Separator and electrolysis device

Abstract

The separator of the present invention is a separator for an electrolysis apparatus, comprising: a separator body having a first surface and a second surface; a first supply hole and a first discharge hole formed on a diagonal line of the separator body in the first surface and penetrating the separator body; a plurality of first grooves formed in the region between the first supply hole and the first discharge hole; a trapezoidal first diffusion flow path distributed between the first supply hole and the first groove, wherein the width dimension gradually increases from the first supply hole to the first groove; a trapezoidal first convergence flow path distributed between the first groove and the first discharge hole, wherein the width dimension gradually decreases from the first groove to the first discharge hole; a first diffusion guide portion disposed in the first diffusion flow path to guide fluid from the first supply hole to the first groove; and a first convergence guide portion disposed in the first convergence flow path to guide fluid from the first groove to the first discharge hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a separator and an electrolysis apparatus. Prior Technology

[0002] Regarding devices for producing hydrogen, water electrolysis devices (electrolysis apparatuses) are known. One such device is described in, for example, Patent Document 1. This apparatus divides the electrolytic cell into a cathode chamber and an anode chamber using an ion-exchange membrane. Water is filled into the electrolytic cell, and electricity is supplied to the cathode and anode to perform water electrolysis. In the cathode chamber, water reacts with electrons to produce hydrogen. The hydroxide ions produced by this reaction penetrate the ion-exchange membrane and reach the anode chamber. These hydroxide ions then produce oxygen and water in the anode chamber. By continuously carrying out this reaction, a large amount of hydrogen can be obtained.

[0003] Furthermore, in this device, multiple electrolytic cells are arranged to enhance processing capacity. Plate-like components, called separators, are interspersed between the electrolytic cells. Flow paths are formed on the surface of the separators for the flow of fluids such as water. The separator related to Patent Document 1 below forms a triangular flow path from the water supply hole to the recess (groove) in the center of the long side. [Previous Technical Documents] [Patent Literature]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent No. 4451954 Summary of the Invention

[0005] [The problem the invention aims to solve] However, as mentioned above, if the flow path near the supply orifice is triangular, the fluid may not be able to diffuse throughout the entire channel, leading to concerns about uneven distribution. This could hinder the electrolysis reaction and potentially affect the amount of hydrogen produced.

[0006] The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a separator and electrolysis device that can generate hydrogen more stably and in large quantities. [Methods for solving problems]

[0007] To address the aforementioned issues, the separator of the present invention is a separator for an electrolysis apparatus, comprising: a separator body, which is rectangular in shape and has a first surface facing one side in the thickness direction and a second surface facing the other side; a first supply hole and a first discharge hole, which are formed on a diagonal line of the separator body on the first surface and extend through the separator body from the first surface toward the second surface; and a plurality of first grooves, which are formed in the region between the first supply hole and the first discharge hole, extending along the long side of the separator body and in the width direction orthogonal to the long side direction. The first diffusion flow path is distributed between the first supply hole and the first groove, and is recessed from the first surface to the second surface. When viewed from the first surface, it is a trapezoid with the width dimension gradually increasing from the first supply hole to the first groove. The first convergence flow path is distributed between the first groove and the first discharge hole, and is recessed from the first surface to the second surface. When viewed from the first surface, it is a trapezoid with the width dimension gradually decreasing from the first groove to the first discharge hole.

[0008] The electrolysis apparatus of the present invention comprises: an electrolytic cell stack; an electrolyte supply unit for supplying electrolyte to the electrolytic cell stack; and a power supply unit for applying voltage to the electrolytic cell stack, wherein the electrolytic cell stack has a separator as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, which is arranged at intervals between each other in the aforementioned thickness direction; and a plurality of electrolytic cells, one of which is disposed between every two adjacent separators. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, a separator and an electrolysis device that can generate hydrogen more stably and in large quantities can be provided. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0010] [Figure 1] is a schematic structural diagram showing the overall structure of the electrolysis apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the electrolytic cell stack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] is an exploded perspective view schematically showing a portion of the electrolytic cell stack according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] is a top view showing the structure of the separator according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] is a cross-sectional view of the VV line in Figure 4. [Figure 6] is a schematic diagram illustrating an electrolytic cell stack according to an embodiment of the present invention. Implementation

[0011] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the manner in which the electrolysis apparatus 1 is used to implement the present invention will be described. In the following description, structures having the same or similar functions will be given the same reference numerals. The term "facing" in this specification means that, viewed from a certain direction, two components overlap, and also includes the case where there are other components (e.g., other layers) between the two components.

[0012] First, referring to Figure 2, define the Z, X, and Y directions. The Z direction is the direction from the first separator 11a (described later) towards the second separator 11b (right side in Figure 2). The X direction is the direction that intersects (e.g., is orthogonal) the Z direction, and is also the direction from the central portion C of the electrolytic cell 12 towards one end of the electrolytic cell 12 (vertical direction in Figure 2). The X direction is, for example, the vertical direction. The Y direction is the direction that intersects (e.g., is orthogonal) the Z and X directions, for example, the direction of paper depth in Figure 2. The "external dimensions" in this specification represent the external dimensions viewed from the Z direction.

[0013] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram showing the overall structure of the electrolysis device 1 according to the first embodiment. The electrolysis device 1 is, for example, an apparatus that electrolyzes water contained in an electrolyte to generate hydrogen gas. The electrolysis device 1 is, for example, an anion exchange membrane (AEM) type electrolysis device. However, the electrolysis device 1 is not limited to the above examples and can also be a proton exchange membrane (PEM) type electrolysis device, an apparatus for electrolytic reduction of carbon dioxide, and other different types of electrolysis devices.

[0014] The electrolysis apparatus 1 includes, for example, an electrolysis cell stack 10, an electrolyte supply unit 20, and a power supply unit 30.

[0015] (Electrolytic cell stack) The electrolytic cell stack 10 is used to electrolyze the externally supplied electrolyte Es. The electrolytic cell stack 10 is an assembly of multiple separators 11 and multiple electrolytic cells 12. The electrolytic cell stack 10 is formed by arranging the multiple separators 11 and multiple electrolytic cells 12 in one direction. In this embodiment, an example is described where 5 separators 11 and 4 electrolytic cells 12 are arranged to form the electrolytic cell stack 10 (refer to Figure 6).

