Electrostatic charging device and electrostatic charging method

Abstract

Provided is an electrostatic charging device capable of storing electricity with a simple configuration. The electrostatic charging device comprises: an electron conductive substance that is formed into a lump using a first carbon material in powder form and a first liquid; an electrolyte containing ions; a second carbon material that occludes and releases the ions; and a separator that is disposed in the electron conductive substance to which the second carbon material and the electrolyte have been admixed, separates a positive electrode storing positive charges and a negative electrode storing negative charges, and allows the ions to pass therethrough. When a voltage is applied between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, negative ions from the electrolyte are guided to the positive electrode, and positive ions from the electrolyte are guided to the negative electrode.

Description

Charging Device and Charging Method

[0001] The present invention relates to a charging device that can store electricity with a simple structure and a charging method that is easy to manufacture and can store electricity.

[0002] In recent years, power generated by a power generation device using renewable energy has been fed back into the power grid and sold to power companies. However, in order to maintain the balance between power demand and supply in the power grid, for example, output control to control the power output to the power grid may be required even in a solar power plant. There are also reports that in Japan, it reached approximately 1.9 billion kWh in 2023, indicating the current situation where renewable energy is not being effectively utilized. On the other hand, when output control is required, it has been proposed to store renewable energy in a storage battery (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In addition, in recent years, there has been a proposal to mix nano-porous carbon having electrical conductivity into cement, form a network of nano-porous carbon using the fluidity of water, and use concrete as a capacitor (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0003] International Publication No. 2020 / 162461 U.S. Patent No. 11,512,0XX

[0004] However, in Patent Document 1, it only stays at the proposal of storing renewable energy in a storage battery when output control is required, and no problems such as high initial costs and how to perform maintenance are disclosed. Also, in Patent Document 2, it only stays at the proposal of storing electricity in concrete to make it a capacitor, and no proposals have been made for other applications.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a charging device that can store electricity with a simple structure and a charging method that is easy to manufacture and can store electricity.

[0006] The charging device according to claim 1 comprises an electronically conductive material formed into a mass using a first carbon material in powder form and a first liquid; an electrolyte having ions; a second carbon material that absorbs and releases the ions; and a separator disposed in the electronically conductive material in which the second carbon material and the electrolyte are mixed, separating a positive electrode that accumulates positive charge and a negative electrode that accumulates negative charge, and allowing the ions to pass through, wherein when a voltage is applied between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, anions from the electrolyte are guided to the positive electrode and cations from the electrolyte are guided to the negative electrode. The charging method according to claim 10 involves adding a first liquid to a granular first carbon material to form a mass of the first carbon material, mixing a second carbon material different from the first carbon material and an ionic substance into the mass of the first carbon material, arranging a positive electrode and a negative electrode on the first carbon material mixed with the second carbon material and the ionic substance via a separator, and applying a voltage between the positive electrode and the negative electrode to guide anions to the positive electrode and cations to the negative electrode.

[0007] According to the charging device described in claim 1, a charging device capable of storing electricity with a simple configuration can be realized. According to the charging method described in claim 10, a charging method capable of storing electricity with a simple configuration can be realized.

[0008] This is a cross-sectional view showing the capacitor of the first embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view showing the capacitor of the second embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view showing the capacitor of the third embodiment. This is a cross-sectional view showing the capacitor of the fourth embodiment. This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the capacitor of the fifth embodiment being installed below the seismic isolation device. This is a partial cross-sectional view showing two capacitors arranged in the floor area of ​​the sixth embodiment. This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the capacitor of the seventh embodiment being installed below the seismic isolation device.

[0009] (First Embodiment) In this first embodiment, a granular carbon material is mixed with a liquid such as water and stirred to form a lumpy (clumpy) material. A mixture of this lumpy (clumpy) carbon material, a solid carbon material, and an ionic substance which is an electrolyte is used to constitute a part of the charging device. In this first embodiment, the electrically conductive substance described later is a substance that has both electron conductivity, which moves electrons, and ionic conductivity, which moves ions.

[0010] In this first embodiment, carbon black, a granular carbon material, is used as the electron-conducting material. Furthermore, the water used to form the carbon black into clumps (lumps) is used as the ion-conducting material. Additionally, at least one of activated carbon and binchotan charcoal is used as the carbon material that absorbs and releases ionic substances.

[0011] The first embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 1. In Figure 1, the vertical direction is shown as the Z direction, and the direction perpendicular to the Z direction in the left-right direction is shown as the X direction. Although not shown, the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper is the Y direction.

[0012] Figure 1 shows a capacitor 11, which is a charging device of the first embodiment, and is shown as a cross-sectional view excluding the power supply 8. As shown in Figure 1, the capacitor 11 is provided with a mixture 4, a separator 5, a positive electrode 6, and a negative electrode 7 in an insulating glass container 1, and is charged by the power supply 8.

