Nanocarbon Separation via pH Gradient Electrophoresis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing nanocarbon separation methods, such as those described in Patent Document 1, suffer from low separation efficiency and require significant time, making them unsuitable for mass production of nanocarbons with different properties.
Innovation Solution
A nanocarbon separation apparatus and method utilizing an electrophoresis tank with specific electrode configurations, pH gradient formation, and controlled injection and recovery ports to efficiently separate nanocarbons by applying direct current, allowing for the rapid separation of nanocarbons with different electrical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional electrophoresis separation method is used, then nanocarbons can be separated by charge, but separation time is excessive and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pH parameter of the separation medium to create different charge states on nanocarbon surfaces. By adjusting pH levels, the invention enables faster electrophoretic separation since the charge state directly influences migration speed in the electric field, thereby reducing separation time while maintaining separation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a dynamic pH gradient system where the pH of the separation medium changes over time during the separation process. This dynamic adjustment optimizes the charge state of nanocarbons at different separation stages, accelerating separation speed and improving overall productivity without extending separation time
2Productivity
If multiple nanocarbon types are separated simultaneously, then mass production is enabled, but separation precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the separation process into multiple stages with different pH conditions. Each stage targets specific nanocarbon types based on their charge characteristics at that pH level, allowing simultaneous separation of multiple nanocarbon types while maintaining high precision through staged optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates local pH environments at different regions of the separation chamber, allowing different nanocarbon types to be separated based on their specific charge responses to local pH conditions. This localized optimization enables precise separation of multiple types simultaneously, maintaining manufacturing precision while achieving mass production scale
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 approach significantly improves separation efficiency, reduces the time required for separation, and enables mass production of nanocarbons with distinct properties, enhancing the productivity and quality of nanocarbon materials.
Implementation Method 1
a step of separating the nanocarbon micelle groups into two or more nanocarbon micelle groups by applying electricity in a serial direction to the introduced, arranged, and laminated dispersion solution and holding solution
Implementation Method 2
injecting a liquid having a pH lower than a pH of the liquid injected through the first injection port is injected into the electrophoresis tank
Data Source
AI summary
A nanocarbon separation apparatus includes: an electrophoresis tank; electrodes disposed in an upper part and a lower part of the electrophoresis tank; a first injection port through which a liquid is injected into the electrophoresis tank; a second injection port which is provided below the first injection port and through which a liquid having a pH lower than a pH of the liquid injected through the first injection port is injected into the electrophoresis tank; and a recovery port provided in a surface facing a surface having the first injection port and the second injection port, wherein the liquid injected through at least one of the first injection port and the second injection port is a dispersion liquid having nanocarbons dispersed therein.