Electrolytic cell and hydrogen production system

Abstract

The utility model relates to electrolytic reaction technical field discloses an electrolytic tank and hydrogen production system. The electrolytic tank includes electrode assembly, two polar plates arranged on the both sides of electrode assembly and two end plates separately arranged on the side of two polar plates away from electrode assembly, and the first flow channel is formed between polar plate and electrode assembly, and the second flow channel is formed between polar plate and end plate, the electrolytic tank has at least one electrolyte import, at least two product exports, at least two heat exchange medium imports and at least two heat exchange medium exports, and every second flow channel is communicated with at least one heat exchange medium import and at least one heat exchange medium export respectively, and every first flow channel is communicated with at least one product export, and at least one first flow channel is communicated with at least one electrolyte import, and the electrode assembly includes the exchange membrane of allowing the matter to pass, and the projection of two first flow channels on the exchange membrane at least partially coincides. The electrolytic tank has higher temperature uniformity when carrying out electrolytic reaction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of electrolysis reaction technology, specifically to an electrolyzer and a hydrogen production system. Background Technology

[0002] With rising energy demand, the unsustainability of traditional fossil fuels and their environmental impact are receiving increasing attention. Hydrogen energy, as a clean and efficient energy form, can be produced by electrolyzing water, converting renewable energy into hydrogen. This meets energy needs while reducing dependence on fossil fuels, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving environmental quality. Currently, water electrolysis for hydrogen production mainly includes alkaline electrolyzers (ALK), proton exchange membrane electrolyzers (PEM), solid oxide electrolyzers (SOEC), and solid polymer anion exchange membrane electrolyzers (AEM). Each technology has its unique advantages and is suitable for different application scenarios. For example, PEM electrolyzers feature high current density, high hydrogen purity, and fast response speed, making them suitable for use in conjunction with renewable energy sources.

[0003] As the carrier of a water electrolysis hydrogen production system, the temperature inside the electrolyzer directly affects the system's hydrogen production efficiency. Current water electrolysis hydrogen production systems typically rely on the electrolyte flowing within the bipolar plate channels for heat exchange. However, as the electrolysis reaction continues within the channels, the electrolyte temperature gradually increases during flow. This results in the electrolyzer temperature near the downstream end of the bipolar plate channels being higher than that near the upstream end, leading to lower temperature uniformity within the electrolyzer. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the problem of uneven internal temperature in existing electrolyzers and to provide an electrolyzer and hydrogen production system that has high temperature uniformity during electrolysis.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an electrolytic cell, which includes an electrode assembly, two electrode plates disposed on both sides of the electrode assembly, and two end plates disposed on the side of the two electrode plates away from the electrode assembly. A first flow channel is formed between the electrode plates and the electrode assembly, and a second flow channel is formed between the electrode plates and the end plates. The electrolytic cell has at least one electrolyte inlet, at least two product outlets, at least two heat exchange medium inlets and at least two heat exchange medium outlets, each of the second flow channels is connected to at least one of the heat exchange medium inlets and at least one of the heat exchange medium outlets, each of the first flow channels is connected to at least one of the product outlets, and at least one of the first flow channels is connected to at least one of the electrolyte inlets; The electrode assembly includes an exchange membrane that allows substances to pass through, and the projections of the two first channels onto the exchange membrane at least partially overlap.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first flow channel includes a plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels extending along the x-axis direction, and the second flow channel includes a plurality of second parallel sub-flow channels extending along the y-axis direction. Wherein, the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction are perpendicular to each other; In some embodiments, the projections of the two first channels onto the exchange membrane coincide.

[0007] In some embodiments, the second flow channel includes a plurality of connecting sub-flow channels, which connect the ends of two adjacent second parallel sub-flow channels to form a second flow channel with a serpentine flow path; the first flow channel includes an inlet channel and an outlet channel, and the first ends of the plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels are respectively connected to the inlet channel and the second ends are respectively connected to the outlet channel, so that the fluids in the plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels have the same flow direction; The flow direction of the fluid in the first flow channel is opposite to the vector component of the flow direction of the fluid in the second flow channel on the x-axis.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first flow channel is disposed on the side of the electrode plate facing the electrode assembly, and the second flow channel is disposed on the side of the electrode plate facing the end plate; In some embodiments, the end plate has a product outlet communicating with an adjacent first flow channel, and a heat exchange medium inlet and a heat exchange medium outlet communicating with an adjacent second flow channel, and at least one end plate has an electrolyte inlet communicating with an adjacent first flow channel.

