Electrolytic cell

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electrolytic cell. According to one aspect of the present invention, the electrolytic cell for electrolyzing a reaction solution comprises: a reaction chamber having a reaction space through which a reaction solution flows; an electrode extending in the vertical direction from a side portion of the reaction space such that an electric potential for electrolyzing the reaction solution can be applied; and a baffle plate disposed in the reaction space so as to partition the reaction space, wherein a flow hole through which the reaction solution can pass can be formed to pass through the baffle plate.

Description

electrolytic cell

[0001] Cross-citation with related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0065991, filed May 21, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Technology field

[0004] The present invention relates to an electrolytic cell, and more particularly, to an electrolytic cell for electrolyzing a reaction solution.

[0005] To obtain a desired product, electrolyzers that electrolyze the reaction solution are being developed. For example, water electrolysis technology uses water as a raw material to electrolyze it, producing high-purity hydrogen in an environmentally friendly manner without greenhouse gas emissions. Alkaline water electrolysis uses an alkaline aqueous solution as the electrolyte to produce hydrogen and oxygen. Furthermore, the chlor-alkali process electrolyzes inexpensive brine, such as seawater, to produce hydroxide, hydrogen, and chlorine. This process has proven its performance and reliability through decades of commercial operation.

[0006] Typically, an electrolytic cell comprises a reaction chamber in which the reaction solution flows from bottom to top, where electrolysis occurs. Baffle plates are placed within the reaction chamber to promote the vertical flow of the fluid within the reaction solution. These baffle plates also perform auxiliary functions such as gas-liquid separation and temperature control.

[0007] At this time, the electrolysis reaction occurs smoothly in the space between the electrode and the baffle plate within the reaction chamber, resulting in a relatively low concentration of the reaction solution. In contrast, the electrolysis reaction does not occur in the space located on the opposite side of the electrode, centered around the baffle plate within the reaction chamber, resulting in a relatively high concentration of the reaction solution. Furthermore, the flow of fluid in this space is restricted by the baffle.

[0008] However, conventional electrolytic cells have a problem in that the concentration gradient of the reaction solution, as described above, is difficult to resolve due to the baffle plate. This is because the baffle plate can block the flow of the relatively high-concentration reaction solution to the relatively low-concentration region. Therefore, there has been a pressing need to develop an electrolytic cell that can resolve the above-mentioned concentration gradient and facilitate smooth electrolysis.

[0009] The present invention has been devised to solve the above problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide an electrolytic cell in which electrolysis of a reaction solution can be performed more smoothly.

[0010] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, an electrolytic cell for electrolyzing a reaction solution is provided, comprising: a reaction chamber having a reaction space in which the reaction solution flows; an electrode extending vertically from a side of the reaction space and capable of applying a potential for electrolyzing the reaction solution; and a baffle plate disposed in the reaction space to partition the reaction space, wherein a flow hole through which the reaction solution can pass is formed through the baffle plate.

[0012] At this time, the above fluid hole may be composed of multiple numbers.

[0013] At this time, the baffle plate is formed by connecting one or more unit plates in the width direction, the flow hole is formed in the unit plate, and the diameter of the flow hole may be 4 / 5 or less of the width of the unit plate.

[0014] At this time, the diameter of the flow hole may be 1 / 20 or more and 1 / 5 or less of the width of the unit plate.

[0015] At this time, at least one of the plurality of flow holes may have a diameter different from that of any other one.

[0016] At this time, the plurality of flow holes are arranged at a predetermined distance along the vertical direction, and the plurality of flow holes may have a larger diameter as they go upward.

[0017] At this time, the plurality of flow holes include a plurality of first heat flow holes arranged along a first row parallel to the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate; and a plurality of second heat flow holes arranged along a second row parallel to the first row, and a diameter difference between adjacent flow holes among the plurality of flow holes may be less than or equal to 1 / 2 of the distance between the first row and the second row.

[0018] At this time, the plurality of flow holes may be arranged at a predetermined distance in the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate.

[0019] At this time, the plurality of flow holes may include a plurality of first heat flow holes arranged along a first row parallel to the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate; and a plurality of second heat flow holes arranged along a second row parallel to the first row.

[0020] At this time, the distance between adjacent flow holes among the plurality of flow holes may be longer than 1 / 15 of the length of the baffle plate.

[0021] At this time, the flow hole is spaced apart from the upper edge of the baffle plate by a reference distance or more along the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate, and the reference distance may be 1 / 15 of the vertical length of the baffle plate.

[0022] At this time, the baffle plate is arranged at an angle with respect to the electrode, and the horizontal gap between the baffle plate and the electrode may become narrower as it goes upward.

[0023] At this time, the baffle plate divides the reaction space into an electrode-side space and a non-electrode-side space, the electrode-side space is provided between the baffle plate and the electrode, the non-electrode-side space is located on the opposite side of the electrode-side space with the baffle plate in between, and the flow hole can be provided so that the reaction liquid can flow from the non-electrode-side space to the electrode-side space.

