Electrochemical dissolution device
The design of the electrochemical dissolution device solves the problems of crushing and mechanical stirring in the nickel-iron dissolution process, realizes a highly efficient electrolysis process, reduces costs and extends equipment life.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GUANGDONG BRUNP RECYCLING TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-04
AI Technical Summary
Existing nickel-iron dissolving processes require crushing of the nickel-iron alloy, and the electrolysis process requires mechanical stirring which is inefficient. Furthermore, the use of hydrogen peroxide may lead to oxidation and precipitation.
An electrochemical dissolution device is used, including an electrolytic cell, an electrode assembly, and a buffer tank. A titanium plate is used to form the support and filter bag. Combined with a temperature control component and a circulation pump, an electrolysis process without crushing or mechanical stirring is achieved, and the electrolyte temperature is controlled to improve efficiency.
It eliminates the need for material crushing, reduces equipment wear, increases electrolysis rate, avoids precipitation, lowers costs, and improves equipment lifespan and electrolysis efficiency.
Smart Images
Figure CN224591075U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of electrolysis technology, and more specifically, to an electrochemical dissolution device. Background Technology
[0002] Nickel-iron alloy is a byproduct of laterite nickel ore smelting and is mainly used in stainless steel smelting. In recent years, some new energy companies have begun using nickel-iron alloy as a raw material to produce battery-grade nickel sulfate to alleviate raw material shortages. With the growth of ternary lithium-ion batteries in the market, the demand for nickel is gradually increasing. Currently, nickel-iron alloy is mainly produced into low-grade nickel matte through pyrometallurgical processes, followed by nickel recovery through hydrometallurgical processes. This process is lengthy and costly. Furthermore, ferrous sulfate obtained after dissolving nickel-iron alloy can be used to produce iron phosphate, a raw material for lithium iron phosphate production.
[0003] In related technologies, the nickel-iron dissolution process has high requirements for the morphology of the nickel-iron alloy, requiring it to be crushed into suitable particle sizes, which results in high crushing costs. Acid dissolution requires mechanical stirring, leading to significant equipment wear, and the nickel-iron dissolution rate is relatively slow. Using hydrogen peroxide to increase the reaction rate can cause oxidation precipitation problems. Utility Model Content
[0004] In order to at least address some of the shortcomings mentioned in the related technologies, this application provides an electrochemical dissolution device.
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, an electrochemical dissolution device includes an electrolytic cell, an electrode assembly, and a buffer tank. The electrolytic cell is provided with an anode conductive rail and a cathode conductive rail. The electrode assembly includes a cathode element and an anode element, both disposed within the electrolytic cell; the cathode element overlaps the cathode conductive rail, and the anode element overlaps the anode conductive rail, with a support portion on the anode element for supporting material. The buffer tank is equipped with a temperature control component and is in liquid communication with the electrolytic cell.
[0006] Furthermore, the anode component includes titanium plates, and at least two of the titanium plates are bent together to form the support portion. Multiple through holes are evenly distributed on the titanium plates.
[0007] Furthermore, the titanium plate has a window, and a titanium mesh is installed in the window.
[0008] Furthermore, a filter bag is fitted onto the anode, and the material is placed on the support portion through the filter bag to prevent the material from detaching from the anode through the through hole or the titanium mesh.
[0009] Furthermore, the electrolytic cell is provided with a separator to divide it into at least two non-communicating electrolytic units. One cathode and one anode form a set of electrodes, and each electrolytic unit contains a set of electrodes.
[0010] Furthermore, the buffer tank is located near the electrolytic cell, and a circulation pump and a water inlet pipe are installed in the buffer tank. One end of the water inlet pipe is connected to the outlet of the circulation pump, and the other end of the water inlet pipe passes through multiple electrolytic units in sequence and is in liquid communication with the electrolytic units.
[0011] Furthermore, an overflow pipe is also provided inside the electrolytic cell, and each electrolysis unit is connected to the overflow pipe, with the outlet of the overflow pipe extending into the buffer tank.
[0012] Furthermore, the buffer tank is provided with a cooling component and a heating component, both of which are located near the bottom of the buffer tank.
[0013] Furthermore, the electrolytic cell is provided with a cover to shield the opening of the electrolytic cell. The cover is conical in shape, and a gas pipe communicating with the outside is provided at the top of the cover.
