NL7906110A - Generating hydrogen from water using amalgam - of alkali metal aluminium and mercury pref. mixed with catalytic alloy - Google Patents

Abstract

The amalgam is prepd. by admixing the constituents at an elevated temp. and cooling to form a solidified amalgam prod., both in an inert atmos. H2 and O2 are generated from water using an amalgam contg. alkali metal : hg in 3:1 - 1:1.5 at. ratio and alkali metal : Al in 1:1-3:1 at. ratio, combined with a catalytic alloy of Pt and at least one of Ge, Sb, Ga, Tl, In, Cd, Bi, Pb, Sn. The process is safe, as much less heat is generated than using alkali metal alone for reaction. Spontaneous H2 combustion and formation of stable alkali metal hydroxide are avoided. Using pref. amalgam + catalytic alloy+ extender (of example), up to 0.20 gallons water/min. can be reacted per 2.5 cm2 surface.

Description

-1- 20877 / JD / tj

Applicant: Horizon Manufacturing Corporation, Wills Point, Texas, United States of America.

Short indication: Method for developing hydrogen from water, the material used for this.

5

The present invention relates to a method for developing hydrogen from water. In addition, the invention relates to a material used for this.

Alkali metals are known to react with water to form hydrogen and the stable alkali metal hydroxide. The ongoing reaction is rapid, the developing heat intense, and the hydrogen formed ignites with explosive force. The result is disappointing and is a dangerous method for the development of hydrogen. In addition, the resulting alkali metal hydroxide is very stable and regeneration to form the alkali metal is not very practical from an economic standpoint.

A simple and simple method of developing hydrogen without spontaneous combustion of the resulting developed hydrogen using an alkali metal has not been developed heretofore.

It is known in the art that alkali metals react with water to form hydrogen and the stable alkali metal hydroxide. The ongoing reaction is rapid, the heat generated is intense, and an explosion of hydrogen usually occurs. The result is disappointing and is a dangerous method of developing hydrogen. It is also known that alkali metal peroxides can be used to generate oxygen (see U.S. Pat. No. 3-574,561).

Thermochemical cycles that include metal-metaioid combinations to generate both hydrogen and oxygen are shown in U.S. Patent 3,969,495.

Closed cyelus methods for the dissociation of water into hydrogen and oxygen are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,821,358, 3,928,549, and 4OII.305. Therefore, combinations of various metals in multi-stage water dissociation methods are known.

However, the present invention provides a simple and convenient way to produce hydrogen and oxygen by an amalgam of alkali metal, aluminum and mercury combined with a catalytic alloy comprising platinum and at least one element selected from the group of germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium, cadmium, bismuth, lead, zinc and tin.

The present invention provides a method of developing hydrogen from water, characterized in that water is contacted with an amalgam of an alklaim language, mercury and aluminum.

The material has been found to be suitable for generating oxygen from water without spontaneous combustion of the resulting developed hydrogen. This material includes an amalgam of an alkali metal such as lithium, sodium, potassium, cesium or a combination thereof; aluminum and mercury.

The particle size of sodium and aluminum is such that the formation of an amalgam is facilitated. The amalgam is prepared using sodium about 0.25 inch in diameter and aluminum with a diameter between about 10-100 mesh (1676-152 microns). The particle size of either the alkali metal or aluminum is not critical since these metals and mercury readily mix together. The smaller the particle size, the faster natural mixing is.

The atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury is about 1: 100-100: 1 and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum is about 1: 100-100: 1. Preferably, the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury is about 3: 1 - 1: 1.5 and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum is about 1: 1 - 3: 1.

Applicant assumes that the water reacts with the alkali metal, i_.

for example sodium, and the aluminum develops hydrogen to form Na 2 AL (0H) g. The reaction of water with ammalgam is generally different from the reaction of the alkali metal component of the amalgam with water. The heat generated by the reaction of equivalent amounts of alkali metal in it. the form. of the amalgam is generally less than when the alkali metal reacts only with water. Accordingly, spontaneous combustion of the hydrogen in an oxidizing environment as well as the formation of the highly stable sodium product is also avoided when using the 7906110 * 20877 / JD / t amalgam of the invention instead of only alkali metal .

The method can be written as follows: 2 Na + 2 H20? - * 2 Na0H + h2 5 6 H20 + Al + 6 NaOH - * 2 Ha ^ KOHjg + H ^

The amalgam of sodium, aluminum and mercury is prepared using any known amalgamation procedure with important added conditions that an inert atmosphere is maintained during amalgamation. Amalgamation can be facilitated by using an elevated temperature of about 200 ° C + 10 ° C. Preferably, the amalgam is held at this elevated temperature for about 10 minutes, 100 g being processed and the time increasing by about one minute for each additional 100 g of sample portions.

