JP2018030045A - Electrolytic water generator and electrolytic water generation method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrolytic water generator and an electrolytic water generation method capable of accurately adjusting the pH of water generated.SOLUTION: There is provided an electrolytic water generator which comprises: an electrolytic cell 11 having an anode chamber 15b provided with an anode 14, a first cathode chamber 30a provided with a first cathode 31a and a second cathode chamber 30b provided with a second cathode 31b; a mixing and discharging part 31 for mixing and discharging a cathode production material generated in either one of the first cathode chamber and the second cathode chamber and an anode production material generated in the anode chamber; and a current supply part 23 for applying an electric current to the anode, the first cathode and the second cathode. The current supply part has an adjuster for adjusting the ratio of electric current for energizing the first cathode and the second cathode, respectively.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  Embodiment described here is related with the electrolyzed water generating apparatus and the electrolyzed water generating method.

  Those having various functions obtained by electrolyzing water include hypochlorous acid water, alkali ion water, hydrogen water and the like, which are called electrolyzed water. As a method for producing electrolyzed water, for example, there is a method of producing chlorine gas at the anode by electrolyzing an electrolytic solution containing chlorine and reacting this chlorine gas with water to produce hypochlorous acid water and hydrochloric acid water. Are known. Known methods of using hypochlorous acid water include sterilization and deodorization.

  However, the generated hypochlorous acid water is acidic because it contains hydrochloric acid, and when the acidity is higher than pH 5, chlorine gas is generated according to the acidity due to the equilibrium reaction between hypochlorous acid and chlorine gas. End up. Therefore, conventionally, the concentration of hypochlorous acid in hypochlorous acid water is set to a range in which chlorine gas does not affect the human body, specifically 100 ppm or less. It will be constrained.

  As means for neutralizing acidic hypochlorous acid, a method of mixing alkaline water with acidic water is known. However, in an electrolytic cell with high hypochlorous acid production efficiency, hydrochloric acid production is relatively suppressed. Therefore, if alkaline water is mixed with the whole amount of acidic water, the mixed water becomes alkaline, and hypochlorous acid is substituted for hypochlorite ions having weak bactericidal properties. It is conceivable to increase the production of hydrochloric acid by reducing the hypochlorous acid production efficiency by suppressing the production of chlorine gas at the anode and increasing the production of oxygen gas. In this case, the pH when the entire amount of alkaline water is mixed with the acidic water can be adjusted to a certain extent to the neutral side, but there arises a problem that the efficiency of hypochlorous acid generation is significantly reduced. Further, the pH of the generated electrolyzed water may vary depending on the quality of the supplied water.

Japanese Patent No. 3287649 Japanese Patent No. 3500173 Japanese Patent No. 4590668 Japanese Patent No. 4216892

  An object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide an electrolyzed water generating apparatus and an electrolyzed water generating method capable of accurately adjusting the pH of water to be generated.

  According to the embodiment, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus includes an anode chamber provided with an anode, a first cathode chamber provided with a first cathode, and a second cathode chamber provided with a second cathode. A mixing discharge section for mixing and discharging a tank, a cathode generating material generated in any one of the first cathode chamber and the second cathode chamber, and an anode generating material generated in the anode chamber; A current supply unit for applying a current to the first cathode and the second cathode, the current supply unit having a regulator for adjusting a ratio of currents to be supplied to the first cathode and the second cathode, respectively. Yes.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing an electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an electrolytic cell of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the electrolytic cell. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell taken along line AA in FIG. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a cathode cover, a sealing material, and a cathode constituting a cathode chamber of the electrolytic cell. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an anode cover constituting the anode chamber of the electrolytic cell. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the relationship between the alkaline water mixing ratio and the pH of mixed water for pure water and city water. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a temporal state of on / off times of the switching circuit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a temporal state of on / off times of a switching circuit according to a modification. FIG. 10 is a block diagram schematically showing an electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an electrolytic cell of the electrolyzed water generating device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the electrolytic cell. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell taken along line BB in FIG. 11.

  Various embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same code | symbol shall be attached | subjected to a common structure through embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted. In addition, each drawing is a schematic diagram for promoting the embodiment and its understanding, and its shape, dimensions, ratio, etc. are different from the actual device, but these are considered in consideration of the following description and known techniques. The design can be changed as appropriate.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of the entire electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus includes a so-called three-chamber type electrolytic cell (electrolytic cell) 11. The electrolytic cell 11 is formed in a flat rectangular box shape, and the inside thereof is composed of an intermediate chamber 15a and an intermediate chamber 15a by an anion exchange membrane (first diaphragm) 16 and a cation exchange membrane (second diaphragm) 18. It is partitioned into an anode chamber 15b and a cathode chamber 15c located on both sides. An anode 14 is provided in the anode chamber 15 b and faces the anion exchange membrane 16. A cathode 20 is provided in the cathode chamber 15 c and faces the cation exchange membrane 18. The anode 14 and the cathode 20 are formed in a rectangular plate shape having substantially the same size, and face each other with the intermediate chamber 15a interposed therebetween.

  In the present embodiment, the cathode chamber 15c is partitioned by the partition wall 32 into two or more electrolytic chambers, for example, a first cathode chamber 30a and a second cathode chamber 30b. The first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b are respectively in contact with the cathode 20 by dividing into 50% of the area of the cathode 20 in two. That is, the area of each of the first and second cathode chambers in contact with the cathode 20 is smaller than the area of the anode chamber 15b in contact with the anode 14 and is 50% of the anode area (cathode area).

