Electrolytic cell and electrolytic bath

Abstract

The application discloses an electrolysis unit and an electrolysis tank, relates to the technical field of hydrogen production, and the electrolysis unit comprises an anode plate, an anode, a diaphragm, a cathode and a cathode plate which are sequentially arranged along a first direction; one side of the anode facing the cathode is provided with first convex parts and first concave parts which are alternately arranged along a second direction; one side of the cathode facing the anode is provided with second convex parts and second concave parts which are alternately arranged along the second direction; the second convex parts of the cathode and the first concave parts of the anode are mutually clamped, and the first convex parts of the anode and the second concave parts of the cathode are mutually clamped; the diaphragm is arranged between the anode and the cathode; wherein the second direction intersects the first direction. The anode and the cathode are mutually clamped through the concave-convex structure, the use of the supporting structure can be reduced, the cost can be lowered, the diaphragm arranged between the anode and the cathode can be clamped, the anode, the diaphragm and the cathode form a zero-pole distance structure, the structure is simplified, and the hydrogen production efficiency of the electrolysis unit is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of hydrogen production technology, and in particular to an electrolysis unit and an electrolyzer. Background Technology

[0002] As hydrogen plays an increasingly important role in energy systems, the importance of hydrogen production equipment such as electrolyzers is becoming more and more prominent, and the industry's requirements for its hydrogen production efficiency are also constantly increasing.

[0003] To improve hydrogen production efficiency, traditional electrolysis units add a support structure to the intermediate membrane, but this method has problems such as complex structure, large space occupation, and high cost.

[0004] Therefore, how to provide an electrolysis unit with a simple structure that can effectively improve hydrogen production efficiency has become an urgent problem to be solved in the industry. Utility Model Content

[0005] The main objective of this application is to propose an electrolysis unit and electrolyzer, aiming to solve the technical problem of how to simplify the structure and improve the hydrogen production efficiency of the electrolysis unit.

[0006] On the one hand, an electrolysis unit is provided, including an anode plate, a positive electrode, a diaphragm, a negative electrode, and a cathode plate arranged sequentially along a first direction; The side of the anode facing the cathode has a first protrusion and a first recess arranged alternately along the second direction; The side of the negative electrode facing the positive electrode has a second convex portion and a second concave portion arranged alternately along the second direction; The second protrusion of the negative electrode is engaged with the first concave portion of the positive electrode, and the first protrusion of the positive electrode is engaged with the second concave portion of the negative electrode; the diaphragm is disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode; The second direction intersects with the first direction.

[0007] In one embodiment, the side of the diaphragm facing the anode is configured as a first concave-convex surface that fits into the anode, and the side of the diaphragm facing the cathode is configured as a second concave-convex surface that fits into the cathode.

[0008] In one embodiment, the side of the anode electrode facing the anode plate has a third protrusion and a third recess arranged alternately in a second direction, the third protrusion abutting against the anode plate, and the third recess surrounding the anode plate to form a first flow channel; The side of the cathode electrode facing the cathode plate has a fourth protrusion and a fourth recess arranged alternately along the second direction. The fourth protrusion abuts against the cathode plate, and the fourth recess surrounds the cathode plate to form a second flow channel.

[0009] In one embodiment, the anode plate is provided with a first liquid inlet and a first gas outlet, and the first flow channel is used to connect the first liquid inlet and the first gas outlet; The cathode plate is provided with a second liquid inlet and a second gas outlet, and the second flow channel is used to connect the second liquid inlet and the second gas outlet.

[0010] In one embodiment, the anode is configured as a corrugated plate, with the first protrusion and the third concave portion correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the anode, and the first concave portion and the third protrusion correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the anode. And / or, the cathode is configured as a corrugated plate, with the second protrusion and the fourth concave portion correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the cathode, and the second concave portion and the fourth protrusion portion correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the cathode.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first protrusion and the second protrusion extend along a third direction; the third direction intersects with the second direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first flow channel along a third direction is any one of a semicircle, a semi-ellipse, a rectangle, a trapezoid, or a triangle; The orthographic projection of the second flow channel along a third direction is any one of the following: semicircle, semi-ellipse, rectangle, trapezoid, or triangle.

[0013] In one embodiment, the anode plate includes a first main electrode plate and a first electrode frame disposed around the first main electrode plate, wherein the first electrode frame has a first liquid inlet and a first gas outlet on the side near the diaphragm. The cathode plate includes a second main electrode plate and a second electrode frame arranged around the second main electrode plate. The second electrode frame has a second liquid inlet and a second gas outlet on the side near the diaphragm.

[0014] In one embodiment, at least one of the anode, the diaphragm, and the cathode is provided with a connecting portion on its outer periphery; The connecting part is sandwiched between the first pole frame and the second pole frame.

[0015] In one embodiment, the electrolysis unit further includes a sealing gasket, which is disposed around the first main electrode plate and the second main electrode plate and sandwiched between the first electrode frame and the second electrode frame.

[0016] On the other hand, an electrolytic cell is provided, including an electrolytic unit as described above, wherein there are multiple electrolytic units, and the multiple electrolytic units are stacked along a first direction.