The amalgam obtained is cooled, generally at room temperature, in an inert atmosphere. For this purpose, both helium and nitrogen can be used satisfactorily. The cooling is preferably carried out in a dessicator so that water does not come into contact with the amalgam.

During cooling, the amalgam solidifies and can come into contact with water by immersion, by spraying water on it, by storing water on it in the form of steam or in any other way. Contact with water at a temperature above 0 ° C gives development of hydrogen.

Examples of suitable amalgams are as follows: aluminum 37 »7 wt. %, sodium 32.1 wt. % and mercury 30.2 wt. %.

Aluminum 22.9 wt. %, sodium 18.4 wt. %, mercury 58.7 wt. %.

Aluminum 19 * 4 wt. %, sodium 31, 1 wt. %, mercury 49.5 wt. %.

The material which the applicant has found suitable for the generation of oxygen and hydrogen from water without spontaneous combustion of the resulting developed hydrogen and oxygen gases comprises an amalgam of an alkali metal such as lithium, sodium, potassium, cesium or combinations thereof; aluminum and mercury combined with a catalytic alloy comprising platinum and at least one element selected from the group of germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium, cadmium, bismuth, lead, zinc and tin.

The particle size of sodium and aluminum is such as to allow the formation of an amalgam and is approximately between 10-100 mesh (152-1676 microns).

790 6 1 1 0 * *> -4- 20877 / JD / tj

The particle size of aluminum is most preferred at about .10 mesh. The 0.25 inch diameter alkali metal is suitable. The particle size of either the alkali metal or the aluminum is not critical since these metals and mercury mix easily. The smaller the particle size, the faster the mixing takes place, of course.

The atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury is about 1: 100-100: 1 and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum is about 1: 100-100: 1. Preferably the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury is about 10 3: 1 - 1! 1> 5 and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum is about 1: 1 - 3: -1- The amalgam of alkali metal, aluminum and mercury is combined with a catalytically active alloy which is present in a catalytically effective amount and under the conditions of hydrogen evolution, it functions to regenerate amalgam to the active metallic state.

It is important that the catalyst / alloy contains a platinum group metal and especially platinum. The catalyst / alloy generally includes platinum and at least one element selected from the group of germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium, cadmium, bismuth, lead, zinc and tin.

Preferably, the catalyst comprises platinum and at least one element selected from the group of germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium and cadmium.

The catalytic activity is further enhanced by the addition of small amounts of zirconium and chromium.

Lead and / or gold can be included in the catalyst as an alloying element to lower the melting point of the alloy.

The alloy and amalgam can be combined in the weight ratios of about 1: 1 - 1: 5 and preferably about 1: 2-1: 3-

The alloy and amalgam can be mixed with a thickener. The thickener functions both to dilute the amalgam-catalytic alloy combination and to provide a heat reservoir for heat development during the dissociation of water in contact with the combined amalgam and catalytic alloy.

The thickener is preferably copper; however, mixtures of tin and bismuth 35 or gallium can also function as thickeners.

7906110 Γ - * -5- 20877 / JD / tj

The combination of amalgam and alloy or amalgam, alloy and thickener is most suitably used in a solid block form, hereinafter referred to as reactor block. When a thickener is used, it can be present as the main component of the reactor block.

The applicant assumes that the water reacts with the alkali metal, for example sodium, and that the aluminum releases hydrogen and forms Na 2 AKOHg. The Na 2 Al (OH) g is unstable, and in the presence of the alloy under the conditions of Na 2 Al (OH) g formation, the latter compound decomposing to form hydrogen and oxygen and a regenerated amalgam. The alloy is likely to function to catalyze decomposition and to extend the life of the amalgam. The procedure can be represented as follows: 2 Na + 2 H20 j ------ »2 NaOH + H2 15 6 H20 + 2 Al + 6 NaOH 2 Na3Al (OH) 6 + 3¾

Na ^ AKOHJg catalytic alloy> 3 Na + Al + 3H2 + 302

It is preferable to add chromium as an additional component to the alloy. The addition of chromium as a component of the alloy lowers the heat of reaction. Chromium is generally present in a le-20 in an amount, measured on a weight per cent basis of the le-20, of about 0.7? - 1.1? and preferably about 0.8? -0.9 ?.

Each alloy component can be in amounts of about 0.4 wt. ? to about 28.5 wt. based on the weight of the combined catalytic alloy and amalgam.

Preferred alloy includes platinum present in an amount of about 0.7-1.1 wt. lead is present in the amount of about 42.9 - 71.5 wt. ?, antimony present in an amount of about 25.5 - 42.5 wt. Chromium is present in an amount of about 0.7-1.1 wt. Zirconium is present in an amount of about 4.1-30 6.8 wt. ? and gold present in an amount of about 1.1 - 1.9 wt. ?.

The specific example of the preferred alloy includes about 0.3 wt. ? platinum, about 19.0 wt. ? lead, about 19 wt. ? lead, about 11.3 wt. ? antimony, about 0.3 wt. ? chromium, about 1.8 wt. ? zirconium and about 0.5 wt. ? gold.

