer is disposed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer. A first through hole is formed on the second sealing layer, penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the second sealing layer. The projection of the anolyte receiving chamber onto the second sealing layer is located within the outline of the first through hole.

[0028] The third sealing layer is disposed between the second insulating layer and the cathode metal current collector layer, and a second through hole is formed on the third sealing layer, penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the third sealing layer;

[0029] The fourth sealing layer is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer and the first support layer, and a third through hole is formed on the fourth sealing layer, penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the fourth sealing layer;

[0030] The projections of the second through hole onto the second sealing layer and the projections of the third through hole onto the second sealing layer coincide with the outline of the first through hole, respectively, and the projection of the viewing window onto the second sealing layer is located within the outline of the first through hole.

[0031] This utility model also provides a flow battery, which includes: a reference electrode, an ion exchange membrane, a gas diffusion layer electrode, and an electrolytic cell as described above;

[0032] The reference electrode is in contact with the cathodic liquid in the cathodic liquid containing chamber;

[0033] The ion exchange membrane is disposed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer, and the ion exchange membrane covers the opening of the anolyte receiving chamber near the second insulating layer and the opening of the catholyte receiving chamber near the first insulating layer;

[0034] The gas diffusion layer electrode is disposed between the metal current collector layer and the second insulating layer, and the gas diffusion layer electrode covers the opening of the cathode liquid receiving chamber near the metal current collector layer and the opening of the cathode gas receiving chamber near the second insulating layer.

[0035] This utility model provides an electrolytic cell and a flow battery. The electrolytic cell includes, from bottom to top, an anode metal current collector layer, a first insulating layer with an anolyte containing a cavity, a second insulating layer with a cathode containing a cavity, and a metal current collector layer. The anolyte containing cavity penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the first insulating layer, and a first annular seal is embedded in the anolyte containing cavity to seal the anolyte within it. The cathode containing cavity penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the second insulating layer, and a second annular seal is embedded in the cathode containing cavity to seal the cathode liquid within it. The cathode metal current collector layer has a cathode gas containing cavity, a first inlet channel, and a first exhaust channel. The cathode gas containing cavity is a blind cavity. The first inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the cathode gas containing cavity and one side wall of the metal current collector layer, and the first exhaust channel penetrates the other side wall of the cathode gas containing cavity and the other side wall of the metal current collector layer. The anolyte containing cavity, the cathode liquid containing cavity, and the cathode gas containing cavity are interconnected. In this utility model, since the first annular sealing element is embedded in the first insulating layer when sealing the anolyte chamber, and the second annular sealing element is embedded in the second insulating layer when sealing the catholyte chamber, the distance between the cathode and anode of the flow battery using this electrolytic cell is reduced, thereby reducing the internal resistance and the overall structure is also reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model 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 utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the electrolytic cell of this utility model.

[0038] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell of this utility model.

[0039] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of an electrolytic cell in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 This is a front view of an electrolytic cell in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 5 This is a top view of an electrolytic cell in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6 This is a left view of an electrolytic cell in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 7 This is a right view of an electrolytic cell in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 8 This is a front sectional view of an electrolytic cell in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the first sealing layer in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the first insulating layer with the first annular seal installed in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the second sealing layer in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the second insulating layer with the second annular seal installed in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the third sealing layer in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the cathode metal current collector layer in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the fourth sealing layer in one embodiment of this utility model.

[0052] Figure 16 This is a front sectional view of an electrolytic cell with a transparent layer installed in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of a first support layer with a transparent layer installed in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] The markings in the attached diagram are as follows: 10, Anode metal current collector layer; 101, Second air inlet channel; 102, Second exhaust channel; 11, First sealing layer; 111, Fourth through hole; 12, First insulating layer; 121, First liquid inlet channel; 122, First liquid outlet channel; 123, Anode liquid receiving chamber; 124, First annular seal; 13, Second sealing layer; 131, First through hole; 14, Second insulating layer; 141, Second liquid inlet channel; 142, Second liquid outlet channel; 143, Cathode liquid receiving chamber; 144, Second annular seal; 145, First channel; 15, Third sealing layer; 151, Second through hole; 16, Cathode metal current collector layer; 161, First air inlet channel; 162, First exhaust channel; 163, Cathode gas receiving chamber; 17, Fourth sealing layer; 171, Third through hole; 18, First support layer; 181, Viewing window; 182, Transparent layer. Detailed Implementation

[0055] To provide a clearer understanding of the technical features, objectives, and effects of this utility model, the specific embodiments of this utility model are now described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, it should be understood that the orientations or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "front," "rear," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "longitudinal," "horizontal," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "head," and "tail" are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are constructed and operated in a specific orientation. They are only for the convenience of describing this technical solution and do not indicate that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0056] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 The image shows an electrolyzer used in a flow battery, which may include an ion exchange membrane, a reference electrode, and a gas diffusion layer electrode.