  The area described here is the area of the effective reaction region that contributes to the generation of electrolyzed water at the cathode or anode. In this embodiment, the total area of the effective reaction region at the cathode and the effective area at the anode. The total area of the reaction region is approximately equal. In the present embodiment, by making the areas of the first and second cathode chambers in contact with the cathode the same, the respective sizes of the areas of the effective reaction regions in the individual first and second cathode chambers. However, it is smaller than the total area of the effective reaction area of the anode in contact with the anode chamber, and is about half (50%).

  Further, in the present embodiment, the cathode 20 itself is divided into two parts, that is, a first cathode 31a and a second cathode 31b by an insulating part provided at the center thereof. The first cathode 31a is provided in the first cathode chamber 30a, and the second cathode 31b is provided in the second cathode chamber.

  The electrolyzed water generating apparatus includes an electrolyte solution supply unit 19 that supplies an electrolyte, for example, saturated saline, to the intermediate chamber 15a of the electrolytic cell 11, and raw water that supplies electrolytic raw water, for example, water, to the anode chamber 15b and the cathode chamber 15c. A supply unit 21 and a current supply unit 23 for applying a positive voltage and a negative voltage to the anode 14 and the cathode 20 are provided. Further, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus is configured to use acidic water (anode generating material) generated in the anode chamber 15b and one of the first and second cathode chambers 30a and 30b, for example, alkaline generated in the second cathode chamber 30b. After mixing with water (cathode generating material), a mixing / discharging unit 31 for discharging is provided.

  The current supply unit 23 includes a power supply 45 and two switching circuits 46a and 46b that function as a regulator. The positive side of the power supply 45 is connected to the anode 14, and the negative side of the power supply 45 is connected to the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b via switching circuits 46a and 46b, respectively. The switching circuits 46a and 46b control on and off times (energization time) of current applied to the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b, and energization time of current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b. Adjust individually. That is, during the electrolysis operation, at least one of the switching circuits 46a and 46b is turned on, the absolute value of the current obtained by adding the current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the current flowing through the second cathode 31b, and the current flowing through the anode 14 The absolute value of is the same value. By configuring the cathode 20 and the current supply unit 23 in such a configuration, the concentration of alkaline water generated in the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b, that is, pH can be freely controlled.

  The electrolyte supply unit 19 includes a salt water tank 25 that generates saturated saline, a supply pipe 19a that guides the saturated saline from the salt water tank 25 to the lower portion of the intermediate chamber 15a, and a liquid feed pump 29 provided in the supply pipe 19a. And a drain pipe 19b for sending the electrolytic solution flowing in the intermediate chamber 15a from the upper portion of the intermediate chamber 15a to the salt water tank 25.

  The raw water supply unit 21 includes a water supply source (not shown) that supplies water, a water supply pipe 21a that guides water from the water supply source to the lower portion of the anode chamber 15b and the lower portion of the first cathode chamber 30a, and water that flows through the first cathode chamber 30a. Are discharged from the upper part of the first cathode chamber 30a, and a gas-liquid separator 27 provided in the first drain pipe 21b.

  The mixing and discharging unit 31 discharges the water generated in the anode chamber 15b from the upper part of the anode chamber 15b and introduces it into the lower part of the second cathode chamber 30b, and the water flowing through the second cathode chamber 30b is second. And a second drain pipe 21c that discharges from the upper part of the cathode chamber 30b.

  A description will be given of an operation in which the salt water is actually electrolyzed to generate acidic water (hypochlorous acid and hydrochloric acid) and alkaline water (sodium hydroxide) by the electrolyzed water generating apparatus configured as described above.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid feed pump 29 is operated to supply saturated saline to the intermediate chamber 15a of the electrolytic cell 11, and to supply water to the anode chamber 15b and the first cathode chamber 30a. At the same time, a positive voltage and a negative voltage (electrolytic current) are applied from the current supply unit 23 to the anode 14 and the cathode 20, respectively.

  Chlorine ions ionized in the salt water in the intermediate chamber 15a are attracted to the anode 14, pass through the anion exchange membrane 16, and flow into the anode chamber 15b. Then, chlorine ions are reduced at the anode 14 to generate chlorine gas. Thereafter, the chlorine gas reacts with water in the anode chamber 15b to generate hypochlorous acid water and hydrochloric acid. The acidic water (hypochlorous acid water and hydrochloric acid) thus generated flows from the anode chamber 15b through the mixing pipe 21f into the second cathode chamber 30b.

  Further, sodium ions ionized in the salt water flowing into the intermediate chamber 15a are attracted to the cathode 20, pass through the cation exchange membrane 18, and flow into the first and second cathode chambers 30a and 30b. In the cathode chamber 15c, water is electrolyzed at the cathode 20 to generate hydrogen gas and an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution. Here, the cathode chamber 15c is composed of two parts, a first cathode chamber 30a and a second cathode chamber 30b, each of which divides the cathode 20 by 50%. At the same time, the cathode 20 is divided into a first cathode 31a and a second cathode 31b. The first cathode 31a is provided in the first cathode chamber 30a, and the second cathode 31b is provided in the second cathode chamber 30b. Further, the negative current applied to the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b is adjusted to a desired energization time by the switching circuits 46a and 46b. That is, the energization time of the current applied to the second cathode 31b is adjusted so that alkaline water having a desired pH is generated in the second cathode chamber 30b. Specifically, the pH is adjusted so as to be slightly acidic of about 5 to 7, pH is less likely to generate chlorine gas from hypochlorous acid water, and hypochlorous acid is less likely to change to hypochlorite ions. It is said. In addition, since the proper energization time for adjusting the pH is greatly influenced by the quality of the raw water, the setting of the energization time is adjusted for each region.

  The sodium hydroxide aqueous solution and hydrogen gas generated in the first cathode chamber 30a flow out from the first cathode chamber 30a to the first drain pipe 21b, and are separated into the sodium hydroxide aqueous solution and the hydrogen gas by the gas-liquid separator 27. Is done. The separated sodium hydroxide aqueous solution (alkaline water) is discharged through the first drain pipe 21b.