The amalgam of sodium, aluminum, and mercury is prepared by using a known method with the additional condition that an inert atmosphere is used. Amalgamation is facilitated by an elevated temperature, preferably around 200 ° C + 10 ° C. Preferably, the amalgam is held at this temperature for about 10 minutes, 100 g being processed, and the time is extended by about 1 minute for each additional 100 g sample.

The resulting amalgam is cooled, generally at room temperature in an inert atmosphere. Both helium and nitrogen are suitable for this purpose. Cooling is preferably carried out in a desiccator 10 so that water does not come into contact with amalgam.

During the preparation of the amalgam and other steps in the process of preparing various compositions of the present invention, precautions must be taken during the preparation to avoid the presence of oxygen because oxygen has been found to poison the resulting material.

The preparation of the chosen alloy can take place in any known manner, taking into account the condition that an inert atmosphere must be present.

After solidification, i.e. after cooling, the alloy is ground into a powder, preferably a fine powder of about 10 mesh (1676 microns) or less. Cooling can be carried out in a desiccator to ensure that there is no oxygen or moisture present, the presence of which is harmful during cooking. The grinding / powdering can be carried out in any known manner using a ball, hammer and / or stamping mill.

To combine the alloy in the amalgam, the respective components are thoroughly mixed. The specific action of the catalysis is not known, but generally catalysis is a surface phenomenon and in accordance with the present invention, the catalysis is related to both the particle size and the nature, as well as the uniformity of the mixture of the amalgam and catalytic alloy.

The catalytic alloy amalgam can be used in a special form such as a flotation bed, or in another proper dispersion, in the form of a porous mass which can be formed by compression or sine-7906110 * m -7- 20877 / JD / tj teren, or as a solid mass by alloying an amalgam and the catalytic alloy. By alloying is meant that the amalgam and catalytic alloy are combined to form a mixture and alloyed under inert conditions at a temperature above the melting point of the mixture.

In any of the foregoing forms, a thickener such as gallium, tin, bismuth or copper, and preferably copper, may be used.

The thickener functions to vary the activity and create a heat reservoir to store at least a portion of the heat of reaction of sodium aluminum hydroxide formation, thereby increasing the catalysis of the unstable hydroxide to the metal and oxygen and hydrogen.

The mixture of the thickener with the amalgam and catalytic alloy is accomplished by using the thickener in a particular form of a similar size to the other components, which size is generally between 10-100 mesh.

Example I

Preparation of amalgam.

35,144 Wt. parts of sodium, 13.749 wt. parts of aluminum and 51,107 wt. parts of mercury are formed into amalgam in an inert atmosphere of nitrogen at an elevated temperature of 200 ° C in a graphite crucible.

The resulting amalgam is cooled to room temperature in a dessicator in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. Then the amalgam is formed as a solid, but will remain liquid by stirring.

It is important to note that the amalgam is prepared in an inert gas atmosphere to prevent premature hydroxide formation.

The amalgam is placed in a suitable container with a surface thereof exposed. Water is sprayed on the exposed surface or alternatively the exposed surface can be completely covered with a layer of water. It is necessary that the amalgam be placed in a container during the contact of the amalgam with water, the heat generated during the course of hydrogen evolution changes the amalgam into a liquid form. The amalgam, regardless of how it has come in contact with water, will not cause an explosion.

-Example II- 7906110 -8- 20877 / JD / tj

Example II

Preparation of amalgam.

An amalgam comprising 35,144 wt. parts of sodium, 13.749 wt. parts of aluminum and 51,107 wt. parts of mercury is prepared in a graphite crucible 5 in an inert nitrogen atmosphere at an elevated temperature of 200 ° C.

The resulting amalgam is cooled to room temperature in a separator in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. Then the amalgam is formed into a fine powder of about 10 mesh, using a ball mill.

The grinding is carried out in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. It is important to prepare the amalgam in an inert gas atmosphere to prevent hydroxide formation.

The catalytic alloy is prepared as follows.

19.0 parts by weight of lead, 11.3 parts by weight parts of antimony, 0.3 wt. parts of platinum, 0.5 wt. parts of gold, 1.8 wt. parts of zirconium and 0.3 wt. the chromium 15 is placed in a graphite crucible which is then placed in an oven and heated to melt in an inert helium atmosphere to form an alloy of the metals. The resulting alloy is cooled in a dessicator at about room temperature in an inert helium atmosphere. Then the amalgam is ground in a fine powder of about 10 mesh or less using a ball mill. The grinding is carried out in an inert helium atmosphere. The inert atmosphere is used to prevent oxidation of the alloy. The amalgam mixture and the catalytic alloy are formed by weight. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part of powdered alloy in an inert atmosphere to obtain a uniform mixture of the amalgam and the catalytic alloy. The mixture can be used by applying steam, dissociating steam into hydrogen and oxygen.