[0009] In some embodiments, the distance d1 between the first flow channel and the second flow channel of one of the electrode plates satisfies the following condition with respect to the thickness d2 of the electrode plate: 5% ≤ d1 / d2 ≤ 20%; In some embodiments, the electrode plate has an outflow manifold, at least one of the electrode plates has an inflow manifold, the inflow manifold connecting the first flow channel and the electrolyte inlet, and the outflow manifold connecting the first flow channel and the product outlet.

[0010] In some embodiments, a first sealing structure is provided between the electrode plate and the electrode assembly, the first sealing structure being disposed around the first flow channel; In some embodiments, a second sealing structure is provided between the electrode plate and the end plate, the second sealing structure being arranged around the second flow channel, the inlet manifold and the outlet manifold.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first sealing structure is an electrode frame or annular sealing gasket disposed between the electrode plate and the electrode assembly; In some embodiments, the second sealing structure includes a sealing groove and an annular seal. The sealing groove is disposed around the second flow channel, the inlet manifold, and the outlet manifold on the side of the electrode plate facing the end plate and / or the side of the end plate facing the electrode plate. The annular seal is at least partially disposed in the sealing groove.

[0012] In some embodiments, both the electrode plate and the end plate are provided with the sealing groove, and the projections of the sealing grooves of adjacent electrode plates and end plates on the electrode plate surface are staggered. In some embodiments, the annular seal is a sealing ring disposed within the sealing groove; In some embodiments, the annular seal is a sealing ring gasket disposed between the electrode plate and the end plate, and the sealing ring gasket deforms under the compression of the electrode plate and the end plate so that a portion of it extends into the sealing groove.

[0013] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly includes a diffusion layer disposed on both sides of the exchange membrane, and one or both sides of the exchange membrane and / or the diffusion layer are coated with a catalytic layer; In some embodiments, tabs extend from the edge of the electrode plate, which are used to secure the cable and detect the relative voltage of the electrode plate.

[0014] A second aspect of this invention provides a hydrogen production system, which includes the aforementioned electrolyzer and auxiliary system.

[0015] Through the above technical solution, the electrolytic cell provided by this utility model, during the electrolytic reaction, the electrolyte enters from at least one electrolyte inlet into a first flow channel between a component and an electrode assembly, and then enters the interior of the electrode assembly from the first flow channel. An electrolytic reaction occurs near the exchange membrane in the electrode assembly. The first product group generated by the electrolytic reaction, along with the remaining material, flows back from the electrode assembly to the aforementioned first flow channel and exits the electrolytic cell from the product outlet connected to the first flow channel. Meanwhile, the second product group generated by the electrolytic reaction enters the first flow channel on the other side of the electrode assembly and exits the electrolytic cell from the product outlet connected to the first flow channel. The first product group can be understood as one of the anolyte product group and the cathode product group, and the second product group can be understood as the other of the anolyte product group and the cathode product group. Simultaneously, the heat exchange medium enters the second flow channel from the heat exchange medium inlet, flows and exchanges heat within the second flow channel, and then exits from the heat exchange medium outlet.

[0016] In the above process, the electrode assembly and the first flow channels on both sides of the electrode assembly form the reaction flow field of the electrolytic cell. The reaction flow field realizes the flow heat exchange, electrolysis reaction, and collection of reaction products of the materials in the electrolytic cell. The heat exchange medium in the second flow channel further exchanges heat with the electrolytic cell, thereby greatly improving the heat exchange efficiency of the electrolytic cell and effectively improving the temperature uniformity of the electrolytic cell. This avoids the problem in existing electrolytic cells where the temperature of the electrolytic cell near the downstream of the first flow channel is higher than that of the electrolytic cell near the upstream of the first flow channel. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an electrolytic cell provided by this utility model; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the exploded structure of the electrolytic cell. Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an end plate provided by this utility model; Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the end plate from another perspective; Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the inner side of the end plate shown; Figure 6 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows the structural schematic of the outer side of the end plate. Figure 7 This is a perspective view of another electrode plate provided by this utility model, showing the shape of the first flow channel; Figure 8 This is a front view of an electrode plate provided by this utility model, showing the shape of the second flow channel.