  On the other hand, the sodium hydroxide aqueous solution and the hydrogen gas generated in the second cathode chamber 30b are mixed with the acidic water sent from the anode chamber 15b, and the mixed water passes through the second drain pipe 21c from the second cathode chamber 30b. Drained through.

  As described above, 50% of the alkaline water generated in the cathode chamber 15c is discharged from the first drain pipe 21b, and the remaining 50% is mixed with 100% of the acidic water generated in the anode chamber 15b. After adjusting to acidic water of pH, it is discharged.

Next, a configuration example of the electrolytic cell (electrolytic cell) 11 will be described in detail. 2 is a perspective view of the electrolytic cell, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the electrolytic cell, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell along line AA in FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the electrolytic cell 11 includes a rectangular frame-shaped intermediate frame 22 and a rectangular plate-shaped anode cover that has an outer diameter dimension substantially equal to that of the intermediate frame 22 and covers one side surface of the intermediate frame 22. 24 and a rectangular plate-like cathode cover 26 having an outer diameter dimension substantially equal to that of the intermediate frame 22 and covering the other side surface of the intermediate frame 22. The intermediate frame 22 forms an intermediate chamber 15a with its inner peripheral surface. The anode cover 24 forms an anode chamber 15b by a recess formed in the inner surface thereof, and the cathode cover 26 forms a cathode chamber 15c by a recess formed in the inner surface thereof.

  A first inflow port 34 communicating with the intermediate chamber 15a is formed at the lower end of the intermediate frame 22, and a first outflow port 36 communicating with the intermediate chamber 15a is provided at the upper end. A supply pipe 19a and a drain pipe 19b (see FIG. 1) are connected to the first inlet 34 and the first outlet 36, respectively.

  An anion exchange membrane 16 is disposed as a first diaphragm between the intermediate frame 22 and the anode cover 24, and separates the intermediate chamber 15a and the anode chamber 15b. The anode 14 is disposed between the anion exchange membrane 16 and the anode cover 24, faces the anode chamber 15b, and is in close proximity to the anion exchange membrane 16.

  A cation exchange membrane 18 is disposed as a second diaphragm between the intermediate frame 22 and the cathode cover 26, and separates the intermediate chamber 15a and the cathode chamber 15c. The cathode 20 is disposed between the cation exchange membrane 18 and the cathode cover 26, faces the cathode chamber 15c, and is in close proximity to the cation exchange membrane 18.

  Between each component, that is, between the peripheral edge of the anode cover 24 and the peripheral edge of the anode 14, between the peripheral edge of the anode 14 and the anion exchange membrane 16 and the intermediate frame 22, and between the intermediate frame 22, the cathode 20 and the positive electrode. Frame-shaped sealing materials 40 and 40a for preventing water leakage are disposed between the peripheral edge of the ion exchange membrane 18 and between the peripheral edge of the cathode 20 and the peripheral edge of the cathode cover 26, respectively. Yes.

  A plurality of fixing bolts 50 are inserted through the peripheral edge of each constituent member, for example, inserted from the anode cover 24 side, and the leading end thereof protrudes from the cathode cover 26. A nut 52 is screwed into the tip of each fixing bolt 50. The peripheral portions of the constituent members are fastened to each other by the fixing bolt 50 and the nut 52 as fastening members, and the water tightness of the intermediate chamber 15a, the anode chamber 15b, and the cathode chamber 15c is maintained.

Next, each component will be described in more detail.
As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the anion exchange membrane 16 and the cation exchange membrane 18 each have an outer diameter substantially equal to that of the intermediate frame 22 and are formed in a thin rectangular plate shape having a thickness of about 100 to 200 μm. Is formed. The anion exchange membrane 16 and the cation exchange membrane 18 have a characteristic of allowing only specific ions to pass therethrough. A plurality of through holes through which the fixing bolts 50 are inserted are formed in the peripheral portions of the anion exchange membrane 16 and the cation exchange membrane 18.

  The anion exchange membrane 16 is disposed to face one side of the intermediate frame 22, and the peripheral edge thereof is in close contact with the intermediate frame 22 via the sealing material 40. Similarly, the cation exchange membrane 18 is disposed to face the other surface side of the intermediate frame 22, and the peripheral edge thereof is in close contact with the intermediate frame 22 via the sealing material 40. The first diaphragm and the second diaphragm are not limited to ion exchange membranes, and may be porous membranes having water permeability.

  The anode 14 is formed of a metal flat plate having a thickness of about 1 mm, and is formed in a rectangular shape having an outer diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the intermediate frame 22. A fine through-hole for allowing liquid to pass through is formed in the central portion (effective region) of the anode 14, and a plurality of through-holes for inserting the fixing bolt 50 are formed in the peripheral portion of the electrode. The anode 14 has a connection terminal 14b protruding from one side edge thereof. The connection terminal 14b is connected to the power source 45. The anode 14 is disposed to face the anion exchange membrane 16 and is in close contact with the anion exchange membrane 16.

  FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the cathode 20 and the inner surface side of the cathode cover. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the cathode 20 has a long and narrow insulating portion 31c formed in the center, and a first cathode 31a and a second cathode 31b divided into two by the insulating portion 31c. . The first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b are electrically insulated and separated by the insulating portion 31c. The first cathode 31a, the second cathode 31b, and the insulating portion 31c are integrally formed on a flat plate. The thickness of the cathode 20 is about 1 mm, which is the same as that of the anode 14, and the cathode 20 is formed in a rectangular shape having an outer diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the intermediate frame 22.