To form the reactor block, comprising amalgam and the catalytic alloy, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt.

30 part powdered alloy. Weighing and mixing is accomplished in an inert atmosphere.

After mixing, to provide the uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass by applying pressure of about 40,000 pounds per square inch (about 2800-235 kg / cm) in a crucible to the desired shape of the finished product.

7906110 -9- 20877 / JD / tj

The shape used gives a cubic block. The resulting block is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C to melt the mass and held at this temperature for about 10 + 1 minutes.

In the oven used for heating, an inert atmosphere is maintained. Then, the mass, comprising amalgam and alloy, is transferred to a desiccator in which an inert atmosphere is maintained to cool the mass. After cooling, the obtained block is ready for use.

This total previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poison" the resulting reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process, performed at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will ignite the mass.

To form the reactor block, comprising amalgam, catalytic alloy and thickener, amalgam and alloy prepared in the above manner, and a powdered copper thickener of about 10 mesh are mixed together in the following amounts: 21,775 wt. parts of amalgam, 5.625 wt. parts of alloy and 72.6 wt. parts of copper (thickener).

Weighing and mixing of the metal components must be performed in an inert atmosphere.

After mixing, to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass by applying pressure of about 40,000 pound square per inch (about 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite die of the desired shape. of the finished product. The compressed mass in a crucible conforming to the shape is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C above the melting point of the mass, which temperature is maintained for 10 + 1 minutes. In the oven used for heating, an inert atmosphere is maintained. The crucible and its contents are then transferred to a desiccator in which an inert atmosphere is maintained. After cooling, the obtained block is suitable for use.

The entire previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants.

790 6 1 1 0 -10- 20877 / JD / tj

Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will result in the resulting reactor block. "poison" and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process performed at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will ignite the mass.

The reactor blocks are contacted with a fine spray water of about room temperature in an atmosphere environment. The gaseous effluents from the contact include hydrogen and oxygen, and burn when subjected to an electric spark. The volume of gas developed depends on the surface of the reactor block and on the volume of water sprayed on it. In general, it will be 2.5 cm

react surface with 0.14 gallons (about 0.63 liters) of water per minute. Example III

An amalgam comprising 37,688 wt. parts of aluminum, 32,112 wt. parts of sodium and 30.2 wt. parts of mercury, is molded in a crucible in an inert atmosphere of nitrogen at an elevated temperature of 200 ° C.

The resulting amalgam is cooled to room temperature in a desiccator in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. Then the amalgam is ground into a fine powder / about 10 mesh, using a ball mill.

The grinding is carried out in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. It is important to prepare the amalgam in an inert gas atmosphere to prevent hydroxide formation.

To prepare the catalytic alloy, 60.7 wt. parts of lead, 0.8 wt. parts of platinum and 38.5 wt. parts of germanium are placed in a graphite crucible which is then transferred and heated before melting in an inert atmosphere of helium to form an alloy of metal. The alloy obtained is cooled in a desiccator at room temperature in an inert helium atmosphere. Then, the amalgam is formed into one of fine powder / about 10 mesh or less by using a ball mill. The grinding is effected in an inert helium atmosphere.

The inert atmosphere is used to prevent oxidation of the alloy.

To form the amalgam and catalytic alloy mixture, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part powdered alloy in an inert atmosphere to obtain a uniform mixture of the amalgam and catalytic alloy. The mixture can be used by applying 790 6 1 1 0 -11- 20877 / JD / tj steam which is dissociated into hydrogen and oxygen.

To form the reactor block comprising amalgam and catalytic alloy, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part powdered alloy. Weighing and mixing is accomplished in an inert atmosphere.

After mixing, to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass by applying pressure of about 40,000 pounds per square inch (about 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite die to the desired shape of the finished product. The die used gives a cubic block. The resulting block is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C above a melting point of the mass and again held at this temperature for about 10 + 1 minutes. In the oven used for heating, an inert atmosphere is maintained. Thereafter, the mass comprising amalgam and alloy is transferred to a desiccator in which an inert atmosphere is maintained, which mass is cooled. After cooling, the obtained block is ready for use.

The whole previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poison" the resulting reactor block and decrease its activity. In addition, during the process, conducted at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will ignite the mass.

To form a reactor block comprising amalgam, catalytic alloy and thickener, amalgam and alloy prepared as above and a powdered copper thickener of about 10 mesh are mixed together in the following amounts: 21.775 wt. parts of amalgam, 5.625 wt. parts of alloy, 72.6 wt. parts copper.

Weighing and mixing of the metal components must be performed in an inert atmosphere. After mixing to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass using pressure of about 40,000 pounds per 790 6 1 1 0

v V

-12- 20877 / JD / tj 2 square inch (approximately 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite die, according to the desired shape of the final product.