[0013] In this first embodiment, container 1 is made of glass, but any material that provides insulation may be used. Furthermore, even if container 1 is made of a material that does not have insulating properties, it may be used in a state in which it has insulating properties by, for example, applying or spraying an alkylalkoxysilane-based insulating agent or a silanesiloxane-based insulating agent onto container 1.

[0014] In this first embodiment, mixture 4 comprises carbon black, activated carbon, and an ionic substance. In this first embodiment, acetylene black produced by the thermal decomposition of acetylene was used as the carbon black. However, registered trademark Ketjenblack, in which the primary particles have a hollow shell structure, may also be used.

[0015] Acetylene black is a hydrophobic substance in powder form, but it becomes compatible with water when immersed in it. By immersing acetylene black in water and stirring it for 5 to 30 minutes, it can be formed into a clump-like (lumpy) mass.

[0016] Activated carbon can be coarse, fine, or coconut shell activated carbon, but in this first embodiment, fine activated carbon or coconut shell activated carbon will be used from the viewpoint of ion storage and release properties. The activated carbon should be added after the acetylene black has formed clumps (lumps).

[0017] Ionic substances include calcium ions (Ca ２＋ ), potassium ions (K ＋ ), magnesium ions (Mg ２＋ ), sodium ions (Na ＋ Cations with a high ionization tendency, such as sodium ions (Na), can be used. In this first embodiment, sodium ions (Na) can be used. ＋ ) or potassium ions (K ＋ ) shall be used. In this case, it is sufficient to add it to the mixture of lumpy (solid) acetylene black and activated carbon in the form of an electrolyte solution.

[0018] The proportions of acetylene black, activated carbon, and ionic material can be arbitrarily set depending on the type of charging device being manufactured. For example, acetylene black and activated carbon may be blended in equal weights, or the weight of activated carbon may be greater than that of acetylene black from a cost perspective. When using binchotan charcoal instead of activated carbon, the proportions should be equivalent to those of activated carbon. When using both activated carbon and binchotan charcoal, the weights of both activated carbon and binchotan charcoal should be equal to or greater than the weight of acetylene black.

[0019] Depending on its concentration, an aqueous solution containing an ionic substance should be added in amounts ranging from several tens to several hundred percent relative to the weight of acetylene black and activated carbon. In this case as well, the amount to be added should be determined from the perspective of the cost of the ionic substance, charging efficiency, and the internal resistance of the capacitor 11.

[0020] The separator 5 prevents direct contact and short-circuiting between the positive electrode 6 and the negative electrode 7, while allowing ions in the mixture 4 to pass through a carbon network formed of acetylene black. In this first embodiment, the material of the separator 5 can be a polyolefin resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene, or a polyester resin such as polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate. Alternatively, the separator 5 can be made of cellulose-derived nonwoven fabric or paper (for example, Japanese paper or kitchen paper).

[0021] Furthermore, the separator 5 may be made of a composite material of cellulose-derived nonwoven fabric or paper and polyethylene or glass fiber. The separator 5 is fixed to the container 1 with insulating tape. Alternatively, it may be installed in the container 1 sandwiched between insulating materials. It is also preferable to use a hydrophilic material for the separator 5 in order to facilitate the passage of ions. The separator 5 may be fixed by forming a recess in the bottom of the container 1 and fixing it using this recess, by fixing it with insulating tape, or by other methods.

[0022] The positive electrode 6 can be made of a material that does not easily react with ionic substances contained in the mixture 4, such as copper, aluminum, platinum, or carbon materials. In this first embodiment, a copper plate is used. The positive electrode 6 is connected to a carbon network formed of acetylene black. An electric double layer is formed near the surface of the activated carbon connected to this carbon network, and the positive electrode 6 is charged by attracting anions with the opposite charge. Sheet-shaped carbon fibers may be used as the carbon material for the positive electrode 6 and the negative electrode 7. Carbon fibers are lightweight and strong, making them easy to use electrodes. In this specification, the positive electrode 6 and the negative electrode 7 are sometimes collectively referred to as electrodes.

[0023] The negative electrode 7 can be made of a material that does not easily react with ionic substances contained in the mixture 4, such as copper, aluminum, platinum, or carbon materials. In this first embodiment, a copper plate is used. The negative electrode 7 is connected to a carbon network formed of acetylene black. An electric double layer is formed near the surface of the activated carbon connected to this carbon network, causing the negative electrode 7 to be charged by attracting cations with the opposite charge. Sheet-shaped carbon fibers may be used as the carbon material for the positive electrode 6 and the negative electrode 7. Carbon fibers are lightweight and strong, making them easy to use electrodes. Also, sheet-shaped carbon fibers are easier to bend than metal electrodes, making it easier to form the stretched portions 6a and 7a.

[0024] The applicant has found that when the aforementioned mixture 4 is compacted, the adhesion between the mixture 4 and the electrode improves, which in turn lowers the contact resistance between the mixture 4 (especially carbon black) and the electrode, improving the amount of charge stored in the capacitor 11. When compaction is performed along the arrow in Figure 1, a force along the vertical Z direction is applied to the mixture 4, but a force along the X direction is less likely to act on the electrode. For this reason, in this first embodiment, the shape of the electrode is made into an L-shape that extends in a direction intersecting the direction in which the separator 5 is positioned (Z direction), so that the vertical force applied to the electrode during compaction is applied to the electrode.