[0017] The above-described one or more technical solutions in the embodiments of this application have at least one of the following technical effects: On the side of the anode facing the cathode, a first protrusion and a first concave portion are arranged alternately along the second direction; on the side of the cathode facing the anode, a second protrusion and a second concave portion are arranged alternately along the second direction; multiple first protrusions correspond to multiple second concave portions, and multiple second protrusions correspond to multiple first concave portions. The anode and cathode are interlocked by the concave-convex structure, which can reduce the use of support structures, simplify the structure, and reduce costs. Furthermore, by clamping the diaphragm between the anode and cathode, the anode, diaphragm, and cathode form a zero-pole-gap structure, reducing the space occupied. The zero-gap structure can effectively shorten the ion transport path, reduce energy consumption, and improve electrolysis efficiency. The zero-gap structure is supported by the anode plate and the cathode plate, forming a cathode-side electrolysis chamber and an anode-side electrolysis chamber. Through the alternating arrangement of convex and concave parts, the electrode area of ​​the anode and cathode is significantly increased. Under the same projected area in the first direction, the electrolysis reaction space is directly and effectively increased, and the current density is effectively improved. At the same time, by making full use of the electrolysis space, the volume of the electrolysis unit is reduced while ensuring the same hydrogen production. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the electrolysis unit of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of point A; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the electrolysis unit of this application from another perspective; Figure 4 This is a partially enlarged view of an embodiment of the electrolysis unit of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the electrolytic cell of this application.

[0020] Explanation of icon numbers: 10. Electrolysis unit; 100, Anode plate; 101, First liquid inlet; 102, First gas outlet; 103, Second gas outlet of the previous electrolysis unit; 110, First main electrode plate; 120, First electrode frame; 200. Anode; 210. First convex part; 220. First concave part; 230. Third convex part; 240. Third concave part; 250. First flow channel; 300. Diaphragm; 310. First concave-convex surface; 320. Second concave-convex surface; 400. Cathode electrode; 410. Second convex part; 420. Second concave part; 430. Fourth convex part; 440. Fourth concave part; 450. Second flow channel; 500, Cathode plate; 501, Second gas outlet; 502, First liquid inlet of the next electrolysis unit; 503, First gas outlet of the next electrolysis unit; 510, Second main electrode plate; 520, Second electrode frame; 600. Sealing gasket; 21. First end pressure plate; 22. Second end pressure plate; 23. Connecting rod; 24. Disc spring; 25. Nut.

[0021] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0022] 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 a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this application involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0024] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this application involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution that simultaneously satisfies A and B. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0025] As hydrogen plays an increasingly important role in energy systems, the importance of hydrogen production equipment such as electrolyzers is becoming increasingly prominent, and the industry's requirements for hydrogen production efficiency are constantly increasing. In related technologies, the distance between the cathode and anode electrodes is relatively large, and the diaphragm is independently located between them. Even though some solutions add supporting structures to the diaphragm in the middle to improve hydrogen production efficiency (for example, some solutions use electrode diaphragms supported by papillary structures, ribs, stretched mesh, or elastic mesh), such diaphragms with supporting structures suffer from structural complexity, large space occupation, and high cost. Furthermore, this type of structure does not effectively improve electrolysis efficiency, as the electrolyte fills the space between the cathode and anode plates, resulting in a longer ion transport path and consequently, higher energy consumption and lower electrolysis efficiency.

[0026] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, in order to simplify the structure, reduce costs, and effectively improve hydrogen production efficiency, embodiments of this application propose an electrolysis unit 10. The electrolysis unit 10 includes an anode plate 100, a positive electrode 200, a diaphragm 300, a negative electrode 400, and a cathode plate 500 arranged sequentially along a first direction D1. The side of the positive electrode 200 facing the negative electrode 400 has a first protrusion 210 and a first recess 220 arranged alternately along a second direction D2; the side of the negative electrode 400 facing the positive electrode 200 has a second protrusion 410 and a second recess 420 arranged alternately along the second direction D2.

[0027] The second protrusion 410 of the negative electrode 400 is engaged with the first concave portion 220 of the positive electrode 200, and the first protrusion 210 of the positive electrode 200 is engaged with the second concave portion 420 of the negative electrode 400; the diaphragm 300 is disposed between the positive electrode 200 and the negative electrode 400.

[0028] In the embodiments of this application, the second direction D2 intersects with the first direction D1. The first direction D1 is used to define the stacked arrangement direction of the anode plate 100, the positive electrode 200, the diaphragm 300, the negative electrode 400, and the cathode plate 500. The second direction D2 intersects with the first direction D1, and is preferably selected to be perpendicular to the first direction D1 and intersect with the connecting line direction of the liquid inlet position and the gas outlet position of the electrolysis unit 10, in order to help define the lateral arrangement of the plurality of first protrusions 210 and the plurality of first recesses 220 of the positive electrode 200 and the plurality of second protrusions 410 and the plurality of second recesses 420 of the negative electrode 400.

