US20050016865A1 - Air enhancement system - Google Patents
Air enhancement system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050016865A1 US20050016865A1 US10/918,007 US91800704A US2005016865A1 US 20050016865 A1 US20050016865 A1 US 20050016865A1 US 91800704 A US91800704 A US 91800704A US 2005016865 A1 US2005016865 A1 US 2005016865A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- oxygen
- air
- enrichment system
- oxygen enrichment
- hydroxide
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 97
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 97
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 97
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 60
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-M hydroxide Chemical compound [OH-] XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 claims abstract description 20
- 239000012080 ambient air Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 claims description 28
- 239000003792 electrolyte Substances 0.000 claims description 23
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 21
- 239000003011 anion exchange membrane Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000000746 purification Methods 0.000 abstract description 6
- 239000000284 extract Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 abstract 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Chemical compound O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 17
- 238000006116 polymerization reaction Methods 0.000 description 13
- MHAJPDPJQMAIIY-UHFFFAOYSA-N Hydrogen peroxide Chemical compound OO MHAJPDPJQMAIIY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 9
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 9
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 description 9
- -1 hydroxide ions Chemical class 0.000 description 9
- 239000000178 monomer Substances 0.000 description 9
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 9
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 9
- 239000002585 base Substances 0.000 description 8
- KWYUFKZDYYNOTN-UHFFFAOYSA-M Potassium hydroxide Chemical compound [OH-].[K+] KWYUFKZDYYNOTN-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 7
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 6
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 description 6
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 6
- CBENFWSGALASAD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ozone Chemical compound [O-][O+]=O CBENFWSGALASAD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- 239000004372 Polyvinyl alcohol Substances 0.000 description 5
- 150000001450 anions Chemical class 0.000 description 5
- 229920002451 polyvinyl alcohol Polymers 0.000 description 5
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 5
- 229920003171 Poly (ethylene oxide) Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 150000001408 amides Chemical class 0.000 description 4
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000003999 initiator Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000029058 respiratory gaseous exchange Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 4
- HEMHJVSKTPXQMS-UHFFFAOYSA-M Sodium hydroxide Chemical compound [OH-].[Na+] HEMHJVSKTPXQMS-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 3
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000005349 anion exchange Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000003505 polymerization initiator Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920003053 polystyrene-divinylbenzene Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 241000894007 species Species 0.000 description 3
- YYPNJNDODFVZLE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 3-methylbut-2-enoic acid Chemical compound CC(C)=CC(O)=O YYPNJNDODFVZLE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- UXVMQQNJUSDDNG-UHFFFAOYSA-L Calcium chloride Chemical compound [Cl-].[Cl-].[Ca+2] UXVMQQNJUSDDNG-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 2
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- MYMOFIZGZYHOMD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Dioxygen Chemical compound O=O MYMOFIZGZYHOMD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- VZCYOOQTPOCHFL-OWOJBTEDSA-N Fumaric acid Chemical compound OC(=O)\C=C\C(O)=O VZCYOOQTPOCHFL-OWOJBTEDSA-N 0.000 description 2
- YLQBMQCUIZJEEH-UHFFFAOYSA-N Furan Chemical compound C=1C=COC=1 YLQBMQCUIZJEEH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- WMFOQBRAJBCJND-UHFFFAOYSA-M Lithium hydroxide Chemical compound [Li+].[OH-] WMFOQBRAJBCJND-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 2
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004887 air purification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- HUCVOHYBFXVBRW-UHFFFAOYSA-M caesium hydroxide Chemical compound [OH-].[Cs+] HUCVOHYBFXVBRW-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 2
- 239000001110 calcium chloride Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910001628 calcium chloride Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000003054 catalyst Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000003431 cross linking reagent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000005684 electric field Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010894 electron beam technology Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 2
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 2
- ZIUHHBKFKCYYJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N n,n'-methylenebisacrylamide Chemical compound C=CC(=O)NCNC(=O)C=C ZIUHHBKFKCYYJD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229920000620 organic polymer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 description 2
- CPRMKOQKXYSDML-UHFFFAOYSA-M rubidium hydroxide Chemical compound [OH-].[Rb+] CPRMKOQKXYSDML-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 2
- PFUVRDFDKPNGAV-UHFFFAOYSA-N sodium peroxide Chemical compound [Na+].[Na+].[O-][O-] PFUVRDFDKPNGAV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- BSSNZUFKXJJCBG-OWOJBTEDSA-N (e)-but-2-enediamide Chemical compound NC(=O)\C=C\C(N)=O BSSNZUFKXJJCBG-OWOJBTEDSA-N 0.000 description 1