Fine through holes for allowing liquid to pass through are formed in the central portion (effective region) of the first cathode 31a and the central portion (effective region) of the second cathode 31b. A plurality of through holes through which the fixing bolts 50 are inserted are formed in the peripheral portion of the cathode 20. The first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b have connection terminals 20b and 20c that protrude from one side edge, respectively. These connection terminals 20b and 20c are connected to switching circuits 46a and 46b of the current supply unit 23, respectively. As a result, different currents can flow through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b.
The cathode 20 is disposed to face the cation exchange membrane 18 and is in close contact with the cation exchange membrane 18. Although the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b are connected to each other with the insulating portion 31c interposed therebetween, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be electrodes separated and independent from each other.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the cathode cover 26 has an inner surface 26 i facing the cathode 20 and an outer surface on the opposite side. A rectangular recess is formed in the inner surface 26i of the cathode cover 26, and the cathode chamber 15c is formed by this recess. A partition wall 32 extending in the vertical direction is provided at the center of the recess, and the partition wall 32 divides the cathode chamber 15c into two parts, a first cathode chamber 30a and a second cathode chamber 30b. The first and second cathode chambers 30a and 30b are each formed in a rectangular shape and are arranged side by side in a substantially horizontal direction. The first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b are opposed to and in contact with the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b, respectively. That is, the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b are in contact with the cathode 20 with an area smaller than the area of the anode 14 in contact with the anode chamber 15b.

  The first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b are provided with a plurality of channels through which water flows. That is, a plurality of linear ribs 33a are erected on the bottom surface of the recess forming the first cathode chamber 30a, and extend in the vertical direction, for example. These ribs 33a are provided in parallel to each other and at a predetermined interval. A linear first flow path 34a extending in the vertical direction is formed between two adjacent ribs 33a.

  A pair of upper and lower lateral grooves 35a extending along the side edges of the first cathode chamber 30a are formed on the bottom surface of the recess. Each lateral groove 35a forms a second flow path and communicates with the plurality of first flow paths 34a described above. The lateral groove 35a is formed deeper than the first flow path 34a, and is designed so that the amount of water is uniformly distributed to each of the plurality of first flow paths 34a.

  A second inflow port 39a is formed at a lower portion of one side surface of the cathode cover 26 and communicates with one end of the lower lateral groove 35a. A second outlet 41a is formed on one upper side of the cathode cover 26 and communicates with one end of the upper lateral groove 35a. A water supply pipe 21a and a first drain pipe 21b are connected to the second inlet 39a and the second outlet 41a, respectively.

  Similarly, a plurality of linear ribs 33b are erected on the bottom surface of the recess forming the second cathode chamber 30b, and are provided in parallel with each other at a predetermined interval. A straight first flow path 34b extending in the vertical direction is formed between two adjacent ribs 33b. A pair of upper and lower lateral grooves 35b extending along the side edges of the second cathode chamber 30b are formed on the bottom surface of the recess. Each lateral groove 35b forms a second flow path and communicates with the plurality of first flow paths 34b described above. The lateral groove 35b is formed deeper than the first flow path 34b.

  A third inflow port 39b is formed in the lower part of the other side surface of the cathode cover 26 and communicates with one end of the lower lateral groove 35b. A third outlet 41b is formed in the upper part of the other side surface of the cathode cover 26 and communicates with one end of the upper lateral groove 35b. A mixing pipe 21f and a second drain pipe 21c are connected to the third inlet 39b and the third outlet 41b, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the sealing material 40 a sandwiched between the cathode 20 and the cathode cover 26 integrally has a rod-like connecting portion 40 c extending from the center of the frame. The connecting portion 40c is sandwiched between the insulating portion 31c of the cathode 20 and the partition wall 32 of the cathode cover 26, and seals between the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b in a liquid-tight manner.

  FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the inner surface side of the anode cover. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the anode cover 24 has an inner surface 24 a that faces the anode 14 and an outer surface on the opposite side. A rectangular recess is formed in the inner surface 24a of the anode cover 24, and the anode chamber 15b is formed by this recess. The anode chamber 15 b is in contact with 100% of the area of the effective reaction region of the anode 14. That is, the area of the anode chamber 15 b substantially matches the area of the effective reaction region of the anode 14.

  The anode chamber 15b is provided with a plurality of channels through which water flows. That is, the anode chamber 15b includes a plurality of linear first flow paths 37 defined by a plurality of ribs 46 extending in the vertical direction, a pair of upper and lower horizontal grooves 38a formed on the bottom surface of the anode chamber 15b, and a pair of left and right sides. A second flow path defined by the vertical groove 38b. Each lateral groove 38 a communicates with the plurality of first flow paths 37.

  A fourth inlet 42 is formed in the lower side of the anode cover 24 and communicates with the lower second flow path. A fourth outlet 44 is formed on the upper side of the anode cover 24 and communicates with the upper second flow path. A water supply pipe 21a and a mixing pipe 21f are connected to the fourth inlet 42 and the fourth outlet 44, respectively.

  In the electrolytic cell 11 configured as described above, during the electrolysis operation, water supplied to the anode chamber 15b from the water supply pipe 21a through the fourth inlet 42 is in contact with the anode 14 and the first flow path and the first flow. It flows through the passage 37 and reacts with chlorine gas to produce acidic water. The acidic water is sent from the fourth outlet 44 to the mixing pipe 21f and further flows into the second cathode chamber 30b from the third inlet 39b. The acidic water flows through the second channel (lateral groove) 35b and the first channel 34b while being in contact with the second cathode 31b. In the second cathode chamber 30b, the acidic water is mixed with hydrogen gas and sodium hydroxide water generated at the second cathode 31b. Thus, the acidic water mixed with alkaline water is discharged from the third outlet 41b through the second drain pipe 21c.