[0016] Hereinafter, the direction in which the plurality of separators 11 and the plurality of electrolytic cells 12 are arranged (the left-right direction in FIG. 6) is referred to as "first direction D1". Furthermore, one side of the first direction D1 (the left side in FIG. 6) is simply referred to as "one side dl", and the opposite side of one side dl is referred to as "the other side dr". For ease of explanation, the five separators 11 will sometimes be referred to sequentially from one side dl as "first separator 11a", "second separator 11b", "third separator 11c", "fourth separator 11d", and "fifth separator 11e". Similarly, the four electrolytic cells 12 will sometimes be referred to sequentially from one side dl as "first electrolytic cell 12a", "second electrolytic cell 12b", "third electrolytic cell 12c", and "fourth electrolytic cell 12d".

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the electrolytic cell stack 10 includes: a plurality of (4) electrolytic cells 12, which, together with the separators 11, form a cathode chamber Sa and an anode chamber Sb; a first flow path 13, 13' (described later), which allows the electrolyte Es supplied by the electrolyte supply section 20 to flow to the cathode chamber Sa and the anode chamber Sb; and a second flow path 14, 14' (described later), which allows the electrolyte after the reaction in the cathode chamber Sa and the anode chamber Sb to flow back to the electrolyte supply section 20 (reflux). The electrolytic cell stack 10 will be explained in detail later. Furthermore, the number of separators 11 and the number of electrolytic cells 12 are not limited to the numbers described above. Each electrolytic cell 12 includes a cathode chamber Sa and an anode chamber Sb. The electrolytic cells 12 will also be explained in detail later.

[0018] (Electrolyte Supply Department) The electrolyte supply unit 20 is a supply unit that supplies electrolyte Es to each electrolytic cell 12. The electrolyte Es is, for example, pure water or an alkaline aqueous solution. The electrolyte supply unit 20 includes a cathode-side supply unit 20a and an anode-side supply unit 20b.

[0019] The cathode-side supply unit 20a is a supply unit that supplies electrolyte Es to the cathode chamber Sa of each electrolytic cell 12. The cathode-side supply unit 20a includes, for example, a hydrogen-liquid separation device 21, a first pump 22, a hydrogen recovery unit 23, a first electrolyte supply unit 24, and piping lines L1' and L2'.

[0020] The hydrogen-liquid separator 21 stores the electrolyte Es. The supply port of the hydrogen-liquid separator 21 is connected to the cathode chamber Sa of the electrolytic cell 12 via piping line L1'. The first pump 22 is installed along piping line L1' and delivers the electrolyte Es stored in the hydrogen-liquid separator 21 to the cathode chamber Sa of the electrolytic cell 12.

[0021] The return port of the hydrogen-liquid separator 21 is connected to the cathode chamber Sa of the electrolytic cell 12 via piping line L2'. The hydrogen-containing electrolyte Es produced by the electrolytic cell 12 flows from the electrolytic cell 12 into the hydrogen-liquid separator 21. The hydrogen-liquid separator 21 has a gas-liquid separation section that separates the hydrogen contained in the electrolyte Es. The hydrogen separated from the electrolyte Es by the hydrogen-liquid separator 21 is recovered by the hydrogen recovery section 23. Electrolyte Es is replenished to the hydrogen-liquid separator 21 from the first electrolyte supply section 24.

[0022] On the other hand, the anode-side supply unit 20b is a supply unit that supplies electrolyte Es to the anode chamber Sb of each electrolytic cell 12. The anode-side supply unit 20b includes, for example, an oxygen-liquid separation device 26, a second pump 27, an oxygen recovery unit 28, a second electrolyte supply unit 29, and piping lines L1 and L2.

[0023] The oxygen-liquid separator 26 stores the electrolyte Es. The supply port of the oxygen-liquid separator 26 is connected to the anode chamber Sb of the electrolytic cell 12 via piping line L1. A second pump 27 is installed along piping line L1 to deliver the electrolyte Es stored in the oxygen-liquid separator 26 to the anode chamber Sb of the electrolytic cell 12.

[0024] The return port of the oxygen-liquid separator 26 is connected to the anode chamber Sb of the electrolytic cell 12 via piping line L2. The oxygen-containing electrolyte Es produced by the electrolytic cell 12 flows from the electrolytic cell 12 into the oxygen-liquid separator 26. The oxygen-liquid separator 26 has a gas-liquid separation section that separates the oxygen contained in the electrolyte Es. The oxygen separated from the electrolyte Es by the oxygen-liquid separator 26 is recovered by the oxygen recovery section 28. Electrolyte Es is replenished to the oxygen-liquid separator 26 from the second electrolyte supply section 29.

[0025] (Power Supply Section) The power supply unit 30 is a DC power supply device that applies voltage to each separator 11 of the electrolytic cell stack 10. The power supply unit 30 applies voltage to each separator 11 in the first direction D1, thereby applying the DC voltage required for the electrolysis of electrolyte Es between the anode 122 and cathode 121 of each electrolytic cell 12.

[0026] (Structure of an electrolytic cell stack) Next, the electrolytic cell stack 10 will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 6. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the electrolytic cell stack 10. In Figure 2, among the electrolytic cells 12 arranged in the first direction D1 (the left-right direction in Figure 2), the electrolytic cell 12 (the first electrolytic cell 12a) located closest to one side dl is highlighted.

[0027] As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the electrolytic cell stack 10 has, for example, multiple separators 11 and multiple electrolytic cells 12.

[0028] (Separator) The partition 11 is a component that plans the internal space S in which the electrolytic cells 12 are arranged. The internal space S is the space that includes the cathode chamber Sa and the anode chamber Sb, which will be described later. The partition 11 is, for example, a rectangular plate when viewed from the first direction D1, and is formed of a metal component or the like. The partitions 11 are arranged at intervals from each other in the first direction D1.

[0029] The separator 11 has a first surface 201a facing one side in the thickness direction and a second surface 201b facing the other side. The structure of the first surface 201a and the second surface 201b (described later) is point-symmetrical with reference to the geometric center of gravity of the separator 11. The structure of the first surface 201a side is symbolically illustrated below with reference to Figure 4.

[0030] The separator 11 has a rectangular plate-shaped separator body 201, a first supply hole 203, a first discharge hole 202, a first groove 204, a first diffusion flow path 206, a first convergence flow path 205, a first diffusion guide part 208, a first convergence guide part 207, a straight section 209, a second supply hole 211, a second discharge hole 210, and a second groove 212.

[0031] The first supply hole 203 and the first discharge hole 202 are respectively disposed at one of the two diagonals formed along the corners of the rectangular partition body 201. The first supply hole 203 and the first discharge hole 202 are circular holes that penetrate the partition body 201 from the first surface to the second surface. The diameter of the first discharge hole 202 is set to be larger than the diameter of the first supply hole 203. Moreover, a second supply hole 211 and a second discharge hole 210 are respectively provided at the corner of the other of the two diagonals formed along the corners of the partition body 201.