- SMZOUWXMTYCWNB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2-(2-methoxy-5-methylphenyl)ethanamine Chemical compound COC1=CC=C(C)C=C1CCN SMZOUWXMTYCWNB-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2-Propenoic acid Natural products OC(=O)C=C NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- HRPVXLWXLXDGHG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Acrylamide Chemical compound NC(=O)C=C HRPVXLWXLXDGHG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000251468 Actinopterygii Species 0.000 description 1
- QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-O Ammonium Chemical compound [NH4+] QGZKDVFQNNGYKY-UHFFFAOYSA-O 0.000 description 1
- 229920002261 Corn starch Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004971 Cross linker Substances 0.000 description 1
- 206010013975 Dyspnoeas Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 1
- CERQOIWHTDAKMF-UHFFFAOYSA-N Methacrylic acid Chemical compound CC(=C)C(O)=O CERQOIWHTDAKMF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- WHNWPMSKXPGLAX-UHFFFAOYSA-N N-Vinyl-2-pyrrolidone Chemical compound C=CN1CCCC1=O WHNWPMSKXPGLAX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- DPXJVFZANSGRMM-UHFFFAOYSA-N acetic acid;2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexanal;sodium Chemical compound [Na].CC(O)=O.OCC(O)C(O)C(O)C(O)C=O DPXJVFZANSGRMM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000001154 acute effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052783 alkali metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000012670 alkaline solution Substances 0.000 description 1
- ROOXNKNUYICQNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N ammonium peroxydisulfate Substances [NH4+].[NH4+].[O-]S(=O)(=O)OOS([O-])(=O)=O ROOXNKNUYICQNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- VAZSKTXWXKYQJF-UHFFFAOYSA-N ammonium persulfate Chemical compound [NH4+].[NH4+].[O-]S(=O)OOS([O-])=O VAZSKTXWXKYQJF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910001870 ammonium persulfate Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 125000000129 anionic group Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 239000007864 aqueous solution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 208000006673 asthma Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 229920002678 cellulose Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000001913 cellulose Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000356 contaminant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000008120 corn starch Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004132 cross linking Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007812 deficiency Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003344 environmental pollutant Substances 0.000 description 1
- IQIJRJNHZYUQSD-UHFFFAOYSA-N ethenyl(phenyl)diazene Chemical compound C=CN=NC1=CC=CC=C1 IQIJRJNHZYUQSD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000001530 fumaric acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000005251 gamma ray Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000035876 healing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003230 hygroscopic agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004615 ingredient Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001678 irradiating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011244 liquid electrolyte Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011976 maleic acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 244000005700 microbiome Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000011259 mixed solution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012046 mixed solvent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229940088644 n,n-dimethylacrylamide Drugs 0.000 description 1
- YLGYACDQVQQZSW-UHFFFAOYSA-N n,n-dimethylprop-2-enamide Chemical compound CN(C)C(=O)C=C YLGYACDQVQQZSW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- QNILTEGFHQSKFF-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-propan-2-ylprop-2-enamide Chemical compound CC(C)NC(=O)C=C QNILTEGFHQSKFF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000003345 natural gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- QJGQUHMNIGDVPM-UHFFFAOYSA-N nitrogen group Chemical group [N] QJGQUHMNIGDVPM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004745 nonwoven fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000013618 particulate matter Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000002978 peroxides Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 231100000719 pollutant Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 229920001464 poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002492 poly(sulfone) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000098 polyolefin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 150000003242 quaternary ammonium salts Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 230000027756 respiratory electron transport chain Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000023504 respiratory system disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000002791 soaking Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011734 sodium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 159000000000 sodium salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- VZCYOOQTPOCHFL-UHFFFAOYSA-N trans-butenedioic acid Natural products OC(=O)C=CC(O)=O VZCYOOQTPOCHFL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- NLVXSWCKKBEXTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N vinylsulfonic acid Chemical compound OS(=O)(=O)C=C NLVXSWCKKBEXTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002759 woven fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D67/00—Processes specially adapted for manufacturing semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus
- B01D67/0039—Inorganic membrane manufacture
- B01D67/0044—Inorganic membrane manufacture by chemical reaction
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D53/00—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols
- B01D53/22—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by diffusion
- B01D53/228—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by diffusion characterised by specific membranes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D53/00—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols
- B01D53/32—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by electrical effects other than those provided for in group B01D61/00