[0018] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1-Electrolytic cell; 10-Electrode assembly; 20-Electrode plate; 30-End plate; 40-Fastener; 50-Sealing groove; 21-First flow channel; 22-Second flow channel; 23-Inlet manifold; 24-Outlet manifold; 25-Electrical tab; 31-Electrolyte inlet; 32-Product outlet; 33-Heat exchange medium inlet; 34-Heat exchange medium outlet; 211-First parallel sub-flow channel; 212-Inlet channel; 213-Outlet channel; 214-Inlet connecting channel; 215-Outlet connecting channel; 221-Second parallel sub-flow channel; 222-Connecting sub-flow channel. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The specific embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model.

[0020] It should be noted that, in the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0021] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and similar words used in this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. "Vertical" is not strictly vertical, but within the allowable error range. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but within the allowable error range. Words such as "including" or "comprising" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after it, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well.

[0022] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an electrolytic cell provided by this utility model; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows an exploded view of the electrolytic cell. This invention provides an electrolytic cell 1, which includes an electrode assembly 10, two electrode plates 20 disposed on both sides of the electrode assembly 10, and two end plates 30 disposed on the side of the two electrode plates 20 facing away from the electrode assembly 10. A first flow channel 21 is formed between the electrode plates 20 and the electrode assembly 10, and a second flow channel 22 is formed between the electrode plates 20 and the end plates 30. The electrolytic cell 1 has at least one electrolyte inlet 31, at least two product outlets 32, at least two heat exchange medium inlets 33, and at least two heat exchange medium outlets 34. Each second flow channel 22 is connected to at least one heat exchange medium inlet 33 and at least one heat exchange medium outlet 34, and each first flow channel 21 is connected to at least one product outlet 32. At least one first flow channel 21 is connected to at least one electrolyte inlet 31. The electrode assembly 10 includes an exchange membrane that allows substances to pass through, and the projections of the two first flow channels 21 on the exchange membrane at least partially overlap.

[0023] It is understood that the electrolytic cell 1 provided by this utility model can be used to carry out electrolytic reactions. The electrolytic cell 1 can be, but is not limited to, a proton exchange membrane electrolytic cell, an anion exchange membrane electrolytic cell, a CO2 electrochemical reduction electrolytic cell, an organic matter redox reaction electrolytic cell, and a flow battery electrolytic cell, etc.

[0024] The electrolytic cell 1 of this invention includes two end plates 30, two electrode plates 20, and an electrode assembly 10. The electrode assembly 10 includes an exchange membrane that allows substances to pass through; this exchange membrane can be, but is not limited to, a proton exchange membrane, an anion exchange membrane, etc. One of the electrode plates 20 located on either side of the electrode assembly 10 can be understood as an anode plate, and the other as a cathode plate; the two end plates 30 can be understood as an anode end plate and a cathode end plate.

[0025] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 10 includes a diffusion layer disposed on both sides of the exchange membrane, and one or both sides of the exchange membrane and / or the diffusion layer are coated with a catalyst layer. The materials of the diffusion layer include, but are not limited to, porous titanium plates, titanium felt, metal foam, carbon paper, and carbon cloth. In this invention, the diffusion layer is typically referred to as the Porous Transport Layer (PTL) in a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer and as the Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL) in a carbon dioxide electrolyzer. This invention does not impose any particular limitations on the diffusion layer and the catalyst layer, and existing technologies known in the art can be employed.

