Large Graphene Electrodes via Laser CO2 Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for producing graphene are energy-inefficient and not suitable for large-scale production, limiting its widespread use, particularly in the context of large electrolytic electrodes required for hydrogen production.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the conversion of CO2 and hydrogen into graphene using a laser source, optionally with additional heat sources, and the formation of graphene electrodes through compression and patterning of carbon sheets, utilizing catalysts like iron oxide and strontium oxide, and high-power lasers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional methods are used to produce graphene from graphite, then graphene can be manufactured, but the processing method is laborious and energy-inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of graphene production by using laser irradiation (optical energy) and catalytic conversion of CO2 and H2 gases, replacing the conventional mechanical and chemical processing of graphite. This transforms the production method from a laborious, multi-step process to a direct energy-driven synthesis, dramatically improving productivity and reducing energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical processing methods (cutting, shaping, coating of graphite) with a chemical synthesis approach using laser irradiation and catalytic reactions. The laser provides direct energy input to convert gases into graphene, eliminating the need for mechanical manipulation and associated energy losses.
2Quantity of substance
If large copper electrodes are used for 200 MW fuel cell, then hydrogen production capacity is sufficient, but large amounts of copper are required and require protective coatings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from copper to graphene, which has superior electrical conductivity (about 100 times that of copper). This allows for smaller, simpler electrode structures while maintaining or enhancing hydrogen production capacity, thereby reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Graphene can be produced on-demand through the laser-CO2-H2 process, allowing for simpler, potentially disposable electrode structures rather than requiring durable, complex copper electrodes with protective coatings. The ease of graphene production enables a different design philosophy.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If solar generated energy is used, then clean energy is provided, but availability is limited by sunlight hours
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces CO2 and H2 gases as intermediary substances that can be stored and processed independently of sunlight availability. The laser-driven conversion process allows these stored gases to be converted into graphene electrodes that can then be used for hydrogen production regardless of solar availability, effectively decoupling energy storage from energy generation.
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
Facilitates the production of large, energy-efficient graphene electrodes suitable for electrolytic applications, reducing energy consumption and enabling scalable graphene production.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating the mixture of CO2 and hydrogen with at least one laser beam to heat the mixture of CO2 and hydrogen to convert the mixture of CO2 to graphene
Implementation Method 2
the reaction vessel includes a catalyst, and the at least one laser beam heat the mixture of CO2 and hydrogen with the catalyst to convert the mixture of CO2 to graphene
Implementation Method 3
the moulds may be a set of rollers with indentations to create the diamond holes in the electrode before intense heat is applied such as from microwaves, lasers or electric plasma
Implementation Method 4
the moulds may be a set of rollers with indentations to create the diamond holes in the electrode before intense heat is applied such as from microwaves, lasers or electric plasma
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns the fabrication of large graphene electrodes. In the electrolysis of water or in the operation of a hydrogen fuel cell. the electrical conductivity is important to reduce the energy consumption. Titanium electrodes are widely used but their conductivity is only about 4% of copper. Graphene is 70% more conductive than copper and is chemically stable provided there are no metal ions in the electrolyte. By irradiating a mixture of carbon dioxide gas and hydrogen gas quantities of graphene can readily be produced which can then be manufactured into large electrodes by way of the described press formation.