[0057] The electrolytic cell may include an anode metal current collector layer 10, a first insulating layer 12 with an anode liquid containing a chamber 123, a second insulating layer 14 with a cathode liquid containing a chamber 143, and a cathode metal current collector layer 16, which are stacked sequentially from bottom to top.

[0058] Among them, such as Figure 2 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 14As shown, the anolyte receiving chamber 123 penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the first insulating layer 12, and a first annular seal 124 for sealing the anolyte in the anolyte receiving chamber 123 is embedded therein; the catholyte receiving chamber 143 penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the second insulating layer 14, and a second annular seal 144 for sealing the catholyte in the catholyte receiving chamber 143 is embedded therein; a cathode gas is provided on the cathode metal current collector layer 16. The cathode gas receiving chamber 163, the first air intake channel 161, and the first exhaust channel 162 are included. The cathode gas receiving chamber 163 is a blind slot. The first air intake channel 161 penetrates one side wall of the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 and one side wall of the cathode metal current collector layer 16. The first exhaust channel 162 penetrates the other side wall of the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 and the other side wall of the cathode metal current collector layer 16. The anolyte receiving chamber 123, the cathodelyte receiving chamber 143, and the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 are connected.

[0059] Specifically, the anode metal current collector layer 10, the first insulating layer 12, the second insulating layer 14, and the cathode metal current collector layer 16 can be square layer structures with the same outer contour, wherein the anode liquid receiving chamber 123, the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143, and the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 are all square chambers.

[0060] Furthermore, the first annular seal 124 is a square annular sealing gasket that matches the square anolyte receiving chamber 123. Similarly, the second annular seal 144 can be a square annular sealing gasket that matches the square catholyte receiving chamber 143. When the first annular seal 124 is provided, it is embedded in the opening at one end of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 near the anode metal current collector layer 10, so as to form a seal at the opening at one end of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 near the anode metal current collector layer 10. That is, the anolyte in the anolyte receiving chamber 123 will not flow out from between the first insulating layer 12 and the anode metal current collector layer 10. The first annular seal 124 can be, but is not limited to, a seal made of silicone. When the second annular seal 144 is provided, it is embedded in the opening at one end of the cathodic liquid receiving chamber 143 near the cathode metal current collector layer 16, so as to form a seal at the opening at one end of the cathodic liquid receiving chamber 143 near the cathode metal current collector layer 16, that is, the cathodic liquid in the cathodic liquid receiving chamber 143 will not flow out from between the first insulating layer 12 and the cathode metal current collector layer 16. The second annular seal 144 may also be, but is not limited to, a seal made of silicone.

[0061] It should be noted that the first annular seal 124 is a square annular gasket that matches the square anolyte receiving chamber 123. This means that when the square annular gasket is embedded in the anolyte receiving chamber 123, it can seal the opening of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 near the anode metal current collector layer 10. The second annular seal 144 can be a square annular gasket that matches the square catholyte receiving chamber 143. This means that when the square annular gasket is embedded in the catholyte receiving chamber 143, it can seal the opening of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 near the cathode metal current collector layer 16.

[0062] In practical applications, an ion exchange membrane is disposed between the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14, and a gas diffusion layer electrode is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer 16 and the second insulating layer 14. The cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 is filled with cathode liquid, and the anolyte receiving chamber 123 is filled with anolyte. The cathode liquid is connected to a reference electrode. Air is then introduced through the first air inlet channel 161, and after reacting in the cathode gas receiving chamber 163, the air is discharged through the first exhaust channel 162. When filling the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 with cathode liquid, solutions such as potassium hydroxide solution, sulfuric acid solution, and hydrochloric acid solution can be used. Similarly, when filling the anolyte receiving chamber 123 with anolyte, solutions such as potassium hydroxide solution, sulfuric acid solution, and hydrochloric acid solution can also be used. When introducing gas into the cathode gas receiving chamber 163, gases such as oxygen and nitric oxide can be introduced. When the reference electrode is in contact with the catholyte, a first channel 145 can be formed in the second insulating layer 14. One end of the first channel 145 penetrates one sidewall of the second insulating layer 14, and the other end of the first channel 145 penetrates one sidewall of the catholyte containing chamber 143, allowing the reference electrode to be in contact with the catholyte through the first channel 145. When an ion exchange membrane is installed, the ion exchange membrane covers the opening of the anolyte containing chamber 123 near the second insulating layer 14, and also covers the opening of the catholyte containing chamber 143 near the first insulating layer 12. When a gas diffusion layer electrode is installed, the gas diffusion layer electrode covers the opening of the catholyte containing chamber 143 near the cathode metal current collector layer 16, and also covers the opening of the cathode gas containing chamber 163 near the second insulating layer 14.

