Glow Discharge Electrolysis Cell for Hydrogen Generation

The patent extracts and eliminates the need for complex high voltage pulse generators by using a simple DC power supply instead. The glow discharge electrolysis cell achieves plasma generation through a straightforward DC electrical connection between electrodes, removing the disturbing complexity of high voltage pulsing mechanisms while maintaining effective plasma production for water treatment and hydrogen generation.

The invention replaces expensive, complex high voltage pulse generator systems with inexpensive, simple DC power supplies. This substitution uses readily available, low-cost electrical components that can be easily replaced or adjusted, significantly reducing system cost and complexity while maintaining the core plasma generation function needed for electrolysis and water treatment.

The patent designs a multi-functional glow discharge electrolysis cell that simultaneously performs water treatment, hydrogen generation, and heat recovery. The system integrates multiple functions into a single apparatus: the electrolysis cell purifies water through plasma discharge while generating hydrogen gas as a valuable byproduct, and the cathode cooling system recovers heat for potential reuse, making the system versatile rather than single-purpose.

The invention merges previously separate functions (water treatment, hydrogen generation, and heat recovery) into a single integrated glow discharge electrolysis system. The electrolysis cell combines plasma generation for water purification with simultaneous hydrogen production, while the cathode structure incorporates heat recovery capabilities, consolidating multiple processes into one unified apparatus.

The system generates its own plasma-sustaining hydrogen gas through the electrolysis process itself, eliminating the need to purchase external inert gases. The electrolysis of water produces hydrogen as a byproduct, which can then be used as the plasma gas, creating a self-sustaining cycle that reduces operational costs while maintaining plasma stability.

The invention changes the plasma generation parameters from requiring external inert gases to using self-generated hydrogen from water electrolysis. This parameter change transforms the system from consuming expensive purchased gases to producing its own plasma-sustaining gas through the electrolysis process, significantly reducing operational expenses while maintaining effective plasma discharge.