[0032] The first groove 204, the first diffusion path 206, the first convergence path 205, the first diffusion guide 208, and the first convergence guide 207 are formed only on the first surface 201a. The first groove 204 is formed in the region between the first supply hole 203 and the first discharge hole 202. The first groove 204 extends along the long side of the separator body 201 and is arranged in multiples at intervals along the width direction orthogonal to the long side direction. The first groove 204 is a rectangular cross-section recessed from the first surface 201a side to the second surface 201b side.

[0033] The first diffusion flow path 206 is distributed between the first supply hole 203 and the first groove 204, forming a flow path that is recessed from the first surface 201a side to the second surface 201b side. The first diffusion flow path 206 is trapezoidal, and its width dimension gradually increases from the first supply hole 203 to the first groove 204 when viewed from the first surface 201a side. More specifically, this first diffusion flow path 206 is designed with the following parts: a first side 206a extending from the end edge of the first supply hole 203 in the width direction, a second side 206b extending in a direction orthogonal to the first side 206a (the aforementioned long side direction), and a sloped side 206c facing the second side 206b in the width direction. As the sloped side 206c extends from one side of the long side to the other side, it moves further and further away from the first supply hole 203. The angle between the sloped side 206c and the width direction is preferably 24˚ to 50˚. The optimal angle is between 30˚ and 45˚.

[0034] A first diffusion guide portion 208 is provided within the first diffusion flow path 206. The first diffusion guide portion 208 protrudes from the first surface 201a and is arranged radially around the first supply hole 203. The farther the first diffusion guide portion 208 is from the first supply hole 203, the smaller the angle it makes with respect to the width direction. Furthermore, the farther the first diffusion guide portion 208 is from the first supply hole 203, the larger its dimension is in the direction of its own long side.

[0035] A straight section 209 is provided between the first converging flow path 205 and the first channel 204. The dimension of the straight section 209 in the width direction is a constant value along the entire long side direction. Moreover, the dimension of the straight section 209 in the long side direction is preferably about 25mm.

[0036] The first converging flow path 205 is distributed between the first groove 204 and the first discharge hole 202, and forms a flow path that is recessed from the first surface 201a side to the second surface 201b side. The first converging flow path 205 is trapezoidal, and its width gradually increases from the first discharge hole 202 to the first groove 204 when viewed from the first surface 201a side.

[0037] A first convergence guide 207 is provided within the first convergence flow path 205. The first convergence guide 207 protrudes from the first surface 201a and is arranged radially around the first discharge hole 202. The farther the first convergence guide 207 is from the first discharge hole 202, the smaller the angle it makes with respect to the width direction. Furthermore, the farther the first convergence guide 207 is from the first discharge hole 202, the larger its dimension is in the direction of its own long side.

[0038] As shown in Figure 5, a second groove 212 is formed on the second surface 201b side. Like the first groove 204 on the first surface 201a side, the second groove 212 has a rectangular cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the width dimension of the second groove 212 is set to be larger than that of the first groove 204 in the width direction. Ideally, the width dimension of the second groove 212 is set to be twice that of the first groove 204 in the width direction.

[0039] Of the plurality of partitions 11, except for the partition 11 located closest to the other side dr (the fifth partition 11e), all other partitions 11 have a first inner surface 110a facing away from one side dl in the internal space S. That is, the first inner surface 110a faces the other side dr (the right side in Figures 2 and 6). Of the plurality of partitions 11, except for the partition 11 located closest to one side dl (the first partition 11a), all other partitions 11 have a second inner surface 110b facing away from the other side dr in the internal space S. That is, the second inner surface 110b faces one side dl (the left side in Figures 2 and 6).

[0040] Among the multiple (5) separators 11, the first separator 11a, the third separator 11c, and the fifth separator 11e are subjected to negative voltage by the power supply unit 30 via the first current collector 41 (refer to FIG. 3), which will be described later. On the other hand, the second separator 11b and the fourth separator 11d are subjected to positive voltage by the power supply unit 30 via the second current collector 42 (refer to FIG. 3), which will be described later. Two adjacent separators 11 in the first direction D1 form a pair of separators 11 and form an electrolytic cell 12.

[0041] (Electrolytic cell unit) An electrolytic cell (MEA) 12 is a structure assembled from layers of an ion exchange membrane, a catalyst, and a power supply. One MEA 12 is positioned between every two adjacent spacers 11, and the adjacent spacers 11 are interconnected in the first direction D1. Thus, the MEA 12 is located within the internal space S between adjacent spacers 11. For example, the MEA 12 includes an ion exchange membrane 120, a cathode 121, and an anode 122.

[0042] (Ion exchange membrane) Ion exchange membrane 120 is a membrane that selectively allows ions to pass through. Ion exchange membrane 120 may be, for example, a solid polymer electrolyte membrane. Ion exchange membrane 120 may also be, for example, an anion exchange membrane (AEM) with hydroxide ion conductivity. However, ion exchange membrane 120 is not limited to the above examples and may also be a different type of proton exchange membrane (PEM) with proton conductivity.

[0043] The ion exchange membrane 120 is, for example, a rectangular sheet. The external dimensions of the ion exchange membrane 120 are, for example, smaller than the external dimensions of the adjacent separator 11 in the first direction D1. The ion exchange membrane 120 is disposed between two adjacent separators 11 in the first direction D1 and located within the internal space S. The ion exchange membrane 120 has: a first surface 120a facing a first inner surface 110a of the separator 11 that is closer to one side dl than the ion exchange membrane 120; and a second surface 120b located on the opposite side to the first surface 120a. The first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120 faces one side dl. The second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 faces the other side dr. The second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 faces a second inner surface 110b of the separator 11 that is further to the other side dr than the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0044] In the internal space S, the space between the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120 and the first inner surface 110a of the separator 11, and the space between the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 and the second inner surface 110b of the separator 11, are defined as the cathode chamber Sa or the anode chamber Sb. Specifically, the space between the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120 and the first inner surface 110a of the first separator 11a in the first electrolytic cell 12a, and the space between the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120 and the first inner surface 110a of the third separator 11c in the third electrolytic cell 12c, are defined as the cathode chamber Sa. On the other hand, the area between the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 in the first electrolytic cell 12a and the second inner surface 110b of the second separator 11b, and the area between the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 in the third electrolytic cell 12c and the second inner surface 110b of the fourth separator 11d, are defined as the anode chamber Sb.