- B01D53/326—Separation of gases or vapours; Recovering vapours of volatile solvents from gases; Chemical or biological purification of waste gases, e.g. engine exhaust gases, smoke, fumes, flue gases, aerosols by electrical effects other than those provided for in group B01D61/00 in electrochemical cells
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D69/00—Semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus characterised by their form, structure or properties; Manufacturing processes specially adapted therefor
- B01D69/10—Supported membranes; Membrane supports
- B01D69/107—Organic support material
- B01D69/1071—Woven, non-woven or net mesh
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D69/00—Semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus characterised by their form, structure or properties; Manufacturing processes specially adapted therefor
- B01D69/14—Dynamic membranes
- B01D69/141—Heterogeneous membranes, e.g. containing dispersed material; Mixed matrix membranes
- B01D69/1411—Heterogeneous membranes, e.g. containing dispersed material; Mixed matrix membranes containing dispersed material in a continuous matrix
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D71/00—Semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus characterised by the material; Manufacturing processes specially adapted therefor
- B01D71/02—Inorganic material
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D71/00—Semi-permeable membranes for separation processes or apparatus characterised by the material; Manufacturing processes specially adapted therefor
- B01D71/02—Inorganic material
- B01D71/022—Metals
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01B—NON-METALLIC ELEMENTS; COMPOUNDS THEREOF; METALLOIDS OR COMPOUNDS THEREOF NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASS C01C
- C01B13/00—Oxygen; Ozone; Oxides or hydroxides in general
- C01B13/02—Preparation of oxygen
- C01B13/0229—Purification or separation processes
- C01B13/0248—Physical processing only
- C01B13/0251—Physical processing only by making use of membranes
- C01B13/0255—Physical processing only by making use of membranes characterised by the type of membrane
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D2325/00—Details relating to properties of membranes
- B01D2325/04—Characteristic thickness
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D2325/00—Details relating to properties of membranes
- B01D2325/26—Electrical properties
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C01—INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
- C01B—NON-METALLIC ELEMENTS; COMPOUNDS THEREOF; METALLOIDS OR COMPOUNDS THEREOF NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASS C01C
- C01B2210/00—Purification or separation of specific gases
- C01B2210/0043—Impurity removed
- C01B2210/0046—Nitrogen
Definitions
- This invention relates to air enhancement systems, and particularly to air enhancement systems incorporating purification and enrichment systems.
- Enhanced oxygen is presently used in many medical applications, particularly recovery applications to promote patient healing and recovery. If accessible to a broader population base, enhanced oxygen may be used to enable people to live healthier and to more energetically carry out and enjoy their daily lives. In addition, many extreme conditions may be alleviated with enhanced oxygen, such as functions at high altitudes. Additionally, many athletes experience increased energy with increased oxygen content in their breathing air.
- an oxygen enrichment system including an oxygen source and a mixer for mixing standard or low oxygen content air (i.e., having about 20% oxygen or less).
- an enriched air system which includes an air purifier and an oxygen enrichment system.
- the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen generating apparatus based on an electrical or pressure driving force.
- the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen source such as a chemical oxygen source based on conversion of hydrogen peroxide.
- FIG. 1 is schematic of an oxygen enrichment system
- FIG. 2 is a schematic of one embodiment of an air enhancement system
- FIG. 3 is a schematic of another embodiment of an air enhancement system.
- FIG. 4 is a schematic of still another embodiment of an air enhancement system.
- An enriched air system which includes an air purifier system and an oxygen enrichment system.
- the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen generating apparatus based on an electrical or pressure driving force.
- the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen source such as a chemical oxygen source based on conversion of hydrogen peroxide.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an oxygen enrichment system 10 .
- the oxygen enrichment system 10 generally includes a mixer 30 for the receiving an air input from ambient air via an inlet 12 , and enriched oxygen via an inlet 22 .
- the enriched oxygen may be separated from air or chemically created from a source 20 .
- the source 20 may comprise a separator or may be a chemical oxygen source, as further detailed herein.
- enriched air i.e., having increased oxygen content
- the concentration of oxygen in this enriched air may vary, generally depending upon the ratio of air from the inlet 12 to the oxygen from the inlet 22 .
- the oxygen content may be as high as 25%, or even as high as 30%, depending on the particular need.
- the oxygen concentration and from outlet 32 may be as high as 100%.
- FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an enhanced air system 100 .
- the enhanced air system 100 generally includes an inlet 102 for intake of ambient air, which may be contaminated, oxygen depleted, or a combination thereof.
- Air is purified at an air purifier 110 , which may comprise a filter (such as active carbon or aluminum), ultraviolet (UV) source to irradiate the air, ionic purification scheme (such as an ozone purification device) or other air purification systems.
- the air purifier may be provided to move particulate matter, microorganisms, and other pollutants.
- a portion of the purified air from the purifier 110 is fed to a mixer 130 via a passage 1 12 , and the remainder of the purified air may be directed to an oxygen separator 120 via a passage 114 .
- the oxygen separator 120 may be any device capable of increasing the concentration of oxygen in a gas stream.