[0026] A first flow channel 21 is formed between the electrode plate 20 and the electrode assembly 10, and a second flow channel 22 is formed between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30. The first flow channel 21 can be a flow channel formed by combining a groove on the electrode surface with the surface of the electrode assembly 10 facing the electrode plate 20; it can also be a flow channel formed by combining a groove mechanically grooved, jet-grooved, or laser-grooved surface of the diffusion layer of the electrode assembly 10 with the plate surface of the electrode plate 20; or it can be a flow channel formed by combining grooves on the surface of the electrode assembly 10 and grooves on the surface of the electrode plate 20. The second flow channel 22 can be a flow channel formed by combining a groove on the electrode surface with the surface of the end plate 30 facing the electrode plate 20; it can also be a flow channel formed by combining grooves on the surface of the electrode plate 20 with the surface of the electrode plate 20 facing the end plate 30; or it can be a flow channel formed by combining grooves on the surface of the electrode plate 20 and grooves on the surface of the end plate 30.

[0027] The following describes the reaction process of the electrolyzer 1 provided by this invention when applied to an electrolytic reaction, taking a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer as an example. When the electrolyzer 1 provided by this invention performs a proton exchange membrane electrolysis reaction, the electrolyte, i.e., water, enters the first flow channel 21 between one of the electrode plates 20 (anodes) and the electrode assembly 10 through one or more electrolyte inlets 31, and flows in the first flow channel 21. A portion of the electrolyte enters the diffusion layer of the electrode assembly 10 from the first flow channel 21 and undergoes an electrolytic reaction near the exchange membrane of the electrode assembly 10. The anode product (oxygen) generated by the reaction flows back from the diffusion layer of the electrode assembly 10 to the original first flow channel 21 (the first flow channel of the anode), and flows out together with the remaining electrolyte from the product outlet 32 ​​connected to the first flow channel 21. The cathode product (hydrogen) generated by the reaction enters the first flow channel 21 on the other side of the electrode assembly 10 (the first flow channel of the cathode) and flows out from the product outlet 32 ​​connected to the first flow channel 21. At the same time, the heat exchange medium flows into the two second channels 22 from each heat exchange medium inlet 33 and flows in the second channels 22 to exchange heat with the electrolytic cell 1. After heat exchange, the heat exchange medium flows out of the second channels 22 from each heat exchange medium outlet 34.

[0028] It is understood that, in the above process, the first flow channel 21 of the cathode can also be circulated with electrolyte, so that the electrolyte flows and exchanges heat in the first flow channel 21 of the cathode and flows out from the product outlet 32 ​​together with the cathode product (hydrogen), thereby further enhancing the heat exchange of the electrolytic cell 1. It is understood that when the electrolytic cell 1 provided by this utility model is performing anion exchange membrane electrolysis of water, the electrolyte is circulated into the first flow channel 21 of the anode; the electrolytic cell 1 provided by this utility model can also be applied to, but is not limited to, CO2 electrochemical reduction reaction, organic matter redox reaction, and flow battery electrolysis reaction, etc.

[0029] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This illustration shows a specific embodiment of the electrolytic cell 1 provided by the present invention. In some other embodiments, the first flow channel 21 may be connected to a plurality of electrolyte inlets 31 and / or a plurality of product outlets 32, and the second flow channel 22 may be connected to a plurality of heat exchange medium inlets 33 and / or a plurality of heat exchange medium outlets 34.

[0030] The two first flow channels 21 of the electrolytic cell 1 provided by this invention have projections on the exchange membrane that at least partially overlap, thereby ensuring that the anode or cathode products can smoothly enter the first flow channel 21 on the opposite side of the electrode assembly 10, ensuring the efficiency of product collection. In some embodiments, the projections of the two first flow channels 21 on the exchange membrane overlap; thereby enabling the anode or cathode products of this embodiment to enter the first flow channel 21 on the opposite side of the electrode assembly 10 more smoothly, thus giving the electrolytic cell 1 of this embodiment better product collection efficiency.

[0031] It is understood that the electrolytic cell 1 provided by this utility model has a second flow channel 22 between the end plate 30 and the electrode plate 20 for the passage of heat exchange medium, which greatly improves the heat exchange efficiency of the electrolytic cell 1 and effectively improves the temperature uniformity of the electrolytic cell 1. This avoids the problem that the temperature of the electrolytic cell 1 near the downstream of the first flow channel 21 is higher than that of the electrolytic cell 1 near the upstream of the first flow channel 21 in the existing electrolytic cell 1.