[0029] The anode plate 100 serves as a current collector, providing structural support and uniformly distributing current from the external power source to the surface of the anode electrode 200, ensuring a uniform current density distribution. During electrolysis, an oxidation reaction occurs on the surface of the anode electrode 200, producing oxygen, chlorine, and other gases. A reduction reaction occurs on the surface of the cathode electrode 400, which receives electrons from the cathode plate 500, producing hydrogen and other gases. The cathode plate 500 also serves as a current collector, collecting electrons from the external circuit and uniformly conducting them to the surface of the cathode electrode 400. The diaphragm 300 selectively allows ion migration to complete the current loop while simultaneously preventing the mixing of anode and cathode products.

[0030] like Figure 1 , Figure 2As shown, on the side of the anode 200 facing the cathode 400, first protrusions 210 and first recesses 220 are alternately arranged along the second direction D2; on the side of the cathode 400 facing the anode 200, second protrusions 410 and second recesses 420 are alternately arranged along the second direction D2. Multiple first protrusions 210 and multiple second recesses 420 correspond in position, and multiple second protrusions 410 and multiple first recesses 220 correspond in position. The anode 200 and cathode 400 are interlocked through the convex-concave structure, which reduces the use of support structures, simplifies the structure, and lowers costs. Furthermore, by clamping the diaphragm 300 located between the anode 200 and cathode 400, a zero-gap structure is formed between the anode 200, diaphragm 300, and cathode 400, reducing space occupation. The electrode spacing refers to the distance from the anode to the cathode in the electrolytic cell, and zero electrode spacing indicates that the electrode spacing is close to zero. The zero electrode spacing structure refers to the overall structure formed by tightly pressing the anode 200, diaphragm 300, and cathode 400 together. The zero electrode spacing structure can effectively shorten the ion transport path, reduce energy consumption, and improve electrolysis efficiency. The zero electrode spacing structure is supported by the anode plate 100 and the cathode plate 500, forming a cathode-side electrolysis chamber and an anode-side electrolysis chamber. Through the alternating arrangement of convex and concave portions (the alternating arrangement of the first convex portion 210 and the first concave portion 220 of the anode 200, and the alternating arrangement of the second convex portion 410 and the second concave portion 420 of the cathode 400), the electrode area of ​​the anode 200 and the cathode 400 is significantly increased. Under the same projected area in the first direction D1, the electrolysis reaction space is directly and effectively increased, and the current density is effectively improved. At the same time, by making full use of the electrolysis space, the volume of the electrolysis unit 10 is reduced while ensuring the same hydrogen production.

[0031] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, the diaphragm 300 can be a structure with its own uneven surface (such as having a waveform), or it can be formed by extrusion.

[0032] When the diaphragm 300 is formed into a concave-convex surface by extrusion, the diaphragm 300 is embedded between the anode 200 and the cathode 400, and the concave-convex surface is formed by extrusion between the anode 200 and the cathode 400, thereby forming a compact zero-gap structure, reducing the space occupied by the electrolysis unit, and greatly shortening the ion conduction path, effectively improving the electrolysis efficiency.

[0033] When the diaphragm 300 has a structure with concave and convex surfaces, the side of the diaphragm 300 facing the anode 200 is constructed as a first concave and convex surface 310 that fits into the anode 200, and the side of the diaphragm 300 facing the cathode 400 is constructed as a second concave and convex surface 320 that fits into the cathode 400.

[0034] The diaphragm 300 can adopt a porous rigid insulating structure and can be configured as a corrugated plate. The diaphragm 300, which has a concave-convex surface structure, can provide mechanical support and insulation. It can be fitted with the anode 200 and cathode 400 through the pre-formed first concave-convex surface 310 and the second concave-convex surface 320 respectively to form a stable zero-gap structure. It can also provide higher mechanical strength and stability for the electrolysis unit 10, and can extend the service life of the electrolysis cell when the electrolysis unit 10 is used in the electrolysis cell.

[0035] In related technologies, the anode plate, positive electrode, diaphragm, negative electrode, and cathode plate are all constructed as flat plate structures, resulting in low gas production efficiency.

[0036] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment of this application, the side of the anode electrode 200 facing the anode plate 100 has a third protrusion 230 and a third recess 240 arranged alternately along the second direction D2. The third protrusion 230 abuts against the anode plate 100, and the third recess 240 and the anode plate 100 surround each other to form a first flow channel 250. The side of the cathode electrode 400 facing the cathode plate 500 has a fourth protrusion 430 and a fourth recess 440 arranged alternately along the second direction D2. The fourth protrusion 430 abuts against the cathode plate 500, and the fourth recess 440 and the cathode plate 500 surround each other to form a second flow channel 450.