[0024] At this time, the reaction chamber includes an anode-side reaction chamber having an anode-side reaction space; and a cathode-side reaction chamber having a cathode-side reaction space, and the electrode includes an anode provided on a side of the anode-side reaction space; and a cathode provided on a side of the cathode-side reaction space, and the baffle plate can be disposed in the anode-side reaction chamber.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, a baffle plate is arranged in a flow space in which a reaction liquid flows and electrolyzes, and a flow hole is formed through the baffle plate, so that a fluid flowing on one side of the baffle plate can flow through the flow hole and onto the other side.

[0026] Accordingly, the concentration difference (or gradient) of the reaction solution between the spaces partitioned by the baffle plate in the reaction chamber can be alleviated, so that electrolysis of the reaction solution can occur more smoothly and efficiently.

[0027] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from this specification and the attached drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an electrolytic cell according to one embodiment of the present invention. Here, the arrow indicates the flow direction of the reaction solution.

[0029] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 1. Here, the arrow indicates the flow direction of the reaction solution.

[0030] Figure 3 is a front view of a baffle plate according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 is a front view of a baffle plate according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 is a front view of a baffle plate according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 shows a computer simulation of fluid movement by a baffle plate according to a comparative example in which no flow hole is formed.

[0034] Figures 7 to 14 illustrate computer simulations of fluid movement by baffle plates according to Experimental Examples 1 to 7 in which flow holes having different numbers, positions, and / or sizes are formed.

[0035] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited or restricted by the following examples.

[0036] In order to clearly explain the present invention, a detailed description of a part that is irrelevant to the description or a related known technology that may unnecessarily obscure the gist of the present invention has been omitted, and when adding reference signs to components of each drawing in this specification, the same or similar reference signs are attached to the same or similar components throughout the specification.

[0037] In addition, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as limited to their usual or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted as meanings and concepts that conform to the technical idea of ​​the present invention based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the term to explain his or her own invention in the best way.

[0038] Fig. 1 is a vertical cross-sectional view of an electrolytic cell according to one embodiment of the present invention. Here, the arrow indicates the flow direction of the reaction solution. Fig. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of Fig. 1. Here, the arrow indicates the flow direction of the reaction solution. Fig. 3 is a front view of a baffle plate according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Hereinafter, in describing the drawings, the X-axis direction is referred to as a horizontal direction with respect to the coordinate axes indicated in the drawings, the Z-axis direction is referred to as an up-down direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X-axis and the Z-axis is referred to as a front-back direction.

[0039] Figures 1 to 3 disclose an electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be a device for electrolyzing a reaction solution to obtain a predetermined product. In this case, the reaction solution may be brine, and the product may be hydrogen gas and chlorine gas, but is not limited thereto.

[0040] An electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a reaction chamber (10). The reaction chamber (10) may be a chamber that provides a reaction space (S1, S2) in which a reaction solution flows and electrolyzes. The reaction chamber (10) may form the overall appearance of the electrolytic cell (1). At this time, the reaction space (S1, S2) may be composed of an anode reaction space (S1) in which an anode-side electrolysis reaction occurs and a cathode reaction space (S2) in which a cathode-side electrolysis reaction occurs.

[0041] In the present embodiment, the reaction chamber (10) may include an anode chamber (12), which is a box-shaped structure having an anode reaction space (S1) inside, and a cathode chamber (14), which is a box-shaped structure having a cathode reaction space (S2) inside. The anode chamber (12) and the cathode chamber (14) may be arranged in parallel in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction). The anode chamber (12) and the cathode chamber (14) may be extended in the front-back direction so that sufficient reaction space can be secured.

[0042] In the present embodiment, a separation wall (16) may be interposed between the anode chamber (12) and the cathode chamber (14). The separation wall (16) may be a partition wall that divides the reaction spaces (S1, S2) provided inside the reaction chamber (10) into an anode reaction space (S1) and a cathode reaction space (S2). The separation wall (16) may include an insulating material, but is not limited thereto.

[0043] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the reaction chamber (10) is illustrated and described as a box-shaped structure, but the shape of the reaction chamber (10) is not particularly limited as long as it can provide reaction spaces (S1, S2) inside. For example, the reaction chamber (10) may be formed such that at least one portion is curved.

[0044] Referring back to FIG. 1, an electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a reaction solution supply unit (20). The reaction solution supply unit (20) may be configured to supply a reaction solution to reaction spaces (S1, S2). The reaction solution supply unit (20) may include an anode-side supply unit (22) that supplies a reaction solution to the anode reaction space (S1) and a cathode-side supply unit (24) that supplies a reaction solution to the cathode reaction space (S2).