The compressed mass in a crucible, according to the desired shape, is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C above a melting point of the mass, which temperature is maintained for about 10 + 1 minutes. An inert atmosphere is maintained in the oven used for heating. The crucible and its contents are then transferred to a dessicator in which an inert atmosphere prevails. After cooling, the obtained block is ready for use.

The whole previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poison" the resulting reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process, performed at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will ignite the mass.

The reactor blocks are contacted with a fine sprinkler of water at about room temperature in an atmospheric environment. The gaseous effluents from the contact comprise hydrogen and oxygen and are burned by means of an electric spark. The volume of gas evolved depends on the surface of the reactor block and the volume of water sprayed thereon. Generally, a 2.5 cm surface will react with 0.20 gallons (0.91 liters) of water per minute.

Example IV

For the preparation of amalgam, an amalgam comprising 22.9 * 17 wt. parts of aluminum, 18,391 wt. parts of sodium and 58,662 wt. parts of mercury formed in a graphite crucible in an inert nitrogen atmosphere at a temperature of 200 ° C.

The resulting amalgam is cooled to room temperature in a dessicator in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. Then the amalgam is formed into a fine powder of about 10 mesh using a ball mill.

The grinding is carried out in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. It is important to prepare the amalgam in an inert nitrogen atmosphere to prevent hydroxide formation.

For the preparation of the catalytic alloy, 63.06 * 1 wt. parts of lead, 0.45 wt. parts of platinum, 36.036 wt. parts of antimony and 0.45 wt. parts 7906110 -13- 20877 / JD / tj germanium are placed in a graphite crucible, which is then placed in an oven and heated to melt in an inert atmosphere of helium to form an alloy of the metals. The resulting alloy is cooled in a dessicator at about room temperature in an inert helium-5 atmosphere. Then the amalgam is formed into a fine powder of about 10 mesh or less using a ball mill. The grinding is effected in an inert Kelium atmosphere.

The inert atmosphere is used to prevent oxidation of the alloy.

To form the mixture of amalgam and catalytic alloy, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part powdered alloy in an inert atmosphere to obtain a uniform mixture of the amalgam and catalytic alloy. The mixture can be used by immersion in water, water is dissociated into hydrogen and oxygen.

To form the reactor block, comprising amalgam and catalytic alloy, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part powdered alloy. Weighing and mixing is performed in an inert atmosphere. After mixing, to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass by applying a pressure of about 40,000 pounds per square inch (about 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite mold, in accordance with the desired shape of the end product. The die used gives a cubic block.

The resulting block is heated at a temperature of about 10 ° C above a melting point of the mass and maintained at this temperature for about 10 + 1 minutes. In the furnace used for heating, an inert atmosphere is maintained, then the mass, including amalgam and alloy, is transferred to a desiccator, in which there is an inert atmosphere, which mass is cooled. After cooling, the obtained block is ready for use.

The entire previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poison" the resulting reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process, conducted at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will ignite the mass.

7-90 6 1 1 0 -14- 20877 / JD / tj

To form the reactor block, comprising ammalgam, catalytic alloy and thickener, amalgam and alloy are prepared as above and a powdered thickener comprising 50 wt. % tin and 50 wt. % bismuth of about 10 mesh, mixed together in the following amounts: 21.775 wt. parts of amalgam, 5.625 wt. parts of alloy, 72.6 wt. parts of thickener.

Weighing and mixing of the metal compounds must be carried out in an inert atmosphere. After mixing, to provide a uniform mass, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass by applying pressure of about 40,000 pounds per 2 square inches (about 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite die, to the desired shape of the finished product.

The compressed mass in a crucible conforming to the shape is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C above the melting point of the mass and this temperature is maintained for 10 + 1 minutes. An inert atmosphere is maintained in the oven used for heating. The crucible and its contents are then transferred to a dessicator in which an inert atmosphere prevails. After cooling, the obtained block is ready for use.

The entire previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will poison the resulting reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process, conducted at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will ignite the mass.

The reactor blocks are contacted with finely sprayed water at about room temperature and atmospheric environment. The gaseous effluents from this contact include hydrogen and oxygen and are burned by an electric spark. The volume of gas developed depends on the surface of the reactor block and the volume of water sprayed thereon. Generally, a 2.5 cm surface will react with 0.12 gallons (0.55 liters) of water per minute.

-Example V- 7906110 -15- 20877 / JD / tj

Example V

An amalgam comprising 19,383 wt. parts of aluminum, 31,068 parts by weight of potassium and 49,549 parts by weight. parts of mercury, is formed in a graphite crucible in an inert atmosphere of nitrogen at an elevated temperature of 200 ° C.

The amalgam obtained is cooled to room temperature in a dessicator in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. The amalgam is then formed into a fine powder of about 10 mesh, using a ball mill. The grinding is carried out in an inert nitrogen atmosphere.