[0037] By alternating convex and concave portions (alternating first convex portion 210 and first concave portion 220, third convex portion 230 and third concave portion 240 of the anode 200, and alternating second convex portion 410 and second concave portion 420, fourth convex portion 430 and fourth concave portion 440 of the cathode 400), the electrode areas of the anode 200 and cathode 400 are significantly increased. Under the same projected area in the first direction D1, the electrolysis reaction space is directly and effectively increased, resulting in more reactions occurring per unit time, effectively improving reaction efficiency and increasing gaseous products. The first flow channel 250, naturally formed by the third recess 240 and the anode plate 100, connects the liquid inlet and the gas outlet (such as the first liquid inlet 101 and the first gas outlet 102). The second flow channel 450, naturally formed by the fourth recess 440 and the cathode plate 500, connects the liquid inlet and the gas outlet (such as the second liquid inlet and the second gas outlet 501). This allows gaseous products to be rapidly discharged at high gas production rates, effectively maintaining high reaction efficiency and significantly reducing efficiency reduction caused by gas blockage. Furthermore, the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450 can also be used to plan the gas-liquid paths of the anode-side electrolysis chamber and the cathode-side electrolysis chamber, thereby reducing the random mixing of anode and cathode gaseous products and effectively improving the stability and gas production efficiency of the electrolysis unit 10.

[0038] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the anode plate 100 is provided with a first liquid inlet 101 and a first gas outlet 102, and a first flow channel 250 is used to connect the first liquid inlet 101 and the first gas outlet 102. The cathode plate 500 is provided with a second liquid inlet (not shown) and a second gas outlet 501, and a second flow channel 450 is used to connect the second liquid inlet (not shown) and the second gas outlet 501.

[0039] The first liquid inlet 101 is used to supply the anode side with liquids such as pure water and electrolyte required for the electrolysis reaction; the first gas outlet 102 is used to discharge the oxygen and its gas-liquid mixture (such as a mixture of oxygen and alkali) generated by the electrolysis reaction. The first liquid inlet 101 and the first gas outlet 102 can be arranged diagonally or otherwise disposed at different positions on the anode plate 100. The first flow channel 250 is used to connect the first liquid inlet 101 and the first gas outlet 102, thereby defining and optimizing the gas-liquid flow path on the anode side, ensuring to a certain extent that oxygen products can be quickly discharged at high gas production rates, reducing the efficiency reduction caused by gas blockage. In addition, although the first liquid inlet 101 is mainly used for liquid inlet, it can also be used as a liquid outlet in certain operating modes. The second liquid inlet (not shown) is used to supply the cathode side with liquids such as pure water and electrolyte required for the electrolysis reaction; the second gas outlet 501 is used to discharge the hydrogen and its gas-liquid mixture (such as a mixture of hydrogen and alkali) generated by the electrolysis reaction. The second liquid inlet (not shown) and the second gas outlet 501 can be arranged diagonally or otherwise disposed at different positions on the cathode plate 500. The second flow channel 450 connects the second liquid inlet and the second gas outlet 501, thereby defining and optimizing the gas-liquid flow path on the cathode side. This ensures, to a certain extent, that hydrogen products can be rapidly discharged at high gas production rates, reducing efficiency reduction caused by gas blockage. Furthermore, although the second liquid inlet is primarily used for liquid inlet, it can also be used as a liquid outlet in specific operating modes.

[0040] For example, the anode 200 and cathode 400 can adopt a corrugated or other electrode structure with gas-liquid channels. The anode 200 and cathode 400 are concave and convex, clamping the diaphragm 300 to form a zero-gap structure. At least one of the anode 200 and cathode 400 can be configured as a corrugated plate; or, at least one of the anode 200 and cathode 400 can be configured as a flat plate, with the concave and convex portions on both sides of the flat plate being staggered.

[0041] Taking at least one of the anode 200 and cathode 400 as a flat plate, with the concave and convex portions on both sides of the flat plate staggered as an example: the side of the anode 200 facing the cathode 400 is provided with a first protrusion 210 and a first concave portion 220 arranged alternately along the second direction D2; the side of the anode 200 facing the anode plate 100 is provided with a third protrusion 230 and a third concave portion 240 arranged alternately along the second direction D2, wherein the first protrusion 210, the first concave portion 220, the third protrusion 230 and the third concave portion 240 are staggered. The side of the cathode 400 facing the anode 200 has a second protrusion 410 and a second recess 420 arranged alternately along the second direction D2. The side of the cathode 400 facing the cathode plate 500 has a fourth protrusion 430 and a fourth recess 440 arranged alternately along the second direction D2, wherein the second protrusion 410, the second recess 420, the fourth protrusion 430, and the fourth recess 440 are staggered. Compared to a flat plate structure where both the anode and cathode are without protrusions or recesses, this structure not only increases the effective electrode area of ​​the anode 200 and the cathode 400, but also improves the overall structural strength and operational stability of the electrolysis unit 10.

[0042] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, taking at least one of the anode 200 and cathode 400 as a corrugated plate as an example: In one embodiment, the anode 200 is configured as a corrugated plate, with the first protrusion 210 and the third recess 240 correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the anode 200, and the first recess 220 and the third protrusion 230 correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the anode 200.

[0043] In another embodiment, the cathode 400 is configured as a corrugated plate, with the second protrusion 410 and the fourth recess 440 correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the cathode 400, and the second recess 420 and the fourth protrusion 430 correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the cathode 400.