[0045] In this embodiment, the anode-side supply unit (22) may include a pipe arranged at the bottom of the anode reaction space (S1), a pump (not shown) for supplying a reaction solution to the pipe, and a tank (not shown). The pipe of the anode-side supply unit (22) may be extended in the forward-reverse direction, so as to pass through the entire bottom of the anode reaction space (S1).

[0046] In addition, a supply hole connecting the inside and outside may be formed at the upper part of the pipe of the anode-side supply unit (22). The supply holes may be configured in multiple numbers and arranged along the extension direction of the pipe. A reaction liquid may flow through the pipe of the anode-side supply unit (22). The reaction liquid flowing through the pipe may flow into the anode reaction space (S1) through the supply hole. The reaction liquid flowing into the anode reaction space (S1) may flow from the bottom to the top and be electrolyzed by the anode (32) described below.

[0047] In this embodiment, the cathode-side supply unit (24) may include a pipe arranged at the bottom of the cathode reaction space (S2), a pump (not shown) for supplying a reaction solution to the pipe, and a tank (not shown). The pipe of the cathode-side supply unit (24) may be extended in the forward-reverse direction, so as to pass through the entire bottom of the cathode reaction space (S2).

[0048] In addition, a supply hole connecting the inside and outside may be formed at the upper part of the pipe of the cathode-side supply unit (24). The supply holes may be configured in multiple numbers and arranged along the extension direction of the pipe. A reaction liquid may flow through the pipe of the cathode-side supply unit (24). The reaction liquid flowing through the pipe may flow into the cathode reaction space (S2) through the supply hole. The reaction liquid flowing into the cathode reaction space (S2) may flow from the bottom to the top and may be electrolyzed by the cathode (34) described below.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, an electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an electrode (30). The electrode (30) is configured to apply a predetermined potential for electrolyzing a reaction liquid flowing in a reaction space (S1, S2).

[0050] In the present embodiment, the electrode (30) may include an anode (32) provided on the side of the anode reaction space (S1). The anode (32) may be positioned on the opposite side (positive direction of the X-axis) of the separating wall (16) with the anode reaction space (S1) as the center. The anode (32) may extend in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The anode (32) may have a plate shape having a long width in the front-back direction so as to cover the side of the anode reaction space (S1). This may be to increase the area in contact with the reaction liquid flowing from the lower side to the upper side of the anode reaction space (S1) as much as possible.

[0051] A predetermined positive potential can be applied to the anode (32). Accordingly, the reaction solution can be electrolyzed to generate a predetermined anode product. The anode product can be in a gaseous state. The gaseous anode product can be formed in the form of bubbles on the surface of the anode (32). The bubbles formed on the surface of the anode (32) can be removed by buoyancy or pressure due to the flow of the reaction solution and can move to the upper side of the anode reaction space (S2).

[0052] In the present embodiment, the electrode (30) may include a cathode (34) provided on the side of the cathode reaction space (S2). The cathode (34) may be positioned on the opposite side of the separation wall (16) (negative direction of the X-axis) with the cathode reaction space (S2) as the center. The cathode (34) may extend in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The cathode (34) may have a plate shape having a long width in the front-back direction so as to cover the side of the cathode reaction space (S2). This may be to increase the area in contact with the reaction liquid flowing from the lower side to the upper side of the cathode reaction space (S2) as much as possible.

[0053] A predetermined negative potential can be applied to the cathode (34). Accordingly, the reaction solution is electrolyzed and a predetermined cathode product can be generated. The cathode product can be in a gaseous state. The gaseous cathode product can be formed in the form of bubbles on the surface of the cathode (34). The bubbles formed on the surface of the cathode (34) can be removed by buoyancy or pressure due to the flow of the reaction solution and can move to the upper side of the cathode reaction space (S2).

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, an electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a baffle plate (40). The baffle plate (40) may be a plate for controlling the flow of a reaction solution and the movement of a product in a reaction space (S1, S2). The baffle plate (40) may have a long width in the front-back direction so as to control the overall flow occurring in the reaction space (S1, S2). The width direction of the baffle plate (40) may be parallel to the front-back direction.

[0055] Meanwhile, the baffle plate (40) may be placed in the anode reaction space (S1) and / or the cathode reaction space (S2). In this embodiment, it is assumed that the baffle plate (40) is placed in the anode reaction space (S1).

[0056] In this embodiment, the baffle plate (40) may be placed in the anode reaction space (S1) to partition the anode reaction space (S1) into an electrode-side space (S1a) and a non-electrode-side space (S1b). At this time, the electrode-side space (S1a) may be a space provided between the anode (32) and the baffle plate (40), and the non-electrode-side space (S1b) may be a space provided between the baffle plate (40) and the separating wall (16).

[0057] At this time, in the present embodiment, the baffle plate (40) may be arranged to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). The baffle plate (40) may be inclined so that the distance from the anode (32) becomes closer as it goes upward. In other words, the electrode-side space (S1a) may have a horizontal direction (X-axis direction) width that becomes narrower as it goes upward, and the non-electrode-side space (S1b) may have a horizontal direction (X-axis direction) width that becomes wider as it goes upward.

