Electrolyser Cell Plate Segmented Degassing and Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrolyser modules with integrated degassing chambers do not provide optimal conditions for removing entrained gas from the liquid, nor do they enhance overall current efficiency of electrolysis reactions, and they lack effective differential pressure control between anodic and cathodic electrolysis chambers.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a plurality of cell plates forming electrolysis cells and degassing chambers connected by gas-liquid conduits and channels, allowing for efficient separation of gas and liquid through a process that transfers the gas-liquid mixture to a degassing chamber where gas separates from the liquid, which is then transferred to a desired location, while the degassed liquid is returned to the electrolysis chamber, optimizing separation and maintaining pressure control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If integrated degassing chambers are used in electrolyser modules, then the structure is simplified and equipment count is reduced, but gas-liquid separation efficiency is insufficient and current efficiency is not enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The cell plate is divided into multiple functional regions including electrolysis chambers, degassing chambers, gas-liquid conduits, and transfer channels. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining an integrated structure, thereby improving gas-liquid separation efficiency without increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical dimensionality by positioning degassing chambers above electrolysis chambers and using gravity-assisted flow paths. Gas-liquid mixture rises vertically through transfer channels to degassing chambers, and degassed liquid returns through separate conduits, creating efficient multi-level separation without horizontal expansion
2Device complexity
If integrated degassing chambers are used in electrolyser modules, then additional equipment is reduced, but differential pressure control between anodic and cathodic chambers is ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The cell plate acts as an intermediary structure that independently controls pressure in anodic and cathodic systems through separate degassing chambers and transfer channels. This allows differential pressure control between electrodes without requiring additional external pressure control equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables independent adjustment of pressure parameters in anodic and cathodic chambers through controlled gas venting and liquid return flow rates. By modifying flow parameters and chamber volumes, optimal differential pressure can be maintained for efficient electrolysis operation
3Reliability
If conventional electrolysis cell design is used, then membrane separation is effective, but current efficiency of electrolysis reactions is not enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
Gas-liquid mixture is directed to degassing chambers immediately after electrolysis, performing preliminary gas separation before products are collected. This preliminary action prevents gas accumulation that would otherwise increase back pressure and reduce current efficiency, while maintaining reliable membrane separation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces reliance solely on membrane-based mechanical separation with a combined system using gravity-driven phase separation in degassing chambers. This substitution enhances current efficiency by reducing resistance to gas evolution without compromising separation reliability
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
This configuration improves gas-liquid separation efficiency, increases current efficiency of electrolysis reactions, and allows for effective differential pressure control, reducing the need for additional equipment and minimizing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
transfers the gas-liquid mixture to a degassing chamber where gas separates from the liquid
Implementation Method 2
DC is passed between the two electrodes in an aqueous electrolyte to split water, the reactant, into the component product gases, hydrogen and oxygen
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to cell plates for an electrolyser module and to an electrolyser module incorporating the plates. The plates comprise an electrolysis chamber opening, at least one degassing chamber opening, and at least one gas-liquid conduit opening. The plates further comprise a channel connecting the electrolysis chamber opening and the gas-liquid conduit opening. The present invention is directed further to a process and apparatus for separating a gas-liquid mixture generated at an electrolysis cell.