  Further, the water supplied from the water supply pipe 21a to the first cathode chamber 30a through the second inlet 39a flows through the second channel (lateral groove) 35a and the first channel 34a while being in contact with the first cathode 31a. . In the first cathode chamber 30a, water is electrolyzed at the first cathode 31a to generate hydrogen gas and sodium hydroxide aqueous solution. The sodium hydroxide aqueous solution and hydrogen gas generated in the first cathode chamber 30a flow out from the second outlet 41a to the first drain pipe 21b, and are separated into the sodium hydroxide aqueous solution and the hydrogen gas by the gas-liquid separator 27. Is done. The separated sodium hydroxide aqueous solution (alkaline water) is discharged through the first drain pipe 21b.

Here, the pH of acidic water (hypochlorous acid water) mixed with alkaline water will be described in detail.
Usually, when the produced hypochlorous acid water is water having a higher acidity than pH 5, chlorine gas is generated from hypochlorous acid according to the acidity. Therefore, a high concentration of hypochlorous acid creates the possibility of chlorine gas poisoning. Since the generation of chlorine gas from hypochlorous acid hardly occurs at pH 5 or higher, the pH of hypochlorous acid water after mixing with alkaline water needs to be 5 or higher. On the other hand, when the pH is over 8 and the alkali side is reached, hypochlorous acid changes to hypochlorous acid ions and causes a significant decrease in sterilizing function. For this reason, it is preferable to set it as about 6-7 as pH of hypochlorous acid water.

  The quality of water used for electrolysis also affects the pH of the mixed water. FIG. 7 shows the relationship between the mixing ratio of acidic water and alkaline water generated by a general electrolyzed water generator and the pH of the mixed water. In FIG. 7, the horizontal axis represents the mixing ratio of alkaline water mixed with acidic water, and the vertical axis represents the pH of the mixed water. The case where pure water is used is indicated by a solid line, and the case where city water is used is indicated by a dotted line. From this figure, it can be seen that the pH of the mixed water differs greatly between pure water and city water. The reason is the difference in hardness between pure water and city water, and the pH sensitivity of city water can be kept low due to the buffering effect of calcium, magnesium, etc. contained in city water. That is, the pH of the electrolyzed water varies greatly depending on the water quality used for electrolysis. Furthermore, since the water quality varies depending on the region, the pH of the electrolyzed water generated varies depending on the region.

  As described above, the pH of the mixed water depends on the water quality (hardness) used. Therefore, when using city water, in order to set the pH of the mixed water to about 6 to 7, from FIG. 7, the alkaline water mixed amount is set to about 0 to 20%, and when pure water is used, the alkaline water is used. The mixing amount is preferably about 60 to 70%.

  On the other hand, in the electrolyzed water generating apparatus of the present embodiment, the volume of the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b is fixed, so that the amount of alkaline water to be mixed is constant, but the current supply unit 23 The amount of current flowing through the second cathode 31b can be adjusted in time by the switching circuits 46a and 46b, that is, the energization time to each electrode can be adjusted.

  FIG. 8 shows how the switching circuits 46a and 46b are turned on / off. As shown in the figure, the switching circuits 46a and 46b are repeatedly turned on and off in a relatively short cycle (t1 + t2). The ratio of the time t1 when the switching circuit 46a is on is t1 / (t1 + t2), and the ratio of the time t2 when the switching circuit 46b is on is t2 / (t1 + t2). Here, t1 <t2. In the present embodiment, the switching circuit 46b is turned off while the switching circuit 46a is on (t1), and the switching circuit 46b is turned on while the switching circuit 46a is off (t2). That is, the switching circuits 46a and 46b are alternately turned on and off. Therefore, since the ratio of the average current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b is t1: t2, the amount of current flowing through the second cathode 31b is adjusted by adjusting the ratio between the pulse widths t1 and t2. Can be adjusted. That is, the concentration and pH of the alkaline water produced in the second cathode chamber 30b can be adjusted. Therefore, the pH of hypochlorous acid water generated by mixing this alkaline water can be controlled.

  As can be seen from FIG. 7, when city water is used, the ratio of the current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b is adjusted to, for example, about 9: 1, that is, the ratio of the above-described pulse widths t1 and t2. By adjusting the ratio to about 9: 1, the concentration and pH of the alkaline water produced in the second cathode chamber 30b can be set low. Thereby, the alkaline water mixing ratio becomes low, and the pH of the mixed water (hypochlorous acid water) can be set to about 6-7.

When pure water is used, it is generated in the second cathode chamber 30b by adjusting the current ratio to about 3.5: 6.5, that is, the ratio of the pulse widths t1 and t2 to about 3.5: 6.5. Set the concentration and pH of the alkaline water to be slightly higher. In the case of city water, the water quality varies from region to region. Therefore, the ratio of pulse widths is adjusted as appropriate so that the pH of hypochlorous acid water is about 5 to 8 depending on the region to be set. Thereby, the pH of the mixed water (hypochlorous acid water) mixed with the alkali-generated water can be adjusted to about 5 to 8, more preferably about 6 to 7.
Thus, according to the electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the present embodiment, the ratio of the amount of current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b (of the energization time) according to the quality of water used (for example, hardness). By adjusting the ratio, it is possible to accurately control the pH of the generated hypochlorous acid water, and to always generate neutral hypochlorous acid water without being affected by the water quality. Become. Further, according to the electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the present embodiment, by providing only two on / off switching circuits 46a and 46b, each power source 45 does not require a means for adjusting a current value. An appropriate current can be supplied to the electrode in an appropriate energization time.
From the above, according to the present embodiment, an electrolyzed water generating device capable of accurately adjusting the pH of the generated electrolyzed water with a simple structure and capable of generating neutral hypochlorous acid water. Can be provided.