[0063] In this embodiment, since the first annular seal 124 is embedded in the first insulating layer 12 when sealing the anolyte chamber 123, and the second annular seal 144 is embedded in the second insulating layer 14 when sealing the catholyte chamber 143, the distance between the cathode and anode of the flow battery using this electrolyzer is reduced, thereby reducing the internal resistance and the overall structure is also reduced.

[0064] In this embodiment, both the first annular seal 124 and the second annular seal 144 can be annular sealing gaskets.

[0065] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown, the first insulating layer 12 is also provided with a first liquid inlet channel 121 and a first liquid outlet channel 122. The first liquid inlet channel 121 penetrates one side wall of the anolyte containing chamber 123 and one side wall of the first insulating layer 12, and the first liquid outlet channel 122 penetrates the other side wall of the anolyte containing chamber 123 and the other side wall of the first insulating layer 12. The inlet of the first liquid inlet channel 121 and the outlet of the first liquid outlet channel 122 are located on two opposite side walls of the first insulating layer 12, and the outlet of the first liquid inlet channel 121 and the inlet of the first liquid outlet channel 122 are located on two opposite side walls of the anolyte containing chamber 123. The distance between the central axis of the first liquid inlet channel 121 and the side surface of the first insulating layer 12 is greater than or less than the distance between the central axis of the first liquid outlet channel 122 and the side surface of the first insulating layer 12.

[0066] Specifically, when the first liquid inlet channel 121 is opened, the embedding position of the first annular seal 124 needs to be considered, that is, it needs to be ensured that the liquid outlet of the first liquid inlet channel 121 is not blocked by the first annular seal 124. Similarly, when the first liquid outlet channel 122 is opened, the embedding position of the first annular seal 124 also needs to be considered, that is, it needs to be ensured that the liquid inlet of the first liquid outlet channel 122 is not blocked by the first annular seal 124.

[0067] In order to avoid anolyte convection, the first liquid inlet channel 121 and the first liquid outlet channel 122 are staggered when they are opened. That is, the distance between the central axis of the first liquid inlet channel 121 and the side surface of the first insulating layer 12 is greater than or less than the distance between the central axis of the first liquid outlet channel 122 and the side surface of the first insulating layer 12. The first liquid inlet channel 121 and the first liquid outlet channel 122 are two channels with the same inner contour.

[0068] In this embodiment, when the anolyte needs to be replaced, the anolyte in the anolyte receiving chamber 123 can be discharged through the first outlet channel 122, and then new anolyte can be filled into the anolyte receiving chamber 123 through the first inlet channel 121, so that the anolyte is in a state of real-time renewal. Since the first inlet channel 121 and the first outlet channel 122 are staggered, the connection pipeline is convenient, and at the same time, it avoids congestion and displacement.

[0069] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 12 As shown, a second liquid inlet channel 141 and a second liquid outlet channel 142 are also provided on the second insulating layer 14. The second liquid inlet channel 141 penetrates one side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 and one side wall of the second insulating layer 14, and the second liquid outlet channel 142 penetrates the other side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 and the other side wall of the second insulating layer 14. The inlet of the second liquid inlet channel 141 and the outlet of the second liquid outlet channel 142 are located on two opposite side walls of the second insulating layer 14, and the outlet of the second liquid inlet channel 141 and the inlet of the second liquid outlet channel 142 are located on two opposite side walls of the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143. The distance between the central axis of the second liquid inlet channel 141 and the side surface of the second insulating layer 14 is greater than or less than the distance between the central axis of the second liquid outlet channel 142 and the side surface of the second insulating layer 14. When opening the second liquid inlet channel 141 and the second liquid outlet channel 142, the specific method of opening the first liquid inlet channel 121 and the first liquid outlet channel 122 can be referred to. The second liquid inlet channel 141 and the second liquid outlet channel 142 are opened on the second insulating layer 14 in the same way that the first liquid inlet channel 121 and the first liquid outlet channel 122 are opened on the first insulating layer 12. The specific process will not be described in detail here.

[0070] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, when the first channel 145 is opened, one end of the first channel 145 can penetrate through the side wall of the second insulating layer 14. This side wall is adjacent to the side wall where the liquid inlet of the first liquid inlet channel 121 on the second insulating layer 14 is located. The other end of the first channel 145 penetrates through the side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143.