[0044] At least one of the anode 200 and the cathode 400 can be configured as a corrugated plate, and the anode 200 and the cathode 400 are interlocked through their own concave and convex structures. Compared with a flat structure where both the anode and cathode are flat without concave and convex designs, configuring the anode 200 and the cathode 400 as corrugated plates can reduce the use of support structures, simplify the structure, and reduce costs. Furthermore, by clamping the diaphragm 300 located between the anode 200 and the cathode 400, the anode 200, the diaphragm 300, and the cathode 400 can form a zero-pole-gap structure, reducing the space occupied. By using alternating convex and concave portions (alternating first convex portion 210 and first concave portion 220, third convex portion 230 and third concave portion 240 of the anode 200, and alternating second convex portion 410 and second concave portion 420, fourth convex portion 430 and fourth concave portion 440 of the cathode 400), the electrode areas of the anode 200 and cathode 400 are significantly increased. Under the same projected area in the first direction D1, this directly and effectively increases the electrolysis reaction space and improves the current density. Simultaneously, by fully utilizing the electrolysis space, the volume of the electrolysis unit 10 is reduced while maintaining the same hydrogen production, achieving a compact design. Furthermore, the dimensions of the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450 can be increased, allowing more reactions to occur per unit time, effectively improving reaction efficiency and increasing gaseous products.

[0045] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the first protrusion 210 and the second protrusion 410 are respectively extended along the third direction D3; the third direction D3 intersects with the second direction D2.

[0046] For example, the third direction D3 intersects with the first direction D1 and is different from the second direction D2, and is preferably selected as a direction that is perpendicular to the first direction D1 (and different from the second direction D2). The third direction D3 can be defined as the extension direction of the connecting line between the liquid inlet position and the gas outlet position of the electrolysis unit 10, or other directions that intersect with the connecting line, which are not limited here.

[0047] In the embodiments of this application, the second direction D2 is used to assist in defining the lateral arrangement of the plurality of first protrusions 210 and the plurality of first recesses 220 of the anode 200 and the plurality of second protrusions 410 and the plurality of second recesses 420 of the cathode 400; the third direction D3 is used to assist in defining the longitudinal arrangement of the protrusions and recesses such as the first protrusion 210, the second protrusion 410, the third protrusion 230, and the fourth protrusion 430. By defining the flow paths of the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450, the gas-liquid transport paths of the anode-side electrolysis chamber and the cathode-side electrolysis chamber can be clearly defined, thereby realizing the directional transport of gas-liquid products. This effectively reduces problems such as excessive flow resistance and poor flow caused by curved sections or other complex layouts in the flow channel, thereby reducing the occurrence of dead zones due to bubble blockage of the flow channel and obstruction of electrolyte flow. At the same time, it can also promote efficient gas discharge and reduce gas accumulation on the surfaces of the anode plate 100 and cathode plate 500. This allows for a more compact design of the electrolysis unit 10, reducing the space occupied, while enabling more reactions to occur per unit time, effectively improving reaction efficiency and increasing gaseous products.

[0048] In addition to the aforementioned arrangement of the first protrusion 210 and the second protrusion 410 extending along the third direction D3, the plurality of first recesses 220 and the plurality of second recesses 420 can also be configured as protruding structures, with the plurality of first recesses 220 arranged sequentially along the third direction D3 and the plurality of second recesses 420 arranged sequentially along the third direction D3. It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the number and size of the plurality of protrusions and recesses can be the same or different, and can be specifically configured according to actual conditions, without limitation here.

[0049] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first flow channel 250 along the third direction D3 is any one of a semicircle, a semi-ellipse, a rectangle, a trapezoid, or a triangle; the orthographic projection of the second flow channel 450 along the third direction D3 is any one of a semicircle, a semi-ellipse, a rectangle, a trapezoid, or a triangle.

[0050] For example, when the anode 200 is configured as a corrugated plate and the cathode 400 is configured as a corrugated plate, the shape of the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450 along the third direction D3 can be further defined.

[0051] For example, when the orthographic projections of the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450 along the third direction D3 are semi-circular, semi-elliptical, or other arc-shaped, the orthographic projections of the anode 200 and the cathode 400 along the third direction D3 can be wavy. This reduces the possibility of bubbles clogging the flow channels and hindering electrolyte flow, thus reducing dead zones. It also promotes efficient gas discharge and reduces gas accumulation on the surfaces of the anode plate 100 and the cathode plate 500, further optimizing the reliability and safety of the electrolysis unit 10. When the first recess 220 and the second recess 420 are processed into square grooves, trapezoidal grooves, triangular grooves, etc., the orthographic projections of the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450 along the third direction D3 are rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, etc., to facilitate processing. In the embodiments of this application, the shape and size of the orthographic projections of the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450 along the third direction D3 can be the same or different, and are not limited here.

[0052] In the embodiments of this application, when at least one of the anode 200 and the cathode 400 is configured as a corrugated plate, the first recess 220 and the second recess 420 are respectively extended along the third direction D3, and the shape of the orthographic projection of the first flow channel 250 and the second flow channel 450 along the third direction D3 can be selected from any one or more shapes such as semicircle, semi-ellipse, rectangle, trapezoid, triangle.