[0058] In this embodiment, the upper edge of the baffle plate (40) is spaced apart from the anode (32) by a predetermined distance in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction). Accordingly, the reaction liquid flowing in the electrode-side space (S1a) can pass between the anode (32) and the upper edge of the baffle plate (40) and flow into the upper part of the anode reaction space (S1).

[0059] The inclination of the baffle plate (40) may be intended to induce a strong upward flow of the reaction solution in the electrode-side space (S1a). The strong upward flow in the electrode-side space (S1a) can increase the contact area between the anode (32) and the reaction solution per unit time, while also detaching bubbles formed by electrolysis from the surface of the anode (32).

[0060] In this embodiment, the lower edge of the baffle plate (40) is spaced apart from the separating wall (16) by a predetermined distance in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction). Accordingly, the reaction liquid flowing in the non-electrode side space (S1b) can pass between the separating wall (16) and the lower edge of the baffle plate (40) and flow back into the lower part of the anode reaction space (S1).

[0061] Meanwhile, the reaction liquid that has not been electrolyzed while passing through the electrode-side space (S1a) may flow into the upper portion of the non-electrode-side space (S1b). The reaction liquid that has flowed into the non-electrode-side space (S1b) may pass through the lower edge of the aforementioned separating wall (16) and the baffle plate (40), pass through the lower portion of the anode reaction space (S1), and then flow back into the electrode-side space (S1a). Accordingly, the reaction liquid may circulate in the anode reaction space (S1) until electrolyzed.

[0062] At this time, the concentration of the reaction solution may increase as the non-electrolyzed reaction solution accumulates in the non-electrode space (S1b). In other words, as the operation of the electrolytic cell (1) continues, the concentration difference (or gradient) of the reaction solution between the electrode-side space (S1a) and the non-electrode-side space (S1b) may increase. This is because the non-electrode-side space (S1b) is located farther from the anode (32) than the electrode-side space (S1a), so electrolysis does not occur actively.

[0063] In order to solve the above problem, a flow hole (41) may be formed in the baffle plate (40) of the electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, in the present embodiment, the flow hole (41) may refer to a hole formed penetrating the baffle plate (40) in the thickness direction. Through this flow hole (41), a reaction liquid flowing on one side of the baffle plate (40) may move to the other side.

[0064] In this embodiment, a high-concentration reaction liquid flowing in the non-electrode side space (S1b) can flow into the electrode side space (S1a) through the flow hole (41) of the baffle plate (40). This is because the non-electrode side space (S1b) has a higher pressure than the electrode side space (S1a).

[0065] Accordingly, in the electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the difference in concentration of the reaction solution between the electrode-side space (S1a) and the non-electrode-side space (S1b) can be alleviated (resolved), so that electrolysis of the reaction solution can be performed more smoothly and efficiently.

[0066] Hereinafter, the specific structure of the baffle plate according to the first embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a baffle plate (40) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have a predetermined length (L). Hereinafter, the direction in which the baffle plate (40) is extended by being tilted at a predetermined angle with respect to the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) is referred to as the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate (40).

[0068] At this time, in the present embodiment, the baffle plate (40) may be formed by connecting (or combining) multiple unit plates having a predetermined width (w) and length (L) in the width direction. For example, a baffle plate (40) formed by connecting n unit plates may have a width of n*w. Of course, the baffle plate (40) may also be formed integrally.

[0069]

[0070] In this embodiment, a rib (42) may be provided between each of the plurality of unit plates. The rib (42) may be configured to support the baffle plate (40). The rib (42) may have a frame shape extending from the baffle plate (40). As an example, the rib (42) may be joined (or connected) to the separating wall (16) at the edge portion on the extension direction side to support the baffle plate (40). Of course, the rib (42) may also be connected to the electrode (30) side to support the baffle plate (40).

[0071] At this time, in the present embodiment, the flow holes (41) may be configured in multiple numbers. And, the multiple flow holes (41) may be formed for each unit plate. Accordingly, the multiple flow holes (41) may be arranged at predetermined intervals in the width direction of the baffle plate (40). At this time, the interval between adjacent flow holes (41) may correspond to the width (w) of the unit plate. Accordingly, the exchange of the reaction solution may be performed in the electrode-side space (S1a) and the non-electrode-side space (S1b) provided between adjacent ribs (42), respectively.

[0072] In this embodiment, the flow hole (41) may be positioned closer to the upper edge than the lower edge of the baffle plate (40). This is because the concentration of the reaction solution is relatively lower at the upper portion than at the lower portion of the electrode-side space (S1a) (the reaction solution flows upward and is electrolyzed), and therefore, positioning the flow hole (41) relatively higher is more effective in eliminating the concentration difference of the reaction solution. Of course, the flow hole (41) may also be positioned closer to the lower edge than the upper edge of the baffle plate (40) as needed.