[0045] Furthermore, the space between the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120 in the second electrolytic cell 12b and the first inner surface 110a of the second separator 11b, and the space between the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120 in the fourth electrolytic cell 12d and the first inner surface 110a of the fourth separator 11d, are designated as the anode chamber Sb. On the other hand, the space between the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 in the second electrolytic cell 12b and the second inner surface 110b of the third separator 11c, and the space between the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 in the fourth electrolytic cell 12d and the second inner surface 110b of the fifth separator 11e, are designated as the cathode chamber Sa.

[0046] When a voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell 12, the following chemical reaction (Chemical Formula 1) occurs in the cathode chamber Sa, producing hydrogen from the electrolyte Es. Additionally, the phrase "producing XX" in this specification may also include the simultaneous production of other substances along with XX. Hydroxide ions produced in the cathode chamber Sa migrate from the cathode chamber Sa through the electrolytic cell 12 to the anode chamber Sb. 2H₂O + 2e⁻ → H₂ + 2OH⁻… (Chemical Formula 1)

[0047] On the other hand, when a voltage is applied to the electrolytic cell 12, the following chemical reaction (chemical formula 2) occurs in the anode chamber Sb, and oxygen is generated from the electrolyte Es. 2OH-→1 / 2O2+H2O+2e-…(Chemical Formula 2)

[0048] In this way, from the perspective of the entire electrolytic cell 12, the following chemical reaction (chemical formula 3) will occur. H₂O → H₂ + 1 / 2O₂… (Chemical Formula 3)

[0049] Ion exchange membrane 120 is a membrane with high ion conductivity. For example, the main chain contains polystyrene or tetraphenyl groups, and the side chains contain imidazole salts or quadrivalent ammonium groups. On the other hand, ion exchange membrane 120 can also be a membrane with high antioxidant properties. For example, it can contain polyurethane or bromobutylstyrene groups.

[0050] (cathode) The cathode 121 is disposed between the ion exchange membrane 120 and the separator 11, and is sandwiched between the ion exchange membrane 120 and the separator 11. The cathode 121 may have, for example, a cathode catalyst layer 121a and a cathode power supply 121b.

[0051] The cathode catalyst layer 121a is a layer that promotes the chemical reaction in the cathode chamber Sa. The cathode catalyst layer 121a is, for example, a rectangular sheet. The cathode catalyst layer 121a is disposed in the cathode chamber Sa, for example, by surface pressing and fixing to the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0052] Specifically, the cathode catalyst layer 121a of the first electrolytic cell 12a and the cathode catalyst layer 121a of the third electrolytic cell 12c are, for example, surface-pressed and fixed to the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120. The cathode catalyst layer 121a of the second electrolytic cell 12b and the cathode catalyst layer 121a of the fourth electrolytic cell 12d are, for example, surface-pressed and fixed to the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120. Each cathode catalyst layer 121a is subjected to a negative voltage by the power supply unit 30 via the separator 11 and the cathode power supply unit 121b.

[0053] As for the material of the cathode catalyst layer 121a, various materials can be used as long as they can promote the chemical reaction in the cathode chamber Sa. For example, the cathode catalyst layer 121a may contain one or more of nickel, nickel alloy, cerium oxide, lanthanum oxide, or platinum. In addition, "oxide" in this specification may include materials other than 0 and oxygen. In addition, the cathode catalyst layer 121a may contain other materials such as carbon in addition to the above-mentioned materials. The external dimensions of the cathode catalyst layer 121a are, for example, smaller than the external dimensions of the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0054] The cathode power supply 121b is an electrical connection that conducts the voltage applied to the separator 11 to the cathode catalyst layer 121a. The cathode power supply 121b is disposed in the cathode chamber Sa. The cathode power supply 121b is located between the separator 11 and the cathode catalyst layer 121a.

[0055] Specifically, the cathode power supply 121b of the first electrolytic cell 12a is respectively bonded to the first inner surface 110a of the first separator 11a and the cathode catalyst layer 121a; the cathode power supply 121b of the third electrolytic cell 12c is respectively bonded to the first inner surface 110a of the third separator 11c and the cathode catalyst layer 121a; the cathode power supply 121b of the second electrolytic cell 12b is respectively bonded to the second inner surface 110b of the third separator 11c and the cathode catalyst layer 121a; the cathode power supply 121b of the fourth electrolytic cell 12d is respectively bonded to the second inner surface 110b of the fifth separator 11e and the cathode catalyst layer 121a.

[0056] The cathode power supply 121b has a structure that allows the electrolyte Es and gas to pass through its interior. The cathode power supply 121b is formed, for example, of a metal mesh structure, a sintered body, or fibers, etc. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the cathode power supply 121b are, for example, the same as the external dimensions of the cathode catalyst layer 121a.

[0057] (anode) The anode 122 is disposed between the ion exchange membrane 120 and the separator 11, and is sandwiched between the ion exchange membrane 120 and the second separator 11b. The anode 122 may have, for example, an anode catalyst layer 122a and an anode power supply 122b.

[0058] The anolyte catalyst layer 122a is a layer that promotes the chemical reaction in the aforementioned anolyte chamber Sb. The anolyte catalyst layer 122a is, for example, a rectangular sheet. The anolyte catalyst layer 122a is disposed in the anolyte chamber Sb, for example, by surface pressing and fixing to the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0059] Specifically, the anode catalyst layer 122a of the first electrolytic cell 12a and the anode catalyst layer 122a of the third electrolytic cell 12c are, for example, surface-pressed and fixed to the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120. The anode catalyst layer 122a of the second electrolytic cell 12b and the anode catalyst layer 122a of the fourth electrolytic cell 12d are, for example, surface-pressed and fixed to the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120. Each anode catalyst layer 122a is subjected to a positive voltage by the power supply unit 30 via the separator 11 and the anode power supply unit 122b.

[0060] Regarding the material of the anode catalyst layer 122a, any material capable of promoting the chemical reaction in the anode chamber Sb can be used. For example, the anode catalyst layer 122a may contain one or more of nickel, nickel alloys, nickel oxides, copper oxides, iridium oxides, niobium oxides, lead oxides, or bismuth oxides. As mentioned above, "XX oxide" in this specification may include materials other than XX and oxygen. For example, "nickel oxide" may include materials such as iron or cobalt in addition to nickel and oxygen. Moreover, "copper oxide" may include materials such as cobalt in addition to copper and oxygen. "iridium oxide" may include materials such as ruthenium in addition to iridium and oxygen. "lead oxide" may include materials such as ruthenium in addition to lead and oxygen. "bismuth oxide" may include materials such as ruthenium in addition to bismuth and oxygen.