[0053] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the anode plate 100 includes a first main electrode plate 110 and a first electrode frame 120 surrounding the first main electrode plate 110. The first electrode frame 120 has a first liquid inlet 101 and a first gas outlet 102 on the side near the diaphragm 300. The cathode plate 500 includes a second main electrode plate 510 and a second electrode frame 520 surrounding the second main electrode plate 510. The second electrode frame 520 has a second liquid inlet and a second gas outlet 501 on the side near the diaphragm 300.

[0054] The first main electrode plate 110 is the core area of ​​the electrolysis reaction. The first electrode frame 120 is arranged around the first main electrode plate 110, which can enclose the first main electrode plate 110 to form an anode-side electrolysis chamber, allowing the electrolyte to fully contact the first main electrode plate 110, thereby improving the reaction efficiency. The first liquid inlet 101 is used to supply the pure water, electrolyte, and other liquids required for the electrolysis reaction to the anode side; the first gas outlet 102 is used to discharge the oxygen and its gas-liquid mixture (such as a mixture of oxygen and alkaline solution) generated by the electrolysis reaction. The first liquid inlet 101 and the first gas outlet 102 can be arranged diagonally or in other ways at different positions on the anode plate 100. In addition, although the first liquid inlet 101 is mainly used for liquid inlet, it can also be used as a liquid outlet in certain operating modes. Similarly, the second main electrode plate 510 is the core area of ​​the electrolysis reaction. The second electrode frame 520 is arranged around the second main electrode plate 510, which can enclose the second main electrode plate 510 to form a cathode-side electrolysis chamber, allowing the electrolyte to fully contact the second main electrode plate 510, thereby improving the reaction efficiency. The second liquid inlet (not shown) is used to supply the cathode side with liquids such as pure water and electrolyte required for the electrolysis reaction; the second gas outlet 501 is used to discharge hydrogen gas and its gas-liquid mixture (such as a mixture of hydrogen gas and alkaline solution) generated by the electrolysis reaction. The second liquid inlet (not shown) and the second gas outlet 501 can be arranged diagonally or in other ways at different positions on the cathode plate 500. In addition, although the second liquid inlet is mainly used for liquid inlet, it can also be used as a liquid outlet in certain operating modes.

[0055] For example, the second direction D2 can be set in the horizontal direction (lateral direction) of the electrolysis unit 10, and the third direction D3 can be set in the vertical direction (longitudinal direction) of the electrolysis unit 10. The first gas outlet 102 can be set at the top of the first electrode frame 120 or near the top of the first electrode frame 120, and the first liquid inlet 101 can be set at the bottom of the first electrode frame 120 or near the bottom of the first electrode frame 120. The gas generated by the electrolysis reaction will be released from the surface of the first main electrode plate 110 and discharged through the first gas outlet 102. Setting the first gas outlet 102 at the top of the first electrode frame 120 or near the top facilitates the discharge of gaseous products (oxygen, oxygen-oxygen gas-liquid mixture) and reduces the impact of local gas accumulation on the electrolysis reaction. Electrolyte can enter or exit the first main electrode plate 110 through the first liquid inlet 101. Positioning the first liquid inlet 101 at or near the bottom of the first electrode frame 120 facilitates the rapid discharge of gaseous products and bubbles from the surface of the first main electrode plate 110 through the first gas outlet 102 during bottom liquid inlet, and also allows for rapid discharge of electrolyte (such as alkaline solution) by gravity during liquid outlet, reducing electrolyte residue. Alternatively, the first liquid inlet 101 can be positioned on the side of the first electrode frame 120 or at other locations; the specific location can be determined based on actual conditions and is not limited here. The second gas outlet 501 can be positioned at or near the top of the second electrode frame 520, and the second liquid inlet can be positioned at or near the bottom of the second electrode frame 520. For details, please refer to the aforementioned description of the anode plate 100; further elaboration is not provided here.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first electrode frame 120 and the first main electrode plate 110 are connected by welding, and the second electrode frame 520 and the second main electrode plate 510 are connected by welding. The first electrode frame 120, the first main electrode plate 110, the second electrode frame 520, and the second main electrode plate 510 can be made of materials that are corrosion-resistant, conductive, and have high mechanical strength. When the electrolytic cell used is an alkaline electrolytic cell, the first main electrode plate 110, the first electrode frame 120, the second main electrode plate 510, and the second electrode frame 520 can be made of nickel-plated steel (such as nickel-plated carbon steel); the anode 200 and the cathode 400 can be electrode structures made of woven nickel mesh or other materials with high stability. When the electrolyzer used is a pure water electrolyzer (PEM electrolyzer, AEM electrolyzer, etc.), the first main electrode plate 110, the first electrode frame 120, the second main electrode plate 510 and the second electrode frame 520 can be made of titanium; the anode 200 and the cathode 400 can be electrode structures made of titanium; no limitation is imposed here.

[0057] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the aforementioned anode plate 100 and cathode plate 500 can both be single-electrode plates or bipolar plates. When the aforementioned electrolysis unit 10 is applied to an electrolytic cell, the electrolytic cell includes a plurality of electrolysis units 10 stacked along the first direction D1; when the anode plate 100 and cathode plate 500 are bipolar plates, adjacent electrolysis units 10 can share the same bipolar plate; the specific configuration can be based on actual conditions and is not limited here.