- the oxygen pump is activated by a driving force such as an applied voltage or a pressure differential.
- the oxygen separator 120 operates at room temperature, by ionic conduction of oxygen through a hydroxide conducting electrolyte.
- the oxygen separator 120 comprises a cathode, an anode and an electrolyte.
- O 2 molecules are reduced into hydroxide ions (OH ⁇ ) by electrons transported from the anode through an outside circuit.
- OH ⁇ is relayed through the electrolyte to the anode, where it is reoxidized into O 2 and released, whereby the electrons can return to the cathode side.
- Application of voltage e.g., from an on board battery source, an external power supply, an electromechanical device, or any combination thereof
- a required magnitude causes the following reactions to occur at the electrodes:
- the driving force is a thermodynamic driving force, wherein the pressure of the oxygen on the inlet side is greater than the pressure on the outlet side. Electron transfer is accomplished by electrically connecting the electrodes.
- the oxygen separator 120 comprises an electrically or thermally driven system using membranes having electrolyte, such as hydroxide conducting electrolytes, incorporated therein.
- the membrane may have hydroxide conducing properties by virtue of: physical characteristics (e.g., porosity) capable of supporting a hydroxide source, such as a gelatinous alkaline material; molecular structure that supports a hydroxide source, such as an aqueous electrolyte; anion exchange properties, such as anion exchange membranes; or a combination of one or more of these characteristics capable of providing the hydroxide source.
- the membrane in the oxygen separator 120 may comprise a material having physical characteristics (e.g., porosity) capable of supporting a hydroxide source, such as a gelatinous alkaline solution coated on a conventional separator described above.
- a hydroxide source such as a gelatinous alkaline solution coated on a conventional separator described above.
- various separators capable of providing ionically conducting media are described in: U.S. Pat. No. 5,250,370 entitled “Variable Area Dynamic Battery,” Sadeg M. Faris, Issued Oct. 5, 1993; U.S. application Ser. No. 08/944,507 filed Oct. 6, 1997 entitled “System and Method for Producing Electrical Power Using Metal Air Fuel Cell Battery Technology,” Sadeg M. Faris, Yuen-Ming Chang, Tsepin Tsai, and Wayne Yao; U.S. application Ser.
- the electrolyte (either within any one of the variations of the separator herein, or as a liquid within the oxygen separator 120 ) generally comprises ion conducting material to allow ionic conduction between the metal anode and the cathode.
- the electrolyte generally comprises hydroxide-conducting materials such as KOH, NaOH, LiOH, RbOH, CsOH or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing electrolyte media.
- the hydroxide-conducting material comprises KOH.
- the electrolyte may comprise aqueous electrolytes having a concentration of about 5% ionic conducting materials to about 55% ionic conducting materials, preferably about 10% ionic conducting materials to about 50% ionic conducting materials, and more preferably about 30% ionic conducting materials to about 40% ionic conducting materials.
- a molecular structure that supports a hydroxide source, such as an aqueous electrolyte.
- a hydroxide source such as an aqueous electrolyte.
- Such membranes are desirable in that conductivity benefits of aqueous electrolytes may be achieved in a self supported solid state structure.
- the membrane may be fabricated from a composite of a polymeric material and an electrolyte. The molecular structure of the polymeric material supports the electrolyte. Cross-linking and/or polymeric strands serve to maintain the electrolyte.
- a polymeric material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is formed integrally with a hydroxide source as a thick film.
- PVC polyvinyl chloride
- PEO poly(ethylene oxide)
- a first formulation one mole of KOH and 0.1 mole of calcium chloride are dissolved in a mixed solution of 60 milliliters of water and 40 milliliters of tetrahydrogen furan (THF). Calcium chloride is provided as a hygroscopic agent. Thereafter, one mole of PEO is added to the mixture.
- the same materials for the first formula are used, with the substitution of PVC for PEO.
- the solution is cast (or coated) as a thick film onto substrate, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) type plastic material.
- substrate such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) type plastic material.
- PVA polyvinyl alcohol
- Other substrate materials preferably having a surface tension higher than the film material may be used.
- an ionically-conductive solid state membrane i.e. thick film
- peeling the solid state membrane off the PVA substrate a solid-state ionically-conductive membrane or film is formed.
- ionically-conductive films having a thickness in the range of about 0.2 to about 0.5 millimeters.
- the polymeric material used as a membrane in the oxygen separator 120 comprises a polymerization product of one or more monomers selected from the group of water soluble ethylenically unsaturated amides and acids, and optionally a water soluble or water swellable polymer.
- the polymerized product may be formed on a support material or substrate.
- the support material or substrate may be, but not limited to, a woven or nonwoven fabric, such as a polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose, or a polyamide, such as nylon.