It is important to prepare the amalgam in an inert gas atmosphere to prevent hydroxide formation.

To prepare the catalytic alloy, 42,847 wt. parts of lead, 2,429 wt. parts of platinum, 42,847 wt. parts of antimony, 2,429 wt. parts of cadmium and 9.448 wt. parts of zirconium are placed in a graphite crucible, which is then placed in an oven and heated before melting in an inert atmosphere of magnesium to form an alloy of the metals.

The resulting alloy is cooled in a desiccator at about room temperature in an inert helium atmosphere. Then the amalgam is formed into a fine powder of about 10 mesh or less by using a ball mill. The grinding is carried out in an inert helium atmosphere.

The inert atmosphere is used to prevent oxidation of the alloy.

To form the amalgam and catalytic alloy mixture, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part of powdered alloy in an inert atmosphere to obtain a uniform mixture of the amalgam and catalytic alloy.

The mixture can be used by spraying water on the mixture dissociating water into hydrogen and oxygen.

To form the reactor block, comprising amalgam and catalytic alloy, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part-30 powdered alloy. Weighing and mixing is performed in an inert atmosphere.

After mixing, to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass by applying mercury of about 40,000 pounds per square inch (about 2800 kg / 35 cm) in a graphite die, according to the desired shape of the finished product.

7906110 -16- 20877 / JD / tj

The die used gives a cubic block.

The resulting block is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C above the melting point of the mass and maintained at this temperature for 10 + 1 minutes. In the oven, used for heating, an inert atmosphere is maintained. After that, the mass, including amalgam and alloy, is transferred to a dessicator where there is an inert atmosphere, which mass is cooled. After cooling, the obtained block is ready for use.

The entire previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants.

Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poison" the resulting reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process performed at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will ignite the mass.

To form the reactor block, comprising amalgam, catalytic alloy and thickener, amalgam and alloy, prepared as above, and a powdered gallium thickener of about 10 mesh are mixed together in the following amounts: 21.775 wt. parts of amalgam, 5,625 wt. parts of alloy and 72.6 wt. parts of gallium.

Weighing and mixing of the metal compounds must be carried out in an inert atmosphere. After mixing, to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass using mercury of about 40,000 pounds per square inch. (about 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite die, according to the desired shape of the end product.

The compressed mass in a crucible, according to the desired shape, is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C above the melting point of the mass-30 sa and maintained at this temperature for 10 + 1 minutes.

An inert atmosphere is maintained in the oven used for heating. The crucible and its contents are then transferred to a dessicator in which an inert atmosphere prevails. After cooling, the obtained block is suitable for use.

The entire previous procedure must be performed in an> 7906110 * * -17- 20877 / JD / tert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poitify" the resulting reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process, carried out at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will cause inflammation of the mass.

The reactor blocks are contacted with finely sprayed water at about room temperature in an atmospheric environment. The gaseous effluent from the contact contains hydrogen and oxygen and burns with electric ignition. The volume of gas developed depends on the surface of the reactor block and the volume of water sprayed on it. Generally, a 2.5 cm surface will react with 0.14 gallons (0.63 liters) of water per minute.

Example VI

An amalgam comprising 37,688 wt. parts of aluminum, 32,112 wt.

15 parts of cesium and 30.2 wt. parts of mercury are formed in a graphite crucible in an inert nitrogen atmosphere at an elevated temperature of 200 ° C.

The resulting amalgam is cooled to room temperature in a desiccator in an inert nitrogen atmosphere. The amalgam is then formed into a fine powder to about 10 mesh by using a ball nozzle.

The grinding is carried out in an inert nitrogen atmosphere.

It is important to prepare the amalgam in an inert gas atmosphere, to prevent hydroxide formation.

To prepare a catalytic alloy, 60.7 wt. parts of lead, 0.8 wt. parts of platinum and 38.5 wt. parts of germanium are placed in a graphite crucible, which is then placed in an oven and heated before melting in an inert helium atmosphere to form an alloy of the metals. The resulting alloy is cooled in a dessicator at about room temperature in an inert helium atmosphere. Then, the amalgam is formed into a fine powder of about 10 mesh or less using a ball mill. The grinding is carried out in an inert atmosphere of helium.

The inert atmosphere is used to prevent oxidation of the alloy.

To form the mixture of amalgam and catalytic alloy, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part powdered empty 7906110-182077 / JD / tj ring in an inert atmosphere to obtain a uniform mixture of the amalgam and catalytic alloy.

The mixture can be used by applying steam which is dissociated into hydrogen and oxygen.

To form the reactor block, comprising amalgam and catalytic alloy, 3 wt. parts of powdered amalgam mixed with 1 wt. part powdered alloy. Weighing and mixing is performed in an inert atmosphere. After mixing, to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a solid mass by applying pressure of about 40,000 pounds per square inch (about 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite die to the desired shape of the finished product. The die used gives a cubic block.