[0058] For example, when the anode plate 100 and cathode plate 500 are bipolar plates, the anode plate 100 on the electrolysis unit 10, in addition to having a first liquid inlet 101 and a first gas outlet 102 on the side near the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10, can also have a second liquid inlet and a second gas outlet 103 on the other side away from the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10 (i.e., the side facing the diaphragm of the previous electrolysis unit), corresponding to the previous electrolysis unit. This allows the side of the anode plate 100 facing the diaphragm of the previous electrolysis unit to serve as... The cathode plate of the previous electrolysis unit is used; in addition to the second liquid inlet and the second gas outlet 501 being provided on the side of the cathode plate 500 corresponding to the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10, a first liquid inlet 502 and a first gas outlet 503 corresponding to the next electrolysis unit can also be provided on the other side away from the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10 (i.e. the side facing the diaphragm of the next electrolysis unit), so that the side of the cathode plate 500 facing the diaphragm of the next electrolysis unit can be used as the anode plate of the next electrolysis unit.

[0059] It should be noted that when the electrolysis unit 10 of the aforementioned embodiment is applied to an electrolytic cell, the arrangement order of the multiple electrolysis units 10 can be interchanged, and it is not limited that the other side of the anode plate 100 of the corresponding electrolysis unit 10 is used only as the cathode plate of the previous electrolysis unit. In the scenario where the order of the electrolysis units 10 is interchanged, the anode plate 100 of the corresponding electrolysis unit 10 can also be used as the cathode plate of the next electrolysis unit. The above arrangement order and bipolar plate reuse method can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs, and are not limited here.

[0060] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, at least one of the anode 200, diaphragm 300, and cathode 400 is provided with a connecting portion (not shown) on its outer periphery; the connecting portion is sandwiched between the first electrode frame 120 and the second electrode frame 520.

[0061] A connecting portion is provided on the outer periphery of any one or more of the anode 200, diaphragm 300, and cathode 400. Taking the connecting portion on the outer periphery of the diaphragm 300 as an example, the connecting portion can be arranged around the diaphragm 300, and can be configured as a continuous ring around the diaphragm 300, or as multiple connecting segments discontinuously distributed along the outer periphery of the diaphragm 300. The connecting portion is sandwiched between the first electrode frame 120 and the second electrode frame 520, so that after the anode 200, diaphragm 300, and cathode 400 are fitted together to form a zero-pitch structure, they can be stably installed between the first electrode frame 120 and the second electrode frame 520 without positional displacement, thereby improving the overall structural stability of the electrolysis unit. The connecting portion can be made of insulating material, directly isolating the anode plate 100 and the cathode plate 500, reducing short-circuit problems caused by their connection contact. In addition, the orthographic projection of the connecting portion along the third direction D3 can be planar, which facilitates processing and assembly.

[0062] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the electrolysis unit 10 further includes a sealing gasket 600, which is disposed around the first main electrode plate 110 and the second main electrode plate 510, and sandwiched between the first electrode frame 120 and the second electrode frame 520.

[0063] A sealing gasket 600 is disposed around the first main electrode plate 110 and the second main electrode plate 510, and sandwiched between the first electrode frame 120 and the second electrode frame 520. The sealing gasket 600 can insulate the first main electrode plate 110 and the second main electrode plate 510, and can achieve a tight connection of the electrolysis unit 10, optimize the sealing effect of the electrolysis unit 10, reduce the possible mixing of anode and cathode products, and to a certain extent prevent the leakage of electrolyte, gas products, etc. to the outside. The sealing gasket 600 can also isolate the anode plate 100 and the cathode plate 500, reduce the short circuit problem caused by their connection contact, and further optimize the overall structural stability of the electrolysis unit 10.

[0064] like Figure 1 , Figure 5 As shown, an embodiment of this application also provides an electrolytic cell, which includes an electrolytic unit 10 as described in the above embodiment. There are multiple electrolytic units 10, and the multiple electrolytic units 10 are stacked along the first direction D1.

[0065] For example, the electrolysis unit 10 can be an electrolysis chamber, and multiple electrolysis units 10 can be connected in series or in parallel. The aforementioned anode plate 100 and cathode plate 500 can both be single-electrode plates or bipolar plates. When the anode plate 100 and cathode plate 500 are bipolar plates, the anode plate 100 on the electrolysis unit 10, in addition to having a first liquid inlet 101 and a first gas outlet 102 on the side near the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10, can also have a second liquid inlet and a second gas outlet 103 on the side opposite to the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10 (i.e., the side facing the diaphragm of the previous electrolysis unit), corresponding to the previous electrolysis unit. This allows the side of the anode plate 100 facing the diaphragm of the previous electrolysis unit to serve as the diaphragm of the previous electrolysis unit. The cathode plate of the electrolysis unit is used; in addition to the second liquid inlet and the second gas outlet 501 being provided on the side of the cathode plate 500 corresponding to the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10, a first liquid inlet 502 and a first gas outlet 503 corresponding to the next electrolysis unit can also be provided on the other side away from the diaphragm 300 of the electrolysis unit 10 (i.e. the side facing the diaphragm of the next electrolysis unit), so that the side of the cathode plate 500 facing the diaphragm of the next electrolysis unit can be used as the anode plate of the next electrolysis unit.