[0032] Please refer to it again. Figure 1 and Figure 2 And please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 7 This is a perspective view of another electrode plate provided by this utility model, showing the shape of the first flow channel 21; Figure 8 This is a front view of an electrode plate provided by this utility model, showing the shape of the second flow channel 22. In some embodiments, the first flow channel 21 is disposed on the side of the electrode plate 20 facing the electrode assembly 10, and the second flow channel 22 is disposed on the side of the electrode plate 20 facing the end plate 30.

[0033] It is understood that in this embodiment, the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 are disposed on both sides of the electrode plate 20, thereby avoiding damage to the electrode assembly 10 caused by forming grooves on the diffusion layer surface of the electrode assembly 10, and also avoiding the impact of forming grooves on the end plate 30 surface on the sealing performance of the electrolytic cell 1. At the same time, it also simplifies the manufacturing of the electrolytic cell 1, as the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 can be manufactured simply by forming the flow channel 213 on the surface of the electrode plate 20 through processes such as etching and stamping.

[0034] In some embodiments, the distance d1 between the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 of one of the electrode plates 20 satisfies the following condition with respect to the thickness d2 of the electrode plate 20: 5% ≤ d1 / d2 ≤ 20%. It is understood that if the ratio d1 / d2 between the distance between the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 and the thickness of the electrode plate 20 is too large, the depth of the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 will be too shallow, thus affecting the heat exchange efficiency and reaction efficiency of the electrolytic cell 1. If the ratio d1 / d2 between the distance between the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 and the thickness of the electrode plate 20 is too large, the depth of the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 will be too deep, resulting in lower mechanical strength of the electrode plate 20, making it prone to damage during use and increasing the risk of leakage in the electrolytic cell 1.

[0035] In this embodiment, the distance d1 between the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 and the thickness d2 of the electrode plate 20 satisfy: 5%≤d1 / d2≤20%; thereby enabling the electrode plate 20 provided in this embodiment to take into account both high mechanical strength and high reaction efficiency and heat exchange efficiency.

[0036] Please refer to it again. Figure 1 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, tabs 25 extend from the edge of the electrode plate 20. These tabs 25 are used to secure cables and detect the relative voltage of the electrode plate 20. In some preferred embodiments, the tabs 25 on the two electrode plates 20 of the electrolytic cell 1 are located on the same side of the electrolytic cell 1; more preferably, the two tabs 25 of the electrolytic cell 1 are staggered. Figure 1 Two electrode plates 20 are disposed on the upper side of the electrolytic cell 1 and are staggered from each other.

[0037] Please refer to it again. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the first flow channel 21 includes a plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels 211 extending along the x-axis direction, and the second flow channel 22 includes a plurality of second parallel sub-flow channels 221 extending along the y-axis direction. The x-axis direction and the y-axis direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0038] It is understood that in this embodiment, the main body of the first flow channel 21 extends along the x-axis direction and the main body of the second flow channel 22 extends along the y-axis direction. This is to ensure that the electrode plate 20 of this embodiment is subjected to uniform force and has high mechanical strength, and to avoid the risk of low mechanical strength in some parts of the electrode plate 20 caused by the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 extending in the same direction, which could lead to damage to the electrode plate 20 during electrolysis.

[0039] In this embodiment, the first flow channel 21 and the second flow channel 22 can be configured as parallel flow channels, serpentine flow channels, etc. In some preferred embodiments, the second flow channel 22 includes a plurality of connecting sub-flow channels 222, which connect the ends of two adjacent second parallel sub-flow channels 221 to form a second flow channel 22 with a serpentine flow path; the first flow channel 21 includes an inlet channel 212 and an outlet channel 213, the first ends of the plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels 211 are respectively connected to the inlet channel 212 and the second ends are respectively connected to the outlet channel 213, so that the fluid in the plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels 211 has the same flow direction; wherein, the flow direction of the fluid in the first flow channel 21 and the flow direction of the fluid in the second flow channel 22 have opposite vector components on the x-axis.

