Electrocatalytic Mesh for Dry Hydrogen Peroxide Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing dry hydrogen peroxide (DHP) gas are inefficient and require high power consumption, with photocatalytic systems limited by the need for light sources and humidity, and aerosolized forms being toxic and unsuitable for occupied spaces.
Innovation Solution
An electrocatalytic device using an air-permeable electrically conductive mesh coated with a catalyst, powered by a variable waveform generator, which produces DHP through an electrolytic process, allowing for scalable and efficient generation with low power consumption and safe antimicrobial activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If photocatalytic systems are used to produce DHP, then DHP can be generated, but the system requires light sources and has high power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the photocatalytic system (which requires light sources and has high power consumption) with an electrocatalytic system using a power-efficient electrocatalytic mesh. The electrocatalytic mesh generates DHP through electrochemical reactions driven by low power electrical potential, eliminating the need for intensive light sources while maintaining productivity.
2Reliability
If aerosolized hydrogen peroxide is used, then antimicrobial activity is achieved, but the aerosolized form is toxic and unsuitable for occupied spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of hydrogen peroxide from aerosolized liquid form to dry gas form. The electrocatalytic mesh produces dry hydrogen peroxide gas directly, which maintains antimicrobial activity but eliminates the toxicity associated with aerosolized forms, making it safe for use in occupied spaces.
3Productivity
If photocatalytic devices are used, then DHP production is achieved, but scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple electrocatalytic mesh sails that can be stacked or arranged in arrays. Each mesh sail operates independently to generate DHP, allowing the system to be scaled by simply adding more mesh units. This segmented modular approach enables flexible scaling to meet different productivity requirements without the limitations of photocatalytic systems.
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 electrocatalytic device efficiently produces DHP gas, overcoming the limitations of photocatalytic systems by eliminating the need for light and improving scalability and safety, enabling continuous antimicrobial activity in enclosed environments with reduced power usage.
Implementation Method 1
In the electrocatalytic reaction an air-permeable structure (called a 'sail') is powered with an electric potential while humid air is passed through. A catalyst present on the sail is activated by the potential difference and generates a hole which oxidizes water to produce a hydroxyl radical, or alternatively, forces occupation of the lowest molecular orbital (LUMO or conduction band) which can then reduce oxygen
Implementation Method 2
A catalyst present on the sail is activated by the potential difference and generates a hole which oxidizes water to produce a hydroxyl radical
Implementation Method 3
forces occupation of the lowest molecular orbital (LUMO or conduction band) which can then reduce oxygen
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides for and includes electrocatalytic devices and methods for the production of Dry Hydrogen Peroxide (DHP), a non-hydrated, gaseous form of hydrogen peroxide.