[0071] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 16 As shown, the anode metal current collector layer 10 is provided with an anode gas receiving chamber 103, a second air inlet channel 101, and a second exhaust channel 102, so that the anode metal current collector layer 10 serves as an anode metal current collector layer, the anode gas receiving chamber 103 is a blind slot, the second air inlet channel 101 penetrates one side wall of the anode gas receiving chamber 103 and one side wall of the anode metal current collector layer 10, and the second exhaust channel 102 penetrates the other side wall of the anode gas receiving chamber 103 and the other side wall of the anode metal current collector layer 10. The anode gas receiving chamber 103 is connected to the anode liquid receiving chamber.

[0072] Specifically, the anode gas containing chamber 103 is formed on the surface of the anode metal current collector layer 10 near the first insulating layer 12. The inlet of the second air inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the anode metal current collector layer 10. The second air inlet channel 101 penetrates the side wall of the anode gas containing chamber 103 opposite to the side wall through which the inlet of the second air inlet channel 101 penetrates. The inlet of the second exhaust channel 102 penetrates the side wall of the anode gas containing chamber 103 opposite to the side wall through which the outlet of the second air inlet channel 101 penetrates. The outlet of the second exhaust channel 102 penetrates the side wall of the first insulating layer 12 opposite to the side wall through which the outlet of the second exhaust channel 102 penetrates.

[0073] In some flow batteries, both cathode and anode gases need to be supplied. In this case, the electrolytic cell can simultaneously supply both cathode and anode gases. In other flow batteries, only cathode gas needs to be supplied. In this case, the electrode tank for the flow battery can only supply cathode gas to the cathode gas receiving chamber 163, and the anode gas receiving chamber 103 is not supplied with gas. Of course, if the layer containing the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 (cathode metal current collector layer) cannot properly supply cathode gas (e.g., the first air inlet channel 161 is blocked), the layer containing the anode gas receiving chamber 103 (anode metal current collector layer 10) can be used to replace the layer containing the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 (cathode metal current collector layer 16).

[0074] It is evident that this electrolytic cell has a wide range of applications, and the anode metal current collector layer 10 and the cathode metal current collector layer 16 can be interchanged, thereby reducing application costs.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 , Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, the anolyte receiving chamber 123 can be, but is not limited to, a stepped chamber. The end of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 with a larger inner contour is close to the anode metal current collector layer 10. The first annular seal 124 is embedded in the end of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 near the anode metal current collector layer 10. The catholyte receiving chamber 143 can be, but is not limited to, a stepped chamber. The end of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 with a smaller inner contour is close to the first insulating layer 12. The second annular seal 144 is embedded in the end of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 near the first insulating layer 12. The outline of the projection of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 onto the second insulating layer 14 coincides with the outline of the projection of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 onto the second insulating layer 14.

[0076] Specifically, the anolyte receiving chamber 123 is a square stepped chamber, and the catholyte receiving chamber 143 is also a square stepped chamber with the same dimensions as the anolyte receiving chamber 123. The central axis of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 coincides with the central axis of the catholyte receiving chamber 143, that is, the outline of the projection of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 on the second insulating layer 14 coincides with the outline of the projection of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 on the second insulating layer 14.

[0077] Specifically, when the first annular seal 124 is installed, it is installed at the end of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 near the anode metal current collector layer 10; that is, a square annular seal can be installed at the end of the square stepped chamber (anolyte receiving chamber 123) with the larger outline. When the second annular seal 144 is installed, it is installed at the end of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 near the cathode metal current collector layer 16; that is, a square annular seal can be installed at the end of the square stepped chamber (catholyte receiving chamber 143) with the larger outline.

[0078] In this embodiment, the stepped chamber design reduces the possibility of liquid flowing out from the side of the seal during sealing, resulting in a better sealing effect.

[0079] In this embodiment, the outline of the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 projected onto the second insulating layer 14 can coincide with the outline of the projection of the smaller inner outline of the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 onto the second insulating layer 14, or it can lie within the outline of the projection of the smaller inner outline of the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 onto the second insulating layer 14. Therefore, during the reaction, the gas in the cathode gas receiving chamber 163 can react more fully with the cathode liquid in the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143, improving gas utilization.

[0080] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the electrolytic cell also includes a first support layer 18, which is made of a transparent material and is stacked on the cathode metal current collector layer 16.

