Compact Electrolyzer for Independent HClO and NaOH Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing processes for producing environmentally friendly cleaning agents like Hypochlorous Acid (HClO) and Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) are energy-intensive, wasteful, and not suitable for home use, as they often produce both compounds simultaneously, leading to excess production of one when only the other is desired.
Innovation Solution
A compact, low-energy, closed-loop apparatus using a three-chamber electrolysis cell that allows for the production of either HClO or NaOH independently, utilizing a brine solution and an ion transfer membrane, with a pump and controller to manage the electrolysis process and maintain desired concentrations, and can be powered by batteries for household use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing electrolysis processes are used to produce HClO and NaOH, then the compounds can be produced effectively, but the processes are large and energy-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrolysis process into separate chambers for HClO production and NaOH production, allowing independent operation of each chamber. This segmentation enables the system to produce only the desired compound without wasting energy producing the other, directly reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining production effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control of the electrolysis process through adjustable power supply and selective chamber operation. The system can dynamically switch between producing HClO or NaOH based on demand, and adjust production rates to match requirements, thereby optimizing energy usage while maintaining effective production capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing electrolysis processes produce both HClO and NaOH simultaneously, then both compounds are available, but this leads to waste when only one compound is desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses physical separation into distinct electrolysis chambers - one for HClO production and another for NaOH production - allowing the system to operate only the chamber needed for the desired compound. This eliminates the waste of producing unwanted chemicals while maintaining the versatility to produce either compound as required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the ability to produce different compounds into separate, independently controllable chambers. By taking out the HClO production function and NaOH production function into separate chambers, the system can selectively activate only the required function, preventing the generation of unwanted chemical byproducts and reducing substance waste.
3Ease of operation
If compact apparatus is designed for home use, then the device becomes suitable for household applications, but existing processes are too large for home use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated apparatus: the electrolysis cell, ion-exchange membranes, product collection chambers, and control systems are merged into one compact unit. This consolidation achieves home-friendly sizing while maintaining the capability to produce both HClO and NaOH independently through the segmented chamber design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the electrolysis chambers are positioned within a compact housing, with product collection chambers nested adjacent to the electrolysis zones. The ion-exchange membranes are integrated within the chamber walls, creating a space-efficient design that fits home environments while preserving all necessary functional components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient, energy-saving production of either HClO or NaOH in a compact, home-friendly format, reducing waste and energy consumption while ensuring precise control over the production process, maintaining product freshness, and allowing for simultaneous production of both compounds with balanced output.
Implementation Method 1
an ion transfer membrane of the appropriate specification for the purpose of the application: the production of HClO or NaOH. This membrane separates the electrolyzer cell into two chambers
Implementation Method 2
electrolyzing a brine solution and passing it through an appropriate ion transfer membrane
Data Source
AI summary
This is an electrolytic apparatus and process for the production of Hypochlorous Acid (HClO) and Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) in a closed-loop arrangement. A brine solution in an electrolyzer cell is subjected to an electric current, causing HClO and /or NaOH to be produced in water circulated through the cell. The produced solution is recirculated through the cell as its chemical properties are monitored by a sensor, connected by a controller which controls a recirculating pump and the electric current, until the sensor indicates that the concentration of the solution has reached a desired value, and the controller stops the process.