  In the first embodiment described above, a two-diaphragm three-chamber electrolytic cell is used, but the electrolytic cell is not limited to this, and a single-diaphragm two-chamber configuration may be used. The electrolytic solution is salt water and the generated water is hypochlorous acid water, but the present invention is not limited to these, and various electrolytic solutions and generated water can be applied. This generator divides the cathodes, passes individual currents through the cathodes, and mixes an alkali-generating substance whose pH has been adjusted accurately with the acid-generating substance. Such an electrolytic solution and produced water are also applicable.

  In the first embodiment, the acidic water generated in the anode chamber 15b is guided to the second cathode chamber 30b and mixed with alkaline water. However, the order of flowing water is not limited, and the second cathode chamber 30b The generated alkaline water may be sent to the anode chamber 15b and mixed with acidic water in the anode chamber 15b. The mixed discharge unit 31 connects the discharge pipe for discharging the alkaline water generated in the first cathode chamber 30a or the second cathode chamber 30b to the discharge pipe for discharging acidic water generated in the anode chamber 15b, It is good also as a structure which mixes acidic water and alkaline water within discharge piping. Furthermore, it is good also as a structure which switches the piping to the 1st cathode chamber 30a and the 2nd cathode chamber 30b, and water supply suitably. In this way, when the cathode chambers 15c are switched alternately, the scale of the cathode can be prevented.

In the first embodiment, the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b have the same volume. However, the volume ratio between the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b is not limited to this. It can be changed as appropriate. This is because the electrolyzed water generating apparatus can adjust the energization time of the current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b, and is affected by the volume of the first cathode chamber and the second cathode chamber. This is because the pH of the alkaline water can be adjusted freely.
In the first embodiment, the cathode chamber 15c is divided into two and two cathode chambers are used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the cathode chamber may be divided into three or more. When the cathode chamber is divided into three or more, electrolyzed water having a plurality of pHs can be obtained. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, a continuous or flowing water type electrolyzed water generating device that continuously generates electrolyzed water is exemplified, but the configuration of the present device is not limited to this, and an electrolytic solution, acidic water Also, the present invention can be applied to a so-called batch type (static water type) electrolyzed water generating apparatus that generates electrolyzed water discontinuously (batch-like) without flowing alkaline water.

  Next, the current supply unit of the electrolyzed water generating device according to the modification and the electrolyzed water generating device according to another embodiment will be described. In the modified examples and other embodiments described below, the same parts as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted, which is different from the first embodiment. This will be explained in detail mainly on the part.

(Modification)
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a time-dependent state of the on / off times of the switching circuits 46a and 46b of the electrolyzed water generating device according to the modification. In the first embodiment described above, the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b are alternately energized, that is, the electrode is intermittently energized. As shown in FIG. 9, according to the modification, one switching circuit 46b is always turned on, and the second cathode 31b is always energized. The switching circuit 46a is intermittently turned on and off, that is, has an on time t1 and an off time t2. Thereby, there is a time for the current to flow through both the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b.
In the modified example, the other configuration of the electrolyzed water generating device is the same as the configuration of the electrolyzed water generating device according to the first embodiment.
According to the configuration of such a modification, the ratio of the average current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b is t1: (t1 + t2), and alkaline water having a concentration according to this current ratio is generated. Therefore, also in the modified example, there is provided an electrolyzed water generating device capable of accurately adjusting the pH of the electrolyzed water to be generated by appropriately adjusting the current ratio and capable of generating neutral hypochlorous acid water. can get.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of the entire electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the electrolyzed water generating device includes a so-called three-chamber type electrolytic cell (electrolytic cell) 11 as in the first embodiment. The electrolytic cell 11 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the inside thereof is formed in the center of the electrolytic cell 11 by an anion exchange membrane (first diaphragm) 16 and two cation exchange membranes (second diaphragms) 18a and 18b. The intermediate chamber 15a is formed into a substantially triangular prism shape, an anode chamber 15b formed around three surfaces of the intermediate chamber 15a, and a first cathode chamber 30a and a second cathode chamber 30b. An anode 14 is provided in the anode chamber 15 b and faces the anion exchange membrane 16. A first cathode 31a is provided in the first cathode chamber 30a and faces the cation exchange membrane 18a. A second cathode 31b is provided in the second cathode chamber 30b and faces the cation exchange membrane 18b. The anode 14, the first cathode 31a, and the second cathode 31b are formed in a rectangular plate shape having substantially the same size, and face each other with the intermediate chamber 15a interposed therebetween.

The electrolyzed water generating device supplies an electrolytic solution, for example, water, to the intermediate chamber 15a of the electrolytic cell 11 to supply an electrolytic solution, for example, saturated saline, to the anode chamber 15b and the first cathode chamber 30a. And a current supply unit 23 for applying a positive voltage and a negative voltage to the anode 14 and the first and second cathodes 31a and 31b, respectively. Further, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus is configured to use acidic water (anode generating material) generated in the anode chamber 15b and one of the first and second cathode chambers 30a and 30b, for example, alkaline generated in the second cathode chamber 30b. After mixing with water (cathode generating material), a mixing / discharging unit 31 for discharging is provided.
These electrolyte solution supply unit 19, raw water supply unit 21, current supply unit 23, and mixed discharge unit 31 are configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

  The current supply unit 23 includes a power supply 45 and two switching circuits 46a and 46b that function as a regulator. The positive side of the power supply 45 is connected to the anode 14, and the negative side of the power supply 45 is connected to the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b via switching circuits 46a and 46b, respectively. The switching circuits 46a and 46b control the on / off time (energization time) of the current applied to the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b, and the energization time of the current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b. Adjust individually.