- the electrolyte may be added prior to polymerization of the above monomer(s), or after polymerization.
- electrolyte may be added to a solution containing the monomer(s), an optional polymerization initiator, and an optional reinforcing element prior to polymerization, and it remains embedded in the polymeric material after the polymerization.
- the polymerization may be effectuated without the electrolyte, wherein the electrolyte is subsequently included.
- the water soluble ethylenically unsaturated amide and acid monomers may include methylenebisacrylamide, acrylamide, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, 1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone, N-isopropylacrylamide, fumaramide, fumaric acid, N, N-dimethylacrylamide, 3,3-dimethylacrylic acid, and the sodium salt of vinylsulfonic acid, other water soluble ethylenically unsaturated amide and acid monomers, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing monomers.
- the water soluble or water swellable polymer which acts as a reinforcing element, may include polysulfone (anionic), poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate), carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium salt of poly(styrenesulfonic acid-co-maleic acid), corn starch, any other water-soluble or water-swellable polymers, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing water soluble or water swellable polymers.
- the addition of the reinforcing element enhances mechanical strength of the polymer structure.
- a crosslinking agent such as methylenebisacrylamide, ethylenebisacrylamide, any water-soluble N,N′-alkylidene-bis(ethylenically unsaturated amide), other crosslinkers, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing crosslinking agents.
- a polymerization initiator may also be included, such as ammonium persulfate, alkali metal persulfates and peroxides, other initiators, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing initiators.
- an initiator may be used in combination with radical generating methods such as radiation, including for example, ultraviolet light, X-ray, ⁇ -ray, and the like.
- the chemical initiators need not be added if the radiation alone is sufficiently powerful to begin the polymerization.
- the selected fabric may be soaked in the monomer solution (with or without the ionic species), the solution-coated fabric is cooled, and a polymerization initiator is optionally added.
- the monomer solution may be polymerized by heating, irradiating with ultraviolet light, gamma-rays, x-rays, electron beam, or a combination thereof, wherein the polymeric material is produced.
- the ionic species is included in the polymerized solution, the hydroxide ion (or other ions) remains in solution after the polymerization.
- the polymeric material does not include the ionic species, it may be added by, for example, soaking the polymeric material in an ionic solution.
- Polymerization is generally carried out at a temperature ranging from room temperature to about 130° C., but preferably at an elevated temperature ranging from about 75° to about 100° C.
- the polymerization may be carried out using radiation in conjunction with heating.
- the polymerization may be performed using radiation alone without raising the temperature of the ingredients, depending on the strength of the radiation.
- radiation types useful in the polymerization reaction include, but are not limited to, ultraviolet light, gamma-rays, x-rays, electron beam, or a combination thereof.
- the coated fabric may be placed in suitable molds prior to polymerization.
- the fabric coated with the monomer solution may be placed between suitable films such as glass and polyethylene teraphthalate (PET) film.
- PET polyethylene teraphthalate
- the thickness of the film may be varied will be obvious to those of skill in the art based on its effectiveness in a particular application.
- the membrane or separator may have a thickness of about 0.1 mm to about 0.6 mm. Because the actual conducting media remains in aqueous solution within the polymer backbone, the conductivity of the membrane is comparable to that of liquid electrolytes, which at room temperature is significantly high.
- anion exchange membranes are employed.
- Some exemplary anion exchange membranes are based on organic polymers comprising a quaternary ammonium salt structure functionality; strong base polystyrene divinylbenzene cross-linked Type I anion exchangers; weak base polystyrene divinylbenzene cross-linked anion exhangers; strong base/weak base polystyrene divinylbenzene cross-linked Type II anion exchangers; strong base/weak base acrylic anion exchangers; strong base perfluoro aminated anion exchangers; naturally occurring anion exchangers such as certain clays; and combinations and blends comprising at least one of the foregoing materials.
- An exemplary anion exchange material is described in greater detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/307,312 entitled “Anion Exchange Material”, by Muguo Chen and Robert Callahan, filed on Jul. 23, 2001, and incorporated by reference herein.
- Another example of a suitable anion exchange membrane is described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,183,914 and incorporated by reference herein.
- the membrane includes an ammonium-based polymer comprising (a) an organic polymer having an alkyl quaternary ammonium salt structure; (b) a nitrogen-containing, heterocyclic ammonium salt; and (c) a source of hydroxide anion.