[0081] Specifically, the first support layer 18 can be made of a transparent acrylic sheet. For example, Figure 7 , Figure 8As shown, a first sealing layer 11 is provided between the anode metal current collector layer 10 and the first insulating layer 12 of the electrolytic cell. A second sealing layer 13 is provided between the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14. A first through hole 131 is formed on the second sealing layer 13, penetrating its upper and lower surfaces. The projection of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 onto the second sealing layer 13 lies within the outline of the first through hole 131. A third sealing layer 15 is provided between the second insulating layer 14 and the cathode metal current collector layer 16. A second through hole 151 is formed on the third sealing layer 15, penetrating its upper and lower surfaces. The orthographic projection of the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 onto the third sealing layer 15 lies within the second through hole 151. A fourth sealing layer 17 is provided between the cathode metal current collector layer 16 and the first support layer 18. A third through hole 171 is formed on the fourth sealing layer 17, penetrating its upper and lower surfaces. The projections of the second through hole 151 onto the second sealing layer 13 and the projections of the third through hole 171 onto the second sealing layer 13 coincide with the outline of the first through hole 131, respectively.

[0082] In this embodiment, the internal reaction of the flow battery using the electrolyzer can be observed more comprehensively through the first support layer 18.

[0083] In this embodiment, the first sealing layer 11, the second sealing layer 13, the third sealing layer 15, and the fourth sealing layer 17 can be sealing gaskets made of silicone or polytetrafluoroethylene. Since the projection of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 onto the second sealing layer 13 is located within the outline of the first through hole 131, and the orthogonal projection of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 onto the third sealing layer 15 is located within the second through hole 151, and the outlines of the projections of the second through hole 151 onto the second sealing layer 13 and the third through hole 171 onto the second sealing layer 13 coincide with the outline of the first through hole 131, the arrangement of the first sealing layer 11, the second sealing layer 13, the third sealing layer 15, and the fourth sealing layer 17 will not affect the observation of the surface state of the gas diffusion electrode through the first support layer 18.

[0084] In some embodiments, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the electrolytic cell also includes a first support layer 18, on which a viewing window 181 is provided. A transparent layer 182 for encapsulating the viewing window 181 is installed inside the viewing window 181. The cathode gas containing chamber 163 penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the cathode metal current collector layer 16. The projection of the cathode gas containing chamber 163 on the first support layer 18 is located within the outline of the viewing window 181.

[0085] Specifically, the viewing window 181 can be a square window, and a transparent layer 182, which can be a glass transparent layer, is installed inside the square window. Since the projection of the cathode gas containing chamber 163 on the first support layer 18 is located within the outline of the viewing window 181, the surface state of the gas diffusion electrode can be observed in real time through the viewing window 181. This allows for timely handling of conditions that disrupt the stability of the gas-liquid-solid three-phase interface, such as salt precipitation and water seepage. It also allows for timely observation and handling of issues such as decreased catalytic performance due to changes in the properties of the catalyst itself on the gas diffusion electrode, which affect the reaction rate.

[0086] Of course, a viewing window 181 can also be opened on the anode metal current collector layer 10, so that the internal reaction of the flow cell using the electrolyzer can be observed more comprehensively through the two viewing windows 181.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 15 As shown, the electrolytic cell also includes a first sealing layer 11, a second sealing layer 13, a third sealing layer 15, and a fourth sealing layer 17; the first sealing layer 11 is disposed between the anode metal current collector layer 10 and the first insulating layer 12; the second sealing layer 13 is disposed between the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14, and a first through hole 131 penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the second sealing layer 13 is provided on the second sealing layer 13, and the projection of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 onto the second sealing layer 13 is located within the outline of the first through hole 131; the third sealing layer 15 is disposed between the second insulating layer 14 and the cathode metal current collector layer 16. The third sealing layer 15 has a second through hole 151 that penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the third sealing layer 15; the fourth sealing layer 17 is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer 16 and the first support layer 18, and the fourth sealing layer 17 has a third through hole 171 that penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the fourth sealing layer 17; wherein, the outlines of the projection of the second through hole 151 on the second sealing layer 13 and the projection of the third through hole 171 on the second sealing layer 13 coincide with the outline of the first through hole 131, and the outline of the projection of the viewing window 181 on the second sealing layer 13 is located within the outline of the first through hole 131.

[0088] Specifically, the first sealing layer 11, the second sealing layer 13, the third sealing layer 15, and the fourth sealing layer 17 can be sealing gaskets made of silicone or polytetrafluoroethylene. Since the projection of the anolyte containing chamber 123 onto the second sealing layer 13 is located within the outline of the first through hole 131, and the projections of the second through hole 151 and the third through hole 171 onto the second sealing layer 13 coincide with the outline of the first through hole 131, and the projection of the viewing window 181 onto the second sealing layer 13 is located within the outline of the first through hole 131, the first sealing layer 11, the second sealing layer 13, the third sealing layer 15, and the fourth sealing layer 17 will not affect the normal reaction of the flow battery using the electrolyzer, nor will they affect the observation of the surface state of the gas diffusion electrode through the viewing window 181.