Next, the configuration of the electrolytic cell 11 will be described in detail. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the electrolytic cell, FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the electrolytic cell, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell along line BB in FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the electrolytic cell 11 includes a substantially cylindrical intermediate frame 22 whose both ends in the axial direction are closed, an intermediate chamber 15 a formed in the center of the intermediate frame 22, and the intermediate frame 22. A fitted anode cover 24, first cathode cover 26a, and second cathode cover 26b are provided. The anode cover 24, the first cathode cover 26a, and the second cathode cover 26b are disposed to face the three surfaces of the intermediate chamber 15a. The anode cover 24, the first cathode cover 26a, and the second cathode cover 26b have the same shape, for example, a shape having an arcuate outer peripheral surface and a rectangular opening that opens toward the intermediate chamber 15a. Has been.

  The anode cover 24 forms an anode chamber 15b by a recess formed on its inner surface, the first cathode cover 26a forms a first cathode chamber 30a by a recess formed on its inner surface, and the second cathode cover 26b A second cathode chamber 30b is formed by a recess formed in the inner surface.

  An anion exchange membrane 16 is disposed as a first diaphragm between the intermediate chamber 15a and the anode cover 24, and separates the intermediate chamber 15a and the anode chamber 15b. The anode 14 is provided in the anode chamber 15 b and is close to and faces the anion exchange membrane 16. A cation exchange membrane 18a is arranged as a second diaphragm between the intermediate chamber 15a and the first cathode cover 26a, and separates the intermediate chamber 15a and the first cathode chamber 30a. The first cathode 31a is provided in the first cathode chamber 30a, and is close to and faces the cation exchange membrane 18a. A cation exchange membrane 18b is disposed as a second diaphragm between the intermediate chamber 15a and the second cathode cover 26b, and separates the intermediate chamber 15a and the second cathode chamber 30b. The second cathode 31b is provided in the second cathode chamber 30b and is in close proximity to the cation exchange membrane 18b.

  The anion exchange membrane 16 and the cation exchange membranes 18a and 18b have the same shape, for example, an elongated rectangular shape, and are formed to have a film thickness of about 100 to 200 μm. The anion exchange membrane 16 and the cation exchange membranes 18a and 18b have a characteristic of allowing only specific ions to pass therethrough. The anion exchange membrane 16 and the cation exchange membranes 18 a and 18 b are arranged to face one surface of the intermediate frame 22, and the peripheral edge thereof is in close contact with the intermediate frame 22. The first diaphragm and the second diaphragm are not limited to ion exchange membranes, and may be porous membranes having water permeability.

  The anode 14, the first cathode 31a, and the second cathode 31b have the same shape, and are formed of, for example, a rectangular metal plate having a thickness of about 1 mm, and have an outer diameter that is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the ion exchange membrane described above. Have. A large number of fine through-holes for allowing liquid to pass through are formed in the central portion (effective region) of each of the anode 14, the first cathode 31a, and the second cathode 31b. The anode 14, the first cathode 31a, and the second cathode 31b each have connection terminals 14b, 20b, and 20c that protrude from one side edge thereof. The connection terminal 14 b of the anode 14 is connected to the positive side of the power supply 45. The connection terminals 20 b and 20 c of the first and second cathodes 31 a and 31 b are connected to switching circuits 46 a and 46 b arranged on the negative side of the power supply 45, respectively. As a result, different currents can flow through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b.

  The anode chamber 15 b is in contact with 100% of the area of the effective reaction region of the anode 14. That is, the area of the anode chamber 15 b substantially matches the area of the effective reaction region of the anode 14. Similarly, the areas of the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b substantially match the area of the effective reaction region of the first cathode 31a and the area of the effective reaction region of the second cathode 31b, respectively.

  Between each constituent member, that is, between the periphery of the anode cover 24 and the periphery of the anode 14, between the periphery of the first cathode cover 26a and the periphery of the first cathode 31a, and of the second cathode cover 26b. Sealing materials 40 for preventing water leakage are disposed between the peripheral edge and the peripheral edge of the second cathode 31b. Each sealing material 40 has a rectangular frame shape having an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the electrode, and is formed of, for example, a rubber material rich in elasticity having a thickness of about 1 mm.

  For example, a plurality of rubber bands 150 rich in elasticity are attached to the outer peripheral portion of the electrolytic cell 11 as a binding member. Due to the contraction force of these rubber bands 150, the peripheral portions of the constituent members of the electrolytic cell 11 are pressed against each other, and the water tightness of the intermediate chamber 15a, the anode chamber 15b, the first cathode chamber 30a and the second cathode chamber 30b is maintained. doing. In addition, the sealing material 40 is compressed by the contraction force of the rubber band 150, and seals between the members in a liquid-tight manner.

  A first inlet 34 is formed in the lower part of the intermediate frame 22, and a first outlet 36 is formed in the upper part. The supply pipe 19 a and the drain pipe 19 b of the electrolyte supply unit 19 are connected to the first inlet 34 and the first outlet 36. Are connected to each other. A fourth inflow port 42 (see FIG. 1) is formed in the lower part of the anode cover 24, and a fourth outflow port 44 is formed in the upper part. Each is connected. A second inlet 39a is formed in the lower part of the first cathode cover 26a, and a second outlet 41a is formed in the upper part. The water supply pipe 21a and the first drain pipe 21b are respectively connected to the second inlet 39a and the second outlet 41a. Connected. A third inlet 39b is formed in the lower part of the second cathode cover 26b, and a third outlet 41b is formed in the upper part. The mixing pipe 21f and the second drain pipe 21c are respectively connected to the third inlet 39b and the third outlet 41b. Connected.