- the oxygen separator 120 may be coupled to a controller (not shown), for example, for varying the amount of voltage applied to the pump, varying the air flow into the pump 130 , or a combination thereof. Therefore, the quantity of oxygen in the air stream exiting via an outlet 132 of the mixer 130 may be variably adjusted with a suitable control system. In preferred embodiments, for systems based on human use, the oxygen concentration exiting the system may be adjusted between about 20% and about 25%. In further embodiments, the exit flow from the outlet 132 is delivered to a user or a device utilizing enriched air with a pump or other air metering device.
- FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of an enhanced air system 200 according to another embodiment.
- the enhanced air system 200 generally includes an inlet 2O 2 for intake of ambient air, which may be contaminated, oxygen depleted, or a combination thereof.
- Air is purified at an air purifier 210 , which may comprise a filter (such as active carbon or aluminum), ultraviolet (UV) source to irradiate the air, ionic purification scheme (such as an ozone purification device) or other air purification systems.
- the purified air from the purifier 210 is fed to a mixer 230 via a passage 212 .
- the oxygen source 220 is also coupled to then mixer 230 .
- the oxygen source 220 may comprise any chemical oxygen source, such as systems based on conversion of hydrogen peroxide or other oxygen releasing chemicals. Release of oxygen from the oxygen source 220 may be effectuated by addition of water, catalyst, heat, mechanical agitation or a combination thereof.
- any chemical oxygen source such as systems based on conversion of hydrogen peroxide or other oxygen releasing chemicals. Release of oxygen from the oxygen source 220 may be effectuated by addition of water, catalyst, heat, mechanical agitation or a combination thereof.
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,030,583, 5,823,181, 5,783,105, and 4,490,274 teach various oxygen releasing compositions and systems.
- a system 300 comprises similar components as in system 200 described above, further wherein an oxygen source 320 is provided that also supplies oxygen to an air purifier 310 .
- the air purifier 310 comprises an ozone purifier.
- the oxygen supplied from source 320 to the air purifier 310 is subjected to an electric field, whereby oxygen (O 2 ) is formed into ozone (O 3 ).
- the electric field may be generated from an on-board battery, or alternatively from an external power supply.
- the incoming air stream is exposed to the ozone, which effectively reduces contaminants in the ambient air.
- the source 320 may comprise any suitable oxygen source, as described above with respect to FIG. 3 , or alternatively may comprise an oxygen pump as described with respect to FIG. 2 .
- sodium peroxide may be provided. Upon contact with water, sodium peroxide reacts as follows: Na 2 O 2 (s)+H 2 O( l ) ⁇ 2Na + ( aq )+OH ⁇ ( aq )+H 2 O 2 ( aq ) (3).
- the hydrogen peroxide may then be converted into oxygen and water upon exposure to a catalyst, heat, agitation, or a combination thereof.
- the enriched air may further including a controllable quantity of water, for example, by the inclusion of a humidifier or dehumidifier in any of the systems.
- airflow may be caused by motion of the system, for example, when the system is part of a vehicle or worn by an individual on a vehicle that is in motion (for example, were in the system is integral with a scooter or motorbike, or where the system is worn as a pack by an operator of such a vehicle).
- one or more fans or pumps may be used to input and/or output air into the purifier and/or mixer and/or oxygen separator.
- the primary benefit of certain embodiments of present invention relates to the efficiency realized upon providing enriched air by mixing ambient air with a pure or substantially pure oxygen source.
- air enrichment may be adjustable by simply increasing or decreasing the quantity of pure oxygen provided to the mixer.
- the systems described herein may be employed to enhance air respiration in aerobic organisms, including but not limited to humans, pets, beasts of burden, fish (e.g., within a tank or other aquarium setting) or other animals. Further, the system herein may be used to enhance respiration of devices that operate on oxygen, including but not limited to combustions engines of vehicles such as automobiles and scooters, diesel engines, and heaters (e.g., operating on combustion of natural gas).
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Abstract
An oxygen enrichment system is provided. The system includes an electrochemical cell for generating oxygen from ambient air. The electrochemical cell extracts oxygen from ambient air based on hydroxide conduction. A mixer is provided in fluid communication with ambient air, and an outlet provides oxygen enriched air to a user or air-breathing apparatus. In further embodiments, a purification system is also included. The air enrichment system may be employed with suitable batteries to provide a portable air enrichment device.
Description
- The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/284,177 entitled “Air Enhancement System” filed on Apr. 17, 2001, and is a Continuation in Part of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/373,469 filed on Aug. 12, 1999 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/836,119 filed on Apr. 17, 2001, both entitled “Oxygen Separation Through Hydroxide Conducting Membrane”, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.
- This invention relates to air enhancement systems, and particularly to air enhancement systems incorporating purification and enrichment systems.
