Flexible Multi-Layer Getter for Low-Temperature Hydrogen Sorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-evaporable getter materials face challenges in low-temperature applications where activation by heat is not feasible, leading to reduced sorption capacity and potential hazards due to hydrogen buildup, which affects vacuum maintenance and thermal insulation in sealed enclosures like X-ray tubes, batteries, and thermal bottles.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer getter system comprising a gas-permeable layer and a gas reservoir layer, where the gas-permeable layer dissociates target gases like hydrogen without requiring activation, and the gas reservoir layer holds the sorbed gas, maintaining gettering capabilities without heat activation and minimizing hydrogen-related issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If NEG materials are used to purify gas streams or maintain vacuum, then sorption capacity is achieved, but activation by heat is required which is not feasible in low-temperature applications
Solution Approach 1:
The getter is divided into multiple functional layers: a gas-permeable layer for selective gas transport, a gas reservoir layer for sorption, and a barrier layer for protection. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function without requiring thermal activation, enabling low-temperature operation while maintaining sorption capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite material structures combining different layers with distinct properties: metal or metal alloy layers for sorption, porous materials for gas permeability, and barrier materials for protection. This composite approach enables the getter to function without heat activation by leveraging the complementary properties of different materials.
2Device complexity
If conventional NEG materials are used in low-temperature applications, then device simplicity is maintained, but hydrogen buildup occurs creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-layer structure segments the gettering function: the gas-permeable layer selectively allows hydrogen to pass through while blocking other gases, the reservoir layer sorbs the hydrogen, and the barrier layer prevents water ingress. This segmentation effectively manages hydrogen without requiring complex activation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas-permeable layer acts as an intermediary that selectively transports hydrogen to the reservoir layer while blocking other gases. This mediator approach allows controlled hydrogen management and prevents dangerous buildup without requiring thermal activation or complex control systems.
3Reliability
If multi-layer getter structure is implemented, then sorption capacity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The getter layers are constructed as thin flexible films that can be deposited and assembled using standard thin-film fabrication techniques. This approach simplifies manufacturing compared to bulk material processing, enabling the multi-layer structure to be produced efficiently while maintaining enhanced sorption capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes layer thicknesses and material compositions to achieve high sorption capacity while maintaining manufacturability. By carefully controlling parameters such as layer thickness (micrometer to nanometer scale) and material purity, the complex multi-layer structure becomes feasible to manufacture using existing industrial processes.
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 multi-layer getter effectively removes hydrogen without water byproducts, retains sorption capacity in air, and is easier to handle and recycle, reducing maintenance time and costs while ensuring safe and efficient operation in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
A first stage is the superficial chemisorption of the gaseous species onto the surface of the NEG material, generally accompanied by the dissociation of the species into its constituent atoms.
Implementation Method 2
the constituent atoms diffuse into the bulk of the NEG material
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible multi-layer getter with a gas-permeable layer covering a gas reservoir layer. In an embodiment, the gas-permeable layer covers part of the gas reservoir layer. In another embodiment, a barrier covers part of the gas reservoir layer. The barrier may include a foil substrate, a passivation layer, or a gas-permeable layer.