[0014] Furthermore, a rectifier is provided outside the electrolytic cell, with the positive terminal of the rectifier electrically connected to the anode conductive rail and the negative terminal of the rectifier electrically connected to the cathode conductive rail.
[0015] With the above technical solution, the material to be electrolyzed can be placed directly on the support part of the anode component during use. The anode component is placed inside the electrolytic cell and overlapped with the anode conductive rail, while the cathode component is placed inside the electrolytic cell and overlapped with the cathode conductive rail. In this way, as long as the anode and cathode conductive rails are energized, the material in the electrolytic cell can be electrolyzed.
[0016] The buffer tank can heat or cool the electrolyte to a suitable temperature to accelerate the electrolysis efficiency.
[0017] The electrochemical dissolution device of this application does not require specific material morphology for the electrolysis process and eliminates the need for material crushing. Mechanical stirring is also unnecessary during electrolysis, and the electrolyte temperature can be controlled to a suitable level to improve electrolysis efficiency. Overall, the electrolysis cost is lower, equipment wear is reduced, and no precipitation occurs during the electrolysis process.
[0018] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description
[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0020] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the electrochemical dissolution device provided in the embodiments of this application from one perspective;
[0021] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the electrochemical dissolution device provided in the embodiments of this application from another perspective;
[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrolytic cell provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the anode component provided in an embodiment of this application from one perspective;
[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cover provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0025] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of the cover provided in another embodiment of this application.
[0026] icon:
[0027] 100-Electrolytic cell; 110-Anode conductive rail; 120-Cathode conductive rail; 130-Separator; 140-Electrolysis unit; 150-Cover; 151-Gas pipe; 160-Rectifier; 200-Electrode assembly; 211-Titanium plate; 212-Supporting part; 213-Through hole; 214-Window; 210-Anode component; 220-Cathode component; 300-Buffer tank; 310-Circulation pump; 320-Water inlet pipe; 330-Overflow pipe; 340-Cooling component. Detailed Implementation
[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.
[0029] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "inner" and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product is in use. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0030] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "setup" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.
[0031] This embodiment provides an electrochemical dissolution device to solve the problems in related technologies, such as the need to crush materials during electrolysis, the need for stirring during electrolysis, and low electrolysis efficiency.
[0032] Please see Figures 1 to 3 An electrochemical dissolution device includes an electrolytic cell 100, an electrode assembly 200, and a buffer tank 300. The electrolytic cell 100 is equipped with an anode conductive rail 110 and a cathode conductive rail 120. The electrode assembly 200 includes a cathode element 220 and an anode element 210, both disposed within the electrolytic cell 100. The cathode element 220 overlaps the cathode conductive rail 120, and the anode element 210 overlaps the anode conductive rail 110. The anode element 210 has a support portion 212 for supporting materials. The buffer tank 300 is equipped with a temperature control component and is in liquid communication with the electrolytic cell 100.
[0033] Specifically, in use, the electrochemical dissolution device provided in this embodiment involves placing the material to be electrolyzed into the support portion 212 on the anode 210. The anode 210 is placed in the electrolytic cell 100 and overlaps the anode conductive rail 110. The cathode 220 is also placed in the electrolytic cell 100 and overlaps the cathode conductive rail 120. The electrolytic cell 100 is filled with electrolyte, which submerges the anode 210 and cathode 220. By supplying power to the anode conductive rail 110 and cathode conductive rail 120 via an external power source, the material in the anode 210 can be electrolyzed.
[0034] During the electrolysis process, the temperature control components in the buffer tank 300 can also heat or cool the electrolyte to maintain it at a suitable temperature and improve the electrolysis rate.
[0035] In this embodiment of the electrochemical dissolution apparatus, the material can be directly placed on the support portion 212 of the anode 210 before electrolysis, without the need for material crushing or requirements on material morphology, thus reducing electrolysis conditions. During electrolysis, there is no need for mechanical stirring of the material, preventing wear on the equipment and extending its service life. Furthermore, the temperature of the electrolyte can be controlled at a suitable temperature by the temperature control components in the buffer tank 300, thereby increasing the electrolysis rate. After electrolysis, no precipitation will occur due to the addition of hydrogen peroxide or other chemicals.