[0061] The anode power supply 122b is an electrical connection that conducts the voltage applied to the separator 11 to the anode catalyst layer 122a. The anode power supply 122b is disposed in the anode chamber Sb. The anode power supply 122b is located between the separator 11 and the anode catalyst layer 122a.

[0062] Specifically, the anode power supply 122b of the first electrolytic cell 12a is respectively bonded to the second inner surface 110b of the second separator 11b and the anode catalyst layer 122a; the anode power supply 122b of the third electrolytic cell 12c is respectively bonded to the second inner surface 110b of the fourth separator 11d and the anode catalyst layer 122a. The anode power supply 122b of the second electrolytic cell 12b is respectively bonded to the first inner surface 110a of the second separator 11b and the anode catalyst layer 122a; the anode power supply 122b of the fourth electrolytic cell 12d is respectively bonded to the first inner surface 110a of the fourth separator 11d and the anode catalyst layer 122a.

[0063] The anode power supply 122b has a structure that allows the electrolyte Es and gas to pass through its interior. The anode power supply 122b is formed, for example, of a metal mesh structure, a sintered body, or fibers, etc. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the anode power supply 122b are, for example, the same as the external dimensions of the anode catalyst layer 122a.

[0064] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of the electrolytic cell stack 10. In addition to the structures described above, the electrolytic cell stack 10 includes, for example, a first current collector 41, a second current collector 42, a first insulating material 43, a second insulating material 44, a first terminal plate 45, and a second terminal plate 46. Furthermore, in Figure 3, the illustrations of the first flow path sections 13, 13' and the second flow path sections 14, 14', which will be described later, are omitted.

[0065] (First collector) The first current collector 41 is an electrical connection part that conducts the negative voltage applied from the power supply unit 30 to the first separator 11a, the third separator 11c, and the fifth separator 11e. In other words, the first current collector 41 is electrically connected to the first separator 11a, the third separator 11c, and the fifth separator 11e (detailed diagrams of the connections are omitted). The first current collector 41 receives the negative voltage required for electrolysis of each electrolytic cell 12 from the power supply unit 30. The first current collector 41 is formed of a metal plate component (e.g., a copper plate).

[0066] (Second collector) The second current collector 42 is an electrical connection part that conducts the positive voltage applied from the power supply unit 30 to the second separator 11b and the fourth separator 11d. That is, the second current collector 42 is electrically connected to the second separator 11b and the fourth separator 11d, respectively. The second current collector 42 receives the positive voltage required for electrolysis of each electrolytic cell 12 from the power supply unit 30. The second current collector 42 is formed of a metal plate component (e.g., a copper plate).

[0067] (First Insulation Material) The first insulating material 43 is located between the first current collector 41 and the first terminal plate 45. The external dimensions of the first insulating material 43 are, for example, the same as or larger than the external dimensions of the first current collector 41.

[0068] (Second Insulation Material) The second insulating material 44 is located between the second current collector 42 and the second terminal plate 46. The external dimensions of the second insulating material 44 are the same as or larger than those of the second current collector 42.

[0069] (Terminal 1) The first terminal plate 45 is located on the opposite side of the first insulating material 43 from the first current collector 41. The first terminal plate 45 is formed, for example, from a metal plate component (e.g., stainless steel plate). The external dimensions of the first terminal plate 45 are, for example, larger than the external dimensions of the first insulating material 43.

[0070] (Second Terminal Board) The second terminal plate 46 is located on the opposite side of the second insulator 44 from the second current collector 42. The second terminal plate 46 is formed, for example, from a metal plate component (e.g., stainless steel plate). The external dimensions of the second terminal plate 46 are, for example, larger than the external dimensions of the second insulator 44.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, in addition to the above-mentioned structure, the electrolytic cell stack 10 also has, for example, a first insulator 47, a second insulator 48, a support portion 50, and a sealing portion 60.

[0072] (First insulator) The first insulator 47 is used to insulate the outer periphery of the separator 11 on one side dl from the outer periphery of the separator 11 on the other side dr. The first insulator 47 is a frame-shaped thin sheet component, which is larger than the outer dimensions of the cathode catalyst layer 121a and the anode catalyst layer 122a, as well as the outer dimensions of the cathode power supply body 121b and the anode power supply body 122b.

[0073] The first insulator 47 is installed on the first inner surface 110a of each of the plurality of separators 11 except for the fifth separator 11e, and covers the end of the first inner surface 110a from the other side dr. The material of the first insulator 47 is not particularly limited as long as it is an insulating material, such as a sheet resin like polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In addition, a hole 47h1 is formed in the first insulator 47 near the first end 111 of the separator 11, which is through in the first direction D1, and the first flow path portion 13 described later is inserted through the hole 47h1. A hole 47h2 is formed in the first insulator 47 near the second end 112 of the separator 11, which is through in the first direction D1, and the second flow path portion 14 described later is inserted through the hole 47h2.

[0074] (Second insulator) The second insulator 48 is the same as the first insulator 47, which insulates the outer periphery of the separator 11 on one side dr from the outer periphery of the separator 11 on one side dl. The second insulator 48 is a frame-shaped thin sheet component, which is larger than the outer dimensions of the anode catalyst layer 122a and the cathode catalyst layer 121a, as well as the outer dimensions of the anode power supply body 122b and the cathode power supply body 121b.

[0075] The second insulator 48 is installed on the second inner surface 110b of each of the plurality of separators 11 except for the first separator 11a, and covers the end of the second inner surface 110b from one side dl. The material of the second insulator 48 is not particularly limited as long as it is an insulating material, such as sheet resin like PTFE. Furthermore, a through hole 48h1 is formed in the portion of the second insulator 48 near the first end 111 of the separator 11, and the first flow path portion 13 (described later) is inserted through this hole 48h1. A through hole 48h2 is formed in the portion of the second insulator 48 near the second end 112 of the separator 11, and the second flow path portion 14 (described later) is inserted through this hole 48h2. Alternatively, the first insulator 47 and the second insulator 48 can be an integrated insulator.