- The need for people to breathe cleaner air is ever increasing, as well as the incentives to breathe air with enhanced oxygen. In particular, cities with acute pollution problems, for example Beijing, Bangkok, Delhi and many other cities, the pollution is so bad that people commonly have difficulty breathing and are prone to develop asthma and other respiratory disorders.
- Many activities may be performed at higher levels with enhanced oxygen and/or cleaner air. Enhanced oxygen is presently used in many medical applications, particularly recovery applications to promote patient healing and recovery. If accessible to a broader population base, enhanced oxygen may be used to enable people to live healthier and to more energetically carry out and enjoy their daily lives. In addition, many extreme conditions may be alleviated with enhanced oxygen, such as functions at high altitudes. Additionally, many athletes experience increased energy with increased oxygen content in their breathing air.
- Therefore, a need exists for a system that enables people to breathe cleaner air, and possibly oxygen enriched air, while preferably being portable and capable of extended periods of use.
- The above-discussed and other problems and deficiencies of the prior art are overcome or alleviated by the several methods and apparatus of the present invention, wherein an oxygen enrichment system is provided including an oxygen source and a mixer for mixing standard or low oxygen content air (i.e., having about 20% oxygen or less).
- Further, an enriched air system is provided which includes an air purifier and an oxygen enrichment system. In certain embodiments, the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen generating apparatus based on an electrical or pressure driving force. In other embodiments, the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen source such as a chemical oxygen source based on conversion of hydrogen peroxide.
- The above-discussed and other features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is schematic of an oxygen enrichment system; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic of one embodiment of an air enhancement system; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic of another embodiment of an air enhancement system; and -
FIG. 4 is a schematic of still another embodiment of an air enhancement system. - An enriched air system is provided, which includes an air purifier system and an oxygen enrichment system. In certain embodiments, the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen generating apparatus based on an electrical or pressure driving force. In other embodiments, the oxygen enrichment system comprises an oxygen source such as a chemical oxygen source based on conversion of hydrogen peroxide.
- Referring now to the drawings, illustrative embodiments of the present invention will be described. For clarity of the description, like features shown in the figures shall be indicated with like reference numerals and similar features as shown in alternative embodiments shall be indicated with similar reference numerals.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of anoxygen enrichment system 10. Theoxygen enrichment system 10 generally includes amixer 30 for the receiving an air input from ambient air via aninlet 12, and enriched oxygen via aninlet 22. The enriched oxygen may be separated from air or chemically created from asource 20. Thesource 20 may comprise a separator or may be a chemical oxygen source, as further detailed herein. During operation of thesystem 10, enriched air (i.e., having increased oxygen content) may be provided via anoutlet 32 of themixer 30. The concentration of oxygen in this enriched air may vary, generally depending upon the ratio of air from theinlet 12 to the oxygen from theinlet 22. In a preferred embodiment, the oxygen content may be as high as 25%, or even as high as 30%, depending on the particular need. Furthermore, in systems used with oxygen respiration devices that will not be harmed with an excessive oxygen content (as is the case with most aerobic organisms, including humans), the oxygen concentration and fromoutlet 32 may be as high as 100%. -
FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an enhancedair system 100. The enhancedair system 100 generally includes aninlet 102 for intake of ambient air, which may be contaminated, oxygen depleted, or a combination thereof. Air is purified at anair purifier 110, which may comprise a filter (such as active carbon or aluminum), ultraviolet (UV) source to irradiate the air, ionic purification scheme (such as an ozone purification device) or other air purification systems. The air purifier may be provided to move particulate matter, microorganisms, and other pollutants. A portion of the purified air from thepurifier 110 is fed to amixer 130 via a passage 1 12, and the remainder of the purified air may be directed to anoxygen separator 120 via apassage 114. - The
oxygen separator 120 may be any device capable of increasing the concentration of oxygen in a gas stream. The oxygen pump is activated by a driving force such as an applied voltage or a pressure differential. In preferred embodiments, theoxygen separator 120 operates at room temperature, by ionic conduction of oxygen through a hydroxide conducting electrolyte. In such embodiments, theoxygen separator 120 comprises a cathode, an anode and an electrolyte. O2 molecules are reduced into hydroxide ions (OH−) by electrons transported from the anode through an outside circuit. OH− is relayed through the electrolyte to the anode, where it is reoxidized into O2 and released, whereby the electrons can return to the cathode side. Application of voltage (e.g., from an on board battery source, an external power supply, an electromechanical device, or any combination thereof) of a required magnitude causes the following reactions to occur at the electrodes: - At the cathode:
½O2+H2O+2e −→2OH− (1) - At the anode:
2OH−→½O2+H2O+2e − (2) - In an alternative embodiment of an
oxygen separator 120, the driving force is a thermodynamic driving force, wherein the pressure of the oxygen on the inlet side is greater than the pressure on the outlet side. Electron transfer is accomplished by electrically connecting the electrodes. - Various examples of oxygen generating systems are described in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/373,469 filed Aug. 12, 1999 entitled “Oxygen Separation Through Hydroxide Conductive Membrane” by Lin-Feng Li, Wayne Yao, and Muguo Chen; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/828,027 filed Apr. 6, 2001 entitled “Oxygen Separation Through Hydroxide Conductive Membrane” by Lin-Feng Li, Wayne Yao, and Muguo Chen, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/373,469; and U.S. application Ser. No. 09/836,119 filed Apr. 17, 2001 entitled “Oxygen Separation Through Hydroxide Conductive Membrane” by Lin-Feng Li, Wayne Yao, and Muguo Chen, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/373,469; all of which are incorporated by reference herein.