[0073] At this time, in the present embodiment, the flow hole (41) may be positioned at a predetermined distance downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis) from the upper edge of the baffle plate (40) by a reference distance (da). Here, the reference distance (da) may be 1 / 15 of the length (L) of the baffle plate (40) (i.e., L / 15).

[0074] Accordingly, since the flow hole (41) may not be excessively close to the upper edge of the baffle plate (40), the flow of the reaction liquid and product flowing out between the anode (32) and the upper edge of the baffle plate (40) may not be obstructed.

[0075] As described above, in the electrolytic cell (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention, a flow hole (41) is formed penetrating the baffle plate (40), thereby eliminating the concentration difference (or gradient) of the reaction solution between the electrode-side space (S1a) and the non-electrode-side space (S1b). Accordingly, in the electrolytic cell (1), electrolysis can be performed more smoothly and efficiently.

[0076] Meanwhile, referring back to FIG. 1, an electrolytic cell (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a gas-liquid separator (50). The gas-liquid separator (50) may be configured to separate a gas, which is a product generated by electrolysis, and a reaction liquid that has not been electrolyzed. The gas-liquid separator (50) may be configured to supply only the product to the outside of the electrolytic cell (1) and return the reaction liquid back to the reaction space (S1, S2). Accordingly, the electrolytic cell (1) can selectively provide only the product. The specific structure of the gas-liquid separator (50) may be formed using various known technologies.

[0077] In the present embodiment, the gas-liquid separator (50) may include an anode-side gas-liquid separator (52) for separating the anode product and the reactant. The anode-side gas-liquid separator (52) may be provided on the upper side of the anode chamber (12). The anode-side gas-liquid separator (52) may be communicated with the anode reaction space (S1) of the anode chamber (12). The anode-side gas-liquid separator (52) may be configured to discharge only the anode product in a gaseous form to the outside and return the reactant back to the anode reaction space (S1).

[0078] In the present embodiment, the gas-liquid separator (50) may include a cathode-side gas-liquid separator (54) for separating the cathode product and the reactant. The cathode-side gas-liquid separator (54) may be provided on the upper side of the cathode chamber (14). The cathode-side gas-liquid separator (54) may be communicated with the cathode reaction space (S2) of the cathode chamber (14). The cathode-side gas-liquid separator (54) may be configured to discharge only the cathode product in a gaseous form to the outside and return the reactant back to the cathode reaction space (S2).

[0079] Below, a baffle plate according to another embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0080] Fig. 4 is a front view of a baffle plate according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5 is a front view of a baffle plate according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In this case, the same drawing numbers as those shown in the previous drawings indicate the same configuration with the same function.

[0081] FIG. 4 discloses a baffle plate (140) according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The baffle plate (140) according to the second embodiment of the present invention may be formed by connecting (or joining) a plurality of unit plates in the width direction, similarly to the baffle plate (40) according to the first embodiment described above. In addition, a rib (42) for supporting the baffle plate (140) may be provided between adjacent unit plates.

[0082] At this time, in the present embodiment, a plurality of flow holes (141) may be formed in the baffle plate (140). The plurality of flow holes (141) may be arranged in a row at a predetermined distance along the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate (140).

[0083] At this time, in the present embodiment, a plurality of flow holes (141) may be arranged in parallel at a predetermined distance along a plurality of rows parallel to the longitudinal direction. As an example, as illustrated, four flow holes (141) arranged along a single row may be formed in one unit plate.

[0084] More specifically, if a row formed on a unit plate located approximately in the center is referred to as a first row (R1), four flow holes (141a to 141d) may be formed along the first row (R1). The flow holes (141a to 141d) may also be referred to as first-row flow holes. In addition, according to the order of arrangement from top to bottom, they may be respectively referred to as a first flow hole (141a) of the first row, a second flow hole (141b) of the first row, a third flow hole (141c) of the first row, and a fourth flow hole (141d) of the first row.

[0085] And, a second row (R2) may be formed on another unit plate adjacent to the unit plate on which the first row (R1) is formed. The second row (R2) may be parallel to the first row (R1). Four flow holes (141) may be formed along the second row (R2) on the unit plate. The flow holes (141) may be referred to as second row flow holes.

[0086] At this time, in the present embodiment, the distance between the adjacent flow holes (141) in the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate (140) can be arranged at equal intervals (i.e., equal intervals).

[0087] More specifically, if the gap between the first flow hole (141a) of the first row and the second flow hole (141b) of the first row is referred to as the first gap (d_b1), the gap between the second flow hole (141b) of the first row and the third flow hole (141c) of the first row is referred to as the second gap (d_b2), and the gap between the third flow hole (141c) of the first row and the fourth flow hole (141d) of the first row is referred to as the third gap (d_b3), then the first to third gaps (d_b1 to d_b3) may be equal to each other.