[0089] Furthermore, when setting the ion exchange membrane, the ion exchange membrane is placed between the second sealing layer 13 and the first insulating layer 12 or the second insulating layer 14, so that the second sealing layer 13 protects the ion exchange membrane while sealing (preventing the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14 from damaging the ion exchange membrane). When setting the gas diffusion layer electrode, the gas diffusion layer electrode is placed in the second through hole 151 of the third sealing layer 15, so that the third sealing layer 15 protects the gas diffusion electrode while sealing (preventing the second insulating layer 14 and the cathode metal current collector layer 16 from damaging the gas diffusion layer electrode).

[0090] In this embodiment, a fourth through hole 111 penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the first sealing layer 11 can also be opened on the first sealing layer 11. When a viewing window 181 is opened on the anode metal current collector layer 10, the reaction of the flow battery can also be observed through the viewing window 181 opened on the anode metal current collector layer 10.

[0091] In some embodiments, the cathode metal current collector layer 16 may be made of materials such as titanium, stainless steel, or gold-plated copper.

[0092] In one specific embodiment, the cathode metal current collector layer 16 is a titanium current collector layer. The extremely high acid and alkali corrosion resistance of the titanium current collector layer ensures the stability of the cathode and anode of the flow battery using this electrolyzer.

[0093] In some embodiments, the anode metal current collector layer 10 may be a cathode metal current collector layer 16 made of materials such as titanium, stainless steel, or gold-plated copper.

[0094] In one specific embodiment, the cathode metal current collector layer 16 is a titanium current collector layer. The extremely high acid and alkali corrosion resistance of the titanium current collector layer ensures the stability of the cathode and anode of the flow battery using this electrolyzer.

[0095] In some embodiments, the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14 may be polytetrafluoroethylene insulating layers, acrylic insulating layers, or other plastic insulating layers.

[0096] In some specific embodiments, the first insulating layer 12 is a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) insulating layer, and the second insulating layer 14 is a PTFE insulating layer. The PTFE insulating layer possesses excellent acid and alkali resistance and toughness, increasing the durability of the flow tank itself.

[0097] In some embodiments, the present invention also provides a flow battery, which includes a reference electrode, an ion exchange membrane, a gas diffusion layer electrode, and an electrolytic cell as described above; the reference electrode is connected to the catholyte in the catholyte containment chamber 143 via a first channel 145; the ion exchange membrane is disposed between the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14, and covers the opening of the anolyte containment chamber near the second insulating layer 14 and the opening of the catholyte containment chamber 143 near the first insulating layer 12; the gas diffusion layer electrode is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer 16 and the second insulating layer 14, and covers the opening of the catholyte containment chamber 143 near the cathode metal current collector layer 16 and the opening of the cathode gas containment chamber 163 near the second insulating layer 14.

[0098] Specifically, the anode metal current collector layer 10, the first insulating layer 12, the second insulating layer 14, the cathode metal current collector layer 16, and the first support layer 18 can be square layer structures with the same outer contour, wherein the anode liquid receiving chamber 123, the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143, and the cathode gas receiving chamber are all square chambers.

[0099] Furthermore, the first annular seal 124 is a square annular gasket that matches the square anolyte receiving chamber 123. Similarly, the second annular seal 144 can be a square annular gasket that matches the square catholyte receiving chamber 143. When the first annular seal 124 is provided, it is embedded in the opening of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 near the second insulating layer 14 to form a seal at the opening of the anolyte receiving chamber 123 near the second insulating layer 14. The first annular seal 124 can be, but is not limited to, a seal made of silicone. When the second annular seal 144 is provided, it is embedded in the opening of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 near the first insulating layer 12 to form a seal at the opening of the catholyte receiving chamber 143 near the first insulating layer 12. The second annular seal 144 can also be, but is not limited to, a seal made of silicone.

[0100] In practical applications, an ion exchange membrane is disposed between the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14, and a gas diffusion layer electrode is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer 16 and the second insulating layer 14. The cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 is filled with cathode liquid, and the anolyte receiving chamber 123 is filled with anolyte. The cathode liquid is connected to a reference electrode. Subsequently, a reaction gas is introduced through the first gas inlet channel 161, and the reaction gas is discharged through the first exhaust channel 162 after reacting in the cathode gas receiving chamber 163. When filling the cathode liquid receiving chamber 143 with cathode liquid, solutions such as potassium hydroxide solution, sulfuric acid solution, and hydrochloric acid solution can be used. Similarly, solutions such as potassium hydroxide solution, sulfuric acid solution, and hydrochloric acid solution can be used when filling the anolyte receiving chamber 123 with anolyte. When introducing gas into the cathode gas receiving chamber 163, gases such as oxygen and nitric oxide can be introduced. When the reference electrode is in contact with the catholyte, a first channel 145 can be formed in the second insulating layer 14. One end of the first channel 145 penetrates one sidewall of the second insulating layer 14, and the other end of the first channel 145 penetrates one sidewall of the catholyte containing chamber 143, allowing the reference electrode to be in contact with the catholyte through the first channel 145. When an ion exchange membrane is installed, the ion exchange membrane covers the opening of the anolyte containing chamber 123 near the second insulating layer 14, and also covers the opening of the catholyte containing chamber 143 near the first insulating layer 12. When a gas diffusion layer electrode is installed, the gas diffusion layer electrode covers the opening of the catholyte containing chamber 143 near the cathode metal current collector layer 16, and also covers the opening of the cathode gas containing chamber 163 near the second insulating layer 14.