[0040] It is understood that in the electrolytic cell 1 provided in this embodiment, the first flow channel 21 is configured as a parallel flow channel, and the second flow channel 22 is configured as a serpentine parallel flow channel. (See reference) Figure 7 , Figure 7 The shape of the first flow channel 21 on the electrode plate 20 is shown. Figure 7As shown in the diagram, the electrolyte in the first flow channel 21 flows from right to left on the electrode 20. Since the temperature within the first flow channel 21 gradually increases with the electrolysis reaction of the electrolyte, ... Figure 7 The temperature on the right side of the first flow channel 21 in the electrode plate 20 shown is lower than the temperature on the left side.

[0041] refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 The second flow channel 22 on the electrode plate 20 is shown, and the second parallel sub-flow channel 221 in the second flow channel 22 is perpendicular to the first parallel sub-flow channel 211 in the first flow channel 21. Figure 8 The heat exchange medium in the serpentine second flow channel 22 is set to flow from... Figure 8 The right side of the flow is from Figure 8 On the left side, because the temperature of the heat exchange medium in the second flow channel 22 gradually increases with the flow of the heat exchange medium, Figure 8 The temperature on the right side of the second flow channel 22 in the electrode plate 20 shown is lower than the temperature on the left side. Since the second flow channel 22 is located behind the first flow channel 21, the temperature difference between the two channels is less. Figure 8 Looking at the back of the electrode 20 shown, the heat exchange medium in the second flow channel 22 flows from left to right.

[0042] The flow direction of the fluid in the first flow channel 21 is opposite to the flow direction of the fluid in the second flow channel 22 on the x-axis, so that the two fluids on the electrode plate 20 have opposite temperature gradients on the x-axis. The heat exchange medium in the second flow channel 22 can better balance the heat of the electrolyte in the first flow channel 21, so that the electrode plate 20 has high temperature uniformity, avoiding the problem that the temperature of the electrolytic cell 1 near the downstream of the first flow channel 21 is higher than that of the electrolytic cell 1 near the upstream of the first flow channel 21 in the existing electrolytic cell 1.

[0043] Please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an end plate provided by this utility model; Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows a three-dimensional structural schematic of the end plate from another perspective. In some embodiments, the end plate 30 has a product outlet 32 ​​communicating with the adjacent first flow channel 21, and a heat exchange medium inlet 33 and a heat exchange medium outlet 34 communicating with the adjacent second flow channel 22. At least one end plate 30 has an electrolyte inlet 31 communicating with the adjacent first flow channel 21. It is understood that in this embodiment, the electrolyte inlet 31, product outlet 32, heat exchange medium inlet 33, and heat exchange medium outlet 34 are all disposed on the end plate 30, thereby allowing the electrolyte input pipeline, product collection pipeline, and heat exchange medium circulation pipeline to be easily connected to the end plate 30, realizing the circulation of fluid inside the electrolytic cell 1.

[0044] Please refer to this again. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the electrode 20 has an outflow manifold 24, and at least one of the electrode 20 has an inflow manifold 23, the inflow manifold 23 connecting the first flow channel 21 and the electrolyte inlet 31, and the outflow manifold 24 connecting the first flow channel 21 and the product outlet 32.

[0045] It is understood that the electrode plate 20 in this embodiment is provided with an inlet manifold 23 and an outlet manifold 24, so that the electrolyte entering from the electrolyte inlet 31 on the end plate 30 can be passed into the first flow channel 21 between the electrode plate 20 and the electrode assembly 10, and the products generated by the electrolysis reaction and the electrolyte remaining in the reaction can be output from the first flow channel 21 to the product outlet 32 ​​on the end plate 30. The structure of the manifold is a common structure in the field of electrolytic cells 1, and will not be described in detail here.

[0046] Please refer to this again. Figure 7 and Figure 8 And please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 yes Figure 3 The diagram shows the structure of the inner side of the end plate. In some embodiments, a first sealing structure is provided between the electrode plate 20 and the electrode assembly 10, and the first sealing structure is arranged around the first flow channel 21; in some embodiments, a second sealing structure is provided between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30, and the second sealing structure is arranged around the second flow channel 22, the inlet manifold 23 and the outlet manifold 24.

[0047] It is understood that in this embodiment, the first sealing structure achieves a seal between the electrode plate 20 and the electrode assembly 10, preventing the electrolyte and product in the first flow channel 21 from overflowing from the electrolytic cell 1, and the second sealing structure achieves a seal between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30, preventing the heat exchange medium in the second flow channel 22 from overflowing from the electrolytic cell 1.