[0076] (Support section) The support portion 50 is a component that supports the electrolytic cell 12 between two adjacent spacers 11. The support portion 50 is disposed between the two adjacent spacers 11. For example, the support portion 50 is located further inward (inner peripheral side) than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120 to support the ion exchange membrane 120. The term "outer edge 120e" in this specification refers to the edge portion away from the central portion C of the electrolytic cell 12 in a direction orthogonal to the thickness direction (Z direction) of the electrolytic cell 12 (e.g., the X or Y direction). Furthermore, the term "inner side" or "inner peripheral side" in this specification refers to the inner side (the side closest to the central portion C) as viewed from the central portion C of the electrolytic cell 12. In this embodiment, the support portion 50 includes, for example, a first support portion 51 and a second support portion 52.

[0077] (First Support Section) The first support portion 51 is located on one side dl further than the ion exchange membrane 120. The first support portion 51 is disposed between the first inner surface 110a of the separator 11, which is located on one side dl further than the ion exchange membrane 120, and the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120. The first support portion 51 is located on the inner periphery side, which is further inward than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120. The first support portion 51 is sandwiched between the first inner surface 110a (or the first insulator 47) of the separator 11 and the first surface 120a of the ion exchange membrane 120, at a position further outward than the cathode 121 or the anode 122, thus supporting the ion exchange membrane 120 on the first inner surface 110a of the separator 11. The first support portion 51 is formed in a ring shape (e.g., a frame shape) along the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120, that is, a ring shape that is one size smaller than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0078] (Second Support Section) The second support portion 52 is a support portion located further to the opposite side (dr) than the ion exchange membrane 120. The second support portion 52 is disposed between the second inner surface 110b of the separator 11 (located further to the opposite side (dr) than the ion exchange membrane 120) and the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120. The second support portion 52 is located further inward (inner peripheral side) than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120. The second support portion 52 is sandwiched between the second inner surface 110b of the separator 11 (or the second insulator 48) and the second surface 120b of the ion exchange membrane 120 at a position further outward (outer peripheral side) than the anode 122 or cathode 121, supporting the ion exchange membrane 120 against the second inner surface 110b of the second separator 11b. The second support portion 52 is formed in a ring shape (e.g., a frame shape) along the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120, that is, a ring shape that is one size smaller than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0079] (Closed section) The sealing part 60 is a component that closes the internal space S between two adjacent partitions 11. The sealing part 60 is disposed between two adjacent partitions 11. The sealing part 60 is located further outward (outer peripheral side) than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120, and closes the internal space S.

[0080] In this embodiment, the sealing portion 60 includes, for example, a first sealing portion 61 and a second sealing portion 62. Furthermore, the first sealing portion 61 and the second sealing portion 62 may also be integrally formed. That is, the first sealing portion 61 and the second sealing portion 62 can be a single component. Moreover, the sealing portion 60 may be integrally formed with at least one of the first insulator 47 or the second insulator 48 described above.

[0081] (First closed section) The first sealing portion 61 is a sealing portion located near one side dl of one of the two adjacent separators 11. The first sealing portion 61 is located further outward (outer peripheral side) than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120. The first sealing portion 61 is sandwiched between the first inner surface 110a of the separator 11 located further outward (dl) than the ion exchange membrane 120 and the second sealing portion 62, sealing a portion of the outer peripheral side of the internal space S. In this embodiment, the first sealing portion 61 is sandwiched between the first insulator 47 installed on the first inner surface 110a and the second sealing portion 62. The first sealing portion 61 is formed in a ring shape (e.g., frame shape) along the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120, that is, a ring shape that is larger than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0082] (Second closed section) The second sealing portion 62 is a sealing portion located near the separator 11 on the other side dr of the two adjacent separators 11. The second sealing portion 62 is located further outward than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120. The second sealing portion 62 is sandwiched between the second inner surface 110b of the separator 11 located on the other side dr of the ion exchange membrane 120 and the first sealing portion 61, sealing a portion of the outer periphery of the internal space S. In this embodiment, the second sealing portion 62 is sandwiched between the second insulator 48 installed on the second inner surface 110b and the first sealing portion 61. The second sealing portion 62 is formed in a ring shape (e.g., frame shape) along the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120, that is, a ring shape that is larger than the outer edge 120e of the ion exchange membrane 120.

[0083] (Function and Effect) The electrolytic cell 12, positioned between two adjacent separators 11, electrolyzes the supplied electrolyte Es when supplying it to the electrolyte flow path FP located in the separator 11. The pipe 130 supplies the electrolyte Es to the electrolyte flow path FP. The electrolyte Es flows along a first direction D1 inside the pipe 130 and sequentially flows into the electrolyte flow path FP arranged in the first direction D1, thus causing pressure variations in the flow direction. Specifically, as the electrolyte Es moves downstream in the flow direction, its pressure may decrease. Therefore, the amount of electrolyte Es flowing into the electrolyte flow path FP decreases as it moves downstream in the flow direction. If the electrolyte Es is not evenly supplied to each electrolytic cell 12, the heat generated by electrolysis cannot be dissipated through the electrolyte Es in the electrolytic cells 12 with a smaller supply of electrolyte Es. This will cause the temperature of the electrolytic cells 12 to rise and may even cause damage. As a countermeasure, one could consider increasing the diameter of the tube 130 or reducing the distance between the electrolytic cells 12 to suppress pressure fluctuations in the electrolyte Es. However, these methods also reduce the resistance of the electrolyte Es, increasing stray current flowing between the electrolytic cells 12 and creating new problems. Therefore, this embodiment adopts the various structures described above.

[0084] Based on the above structure, the first diffusion path 206 and the first convergence path 205 are respectively provided with a first diffusion guide 208 and a first convergence guide 207. Furthermore, these first diffusion paths 206 and first convergence paths 205 are respectively expanded into trapezoidal shapes from the first supply hole 203 and the first discharge hole 202. Therefore, the fluid flowing into the first diffusion path 206 from the first supply hole 203 will diffuse in the width direction according to the shape of the path while flowing towards the first groove 204. At this time, the fluid will be guided by the first diffusion guide 208. In this way, the fluid will flow towards the first groove 204 in an evenly dispersed state. Thus, an electrolysis reaction can be stably generated throughout the entire range of the first groove 204. Moreover, the fluid after passing through the first groove 204 will be guided by the first convergence guide 207 within the first convergence path 205. In this way, the fluid can smoothly converge and flow towards the first discharge hole 202. Therefore, the amount of hydrogen produced per unit time will increase significantly compared to before. As a result, the hydrogen production efficiency of the electrolysis device 1 using the separator 11 is further improved.