[0101] In this embodiment, since the first annular seal 124 is embedded in the first insulating layer 12 when sealing the anolyte chamber 123, and the second annular seal 144 is embedded in the second insulating layer 14 when sealing the catholyte chamber 143, the distance between the cathode and anode of the flow battery using this electrolyzer is reduced, thereby reducing the internal resistance and the overall structure is also reduced.

[0102] Furthermore, the electrolytic cell also includes a first sealing layer 11, a second sealing layer 13, a third sealing layer 15, and a fourth sealing layer 17. The first sealing layer 11 is disposed between the anode metal current collector layer 10 and the first insulating layer 12; the second sealing layer 13 is disposed between the first insulating layer 12 and the second insulating layer 14; the third sealing layer 15 is disposed between the second insulating layer 14 and the cathode metal current collector layer 16; and the fourth sealing layer 17 is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer 16 and the first support layer 18. The anode metal current collector layer 10, the first sealing layer 11, the first insulating layer 12, the second sealing layer 13, the second insulating layer 14, the third sealing layer 15, the cathode metal current collector layer 16, and the first support layer 18 are stacked and connected by bolts. The ion exchange membrane is disposed within the first through-hole 131 of the second sealing layer 13, and the gas diffusion layer electrode is disposed within the second through-hole 151 of the third sealing layer 15.

[0103] It should be noted that the description of the above flow battery embodiments is similar to the description of the above electrolyzer embodiments, and has similar beneficial effects. For technical details not disclosed in the flow battery embodiments, please refer to the description of the electrolyzer embodiments of this utility model for understanding.

[0104] In summary, this utility model provides an electrolytic cell and a flow battery, which have the following advantages:

[0105] Since the first annular seal 124 is embedded in the first insulating layer 12 when sealing the anolyte chamber 123, and the second annular seal 144 is embedded in the second insulating layer 14 when sealing the catholyte chamber 143, the distance between the cathode and anode of the flow cell using this electrolyzer is reduced, thereby reducing the internal resistance and the overall structure is also reduced.

[0106] It is understood that the above embodiments only illustrate preferred embodiments of the present utility model, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present utility model patent. It should be noted that for those skilled in the art, the above technical features can be freely combined, and several modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concept of the present utility model, all of which fall within the protection scope of the present utility model. Therefore, all equivalent transformations and modifications made within the scope of the claims of the present utility model should fall within the coverage of the claims of the present utility model.

Claims

1. An electrolyzer for use in flow batteries, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell includes: an anode metal current collector layer, a first insulating layer with an anode liquid containing a cavity, a second insulating layer with a cathode liquid containing a cavity, and a cathode metal current collector layer, which are stacked sequentially from bottom to top. The anolyte containment chamber extends through the upper and lower surfaces of the first insulating layer, and a first annular sealing element for sealing the anolyte in the anolyte containment chamber is embedded therein. The cathode liquid receiving chamber penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the second insulating layer, and a second annular sealing element for sealing the cathode liquid in the cathode liquid receiving chamber is embedded in the cathode liquid receiving chamber. The cathode metal current collector layer is provided with a cathode gas receiving chamber, a first air inlet channel and a first exhaust channel. The cathode gas receiving chamber is a blind slot. The first air inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the cathode gas receiving chamber and one side wall of the cathode metal current collector layer. The first exhaust channel penetrates the other side wall of the cathode gas receiving chamber and the other side wall of the cathode metal current collector layer. The anolyte chamber, the catholyte chamber, and the cathode gas chamber are connected.

2. The electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first insulating layer is also provided with a first liquid inlet channel and a first liquid outlet channel. The first liquid inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the anolyte containing chamber and one side wall of the first insulating layer, and the first liquid outlet channel penetrates the other side wall of the anolyte containing chamber and the other side wall of the first insulating layer. The inlet of the first liquid inlet channel and the outlet of the first liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the first insulating layer, and the outlet of the first liquid inlet channel and the inlet of the first liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the anolyte receiving chamber. The distance between the central axis of the first liquid inlet channel and the side surface of the first insulating layer is greater than or less than the distance between the central axis of the first liquid outlet channel and the side surface of the first insulating layer.