[0048] Please refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 Figure 3 The diagram shows the structure of the outer side of the end plate. In some embodiments, the end plate 30, the electrode plate 20, and the electrode assembly 10 are connected by fasteners 40. Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the end plate 30, the electrode plate 20 and the electrode assembly 10 all have rectangular plates, and the four corners of the rectangular plates are provided with connecting holes. The end plate 30, the electrode plate 20 and the electrode assembly 10 are connected by hexagonal screws passing through the connecting holes.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first sealing structure is an electrode frame or annular sealing gasket disposed between the electrode plate 20 and the electrode assembly 10. The annular sealing gasket can be a tetrafluoroethylene sealing gasket, a fluorosilicone rubber sealing gasket, etc., disposed around the first flow channel 21, and the electrode frame can be a polyethyleneimine electrode frame, a polyimide electrode frame, a polyethylene naphthalate electrode frame, a polyphenylene sulfide electrode frame, a polyetheretherketone electrode frame, etc.

[0050] In some embodiments, the second sealing structure includes a sealing groove 50 and an annular seal. The sealing groove 50 is disposed around the second flow channel 22, the inlet manifold 23, and the outlet manifold 24 on the side of the electrode plate 20 facing the end plate 30 and / or the side of the end plate 30 facing the electrode plate 20. The annular seal is at least partially disposed in the sealing groove 50. It is understood that in this embodiment, the sealing groove 50 and the annular seal together achieve a seal between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30.

[0051] In some embodiments, both the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30 are provided with the sealing groove 50, and the projections of the sealing grooves 50 of adjacent electrode plates 20 and end plates 30 on the surface of the electrode plate 20 are staggered; this results in a double sealing structure between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30: the sealing groove 50 on the electrode plate 20 and its internal sealing element form a first sealing structure, and the sealing groove 50 on the end plate 30 and its internal sealing element form a second sealing structure. This arrangement provides a better sealing effect between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30.

[0052] In some embodiments, the annular seal is a sealing ring disposed within the sealing groove 50. In this embodiment, the sealing ring within the sealing groove 50 is pressed against the sealing groove 50 by the end plate 30 and the electrode plate 20, thereby achieving a seal on the second flow channel 22.

[0053] In some embodiments, the annular seal is a sealing ring gasket disposed between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30. The sealing ring gasket deforms under the compression of the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30, causing a portion to extend into the sealing groove 50. In this embodiment, the sealing ring gasket has a certain width. A portion of the sealing ring gasket is compressed into the sealing groove 50, while another portion is disposed between the electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30. The electrode plate 20 and the end plate 30 adhere to the sealing ring gasket, thereby sealing the second flow channel 22.

[0054] This utility model also provides a hydrogen production system, which includes the above-mentioned electrolyzer 1 and auxiliary system (BoP).

[0055] In some implementations, the auxiliary system also includes a water supply and water treatment system, a water circulation and cooling system, a gas-liquid separation and gas treatment system, a gas collection and storage system, a power supply and control system, a control and automation system, and a safety assurance system.

[0056] Those skilled in the art should understand that the above embodiments or implementation methods are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or implementation methods or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the different embodiments or implementation methods can be combined in any way.

Claims

1. An electrolytic cell, characterized in that, The electrolytic cell (1) includes an electrode assembly (10), two electrode plates (20) disposed on both sides of the electrode assembly (10), and two end plates (30) disposed on the side of the two electrode plates (20) away from the electrode assembly (10). A first flow channel (21) is formed between the electrode plates (20) and the electrode assembly (10), and a second flow channel (22) is formed between the electrode plates (20) and the end plates (30). The electrolytic cell (1) has at least one electrolyte inlet (31), at least two product outlets (32), at least two heat exchange medium inlets (33) and at least two heat exchange medium outlets (34), each second flow channel (22) is connected to at least one of the heat exchange medium inlets (33) and at least one of the heat exchange medium outlets (34), each first flow channel (21) is connected to at least one of the product outlets (32), and at least one first flow channel (21) is connected to at least one of the electrolyte inlets (31); The electrode assembly (10) includes an exchange membrane that allows substances to pass through, and the projections of the two first channels (21) on the exchange membrane at least partially overlap.