[0085] Based on the above structure, multiple first diffusion guides 208 are arranged radially around the first supply hole 203. In this way, the fluid flowing out of the first supply hole 203 flows towards the first channel 204 and is evenly dispersed in the width direction. Thus, the fluid can flow through the entire area of ​​the first channel 204 without any omissions. Similarly, the fluid after passing through the first channel 204 is guided by the first convergence guide 207 within the first convergence flow path 205. In this way, the fluid can smoothly converge and flow towards the first discharge hole 202. Therefore, the amount of hydrogen produced per unit time is significantly increased compared to before. As a result, the hydrogen production efficiency of the electrolysis device 1 using the separator 11 is further improved.

[0086] Here, hydrogen is generated in the first channel 204 due to water electrolysis, thus increasing the volume of hydrogen in addition to the fluid supplied from the first supply port 203. According to the above structure, since the diameter of the first discharge port 202 is larger than that of the first supply port 203, even with the increased volume, there is no fluid pressure loss or flow loss, allowing the fluid to be guided to the outside through the first discharge port 202. In this way, the electrolysis device 1 using the separator 11 can generate hydrogen more independently and smoothly.

[0087] Here, in addition to hydrogen production on the first trench 204 side, oxygen production on the second trench 212 side is also considered. In this case, mainly because the number of hydrogen and oxygen molecules produced is different, the second trench 212 needs a larger width dimension for the same length. Based on the above structure, the width dimension of the second trench 212 is larger than that of the first trench 204. In this way, hydrogen and oxygen can be produced efficiently and stably respectively. Therefore, the amount of hydrogen produced per unit time will increase significantly compared to before. As a result, the hydrogen production efficiency of the electrolysis device 1 using the separator 11 is further improved.

[0088] (Other implementation methods) The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes are included without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the number of the first groove 204 or the second groove 212 is an example and can be appropriately changed according to the design or specifications. Similarly, the number or angle of the first diffusion guide 208 and the first convergence guide 207 can also be appropriately changed according to the design or specifications. In any case, the same effect as described above can be obtained.

[0089] <Note> The separator 11 and the electrolysis device 1 described in each embodiment can be understood as follows, for example.

[0090] (1) Regarding the first type of separator 11, it is a separator for an electrolysis apparatus, comprising: a separator body 201, which is rectangular plate-shaped and has a first surface 201a facing one side in the thickness direction and a second surface 201b facing the other side; a first supply hole 203 and a first discharge hole 202, which are formed on a diagonal of the separator body 201 in the first surface 201a and extend from the first surface 201a toward the second surface 201b through the separator body 201; and a plurality of first grooves 204, which are formed in the region between the first supply hole 203 and the first discharge hole 202, extending in the long side direction of the separator body 201, and spaced apart in the width direction orthogonal to the long side direction. The arrangement includes: a first diffusion flow path 206, which is distributed between the first supply hole 203 and the first groove 204, and is recessed from the first surface 201a side toward the second surface 201b side, and when viewed from the first surface 201a side, it is a trapezoid with the width dimension gradually increasing from the first supply hole 203 toward the first groove 204; and a first convergence flow path 205, which is distributed between the first groove 204 and the first discharge hole 202, and is recessed from the first surface 201a side toward the second surface 201b side, and when viewed from the first surface 201a side, it is a trapezoid with the width dimension gradually decreasing from the first groove 204 toward the first discharge hole 202.

[0091] Based on the above structure, the first diffusion path 206 and the first convergence path 205 are respectively provided with a first diffusion guide 208 and a first convergence guide 207. Furthermore, these first diffusion paths 206 and first convergence paths 205 extend from the first supply hole 203 and the first discharge hole 202 into a trapezoidal shape, respectively. Therefore, the fluid flowing into the first diffusion path 206 from the first supply hole 203 will diffuse in the width direction according to the shape of the path while flowing towards the first groove 204. At this time, the fluid will be guided by the first diffusion guide 208. In this way, the fluid will flow towards the first groove 204 in an evenly dispersed state. Thus, an electrolysis reaction can be stably generated throughout the entire range of the first groove 204. Moreover, the fluid after passing through the first groove 204 will be guided by the first convergence guide 207 within the first convergence path 205. In this way, the fluid can smoothly converge and flow towards the first discharge hole 202.

[0092] Based on the above structure, multiple first diffusion guides 208 are arranged radially around the first supply hole 203. In this way, the fluid flowing out of the first supply hole 203 flows towards the first groove 204 and is evenly dispersed in the width direction. Thus, the fluid can flow through the entire area of ​​the first groove 204 without any omissions. Similarly, the fluid after passing through the first groove 204 is guided by the first convergence guide 207 within the first convergence flow path 205. In this way, the fluid can smoothly converge and flow towards the first discharge hole 202.

[0093] (2) The second type of partition 11 is the partition 11 of (1), wherein the diameter of the first discharge hole 202 is larger than the diameter of the first supply hole 203.

[0094] Here, hydrogen is generated in the first channel 204 due to water electrolysis, so the volume of this hydrogen will increase in addition to the volume of fluid supplied from the first supply hole 203. According to the above structure, since the diameter of the first discharge hole 202 is larger than the diameter of the first supply hole 203, even if the volume increases, there will be no fluid pressure loss or flow loss, and the fluid can be guided to the outside from the first discharge hole 202.

[0095] (3) The third type of separator 11 refers to the separator 11 of (1) or (2), wherein it further comprises a second groove 212 formed on the second surface 201b, the second groove 212 having a larger dimension in the width direction than the first groove 204 having a larger dimension in the width direction.

[0096] Here, in addition to hydrogen production on the first trench 204 side, oxygen production on the second trench 212 side is also considered. In this case, mainly because the number of hydrogen and oxygen molecules produced is different, the second trench 212 needs a larger width dimension for the same length. According to the above structure, the width dimension of the second trench 212 is larger than that of the first trench 204. In this way, hydrogen and oxygen can be produced efficiently and stably respectively.

[0097] (4) The partition 11 of the fourth type refers to any of the partitions 11 of (1) to (3), wherein the angle between the oblique side of the first diffusion flow path 206 facing the first supply hole 203 from the width direction and the width direction is more than 24˚ and less than 50˚.

[0098] According to the above structure, the fluid flowing into the first diffusion path 206 from the first supply hole 203 will diffuse in the width direction according to the shape of the path while flowing towards the first groove 204. At this time, the fluid will be guided by the first diffusion guide 208. In this way, the fluid will flow towards the first groove 204 in a uniformly dispersed state. As a result, an electrolysis reaction can be stably generated throughout the entire range of the first groove 204.