According to the electrolyzed water generating apparatus configured as described above, as in the first embodiment, the pH of the electrolyzed water to be generated can be accurately adjusted, and neutral hypochlorous acid water can be generated. Is possible. That is, in the second embodiment, the shape of the electrolytic cell 11 and the arrangement of the cathode chamber are different, but the basic configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the same effects as the first embodiment are obtained. can get. The area ratio between the cathode and the anode is different between the first embodiment and the second embodiment, but the pH of the generated electrolyzed water is the ratio of the amount of current flowing through the first cathode 31a and the second cathode 31b. Therefore, the pH of the electrolyzed water can be adjusted by adjusting the on / off times of the switching circuits 46a and 46b. Therefore, even in the second embodiment, the pH of the generated electrolyzed water can be adjusted accurately at low cost according to the quality (hardness) of the water used, and neutral hypochlorous acid water is generated. It is possible to provide an electrolyzed water generating device capable of performing
In the second embodiment, the anode cover 24 and the cathode cover 26 are formed in the same shape, the anode 14, the first cathode 31 a and the second cathode 31 b are formed in the same shape, and a plurality of sealing materials 40. Are also formed in the same shape. Therefore, these members can be formed with a common mold, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.
Furthermore, the assembly property of the electrolytic cell can be improved as compared with bolting, screwing, or the like, by fixing each component of the electrolytic cell with a binding member such as a rubber band.

  In the second embodiment, there are two cathode chambers of the electrolytic cell, and each chamber is arranged in three-fold symmetry. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and three or more cathode chambers may be provided. For example, it is good also as a structure which arrange | positions the cathode chamber to three chambers, and is arranged 4 times symmetrically. In this way, when the number of cathode chambers is three or more, electrolyzed water having a plurality of pHs can be obtained.

  In the second embodiment, the rubber band 150 is used as the binding member. However, the binding member only needs to compress each component of the electrolytic cell and hold each chamber watertight. For example, an insulation lock is used. May be. In addition, as a binding member, various types such as a binding band, a C-ring metal fitting, and a heat shrinkable tube can be selected.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications as they are, and can be embodied by modifying the components without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the embodiment and the modified examples. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, constituent elements over different embodiments may be appropriately combined.
For example, the regulator of the current supply unit that adjusts the energization time to the electrodes is not limited to the switching circuit, and various other regulators can be applied.

11 ... electrolytic cell, 14 ... anode, 15a ... intermediate chamber, 15b ... anode chamber, 15c ... cathode chamber,
16 ... anion exchange membrane, 18, 18a, 18b ... cation exchange membrane, 20 ... cathode,
21a ... water supply pipe, 21b ... first drain pipe, 21c ... second drain pipe,
21f ... mixing pipe, 22 ... intermediate frame, 23 ... current supply unit, 24 ... anode cover,
26 ... Cathode cover, 26a ... First cathode cover, 26b ... Second cathode cover,
30a ... 1st cathode chamber, 30b ... 2nd cathode chamber, 31a ... 1st cathode, 31b ... 2nd cathode,
31 ... Mixing and discharging unit, 45 ... Power source, 46a, 46b ... Switching circuit,
150 ... rubber band

Claims (14)

An electrolytic cell having an anode chamber provided with an anode, a first cathode chamber provided with a first cathode, and a second cathode chamber provided with a second cathode;
A mixed discharge section for mixing and discharging the cathode generating material generated in any one of the first cathode chamber and the second cathode chamber and the anode generating material generated in the anode chamber;
A current supply unit that applies current to the anode, the first cathode, and the second cathode, the current supply unit including a regulator that adjusts a ratio of currents that are respectively supplied to the first cathode and the second cathode;
An electrolyzed water generating apparatus comprising:   2. The regulator includes a first switching circuit connected between the first cathode and a power source, and a second switching circuit connected between the second cathode and a power source. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus described in 1.   The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pH of electrolyzed water generated by the mixing is 5 to 8.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pH of the electrolyzed water generated by the mixing is 6 to 7.   5. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first cathode and the second cathode are connected to each other with an insulating portion interposed therebetween.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein an area of the anode chamber is substantially equal to a sum of an area of the first cathode chamber and an area of the second cathode chamber.   5. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the first cathode and the second cathode has an effective area substantially equal to an effective area of the anode.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the first cathode chamber and the second cathode chamber each have an area substantially equal to an area of the anode chamber.   The mixing and discharging unit discharges water mixed in one of the cathode chambers and a mixing pipe for introducing water generated in the anode chamber into one of the first cathode chamber and the second cathode chamber. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising:   The electrolytic cell includes an intermediate chamber for storing an electrolyte, a first diaphragm provided between the intermediate chamber and the anode chamber, and between the intermediate chamber, the first cathode chamber, and the second cathode chamber. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a second diaphragm provided on the outer wall.   The said regulator adjusts ratio of the electricity supply time which supplies with electricity to the said 1st cathode, and the electricity supply time with which it supplies with respect to the said 2nd cathode according to the water quality of the water used for electrolysis. The electrolyzed water production | generation apparatus as described in a term.   The electrolyzed water generation according to claim 11, wherein the adjuster adjusts a ratio between an energization time for energizing the first cathode and an energization time for energizing the second cathode according to the hardness of water used for electrolysis. apparatus. An electrolytic cell having an anode chamber provided with an anode, a first cathode chamber provided with a first cathode, and a second cathode chamber provided with a second cathode;
A mixed discharge section for mixing and discharging the cathode generating material generated in any one of the first cathode chamber and the second cathode chamber and the anode generating material generated in the anode chamber;
A current supply unit for applying a current to the anode, the first cathode, and the second cathode, the current supply unit having a regulator for adjusting an energization time for energizing each of the first cathode and the second cathode; An electrolyzed water generating method using an electrolyzed water generating device comprising:
According to the quality of the water used for electrolysis, the regulator adjusts the ratio of the energization time for energizing the first cathode and the second cathode by the regulator, and adjusts the pH of the electrolyzed water produced by mixing. Method.   The electrolyzed water generating method according to claim 13, wherein a ratio between an energizing time for energizing the first cathode and an energizing time for energizing the second cathode is adjusted according to the hardness of water used for electrolysis.

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