[0088] Accordingly, since the reaction solution of the non-electrode side space (S1b) (shown in FIG. 1) can be evenly introduced into the electrode side space (S1a) (shown in FIG. 1), the concentration difference (or gradient) in the up-and-down direction (Z-axis direction) of the electrode side space (S1a) (shown in FIG. 1) can be more effectively alleviated.

[0089] At this time, in the present embodiment, the distance between adjacent flow holes (141) in the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate (140) may be longer than 1 / 15 (i.e., L / 15) of the length (L) of the baffle plate (140). In other words, the first to third intervals (d_b1 to d_b3) may each be longer than L / 15.

[0090] This may be to prevent the flow holes (141) from being overly crowded. This is because the flow of the reaction liquid flowing through the overly crowded flow holes (141) may excessively reduce the main flow of the electrode-side space (S1a) (illustrated in FIG. 1). Here, the main flow may be the flow of the reaction liquid flowing from the bottom to the top.

[0091] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, it has been illustrated and described that a plurality of flow holes forming a single row are formed on a single unit plate. However, if the width of the unit plate is sufficiently long, a plurality of flow holes forming multiple rows may also be formed on a single unit plate.

[0092] FIG. 5 discloses a baffle plate (240) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 5, a plurality of flow holes (241) may be formed in the baffle plate (240) according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] At this time, the baffle plate (240) and its flow hole (241) according to the present embodiment can be configured in the same manner as the baffle plate (140) (illustrated in FIG. 4) and its flow hole (141) (illustrated in FIG. 4) according to the second embodiment described above, except for the configuration regarding the diameter of the flow hole (241).

[0094] More specifically, in the present embodiment, a plurality of flow holes (241) may be arranged in a row at a predetermined distance along the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate (240). At this time, a plurality of flow holes (241) may be arranged in a row at a predetermined distance along a plurality of rows parallel to the longitudinal (L) direction of the baffle plate (240).

[0095] And, as illustrated, if a row along the longitudinal direction on a unit plate located approximately in the center is referred to as a first row (R1), four flow holes (241a to 241d) can be formed along the first row (R1). The flow holes (241a to 241d) may also be referred to as first-row flow holes. And, according to the order of arrangement from top to bottom, they may be respectively referred to as a first flow hole (241a) of the first row, a second flow hole (241b) of the first row, a third flow hole (241c) of the first row, and a fourth flow hole (241d) of the first row.

[0096] And, a second row (R2) may be formed on another unit plate adjacent to the unit plate on which the first row (R1) is formed. The second row (R2) may be parallel to the first row (R1). Four flow holes (241) may be formed along the second row (R2) on the unit plate. The flow holes (241) may be referred to as second row flow holes.

[0097] At this time, in the present embodiment, the plurality of flow holes (241) may have a larger diameter as they go upward. In other words, the plurality of flow holes (241) may have a smaller diameter as they go downward.

[0098] This may be to maximize the effect of alleviating the concentration difference (or gradient) of the reaction solution by the flow hole (241), while minimizing the effect of the flow by the flow hole (241) inhibiting the main flow of the electrode-side space (S1a) (shown in FIG. 1). At this time, the main flow may be the flow of the reaction solution from the bottom to the top.

[0099] More specifically, in the electrode-side space (S1a) (illustrated in FIG. 1), the reaction solution flows from the bottom to the top and is electrolyzed, so the concentration of the reaction solution may decrease as it goes upward. To resolve this concentration gradient, it may be desirable for more fluid to flow into the upper portion of the electrode-side space (S1a) (illustrated in FIG. 1) than into the lower portion. To this end, the diameter of the plurality of flow holes (241) may increase as it goes upward.

[0100] In addition, since the electrode-side space (S1a) (illustrated in FIG. 1) has a shape that becomes narrower as it goes upward, the main flow may be stronger at the top than at the bottom. Accordingly, the flow of the reaction liquid introduced through the flow hole (241) may have a greater influence on the main flow at the bottom of the electrode-side space (S1a) (illustrated in FIG. 1). To prevent this, the diameter of the plurality of flow holes (241) may become smaller as it goes downward.

[0101] At this time, in the present embodiment, the diameter difference between adjacent flow holes (241) in the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate (240) may be 1 / 5 (i.e., d_R / 5) or less of the gap (d_R) between the first row (R1) and the second row (R2).

[0102] More specifically, with reference to the first column (R1), the diameter difference between the first flow hole (241a) of the first column and the second flow hole (241b) of the first column, the diameter difference between the second flow hole (241b) of the first column and the third flow hole (241c) of the first column, and the diameter difference between the third flow hole (241c) of the first column and the fourth flow hole (241d) of the first column may each be d_R / 5 or less.

[0103] This may be to minimize the influence on the main flow of the electrode-side space (S1a) (shown in FIG. 1) by preventing the amount of reaction liquid flowing in through each flow hole (241) from having an excessive difference in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction).