[0025] Specifically, as shown in Figure 1, the lower end of the positive electrode 6 is bent to form an extended portion 6a, and the lower end of the negative electrode 7 is bent to form an extended portion 7a. Here, the length of the extended portions 6a and 7a in the X direction can be set arbitrarily as long as they do not interfere with the separator 5. As a result, the adhesion between the extended portions 6a and 7a and the mixture 4 is improved, thereby improving the amount of charge stored in the capacitor 11. It is preferable to provide extended portions on both the positive electrode 6 and the negative electrode 7, but the extended portion on either one may be omitted.

[0026] Furthermore, by adding a mixture 4 to a depth of several millimeters to several centimeters so as to cover the stretched portions 6a and 7a, and then performing degassing by compaction, the adhesion between the electrodes and the mixture 4 can be improved, and gas in the mixture 4 can be removed. In addition, it is desirable to perform degassing by compaction when adding more mixture 4 to the container 1 afterward, and it is preferable to add the mixture 4 to the container 1 in several portions and perform degassing each time.

[0027] To improve the adhesion between the electrode and the mixture 4, the electrode shape may be made zigzag. By making the electrode shape zigzag, the surface area of ​​the electrode increases, and the contact area between the mixture 4 and the electrode increases, so that more carbon networks come into contact with the electrode, and thus the amount of energy stored in the capacitor 11 can be improved.

[0028] Furthermore, the electrodes may be positioned at an angle to the Z direction. By positioning the electrodes so as to intersect with respect to the Z direction, the length of the electrodes in the mixture 4 can be increased, thereby increasing the contact area between the mixture 4 and the electrodes. For this reason, positioning the electrodes so as to intersect with the Z direction allows more carbon networks to come into contact with the electrodes, thereby improving the amount of energy stored in the capacitor 11.

[0029] The power supply 8 is used to charge the capacitor 11, and can be a constant voltage power supply or a constant current power supply. Charging the capacitor 11 can be done by either constant voltage charging or constant current charging, but in this first embodiment, charging is performed by constant current charging from the viewpoint of charging efficiency.

[0030] Wiring 9 has one end connected to the positive terminal 6 and the other end connected to the + output terminal of the power supply 8. Wiring 10 has one end connected to the negative terminal 7 and the other end connected to the - output terminal of the power supply 8.

[0031] (Charging and discharging experiment) In this first embodiment, a constant voltage power supply was used as the power supply 8 and charging was performed at a voltage of 1V to 3V. When the water content of the mixture 4 was high, charging was performed at 1.2V or less to prevent hydrogen generation, and when the water content of the mixture 4 was low, i.e., when hydrogen generation was low, charging was performed at 3V.

[0032] Depending on the composition and quantity of mixture 4, as well as the distance between the electrodes, after constant current charging for 30 minutes to several hours, a resistor of several ohms to more than ten ohms was connected, and the voltage and current values ​​at each time interval during discharge were measured to determine the capacitance, which ranged from 800F to 1400F.

[0033] Furthermore, the applicant has found that the energy storage performance of the capacitor 11 deteriorates if the mixture 4 dries out. For this reason, it is preferable to install the mixture 4 in an environment where humidity is easily maintained, or to supply it with a liquid such as water if it dries out. This makes it possible to prevent deterioration of the energy storage performance of the capacitor 11 or to recover the energy storage performance of a capacitor 11 that has deteriorated.

[0034] As described above, according to this first embodiment, a capacitor 11 capable of storing electricity with a simple configuration can be realized. Furthermore, according to this first embodiment, a charging method that is easy to manufacture and capable of storing electricity can be provided.

[0035] In this first embodiment, a positive electrode 6 equipped with an extendable portion 6a and a negative electrode 7 equipped with an extendable portion 7a were used, but the extendable portions 6a and 7a may be omitted.

[0036] (Second Embodiment) The second embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 2, but the same reference numerals will be used for the same components as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified. In this second embodiment, the water supply member 3 is provided on the upper surface of the mixture 4 described in the first embodiment. In addition, in this second embodiment, the water supply member 3 is also provided near the upper end of the separator 5 so that water can be supplied to the separator 5 as well. In this case, it is preferable to position the water supply member 3 so that it is in contact with the separator 5.

[0037] In this second embodiment, the water supply member 3 is a superabsorbent polymer having water retention and drainage properties, and is capable of absorbing and holding several hundred to a thousand times its own weight in water. This superabsorbent polymer gradually releases its moisture as the soil dries, so it can supply moisture to the mixture 4 when it dries out. In this way, by using a superabsorbent polymer with drying responsiveness, the drying of the mixture 4 can be prevented.

[0038] Furthermore, some superabsorbent polymers are temperature-responsive, pH-responsive, or ion-responsive, so you should select the appropriate polymer based on the required responsiveness.