The resulting block is heated at an elevated temperature of about 10 ° C above the melting point of the mass and maintained at this temperature for 10 + 1 minutes. An inert atmosphere is maintained in the oven used for heating. Then the mass, comprising amalgam and alloy, is transferred to a desiccant where there is an inert atmosphere and which mass is cooled. After cooling, the resulting block is ready for use.

The entire previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poison" the resulting reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process, conducted at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will cause inflammation of the mass.

To form the reactor block comprising amalgam, catalytic alloy and thickener, amalgam and alloy prepared as above and a powdered copper thickener of about 10 mesh are mixed together in the following amounts: 21.775 wt. parts of amalgam, 5.625 wt. parts of alloy and 72.6 wt. parts copper.

Weighing and mixing of the metal components must be performed in an inert atmosphere. After mixing, to provide a uniform mixture, the resulting mixture is compressed to form a 7906110 -19- 20877 / JD / tj solid mass using pressure of about 40,000 pounds per square inch (about 2800 kg / cm) in a graphite mold, in accordance with the desired shape of the end product.

The compressed mass in a crucible, according to the desired shape, is heated at an elevated temperature of about 100C above a melting point of the mass, and maintained at this temperature for about 10 + 1 minutes. An inert atmosphere prevails in the oven used for heating. The crucible and its contents are then transferred to a desiccator with an inert atmosphere. After cooling, the obtained block is ready for use.

The entire previous procedure must be performed in an inert atmosphere such as helium or nitrogen and in the absence of contaminants. Oxidation of the metal components and / or hydroxide formation will "poison" the obtained reactor block and reduce its activity. In addition, during the process, conducted at elevated temperature, the presence of oxygen will cause inflammation of the mass.

The reactor blocks are contacted with finely sprayed water at about room temperature in an atmospheric environment. The gaseous effluent from this contact comprises hydrogen and oxygen and burns with electric ignition. The volume of gas evolved depending on the surface of the reactor block and the volume with the water sprayed thereon. Generally, a 2.5 cm surface will react with 0.20 gallons (0.91 liters) of water per minute.

- CONCLUSIONS - 7906110

Claims (5)