[0036] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 4 As shown, the anode component 210 includes titanium plates 211, with at least two titanium plates 211 bent and joined together to form a support portion 212. Multiple through holes 213 are evenly distributed on the titanium plates 211. The support portion 212 formed by bending and joining is configured as a "basket-like" or "trough-like" structure, which can effectively accommodate irregularly shaped solid materials without pre-crushing. This improves the adaptability of the support portion 212 to the size and shape of materials, simplifies the pre-treatment steps, and reduces operational difficulty.
[0037] Furthermore, the design of the support portion 212 prevents materials from falling from the anode component 210 due to vibration or electrolyte flow during electrolysis, ensuring the continuity and stability of the electrolysis process. Moreover, the anode component 210 is detachably mounted on the anode conductive rail 110, and combined with the structure of the support portion 212, this makes material replacement or anode cleaning more convenient, facilitating modular operation.
[0038] The through-holes 213 on the titanium plate 211 allow the electrolyte to freely pass through the interior of the anode 210, ensuring that all parts of the material can fully contact the electrolyte and improving mass transfer efficiency. This helps to avoid local concentration polarization, thereby improving the electrolysis rate and current efficiency. Multiple through-holes 213 make the anode surface more "open," reducing current concentration effects, improving the uniformity of current density distribution, and reducing the risk of local overheating or passivation. Furthermore, during electrolysis, the anode generates gas; the through-hole structure 213 facilitates the rapid escape of this gas, reducing the increase in resistance and decrease in reaction efficiency caused by bubble retention.
[0039] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 4As shown, a window 214 is provided on the titanium plate 211, and a titanium mesh is installed at the window 214. Compared with the solid titanium plate 211, the titanium mesh has a higher porosity and lower flow resistance, which can significantly improve the exchange efficiency of electrolyte between the inside and outside of the anode 210. It also helps to accelerate the diffusion rate of reactants, reduce concentration polarization, and improve the overall electrolysis rate. During the anode reaction, gases such as oxygen are generated. The presence of the titanium mesh can accelerate the discharge of gases from the material surface and the inside of the anode, avoiding the accumulation of bubbles that could lead to local current interruption or increased resistance.
[0040] The titanium mesh at window 214 acts as a "filter layer," allowing the electrolyte to pass freely while preventing material particles (especially fine powders) from leaking into the electrolytic cell 100 through the through-hole 213. This avoids material loss, reduces electrolyte contamination, and facilitates subsequent solution treatment and metal recovery.
[0041] In one embodiment, for example, a filter bag is fitted onto the anode 210, and the material is placed on the support portion 212 through the filter bag to prevent the material from detaching from the anode 210 through the through-hole 213 or the titanium mesh. During electrolysis, some materials can easily fall into the electrolytic cell 100 through the through-hole 213 on the titanium plate 211 or the gaps in the titanium mesh. If material particles fall to the bottom of the electrolytic cell 100 or enter the circulation system, it may cause electrolyte turbidity, pump wear, or even pipe blockage. Using a filter bag can effectively isolate solid particles, keep the electrolyte clean, and extend the system's service life. The filter bag can effectively intercept these fine particles, preventing them from entering the electrolyte system, thereby reducing the burden of subsequent processing.
[0042] Filter bags possess a degree of flexibility, allowing them to adapt to materials with irregular shapes or different particle sizes, even safely loading powders and debris. Compared to rigid titanium mesh or perforated 213 structures, filter bags offer superior wrapping and containment capabilities.
[0043] Anode sludge refers to the residue that accumulates on the anode surface or falls off during electrolysis due to impurity metals such as lead, silver, and antimony, which are insoluble in the electrolyte. Filter bags can retain most of the anode sludge inside the bag or in the vicinity, facilitating unified collection and subsequent treatment, maximizing resource recovery. Without filter bags, anode sludge may be scattered at the bottom of the electrolytic cell and between the guide rails, making it difficult to clean. With filter bags, only periodic removal and replacement are needed to centrally remove the anode sludge, greatly simplifying the operation process and improving maintenance efficiency.
[0044] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 3As shown, a separator 130 is provided inside the electrolytic cell 100, dividing the electrolytic cell 100 into at least two non-communicating electrolytic units 140. A cathode 220 and an anode 210 form a set of electrodes, and each electrolytic unit 140 is provided with a set of electrodes. Each electrolytic unit 140 is isolated from each other and does not interfere with each other, allowing multiple groups of materials to be electrolyzed simultaneously, thereby improving the electrolysis efficiency of this embodiment.