2. The electrolytic cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first flow channel (21) includes a plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels (211) extending along the x-axis direction, and the second flow channel (22) includes a plurality of second parallel sub-flow channels (221) extending along the y-axis direction; and / or The projections of the two first channels (21) on the exchange membrane coincide.

3. The electrolytic cell according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second flow channel (22) includes a plurality of connecting sub-flow channels (222), which connect the ends of two adjacent second parallel sub-flow channels (221) to form a second flow channel (22) with a serpentine flow path; the first flow channel (21) includes an inlet channel (212) and an outlet channel (213), the first ends of the plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels (211) are respectively connected to the inlet channel (212) and the second ends are respectively connected to the outlet channel (213) so that the fluid in the plurality of first parallel sub-flow channels (211) has the same flow direction; The flow direction of the fluid in the first flow channel (21) is opposite to the vector component of the flow direction of the fluid in the second flow channel (22) on the x-axis.

4. The electrolytic cell according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The end plate (30) has the product outlet (32) communicating with the adjacent first flow channel (21), and the heat exchange medium inlet (33) and the heat exchange medium outlet (34) communicating with the adjacent second flow channel (22), and at least one end plate (30) has the electrolyte inlet (31) communicating with the adjacent first flow channel (21); and / or The first flow channel (21) is disposed on the side of the electrode plate (20) facing the electrode assembly (10), and the second flow channel (22) is disposed on the side of the electrode plate (20) facing the end plate (30).

5. The electrolytic cell according to claim 4, characterized in that, The distance d1 between the first flow channel (21) and the second flow channel (22) of one of the electrode plates (20) satisfies the following condition with respect to the thickness d2 of the electrode plate (20): 5% ≤ d1 / d2 ≤ 20%; and / or The electrode (20) has an outflow manifold (24), and at least one of the electrode (20) has an inflow manifold (23), the inflow manifold (23) connecting the first flow channel (21) and the electrolyte inlet (31), and the outflow manifold (24) connecting the first flow channel (21) and the product outlet (32).

6. The electrolytic cell according to claim 5, characterized in that, A first sealing structure is provided between the electrode plate (20) and the electrode assembly (10), and the first sealing structure is arranged around the first flow channel (21); and / or A second sealing structure is provided between the electrode plate (20) and the end plate (30), and the second sealing structure is arranged around the second flow channel (22), the inlet manifold (23) and the outlet manifold (24).

7. The electrolytic cell according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first sealing structure is an electrode frame or annular sealing gasket disposed between the electrode plate (20) and the electrode assembly (10); and / or The second sealing structure includes a sealing groove (50) and an annular seal. The sealing groove (50) is disposed around the second flow channel (22), the inlet manifold (23) and the outlet manifold (24) on the side of the electrode plate (20) facing the end plate (30) and / or the side of the end plate (30) facing the electrode plate (20). The annular seal is at least partially disposed in the sealing groove (50).

8. The electrolytic cell according to claim 7, characterized in that, Both the electrode plate (20) and the end plate (30) are provided with the sealing groove (50). The projections of the sealing grooves (50) of adjacent electrode plates (20) and end plates (30) on the surface of the electrode plate (20) are staggered, wherein: The annular seal is a sealing ring disposed within the sealing groove (50); and / or The annular seal is a sealing ring gasket disposed between the electrode plate (20) and the end plate (30). The sealing ring gasket deforms under the squeezing action of the electrode plate (20) and the end plate (30), causing part of it to extend into the sealing groove (50).

9. The electrolytic cell according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The electrode assembly (10) includes a diffusion layer disposed on both sides of the exchange membrane, and one or both sides of the exchange membrane and / or the diffusion layer are coated with a catalytic layer; and / or The edge of the electrode plate (20) has a tab (25) extending out, which is used to fix the cable and detect the relative voltage of the electrode plate (20).

10. A hydrogen production system, characterized in that, The hydrogen production system includes an electrolyzer (1) and an auxiliary system according to any one of claims 1-9.

Images