Heterojunction Anode for Stable RCS Generation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water purification anodes in electrolysis systems have short service lives due to semiconductor component dissolution and suboptimal Reactive Chlorine Species (RCS) generation rates, which hinder effective organic pollutant removal in wastewater treatment.
Innovation Solution
A water purification anode with a heterojunction structure, where the second semiconductor is TiO2 excluding bismuth and niobium, and the first semiconductor includes iridium, enhancing RCS generation and eliminating dopants to increase service life and reduce costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If semiconductor components are used in anodes for water purification, then the ability to generate Reactive Chlorine Species (RCS) is improved, but the service life of the anode is reduced due to semiconductor dissolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite anode structure consisting of a conductive substrate coated with a semiconductor layer containing specific metal oxides (such as iron oxide, manganese oxide, cobalt oxide, nickel oxide, or copper oxide) in combination with titanium dioxide. This composite material approach allows the anode to maintain high RCS generation capability while the stable titanium dioxide matrix prevents dissolution of the other semiconductor components, thereby extending service life.
2Productivity
If conventional semiconductor anodes are used, then water purification function is provided, but the RCS generation rate is insufficient for commercialization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the composition and properties of the semiconductor layer by controlling the particle size, crystalline structure, and chemical composition of the metal oxide components. By adjusting these parameters, the anode achieves enhanced catalytic activity for RCS generation while maintaining stability, making the technology commercially viable.
3Productivity
If dopants are added to semiconductors to enhance performance, then RCS generation is improved, but anode service life is reduced due to dopant dissolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates or minimizes the use of dopants that are prone to dissolution, such as bismuth and niobium. Instead, the invention relies on the intrinsic properties of stable metal oxides combined with titanium dioxide to achieve the desired RCS generation rates without compromising long-term anode stability.
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 anode achieves a high rate of RCS generation, extended service life, and reduced costs, making it suitable for efficient organic pollutant removal in wastewater treatment systems.
Implementation Method 1
Systems are being proposed for the electrolysis of organic materials in an electrolyte
Implementation Method 2
the hydroxyl radicals that are bound to the surface of the anode are physisorbed to the surface of the anode
Data Source
AI summary
A water purification anode has a first semiconductor contacting a second semiconductor at a heterojunction. The second semiconductor includes TiO2 and excludes bismuth and niobium. The first semiconductor includes iridium. In some instances, the anode includes a current collector in direct physical contact with the first semiconductor. The anode can be arranged in water such that at least one face of the second semiconductor is in direct physical contact with the water.