3. The electrolytic cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second insulating layer is also provided with a second liquid inlet channel and a second liquid outlet channel. The second liquid inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber and one side wall of the second insulating layer, and the second liquid outlet channel penetrates the other side wall of the cathode liquid receiving chamber and the other side wall of the second insulating layer. The inlet of the second liquid inlet channel and the outlet of the second liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the second insulating layer, and the outlet of the second liquid inlet channel and the inlet of the second liquid outlet channel are located on two opposite side walls of the cathode liquid receiving chamber. The distance between the central axis of the second liquid inlet channel and the side surface of the second insulating layer is greater than or less than the distance between the central axis of the second liquid outlet channel and the side surface of the second insulating layer.

4. The electrolytic cell according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second insulating layer also has a first channel for connecting the catholyte and the reference electrode. The first channel penetrates the side wall of the catholyte receiving chamber and the side wall of the second insulating layer.

5. The electrolytic cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, The anode metal current collector layer is provided with an anode gas receiving chamber, a second air inlet channel and a second exhaust channel, so that the anode metal current collector layer serves as an anode metal current collector layer, the anode gas receiving chamber is a blind slot, the second air inlet channel penetrates one side wall of the anode gas receiving chamber and one side wall of the anode metal current collector layer, and the second exhaust channel penetrates the other side wall of the anode gas receiving chamber and the other side wall of the anode metal current collector layer.

6. The electrolytic cell according to claim 5, characterized in that, The anolyte containing chamber is a stepped chamber, with the larger end of the inner contour of the anolyte containing chamber close to the anode metal current collector layer; The cathode liquid containing chamber is a stepped chamber, with the smaller inner contour end of the cathode liquid containing chamber close to the anode metal current collector layer; The outline of the projection of the anolyte containing chamber onto the second insulating layer coincides with the outline of the projection of the catholyte containing chamber onto the second insulating layer. The outline of the projection of the cathode gas containing chamber onto the second insulating layer coincides with the outline of the projection of the smaller end of the inner outline of the cathode liquid containing chamber onto the second insulating layer, or the outline of the projection of the cathode gas containing chamber onto the second insulating layer is within the outline of the projection of the smaller end of the inner outline of the cathode liquid containing chamber onto the second insulating layer.

7. The electrolytic cell according to claim 6, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell also includes a first support layer, which is made of a transparent material and is stacked on the cathode metal current collector layer.

8. The electrolytic cell according to claim 6, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell further includes a first support layer, which is stacked on the cathode metal current collector layer. A viewing window is provided on the first support layer, and a transparent layer for encapsulating the viewing window is installed inside the viewing window. The cathode gas containing chamber penetrates the upper and lower surfaces of the cathode metal current collector layer, and the projection of the cathode gas containing chamber on the first support layer is located within the outline of the viewing window.

9. The electrolytic cell according to claim 8, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell further includes: a first sealing layer, a second sealing layer, a third sealing layer, and a fourth sealing layer; The first sealing layer is disposed between the anode metal current collector layer and the first insulating layer; The second sealing layer is disposed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer. A first through hole is formed on the second sealing layer, penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the second sealing layer. The projection of the anolyte receiving chamber onto the second sealing layer is located within the outline of the first through hole. The third sealing layer is disposed between the second insulating layer and the cathode metal current collector layer, and a second through hole is formed on the third sealing layer, penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the third sealing layer; The fourth sealing layer is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer and the first support layer, and a third through hole is formed on the fourth sealing layer, penetrating the upper and lower surfaces of the fourth sealing layer; The projections of the second through hole onto the second sealing layer and the projections of the third through hole onto the second sealing layer coincide with the outline of the first through hole, respectively, and the projection of the viewing window onto the second sealing layer is located within the outline of the first through hole.

10. A flow battery, characterized in that, The flow battery includes: a reference electrode, an ion exchange membrane, a gas diffusion layer electrode, and an electrolytic cell as described in any one of claims 1-9; The reference electrode is in contact with the cathodic liquid in the cathodic liquid containing chamber; The ion exchange membrane is disposed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer, and the ion exchange membrane covers the opening of the anolyte containing chamber near the second insulating layer and the opening of the catholyte containing chamber near the first insulating layer; The gas diffusion layer electrode is disposed between the cathode metal current collector layer and the second insulating layer, and the gas diffusion layer electrode covers the opening of the cathode liquid receiving chamber near the cathode metal current collector layer and the opening of the cathode gas receiving chamber near the second insulating layer.

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