[0039] Alternatively, potassium chloride (KCl) or sodium chloride (NaCl) may be dissolved in water to form an electrolyte solution, and this electrolyte solution may be absorbed by the water supply member 3. This allows the electrolyte solution to be supplied to the mixture 4 and the separator 5.

[0040] According to this second embodiment, when the mixture 4 dries, water or electrolyte solution is supplied from the water supply member 3 to the mixture 4 and the separator 5, thereby preventing the mixture 4 and the separator 5 from drying out. Furthermore, since the electrolyte solution can be supplied to the mixture 4 and the separator 5, performance degradation of the capacitor 11 can be prevented. It is preferable to periodically supply water or electrolyte solution to the water supply member 3. Whether to supply water or electrolyte solution should be determined based on the performance change of the capacitor 11. For example, if the capacitance of the capacitor 11 tends to decrease with each charge, it is preferable to supply electrolyte solution to the water supply member 3.

[0041] Note that the water supply member 3 is not limited to a highly water-absorbent polymer, and natural minerals having water retention and drainage properties such as vermiculite or natural materials such as coir peat may be used. Further, the liquid contained in the water supply member 3 may be a liquid other than water.

[0042] Instead of or in combination with the water supply member 3, an anti-drying material may be used. As the anti-drying material, polyethylene, polypropylene, polylactic acid, or the like can be used.

[0043] (Third Embodiment) Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The same components as those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted or simplified. In the third embodiment, a hole 12 is provided in the mixture 4, and the water supply member 3 is also provided in the hole 12.

[0044] As described above, since acetylene black is a hydrophobic substance, it is still difficult for water or an electrolyte solution to penetrate even after it is formed into a lump shape. Therefore, it takes time for the water or electrolyte solution from the water supply member 3 provided on the upper surface of the mixture 4 to penetrate downward (-Z direction) of the mixture 4.

[0045] Therefore, in the third embodiment, a hole 12 is formed in the mixture 4, and the water supply member 3 is also provided in the hole 12. Thereby, the time for the water or electrolyte solution from the water supply member 3 to penetrate downward (-Z direction) of the mixture 4 can be shortened.

[0046] Note that the number of the holes 12 may be arbitrarily set to be single or plural. Further, the direction in which the hole 12 is formed may be an obliquely downward direction. In this case, if the hole 12 is formed toward the separator 5 embedded in the mixture 4, water or an electrolyte solution can be quickly supplied to the portion of the mixture 4 embedded by the separator 5 as well.

[0047] In the second and third embodiments described above, the water supply member 3 may be mixed into the mixture 4. In this case, the water supply member 3 may be mixed in when stirring the acetylene black and water, or it may be mixed in after the acetylene black has formed clumps (lumps).

[0048] (Fourth Embodiment) The fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 4. Components that are the same as those in the first to third embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified. In this fourth embodiment, a cover member and maintenance members are added to the capacitor 11 in Figure 3. Note that in Figure 4, in order to avoid making the drawing complex, the wiring 9, wiring 10, and piping 19 are partially omitted from the illustration.

[0049] The first lid member 17 is a lid that covers the container 1, and in this first embodiment, a circular resin is used. For example, if the container 1 is made of circular resin, a female thread can be formed on the inner surface of the container 1, and a male thread can be formed on the outer surface of the first lid member 17, so that the container 1 can be covered by the first lid member 17 by screwing the male and female threads together. Alternatively, the shape of the first lid member 17 may be such that it covers the container 1 from above, and the container 1 and the first lid member 17 may be fastened together with fastening members such as bolts. When fastening members such as bolts are used, the container 1 and the first lid member 17 can be any shape, such as a rectangle.

[0050] The first lid member 17 is provided with a communication hole member 18 that communicates with the outside. In this first embodiment, three communication hole members 18a, 18b, and 18c are formed so as to face the separator 5, the positive electrode 6, and the negative electrode 7, respectively, but the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0051] The communication hole member 18a is a hole for maintaining the separator 5, and in this first embodiment, it passes through a pipe 19 that supplies water or an electrolyte solution to the separator 5. In this first embodiment, water or an electrolyte solution is supplied to the separator 5 because ions become less mobile when the separator 5 dries out. Furthermore, if a spray is provided in the pipe 19, water or an electrolyte solution can also be supplied to the water supply member 3 and the mixture 4.

[0052] The connecting hole member 18b is a hole for passing the first pipe member 20 through which the wiring 9 from the positive electrode 6 passes. The connecting hole member 18c is a hole for passing the second pipe member 21 through which the wiring 10 from the negative electrode 7 passes. PF (Plastic Flexible) pipes can be used as the first pipe member 20 and the second pipe member 21. The lengths of the first pipe member 20 and the second pipe member 21 can be set arbitrarily.