[0099] (5) The partition 11 of the fifth type refers to any of the partitions 11 of (1) to (4), wherein the diameter of the first discharge hole 202 is 1.4 to 5.5 times the diameter of the first supply hole 203.

[0100] Here, hydrogen is generated in the first channel 204 due to water electrolysis, so the volume of hydrogen will increase in addition to the volume of fluid supplied from the first supply hole 203. According to the above structure, since the diameter of the first discharge hole 202 is larger than the diameter of the first supply hole, even if the volume increases, there will be no fluid pressure loss or flow loss, and the fluid can be guided to the outside from the first discharge hole 202.

[0101] (6) The partition 11 of the sixth type is the partition 11 of (3), wherein the size of the first groove 204 in the width direction is less than 1 / 2 of the size of the second groove 212 in the width direction.

[0102] Here, in addition to hydrogen production on the first trench 204 side, oxygen production on the second trench 212 side is also considered. In this case, mainly because the number of hydrogen and oxygen molecules produced is different, the second trench 212 needs a larger width dimension for the same length. According to the above structure, the width dimension of the second trench 212 is larger than that of the first trench 204. In this way, hydrogen and oxygen can be produced efficiently and stably respectively.

[0103] (7) The electrolysis apparatus 1 of the seventh type includes: an electrolytic cell stack 10; an electrolyte supply unit 20 for supplying electrolyte to the electrolytic cell stack 10; and a power supply unit 30 for applying voltage to the electrolytic cell stack 10, wherein the electrolytic cell stack 10 has a separator 11 of any type of (1) to (6) arranged at intervals between each other in the aforementioned thickness direction; and a plurality of electrolytic cells 12, one of which is arranged between every two adjacent separators 11.

[0104] Based on the above structure, a large amount of hydrogen can be produced more efficiently and stably. [Industry availability]

[0105] According to the present invention, a separator and an electrolysis device that can generate hydrogen more stably and in large quantities can be provided. This case asserts priority based on Japan Special Application No. 2023-186850 filed on October 31, 2023, the contents of which are quoted here.

[0106] 1: Electrolysis apparatus 10: Electrolytic Cellular Stack 11: Separator 11a: First separator 11b: Second separator 11c: Third separator 11d: 4th separator 11e: Fifth dividing piece 11h1, 11h3: First insertion hole 11h2, 11h4: Second insertion hole 12: Electrolytic Cell 12a: First Electrolytic Cell 12b: Second electrolytic cell 12c: Third electrolytic cell 12d: 4th electrolytic cell 13,13': 1st flow path part 13o,13o',14o,14o': Outlet 14,14': 2nd flow path part 15: First Construction 16: Second Construction 20: Electrolyte Supply Department 21: Hydrogen-liquid separation device 22: Pump No. 1 23: Hydrogen Recovery Department 24: Electrolyte Supply Department No. 1 26: Oxygen-Liquid Separation Device 27: Pump No. 2 28: Oxygen Recovery Unit 29: Second Electrolyte Supply Department 30: Power Supply Section 41: First collector 42: Second collector 43: First Insulation Material 44: Second Insulation Material 45: Terminal 1 46: Second terminal board 47: First Insulator 47h1,47h2,48h1,48h2: Hole 48: Second Insulator 50: Support section 51: First Support Section 52: Second Support Section 60: Enclosed section 61: First closed section 62: Second Enclosed Section 110a: 1st inner surface 110b: Second inner surface 111: First end 112: Second end 120: Ion exchange membrane 120a: Page 1 120b: Page 2 120e: Outer edge 121: Cathode 121a: Cathode catalyst layer 121b: Cathode power supply 122: Anode 122a: Anode catalyst layer 122b: Anode power supply 130,130',140,​​140': Pipeline 150, 150a, 150b, 150c, 160: Cut-off portion 151: Mesh Components 151a: First mesh member 151b: Second mesh member 151c: Third mesh member 151d: Fourth mesh member 152, 153: Conductor mesh 201: Separator Body 201a: First Page 201b: Second Page 202: First discharge hole 203: First supply hole 204: First Trench 205: First convergent flow path 206: First diffusion path 207: First Convergence Guidance Section 208: First Diffusion Guidance Unit 209: Linear Interval 211: Second supply hole 210: Second discharge port 212: Second Trench C: Central Department D1: Direction 1 dl: one side dr: the other side Es: Electrolyte L1, L1', L2, L2': Piping lines S: Interior space S1: Gap Sa: Cathode chamber Sb: Anode chamber

Claims

1. A separator for an electrolysis apparatus, comprising: a separator body, which is rectangular plate-shaped and has a first surface facing one side in the thickness direction and a second surface facing the other side; a first supply hole and a first discharge hole formed on a diagonal line of the separator body in the first surface, extending through the separator body from the first surface toward the second surface; and a plurality of first grooves formed in the region between the first supply hole and the first discharge hole, extending in the long side direction of the separator body, and arranged at intervals in a width direction orthogonal to the long side direction; The first diffusion path is distributed between the first supply hole and the first groove, and is recessed from the first surface to the second surface. When viewed from the first surface, it is a trapezoid with its width gradually increasing from the first supply hole to the first groove. The first convergence path is distributed between the first groove and the first discharge hole, and is recessed from the first surface to the second surface. When viewed from the first surface, it is a trapezoid with its width gradually decreasing from the first groove to the first discharge hole.

2. As described in claim 1, wherein, The diameter of the aforementioned first discharge hole is larger than the diameter of the aforementioned first supply hole.

3. As described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, It further includes a second groove formed on the aforementioned second surface, the size of which in the aforementioned width direction is larger than that of the aforementioned first groove in the aforementioned width direction.

4. As described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, In the aforementioned first diffusion path, the angle between the inclined side facing the aforementioned first supply hole from the aforementioned width direction and the aforementioned width direction is 24˚ or more and 50˚ or less.

5. As described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The diameter of the aforementioned first discharge hole is 1.4 to 5.5 times that of the aforementioned first supply hole.

6. The separator as described in claim 3, wherein, The dimension of the first groove in the aforementioned width direction is less than 1 / 2 of the dimension of the second groove in the aforementioned width direction.

7. An electrolysis apparatus comprising an electrolytic cell stack; an electrolyte supply unit for supplying electrolyte to the electrolytic cell stack; and a power supply unit for applying voltage to the electrolytic cell stack, wherein the electrolytic cell stack has spacers as described in claim 1 or 2, which are arranged at intervals between each other in the thickness direction; and a plurality of electrolytic cells, one of which is disposed between every two adjacent spacers.

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