[0104] At this time, the diameter of the largest flow hole among the plurality of flow holes (241) may be smaller than half of the distance (d_R) between the first row (R1) and the second row (R2). With reference to Fig. 5, the largest flow hole may be the first flow hole (241a). This may be to prevent an excessively large amount of reaction liquid from flowing through the flow hole (241) as the flow hole (241) becomes excessively large compared to the baffle plate.

[0105] Hereinafter, in order to support the effect of the baffle plate according to an embodiment of the present invention, the effect of the baffle plate according to a comparative example and an experimental example is explained using the results of a computer simulation (CFD, computational fluid dynamics).

[0106] Fig. 6 shows a computer simulation of fluid movement by a baffle plate according to a comparative example in which no flow holes are formed. Figs. 7 to 14 show a computer simulation of fluid movement by a baffle plate according to experimental examples 1 to 8 in which flow holes having different numbers, positions, and / or sizes are formed, respectively. Specifically, a computer simulation shows fluid movement by a baffle plate according to a comparative example in which no flow holes are formed, and Figs. 7 to 14 show a computer simulation of fluid movement by a baffle plate according to experimental examples 1 to 8 in which flow holes are formed.

[0107] At this time, in the baffle plates according to Comparative Examples and Experimental Examples 1 to 8, the width (w) of the unit plate is 94 mm, and the upper and lower lengths (L) of the baffle plates are the same at 1,120 mm. The number, position, and spacing between the flow holes formed in the baffle plates according to Experimental Examples 1 to 8 are described as follows.

[0108] In the baffle plate according to Experimental Example 1 related to Fig. 7, there are 3 flow holes, in the baffle plate according to Experimental Example 2 related to Fig. 8, there are 12 flow holes, and in the baffle plate according to Experimental Examples 3 to 8 related to Figs. 9 to 14, there is 1 flow hole.

[0109] In the baffle plate according to Experimental Example 1, three flow holes are formed at equal intervals at the top, bottom, and center, and in the baffle plate according to Experimental Example 2, 12 flow holes are formed at equal intervals from the top to the bottom.

[0110] In the baffle plates according to Experimental Examples 3 and 6 to 8, one flow hole is located at the bottom, in the baffle plate according to Experimental Example 4, one flow hole is located at the center, and in the baffle plate according to Experimental Example 5, one flow hole is located at the top. At this time, the center means the center and a portion adjacent thereto based on the vertical length direction of the baffle plate, the upper portion may mean a portion closer to the top than the center, and the lower portion may mean a portion closer to the bottom than the center.

[0111] The diameter of the flow hole according to Experimental Examples 1 to 5 and 7 is 1 cm, the diameter of the flow hole according to Experimental Example 6 is 0.5 cm, and the diameter of the flow hole according to Experimental Example 8 is 2.0 cm. When the diameters of the flow holes described above are expressed as a ratio to the width (w) of the unit plate, 1 cm, 0.5 cm, and 2 cm may be approximately 1 / 10, 1 / 20, and 1 / 5, respectively.

[0112] The results of Figures 6 to 14 are summarized with specific data values ​​as shown in [Table 1] below.

[0113]

[0114]

[0115] [Table 1]

[0116]

[0117] Here, CoV (Coefficient of Variable) in [Table 1] means 'standard deviation of variable / average of variable'. Here, the variable is the velocity of the fluid flowing on one side of the baffle plate, and the smaller the value of this CoV, the more uniform the flow can be interpreted.

[0118] In [Table 1], the closer the value of the discharge UI (Uniformity Index) is to 1, the more uniform the flow at the discharge can be interpreted. Here, the discharge of the baffle plate refers to the uppermost part where the reaction liquid exits the baffle plate.

[0119] In [Table 1], the "low-speed region" refers to a region where the flow velocity is 0.001 m / s or less. It can be understood that the smaller the ratio of this low-speed region, the more the flow velocity in the cell is improved. The front part of the baffle refers to the electrode-side space (S1a) (illustrated in Fig. 1), and the rear part of the baffle refers to the non-electrode-side space (S1b) (illustrated in Fig. 1).

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 14 and [Table 1], it can be confirmed that the CoV of Experimental Examples 1 to 8 has a lower value than that of the Comparative Example, thereby improving the flow rate uniformity of the reaction solution. In particular, it can be seen that the average flow rate improves from 1.2 to 2.0 to 2.4 (unit omitted). In addition, it can be confirmed that the CoV of Experimental Examples 1 to 8 improves from 1.34 to 1.63 compared to the CoV value of the Comparative Example, which is 1.84.

[0121] In addition, it can be confirmed that the ratio of the low-speed region is 1.85 in the comparative example, but is improved to 0.5 (unit omitted) or less in experimental examples 1 and 3 to 8. This suggests that when the electrolyte rises from the bottom to the top of the baffle plate, the effect of pushing it upward is exerted as the velocity of the electrolyte at the rear part of the baffle increases.