[0053] The second cover member 22 is a cover member provided in correspondence with the communication hole member 18. The second cover member 22a covers the communication hole member 18a and has an opening for the pipe 19 that supplies water and electrolyte solution to the separator 5 to pass through. If it is necessary to prevent rain from seeping in through this opening, the area around the opening can be wrapped with sealing tape or a clay material can be provided.

[0054] The second cover member 22b covers the communication hole member 18b and has an opening for the first pipe member 20 to pass through for the wiring 9 from the positive electrode 6. If it is necessary to prevent rain from seeping in through this opening, the area around the opening can be wrapped with sealing tape or a clay-like material can be provided.

[0055] The second cover member 22c covers the communication hole member 18c and has an opening for the second pipe member 21 to pass through for the wiring 10 from the negative electrode 7. If it is necessary to prevent rain from seeping in through this opening, the area around the opening can be wrapped with sealing tape or a clay material can be provided.

[0056] In this fourth embodiment, the communication hole member 18 is provided with a female thread, and the second lid member 22 is provided with a male thread that screws into this female thread, thereby engaging the second lid member 22 with the communication hole member 18. If it is necessary to replace at least one of the separator 5, the positive electrode 6, and the negative electrode 7, this can be done with the first lid member 17 removed. At this time, the water supply member 3 and the mixture 4 may also be replaced, or electrolyte material may be supplied to the water supply member 3 and the mixture 4.

[0057] Furthermore, it is preferable to supply the electrolyte material in the form of an electrolyte solution, for example, by dissolving it in water. This prevents deterioration of the energy storage performance of the capacitor 11 and allows for the recovery of the energy storage performance of a capacitor 11 that has deteriorated.

[0058] (Fifth Embodiment) (Application of Capacitor to Buildings) The following description will continue regarding the application of the capacitor 11 described above to a building. Components that are the same as those in the first to fourth embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified. Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view showing that the capacitor 11 is installed below the seismic isolation device 80. As shown in Figure 5, in this fifth embodiment, the capacitor 11 described above is applied to the lower structure 35 located below the seismic isolation device 80.

[0059] In this fifth embodiment, the aforementioned mixture 4 is used as the backfill material for the substructure 35. The substructure 35, which is a foundation structure, comprises a strip foundation 40, a slab 50, the mixture 4 as backfill material, and a floor concrete 60. The separator 5, positive electrode 6, and negative electrode 7, which are part of the capacitor 11, are arranged in this mixture 4. In an actual construction site, multiple strip foundations 40 are formed along the X-axis direction and the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper to form the substructure 35. Therefore, the capacitor 11 can be installed in multiple locations.

[0060] The strip foundation 40 is made of concrete with reinforcing bars, and has shear reinforcement bars 41 and main reinforcement bars 42 extending perpendicular to the plane of the paper formed on its upper surface. The inner surface 40a of the strip foundation 40 corresponds to the inner surface of the glass container 1, so an insulating agent is applied or sprayed to ensure insulation. As the insulating agent, for example, alkylalkoxysilane-based insulating agents or silanesiloxane-based insulating agents can be used, but are not limited to these. If the insulation properties of the concrete of the strip foundation 40 are high, or if the distance from the concrete to the reinforcing bars is sufficiently far, the application or spraying of the insulating agent may be omitted.

[0061] The slab 50 is made of concrete and is provided on the ground 45 in the space enclosed by the strip foundation 40, and is a member that extends along the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper. In this fifth embodiment, the slab 50 holds or houses the elements that constitute the capacitor 11. The upper surface 50a of the slab 50 is a member corresponding to the bottom surface of the glass container 1, and an insulating agent is applied or sprayed to ensure insulation. As the insulating agent, for example, alkylalkoxysilane-based insulating agents or silanesiloxane-based insulating agents can be used, but are not limited to these. As described above, in this fifth embodiment, an insulating container is formed by the opposing inner surfaces 40a of the strip foundation 40 and the upper surface 50a of the slab 50.

[0062] While U.S. Patent No. 1,151,2022, listed in the prior art, discloses the storage of electricity in concrete, it does not disclose how to insulate the reinforcing bars when they are placed in the concrete. In contrast, in this fifth embodiment, the mixture 4 containing an electrically conductive substance is used to ensure insulation between the opposing inner surfaces 40a of the strip foundation 40 and the upper surface 50a of the slab 50. Therefore, even if reinforcing bars are placed inside or on the upper surface of the strip foundation 40, there is no need to insulate these bars. Furthermore, since the floor area 46 is a large space, even if the amount of charge per unit area is small, the large capacity of the mixture 4 allows for the storage of more electrical energy.

[0063] The slab 50 is provided with a retaining portion (not shown) for holding the separator 5. Since insulation is required for this retaining portion (not shown), it is desirable to apply or spray the aforementioned insulating agent. The positive electrode 6 and the negative electrode 7 may be held by a retaining member (not shown) provided on the slab 50, or they may be held by the weight of the mixture 4 itself.

[0064] In this fifth embodiment, a floor area 46 is formed by the space enclosed by the strip foundation 40, the slab 50, and the deck 58, which will be described later. The mixture 4 is backfilled using this space in the floor area 46.