[0066] In one embodiment, the electrolytic cell further includes a first end plate 21, a second end plate 22, a connecting rod 23, a disc spring 24, and a nut 25. The first end plate 21 and the second end plate 22 are spaced apart, and multiple electrolytic units 10 are arranged between the first end plate 21 and the second end plate 22 along a first direction D1. Multiple connecting rods 23 are used to connect the first end plate 21 and the second end plate 22. These connecting rods 23 can be connected to the outside of multiple electrolytic units 10. One end of each connecting rod 23 is connected and fixed to the first end plate 21 via the disc spring 24 and the nut 25, and the other end is connected and fixed to the second end plate 22 via the disc spring 24 and the nut 25, thereby improving the overall stability of the electrolytic cell structure.

[0067] The specific structure of the electrolytic cell is as described in the above embodiments. Since this electrolytic cell adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0068] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the technical concept of this application and the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An electrolysis unit (10), characterized in that, It includes an anode plate (100), a positive electrode (200), a diaphragm (300), a negative electrode (400), and a cathode plate (500) arranged sequentially along the first direction (D1); The side of the anode (200) facing the cathode (400) has a first protrusion (210) and a first recess (220) arranged alternately along the second direction (D2); The side of the negative electrode (400) facing the positive electrode (200) has a second protrusion (410) and a second concave portion (420) arranged alternately along the second direction (D2); The second protrusion (410) of the negative electrode (400) is engaged with the first concave portion (220) of the positive electrode (200), and the first protrusion (210) of the positive electrode (200) is engaged with the second concave portion (420) of the negative electrode (400); the diaphragm (300) is disposed between the positive electrode (200) and the negative electrode (400); The second direction (D2) intersects with the first direction (D1).

2. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The side of the diaphragm (300) facing the anode (200) is configured as a first concave-convex surface (310) that fits into the anode (200), and the side of the diaphragm (300) facing the cathode (400) is configured as a second concave-convex surface (320) that fits into the cathode (400).

3. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, The anode electrode (200) has a third protrusion (230) and a third recess (240) arranged alternately along the second direction (D2) on the side facing the anode plate (100). The third protrusion (230) abuts against the anode plate (100), and the third recess (240) and the anode plate (100) surround each other to form a first flow channel (250). The side of the cathode electrode (400) facing the cathode plate (500) has a fourth protrusion (430) and a fourth recess (440) arranged alternately along the second direction (D2). The fourth protrusion (430) abuts against the cathode plate (500), and the fourth recess (440) and the cathode plate (500) surround each other to form a second flow channel (450).

4. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The anode plate (100) is provided with a first liquid inlet (101) and a first gas outlet (102), and the first flow channel (250) is used to connect the first liquid inlet (101) and the first gas outlet (102); The cathode plate (500) is provided with a second liquid inlet and a second gas outlet (501), and the second flow channel (450) is used to connect the second liquid inlet and the second gas outlet (501).

5. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The anode (200) is configured as a corrugated plate, with the first protrusion (210) and the third concave portion (240) correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the anode (200), and the first concave portion (220) and the third protrusion (230) correspondingly disposed on opposite sides of the anode (200). And / or, the cathode (400) is configured as a corrugated plate, the second protrusion (410) and the fourth concave portion (440) are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the cathode (400), and the second concave portion (420) and the fourth protrusion (430) are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the cathode (400).

6. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The first protrusion (210) and the second protrusion (410) extend along a third direction (D3); the third direction (D3) intersects with the second direction (D2).

7. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the first flow channel (250) along the third direction (D3) is any one of a semicircle, a semi-ellipse, a rectangle, a trapezoid, or a triangle; The orthographic projection of the second flow channel (450) along the third direction (D3) is any one of the following: semicircle, semi-ellipse, rectangle, trapezoid, or triangle.

8. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The anode plate (100) includes a first main electrode plate (110) and a first electrode frame (120) arranged around the first main electrode plate (110). The first electrode frame (120) has a first liquid inlet (101) and a first gas outlet (102) on the side near the diaphragm (300). The cathode plate (500) includes a second main electrode plate (510) and a second electrode frame (520) arranged around the second main electrode plate (510). The second electrode frame (520) has a second liquid inlet and a second gas outlet (501) on the side near the diaphragm (300).

9. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 8, characterized in that, At least one of the anode (200), the diaphragm (300), and the cathode (400) has a connecting portion on its outer periphery; The connecting part is sandwiched between the first pole frame (120) and the second pole frame (520).

10. The electrolysis unit (10) as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The electrolysis unit (10) further includes a sealing gasket (600), which is disposed around the first main electrode plate (110) and the second main electrode plate (510) and sandwiched between the first electrode frame (120) and the second electrode frame (520).

11. An electrolytic cell, characterized in that, The device includes an electrolysis unit (10) as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein there are multiple electrolysis units (10) and the multiple electrolysis units (10) are stacked along a first direction (D1).

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