[0122] Meanwhile, referring to the data of Experimental Examples 3 to 5, it can be confirmed that the flow velocity, CoV, and the ratio of the low-velocity region all improve as the flow hole is positioned lower. In addition, referring to the data of Experimental Examples 6 to 8, the ratio of the low-velocity region improves as the diameter of the flow hole increases, and the average velocity improves as the diameter of the flow hole increases from 0.5 to 1, and there is no particular difference when it increases from 1 to 2.

[0123] And, referring to the data according to Experimental Examples 1 and 2, it may be preferable that the number of flow holes be 3 or less. Referring to the data according to Experimental Examples 2 and 3 to 5, it may be more preferable that the number of flow holes be 1.

[0124] Referring to the above data, it can be seen that forming a flow hole in the baffle plate helps improve the flow of the electrolyte. The flow hole may be preferably located in the central portion of the baffle plate. The diameter of the flow hole may be preferably 4 / 5 or less of the unit plate width (w), and more preferably, the diameter of the flow hole may be 1 / 20 or more and 1 / 5 or less of the unit plate width (w).

[0125] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various embodiments are possible within the scope equivalent to the technical idea of ​​the present invention and the patent claims to be described below by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains.

[0126]

[0127] [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 1: Electrolyzer

[0129] 10: Reaction chamber

[0130] 20: Reaction solution supply section

[0131] 30: Electrode

[0132] 40 140 240: Baffle Plate

[0133] 50: Gas-liquid separator

[0134] S1: Bipolar reaction space

[0135] S2: Cathode reaction space

Claims

1. An electrolytic cell for electrolyzing a reaction solution, A reaction chamber having a reaction space in which a reaction solution flows; An electrode extending in the vertical direction from the side of the above reaction space, to which a potential for electrolyzing the reaction solution can be applied; and A baffle plate is disposed in the reaction space and divides the reaction space, An electrolytic cell having a flow hole formed through the baffle plate above through which a reaction liquid can pass.

2. In paragraph 1, The above fluid hole is an electrolytic cell composed of a plurality of holes.

3. In paragraph 1, The above baffle plate is formed by connecting one or more unit plates in the width direction, The above fluid hole is formed in the unit plate, An electrolytic cell in which the diameter of the above flow hole is less than 4 / 5 of the width of the above unit plate.

4. In paragraph 3, An electrolytic cell in which the diameter of the above-mentioned flow hole is 1 / 20 or more and 1 / 5 or less of the width of the above-mentioned unit plate.

5. In paragraph 2, An electrolytic cell, wherein at least one of the plurality of flow holes has a diameter different from that of any other one of the plurality of flow holes.

6. In paragraph 5, The above plurality of flow holes are arranged at a predetermined distance along the vertical direction, An electrolytic cell wherein the plurality of flow holes have a larger diameter toward the top.

7. In paragraph 6, The above plurality of flow holes are, A plurality of first heat flow holes arranged along a first row parallel to the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate; and comprising a plurality of second heat flow holes arranged along a second row parallel to the first row; An electrolytic cell, wherein the difference in diameter between adjacent flow holes among the plurality of flow holes is less than or equal to half the distance between the first row and the second row.

8. In paragraph 2, An electrolytic cell wherein the plurality of flow holes are arranged at a predetermined distance in the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate.

9. In paragraph 8, The above plurality of flow holes are, A plurality of first heat flow holes arranged along a first row parallel to the longitudinal direction of the baffle plate; and An electrolytic cell comprising a plurality of second heat flow holes arranged along a second row parallel to the first row.

10. In paragraph 2, An electrolytic cell in which the distance between adjacent flow holes among the plurality of flow holes is longer than 1 / 15 of the length of the baffle plate.

11. In paragraph 1, The above flow hole is spaced apart from the upper edge of the baffle plate by a reference distance or more along the length direction of the baffle plate, The above reference distance is 1 / 15 of the vertical length of the baffle plate, an electrolytic cell.

12. In paragraph 1, The above baffle plate is arranged at an angle with respect to the electrode, An electrolytic cell in which the horizontal gap between the baffle plate and the electrode becomes narrower toward the top.

13. In paragraph 1, The above baffle plate divides the reaction space into an electrode-side space and a non-electrode-side space, The above electrode side space is provided between the baffle plate and the electrode, The above non-electrode side space is located on the opposite side of the electrode side space with the baffle plate in between, The above flow hole is an electrolytic cell provided so that the reaction liquid can flow from the non-electrode side space to the electrode side space.

14. In paragraph 1, The above reaction chamber, an anode-side reaction chamber having a cathode-side reaction space; and A cathode side reaction chamber having a cathode side reaction space is included, The above electrodes are, An anode provided on the side of the above anode-side reaction space; and Including a cathode provided on the side of the above cathode side reaction space, The above baffle plate is an electrolytic cell disposed in the anode side reaction chamber.

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