[0065] The mixture 4 is buried in the floor area 46 so as not to exceed the height of the separator 5, the positive electrode 6, the negative electrode 7, and the strip foundation 40. This ensures the insulation of the capacitor 11. However, since the mixture 4 is simply backfilled in the floor area 46, air is present inside the mixture 4. If air is present inside the mixture 4 and the contact between the mixture 4 components is unstable, the internal resistance of the mixture 4 will increase, and the measured value of the internal resistance will not be stable.

[0066] Therefore, by compacting the mixture 4 backfilled in the floor area 46, the shear resistance of the mixture 4 can be increased and the internal resistance can be decreased, thereby improving its performance as a capacitor 11.

[0067] Furthermore, in this fifth embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the lower structure 35 is provided with a resin sheet 55, a first pipe member 56, a second pipe member 57, a deck 58, a hatch 59 (a general term for the hatches 59a, 5b, and 59c described later), and the aforementioned floor concrete 60.

[0068] The resin sheet 55 is a sheet used to prevent rainwater from falling on the capacitor 11, and in this fifth embodiment, a polyethylene sheet is used. In this fifth embodiment, the concrete slab 60 can prevent rainwater from falling on the capacitor 11. For this reason, in this fifth embodiment, the resin sheet 55 may be omitted, or the resin sheet 55 may be used until the concrete slab 60 is constructed. Alternatively, the resin sheet 55 may be a sheet used to prevent the mixture 4 backfilled in the floor area 46 from drying out, and for example, a polyethylene sheet, a polypropylene sheet, nylon, or cellulose nanofiber can be used. Furthermore, the water supply member 3 described in the second to fourth embodiments may also be applied to the fifth embodiment.

[0069] In this fifth embodiment, the first pipe member 56 is a CD pipe and is a pipe member for passing the wiring 9 from the positive electrode 6. The second pipe member 57 is a CD pipe and is a pipe member for passing the wiring 10 from the negative electrode 7. Note that in Figure 5, only a portion of the wiring 9 and wiring 10 are shown.

[0070] In this fifth embodiment, it is desirable to check the operation of the capacitor 11 before pouring the floor concrete 60. For the operation check, it is preferable to perform both charging and discharging of the capacitor 11. Although Figure 5 and others illustrate one capacitor 11, multiple capacitors 11 are installed at a construction site. When multiple capacitors 11 are connected in series, it is desirable to check the charging and discharging operations with the multiple capacitors 11 connected in series.

[0071] Furthermore, depending on the results of this operational check, a decision may be made as to whether or not to add the aforementioned electrolyte substance. The decision regarding the addition of the electrolyte substance may be made by a worker or by a host computer (not shown).

[0072] The deck 58, although simplified in the illustration, is supported by the strip foundation 40 and covers the floor area 46. In this fifth embodiment, the deck 58 is made of steel and has openings 58a and 58b for passing the first pipe member 56 and the second pipe member 57 through, and for maintaining the positive electrode 6 and the negative electrode 7. The deck 58 also has an opening 58c for maintaining the separator 5.

[0073] The concrete slab 60 is made of concrete. The concrete slab 60 is supported by a strip foundation 40. Retaining walls 34 extending in the +Z direction are formed at both ends of the concrete slab 60. The retaining walls 34 are wall-like structures built to prevent the ground from collapsing. The concrete slab 60 is also provided with openings 60a, 60b, and 60c that communicate with openings 58a, 58b, and 58c of the deck 58, respectively, and hatches 59a, 59b, and 59c that open and close openings 60a, 60b, and 60c. Note that the hatching representing the cross-section of the concrete slab 60 has been omitted in Figure 5 for clarity.

[0074] Hatch 59a is a metal component that opens and closes the opening 60a, and is shown in the closed state in Figure 5. Hatch 59b is a metal component that opens and closes the opening 60b, and is shown in the open state in Figure 5. Hatch 59c is a metal component that opens and closes the opening 60c, and is shown in the open state in Figure 5.

[0075] The opening 60a has an opening that is positioned opposite the positive electrode 6, and is an opening that allows access to the positive electrode 6 and the first pipe member 56 through the opening 58a of the deck 58.

[0076] The opening 60b has an opening that is positioned opposite the negative electrode 7, and is an opening that allows access to the negative electrode 7 and the second pipe member 57 through the opening 58b of the deck 58.

[0077] The opening 60c has an opening that is positioned opposite the separator 5, and is an opening that allows access to the separator 5 through the opening 58c of the deck 58.

[0078] Furthermore, adjacent openings 60a and 60c may be combined into a single opening, or adjacent openings 60b and 60c may be combined into a single opening. Also, adjacent openings 58a and 58c may be combined into a single opening, or adjacent openings 58b and 58c may be combined into a single opening.