1. Process for developing hydrogen from water, characterized in that water is contacted with an amalgam of an alkali metal, mercury and aluminum. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the amalgam comprises sodium, mercury and aluminum, the atomic weight ratio of sodium to mercury being from about 3: 1 to about 1: 1.5, and the atomic weight ratio from sodium to aluminum is about 10 1: 1 to about 3: 1. 3 · Process for preparing an amalgam of an alkali metal, mercury and aluminum, characterized in that the alkali metal, mercury and aluminum are mixed in an inert atmosphere at an elevated temperature, followed by cooling this mixture in the same inert atmosphere to form a solidified amalgam product. 4. A material for the development of hydrogen from water, characterized in that it comprises an amalgam of alkali metal, mercury and aluminum. The material according to claim 1, characterized in that the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury is about 1: 100 to about 100 1, and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum is about 1: 100 to is about 100: 1. 6. Material according to claim 5, characterized in that the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury is about 3: 1 to about 1: 1.5 and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum is about 1: 1 to about 3: 1. The material according to claim 5, characterized in that the alkali metal is sodium. Material according to claim 6, characterized in that the alkali metal is sodium. 9. A material for the development of hydrogen and oxygen from water, characterized in that it comprises an amalgam of an alkali metal, mercury and aluminum, the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury being about 3: 1 to about 1: 1 .5 and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum is about 1: 1 to about 3: 1 combined with an alloy of platinum and at least one 7906110-21-20777 / JD / tj element selected from the group germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium, cadmium, bismuth, lead, zinc and tin. 10. Material according to claim 9, characterized in that the al-potassium metal is sodium or potassium. ¥ The material according to claim 9, characterized in that the le comprises low platinum and at least one metal selected from the group germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium and cadmium and that the alkali metal of the artalgam is sodium. 12. A material according to claim 11, characterized in that the empty ring comprises platinum and antimony. Material according to claim 11, characterized in that the alloy comprises platinum and germanium. 14. The material according to claim 11, characterized in that the alloy also comprises a metal selected from the group of zirconium, chromium and mixture thereof. Material according to claim 11, characterized in that the alloy also comprises a metal selected from the group lead, gold and mixtures thereof. 16. Material according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises copper. Material according to claim 13, characterized in that the weight ratio of the alloy to the amalgam is about 1: 1 to about 1: 5. 18. The material according to claim 17, characterized in that the weight ratio of the alloy to the amalgam is about 1: 1 to about 1: 3. 19. The material of claim 14 wherein the alloy is about 0.7? to about 1.1 wt. % chromium. 20. Material according to claim 11, characterized in that each metal component of the alloy is present in the material in an amount from about 0.4 to about 28.5 wt. % based on the weight of the alloy and amalgam together. 21. The material of claim 9, characterized in that the alloy comprises platinum, present in an amount from about 0.7 to about 1.1 wt. Lead is present in an amount from about 42.9 to about 7906110 -22-20877 / JD / tj 71.5 wt. %, antimony present in an amount from about 25.5 to about 42.5 wt. %, chromium present in an amount from about 0.7 to about 1.1 wt. %, zirconium present in an amount from about 4.1 to about 6.8 wt. % and gold present in an amount from about 1.1 to about 1.9 wt. %. Material according to claim 21, characterized in that the alloy is about 0.9 wt. % platinum about 57.3 wt. % lead, about 34.0 wt. % antimony, about 0.9 wt. % chromium, about 5.4 wt. % zirconium and about 1.5 wt. % gold. 23. Process for developing hydrogen and oxygen from / water, characterized in that water is contacted with an amalgam of alkali metal, mercury and aluminum, the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to mercury being about 3 : 1 to about 1: 1.5 and the atomic weight ratio of alkali metal to aluminum 15 is about 1: 1 to about 3: 1 combined with a platinum-containing alloy. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that the alkali metal is sodium, potassium or mixtures thereof. 25. A method according to claim 24, characterized in that the empty ring comprises platinum and at least one metal selected from the group germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium, cadmium, bismuth, lead, zinc and tin. 26. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that the alloy comprises platinum and at least one metal selected from the group germanium, antimony, gallium, thallium, indium and cadmium and the alkali metal of the amalgam which is sodium. A method according to claim 26, characterized in that the alloy comprises platinum and antimony. 28. A method according to claim 26, characterized in that the alloy comprises platinum and germanium. 29. A method according to claim 26, characterized in that the empty ring also comprises a metal selected from the group of zirconium, chromium and mixtures thereof. 30. A method according to claim 26, characterized in that the alloy also comprises a metal selected from the group lead, gold and mixtures thereof. 7906110, * S * -? * -23- 20877 / JD / tj A method according to claim 26, characterized in that further copper is added. A method according to claim 26, characterized in that the weight ratio of the alloy to the amalgam is about 5 1: 1 to about 1: 5. A method according to claim 32, characterized in that the weight ratio of the alloy to the amalgam is about 1: 1 to about 1: 3. 34. A method according to claim 29, characterized in that the alloy is about 0.7 to about 1.1 wt. % chromium. A method according to claim 26, characterized in that each metal component of the alloy contained in the material is present in an amount from about 0.4 to about 28.5 wt. %, based on the weight of both the alloy and the amalgam. A method according to claim 23, characterized in that the empty ring comprises platinum in an amount from about 0.7 to about 1.1 wt. $ lead is present in an amount from about 42.9 to about 71.5 wt. % of antimony present in an amount from about 25.5 to about 42.5 wt. %, chlorine present in an amount from about 0.7 to about 1.1 wt. %, zirconium present in an amount from about 4.1 to about 6.8 wt. % and gold present in an amount from about 1.1 to about 1.9 wt. %. A method according to claim 36, characterized in that the alloy is about 0.9 wt. % platinum, about 57.3 wt. % lead, about 34.0 wt. % antimony, about 0.9 wt. % chromium, about 5.4 wt. % zirconium 25 and about 1.5 wt. $ includes gold. 7906110 v.dT] -24-. >. * 1. <C1> 1.] [1. ccD1Q] references of errata in the description pertaining to patent application! 10 proposed by applicant on 9 May 1980. Page 2 lines 21, 22, 24 and 25 j 5 Page 4 lines 6, 7, 9 and 10 l „at00m_„ sdlrappen Page 20 lines 7, 9 »18, 20, 22, 24, 32 and 331 Page 22 lines 12 and 14 I page 8 line 19] 10 page 10 line 27 / page 13 line 5 Γ change "amalgam" to "alloy" page 15 line 17] page 17 line 28-29y 15 page 2 line 25 "1: 1,5" change to "'1: 4,5" page 2 line 26 "1: 1" change to "1: 4" page 4 line 10 "1: 1.5" change to "1: 4.5" page 4 line 11 ", 1: 1" change to "1: 4 "s 20 page 5 line 32" 0.3 "change to" 0.9 "page 5 line 32" 19.0 "change to" 57.3 "page 5 line 33" 11.3 "change to" 34.0 "page 5 line 33" 0.3 "change to" 0.9 "page 5 line 34" 1.8 "change to" 5.4 "25 page 5 line 34" 0.5 "change to" 1.5 " . * page 20 lines 8, 24 and 33 "1: 1,5: change to" 1: 4,5 "page 20 lines 10, 25 ai 34" 1: 1 "change to" 1: 4 "page 22 line 13" 1: 1.5 "change to" 1: 4.5 "30 page 22 change line 15" 1: 1 "to" 1: 4 "790 6 1 1 0