[0045] If a particular electrolysis unit 140 malfunctions, such as a short circuit, anode mud buildup, or electrolyte contamination, that unit can be shut down for maintenance without affecting the normal operation of other units. This improves equipment stability and availability, and reduces the overall downtime risk.
[0046] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, a buffer tank 300 is positioned near the electrolytic cell 100. A circulation pump 310 and an inlet pipe 320 are installed within the buffer tank 300. One end of the inlet pipe 320 is connected to the outlet of the circulation pump 310, and the other end passes through multiple electrolysis units 140 sequentially, communicating with the liquid in each electrolysis unit 140. The circulation pump 310 transports the electrolyte from the buffer tank 300 to each electrolysis unit 140 via the inlet pipe 320, forming a closed-loop or open-loop circulation system. This continuously refreshes the electrolyte in each electrolysis unit 140, preventing concentration polarization caused by excessively low or high local ion concentrations, thereby improving electrolysis efficiency. Furthermore, the unified circulation system among the multiple electrolysis units 140 maintains a consistent electrolyte composition, reducing process differences between different units and ensuring stable product quality.
[0047] The buffer tank 300 is positioned close to the electrolysis tank 100, reducing pipe length, lowering pumping resistance and energy loss, and improving system efficiency. It also facilitates daily inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. The inlet pipe 320 flows sequentially through multiple electrolysis units 140, effectively removing heat generated by the anodic reaction and preventing localized high temperatures or even boiling of the electrolyte, thus ensuring safe equipment operation.
[0048] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2As shown, an overflow pipe 330 is also installed inside the electrolytic cell 100. Each electrolysis unit 140 is connected to the overflow pipe 330, and the outlet of the overflow pipe 330 extends into the buffer tank 300. During electrolysis, the electrolyte level may rise due to factors such as pumping by the circulating pump 310, temperature changes, or manual addition of electrolyte. The overflow pipe 330 can promptly discharge excess electrolyte to prevent it from overflowing the electrolytic cell 100, thus avoiding equipment corrosion, short circuits, or safety accidents. Multiple electrolysis units 140 are connected through the same overflow pipe 330, utilizing the principle of "communicating vessels" to ensure that the liquid levels in each unit are consistent, avoiding problems such as uneven current distribution and decreased reaction efficiency caused by differences in liquid level.
[0049] The overflow pipe 330, as part of the reflux channel, helps to construct a complete electrolyte circulation path: buffer tank 300, circulation pump 310, inlet pipe 320, electrolysis unit 140, overflow pipe 330, and buffer tank 300. This ensures continuous electrolyte flow, improves ion mass transfer efficiency, and reduces concentration polarization.
[0050] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, a cooling element 340 and a heating element are installed inside the buffer tank 300, both positioned near the bottom. The electrolyte in the buffer tank 300 is typically drawn from the bottom and transported to the electrolytic cell 100 by a circulating pump 310. Placing the heating and cooling elements 340 at the bottom allows the temperature control element to directly act on the electrolyte being pumped out. This enables faster temperature transfer throughout the system, improving temperature control response speed. If the temperature control element were installed at the top or middle, liquid stratification might cause localized heating or cooling, leading to untimely or inaccurate temperature control.
[0051] During heating, the bottom heating element causes the heated liquid to rise, while the cooled liquid sinks, creating natural convection. This helps to ensure a more uniform temperature of the electrolyte throughout the buffer tank 300. The cooling element 340 can also release cooling energy at the bottom, which, combined with natural convection, achieves a more uniform cooling process.
[0052] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the heating element and cooling element 340 can be selected from any existing equipment or structure according to actual needs, as long as they can meet the requirements of this embodiment.
[0053] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6As shown, an enclosure 150 is provided on the electrolytic cell 100 to cover the opening of the electrolytic cell 100. The enclosure 150 is conical, and a gas pipe 151 communicating with the outside is provided at the top of the enclosure 150. During the electrolysis process, especially the anodic reaction, gases such as oxygen, chlorine, and hydrogen are produced, some of which are corrosive, toxic, or flammable. The enclosure 150, together with the gas pipe 151 at the top, can collect these gases and guide them to an external treatment system, such as an exhaust gas scrubbing tower or activated carbon adsorption device, to prevent them from directly diffusing into the working environment.