[0079] In this fifth embodiment, for example, piping may be provided to supply liquid such as water or an electrolyte solution to the mixture 4 through the opening 60c and the opening 58c of the deck 58. Alternatively, piping may be provided to supply water or an electrolyte solution to the separator 5. That is, it is desirable to provide a supply device (not shown) for supplying liquid to at least one of the mixture 4 and the separator 5. This supply device (not shown) can be composed of, for example, piping and a pump. This makes it possible to prevent deterioration of the energy storage performance of the capacitor 11 or to recover the energy storage performance of the capacitor 11 that has deteriorated.

[0080] The seismic isolation device 80 is installed between the superstructure 30 and the lower structure 35 and comprises a rubber-like isolator 81 that supports the building and a damper 82 that absorbs vibrations. The seismic isolation device 80 reduces the transmission of earthquake vibrations to the building by absorbing them. In this fifth embodiment, a laminated rubber isolator is used as the isolator 81, but the isolator 81 may be a sliding bearing or a rolling bearing. In addition, various dampers such as steel dampers, oil dampers, or lead dampers can be applied as the damper 82. Furthermore, the layout of the isolator 81 and the damper 82 can be set as appropriate.

[0081] The superstructure 30 comprises a base 31 connected to the upper part of the seismic isolation device 80, columns 32 extending from the base 31, and a structural frame 33 that horizontally connects the two bases 31 and has beams and slabs, and constitutes a part of the building.

[0082] The space in which multiple seismic isolation devices 80 are installed is a seismic isolation pit 83. The seismic isolation pit 83 is a space that houses multiple seismic isolation devices 80 and prevents interference with the building even if the ground moves due to an earthquake. In this fifth embodiment, maintenance of the capacitor 11 is performed using the seismic isolation pit 83.

[0083] The size of the seismic isolation pit 83 varies depending on the size of the building, but it is large enough for people and robots (such as quadruped robots) to enter. In addition to shovels, various other equipment such as jacks, pumps (such as vacuum pumps), and belt conveyors can also be brought into the seismic isolation pit 83.

[0084] In this fifth embodiment, if it becomes necessary to replace the separator 5, the positive electrode 6, or the negative electrode 7, a person can enter the seismic isolation pit 83 and perform the work. For example, when replacing the separator 5, the hatch 59c can be opened using a jack or lifter, and the separator 5 can be removed by using the openings 58c and 60c to dig up the mixture 4 with a shovel or the like. The removed separator may be transported to the outside of the building by a belt conveyor, or by a person or robot. Similarly, the new separator 5 may be transported into the seismic isolation pit 83 by a conveyor, or by a person or robot.

[0085] Furthermore, the replacement of components constituting the capacitor 11 may be performed on the concrete floor 60, or, for example, on the mixture 4, by making the openings 58c and 60c large enough for a person or robot to pass through. Also, if the excavated mixture 4 is temporarily brought onto the concrete floor 60 by, for example, suction using a vacuum pump, the space in the floor area 46 can be widened, improving maintainability.

[0086] Furthermore, by excavating the mixture 4 near the inner surface 40a of the strip foundation 40, removing the mixture 4 from the inner surface 40a of the strip foundation 40, and then applying or spraying the aforementioned insulating agent, maintenance can be performed to maintain the insulating properties of the inner surface 40a of the strip foundation 40. It is desirable to clean the inner surface 40a of the strip foundation 40 when applying or spraying the insulating agent.

[0087] As described above, by performing maintenance on the capacitor 11 using a seismic isolation pit 83 equipped with multiple seismic isolation devices 80, it becomes unnecessary to create a space specifically for the maintenance of the capacitor 11, thus allowing for effective use of the building's space.

[0088] If a solar power generation system is installed on the roof of a building equipped with a seismic isolation device 80, or if perovskite solar cells are installed on the windows of the building, then naturally occurring electricity can be used to charge the capacitor 11 by at least one of the solar power generation system and the perovskite solar cells. The electricity charged in the capacitor 11 can be used for lighting the building or as emergency power.

[0089] (Sixth Embodiment) The sixth embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 6. Components that are the same as those in the first to fifth embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0090] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the sixth embodiment of this invention, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing that two capacitors 11 are arranged in the floor area 46. Note that in Figure 6, in order to simplify the drawing, the components above the floor concrete 60 are not shown.

[0091] As shown in Figure 6, the floor area 46 is divided into two sections by concrete partition blocks 63, and capacitors 11 are provided in each section. Since the partition blocks 63 require insulation, it is desirable to apply or spray the aforementioned insulating agent to their entire surface. However, the application or spraying of the aforementioned insulating agent to the upper surface of the partition blocks 63 may be omitted.

[0092] As in this sixth embodiment, by providing multiple capacitors 11 in the floor area 46 using partition blocks 63, the capacity of each capacitor 11 is reduced, thus shortening the charging time. Furthermore, by connecting multiple capacitors 11 in parallel, even if one capacitor 11 fails, charging and discharging can be performed by the other capacitors 11. In this sixth embodiment, the water supply member 3 described in the second to fourth embodiments may also be applied.