[0054] The conical hood 150, narrower at the top and wider at the bottom, conforms to the natural upward flow of gas, helping to guide the gas to concentrate at the top and improve exhaust efficiency. Compared to cylindrical or flat hoods, the conical structure is more conducive to reducing gas stagnation areas. Combined with the high-point exhaust port at the top, the conical hood 150 effectively prevents harmful gases from flowing back into the electrolytic cell 100 due to changes in wind pressure or backflow of external airflow.
[0055] In addition, the cover 150 can effectively prevent dust, metal debris or moisture in the workshop from entering the electrolytic cell 100, thus avoiding contamination of the electrolyte or affecting the electrode reaction process.
[0056] In one embodiment, exemplarily, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, a rectifier 160 is externally mounted on the electrolytic cell 100. The positive terminal of the rectifier 160 is electrically connected to the anode conductive rail 110, and the negative terminal is electrically connected to the cathode conductive rail 120. The electrochemical dissolution process relies on direct current to drive the redox reaction, while industrial power grids typically provide alternating current (AC). The rectifier 160 can convert AC to controllable DC to meet the basic requirements of the electrochemical reaction. The rectifier 160 can output stable DC voltage and current, avoiding current instability caused by power grid fluctuations, thereby improving electrolysis efficiency and product quality.
[0057] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.
[0058] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.
Claims
1. An electrochemical dissolution device, characterized by, include: An electrolytic cell (100) is provided with an anode conductive rail (110) and a cathode conductive rail (120). An electrode assembly (200) includes a cathode (220) and an anode (210), both of which are disposed within the electrolytic cell (100). The cathode (220) is attached to the cathode conductive rail (120), and the anode (210) is attached to the anode conductive rail (110). The anode (210) has a support portion (212) for supporting materials. A buffer tank (300) is provided with a temperature control component, and the buffer tank (300) is in liquid communication with the electrolytic cell (100).
2. The electrochemical dissolution device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anode (210) includes a titanium plate (211), at least two of the titanium plates (211) are bent together to form the support portion (212). The titanium plate (211) has multiple through holes (213) evenly distributed on it.
3. The electrochemical dissolution device according to claim 2, characterized in that, A window (214) is provided on the titanium plate (211), and a titanium mesh is installed at the window (214).
4. The electrochemical dissolution device according to claim 3, characterized in that, A filter bag is fitted onto the anode (210), and the material is placed on the support part (212) through the filter bag to prevent the material from detaching from the anode (210) through the through hole (213) or the titanium mesh.
5. The electrochemical dissolution device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell (100) is provided with a separator (130) to divide the electrolytic cell (100) into at least two non-communicating electrolytic units (140). A cathode (220) and an anode (210) constitute a set of electrodes, and a set of electrodes is provided in each electrolysis unit (140).
6. The electrochemical dissolution apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The buffer tank (300) is located near the electrolytic cell (100). The buffer tank (300) is equipped with a circulation pump (310) and a water inlet pipe (320). One end of the water inlet pipe (320) is connected to the outlet of the circulation pump (310), and the other end of the water inlet pipe (320) passes through multiple electrolytic units (140) in sequence and is in liquid communication with the electrolytic units (140).
7. The electrochemical dissolution apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, An overflow pipe (330) is also provided in the electrolytic cell (100). Each electrolytic unit (140) is connected to the overflow pipe (330), and the outlet of the overflow pipe (330) extends into the buffer tank (300).
8. The electrochemical dissolution apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The buffer tank (300) is provided with a cooling component (340) and a heating component, both of which are located in the buffer tank (300) near the bottom.
9. The electrochemical dissolution apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell (100) is provided with a cover (150) to cover the opening of the electrolytic cell (100); The cover (150) is cone-shaped, and the top of the cover (150) is provided with a gas pipe (151) that communicates with the outside.
10. The electrochemical dissolution apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, A rectifier (160) is provided on the outside of the electrolytic cell (100). The positive terminal of the rectifier (160) is electrically connected to the anode conductive rail (110), and the negative terminal of the rectifier (160) is electrically connected to the cathode conductive rail (120).