[0093] (Seventh Embodiment) The seventh embodiment will be described below with reference to Figure 7. Components that are the same as those in the first to sixth embodiments will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

[0094] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the seventh embodiment of this invention, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing that the capacitor 11 is provided below the seismic isolation device 80. In this seventh embodiment, soil 2 is provided so as to surround the bottom and sides of the capacitor 11.

[0095] When constructing the substructure 35, the soil of the ground 45 is excavated using construction heavy machinery such as a backhoe. In this seventh embodiment, this excavated soil is used as backfill material and is used to backfill the ground slab 46, which will be described later, after the strip foundation 40 has been constructed. Because the soil 2 has high insulating properties, it is possible to reduce the amount of insulating agent used to apply or spray on the inner surface 40a of the strip foundation 40, or to omit the application or spraying of the insulating agent altogether.

[0096] Furthermore, by adjusting the position and amount of soil 2 backfilled, the size of the capacitor 11 can be adjusted, so the size of the capacitor in the depth direction (Z direction), width direction (X direction), and height direction can also be set arbitrarily.

[0097] Furthermore, in this seventh embodiment, multiple capacitors 11 may be provided using partition blocks 63, and the water supply member 3 described in the second to fourth embodiments may also be applied.

[0098] The embodiments described above are preferred examples of the present invention. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention, and the first to seventh embodiments can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, an electronically conductive polymer may be used as the electronically conductive material. A conductive polymer can be used as the conductive polymer. In this case, the conductive polymer may be dissolved in a solvent and liquefied, or an additive may be added to the conductive polymer and liquefied.

[0099] 2...Soil 3...Water supply member 4...Mixture 5...Separator 6...Positive electrode 6a...Extended part 7...Negative electrode 7a...Extended part 11...Capacitor 12...Hole 17...First lid member 18...Communication hole member 22...Second lid member 30...Upper structure 35...Lower structure 40...Strip foundation 40a...Inner surface 46...Floor area

Claims

1. A charging device comprising: an electronically conductive material formed into a mass using a first carbon material in powder form and a first liquid; an electrolyte having ions; a second carbon material that absorbs and releases the ions; and a separator disposed in the electronically conductive material in which the second carbon material and the electrolyte are mixed, separating a positive electrode that accumulates positive charge and a negative electrode that accumulates negative charge, and allowing the ions to pass through, wherein when a voltage is applied between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, anions from the electrolyte are guided to the positive electrode and cations from the electrolyte are guided to the negative electrode.

2. The charging device according to claim 1, wherein the second carbon material is mixed into the electronically conductive material such that the weight of the second carbon material is heavier than the weight of the first carbon material.

3. The charging device according to claim 1, wherein the first carbon material is carbon black, and the second carbon material is at least one of binchotan charcoal and activated carbon.

4. The charging device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the positive electrode and the negative electrode has an extendable portion that extends in a direction intersecting the direction in which the separator is arranged.

5. The charging device according to claim 1, further comprising a water supply member that supplies liquid to at least one of the electronically conductive material in which the second carbon material and the electrolyte are mixed, and the separator.

6. The electrostatic device according to claim 5, wherein the electrolyte is dissolved in the liquid to form an electrolyte solution, and the electrolyte solution is included in the water supply member.

7. The charging device according to claim 1 or claim 6, wherein the electrolyte is potassium.

8. The charging device according to claim 1, wherein a capacitor is formed by the electronically conductive material in which the second carbon material and the electrolyte are mixed, the positive electrode, the negative electrode, and the separator, and the capacitor is located in the space below a seismic isolation device capable of absorbing vibrations.

9. The seismic isolation device is installed on concrete, and the charging device according to claim 8 is further provided with an opening in the concrete for maintaining the capacitor.

10. A charging method comprising: adding a first liquid to a granular first carbon material to form a mass of the first carbon material; mixing a second carbon material different from the first carbon material and an ionic substance into the mass of the first carbon material; arranging a positive electrode and a negative electrode on the first carbon material mixed with the second carbon material and the ionic substance via a separator; and applying a voltage between the positive electrode and the negative electrode to guide anions to the positive electrode and cations to the negative electrode.

11. The charging method according to claim 10, wherein the first carbon material is degassed while the second carbon material is mixed with the first carbon material.

12. The charging method according to claim 10, wherein the first carbon material is degassed after the positive electrode and the negative electrode are arranged.

13. The charging method according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the ionic substance is mixed in before and after the degassing.

14. The charging method according to claim 10, wherein a second liquid is supplied to at least one of the first carbon material and the separator.

15. The charging method according to claim 14, wherein the first liquid and the second liquid are the same liquid.

16. The charging method according to claim 14, wherein the second liquid is an electrolyte solution.

17. The charging method according to claim 10, wherein the weight of the second carbon material mixed into the lump-shaped first carbon material is heavier than the weight of the first carbon material.

18. The charging method according to claim 10, wherein a capacitor is constructed by placing the positive electrode and the negative electrode in the first carbon material, which contains the second carbon material and the ionic substance, via a separator, and the capacitor is charged with naturally occurring electricity.

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