- In a preferred embodiment, the
oxygen separator 120 comprises an electrically or thermally driven system using membranes having electrolyte, such as hydroxide conducting electrolytes, incorporated therein. The membrane may have hydroxide conducing properties by virtue of: physical characteristics (e.g., porosity) capable of supporting a hydroxide source, such as a gelatinous alkaline material; molecular structure that supports a hydroxide source, such as an aqueous electrolyte; anion exchange properties, such as anion exchange membranes; or a combination of one or more of these characteristics capable of providing the hydroxide source. - For instance, the membrane in the
oxygen separator 120 may comprise a material having physical characteristics (e.g., porosity) capable of supporting a hydroxide source, such as a gelatinous alkaline solution coated on a conventional separator described above. For example, various separators capable of providing ionically conducting media are described in: U.S. Pat. No. 5,250,370 entitled “Variable Area Dynamic Battery,” Sadeg M. Faris, Issued Oct. 5, 1993; U.S. application Ser. No. 08/944,507 filed Oct. 6, 1997 entitled “System and Method for Producing Electrical Power Using Metal Air Fuel Cell Battery Technology,” Sadeg M. Faris, Yuen-Ming Chang, Tsepin Tsai, and Wayne Yao; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/074,337 filed May 7, 1998 entitled “Metal-Air Fuel Cell Battery Systems,” Sadeg M. Faris and Tsepin Tsai; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/110,762 filed Jul. 3, 1998 entitled “Metal-Air Fuel Cell Battery System Employing Metal Fuel Tape and Low-Friction Cathode Structures,” Sadeg M. Faris, Tsepin Tsai, Thomas J. Legbandt, Muguo Chen, and Wayne Yao; U.S. Pat. No. 6,190,792 issued Feb. 20, 2001 entitled “Ionically-Conductive Belt Structure for Use in a Metal-Air Fuel Cell Battery System and Method of Fabricating the Same,” Sadeg M. Faris, Tsepin Tsai, Thomas Legbandt, Wenbin Yao, and Muguo Chen; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/116,643 filed Jul. 16, 1998 entitled “Metal-Air Fuel Cell Battery System Employing Means for Discharging and Recharging Metal-Fuel Cards,” Sadeg M. Faris, Tsepin Tsai, Wenbin Yao, and Muguo Chen; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/268,150 filed Mar. 15, 1999 entitled “Movable Anode Fuel Cell Battery,” by Tsepin Tsai and William Morris; U.S. application Ser. No. 09/526,669 filed Mar. 15, 2000 “Movable Anode Fuel Cell Battery,” Tsepin Tsai, William F. Morris, all of which are herein incorporated by reference. - The electrolyte (either within any one of the variations of the separator herein, or as a liquid within the oxygen separator 120) generally comprises ion conducting material to allow ionic conduction between the metal anode and the cathode. The electrolyte generally comprises hydroxide-conducting materials such as KOH, NaOH, LiOH, RbOH, CsOH or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing electrolyte media. In preferred embodiments, the hydroxide-conducting material comprises KOH. Particularly, the electrolyte may comprise aqueous electrolytes having a concentration of about 5% ionic conducting materials to about 55% ionic conducting materials, preferably about 10% ionic conducting materials to about 50% ionic conducting materials, and more preferably about 30% ionic conducting materials to about 40% ionic conducting materials.
- In other embodiments of a hydroxide-conducting membrane for use within the
oxygen separator 120, a molecular structure is provided that supports a hydroxide source, such as an aqueous electrolyte. Such membranes are desirable in that conductivity benefits of aqueous electrolytes may be achieved in a self supported solid state structure. In certain embodiments, the membrane may be fabricated from a composite of a polymeric material and an electrolyte. The molecular structure of the polymeric material supports the electrolyte. Cross-linking and/or polymeric strands serve to maintain the electrolyte. - In one example of a conductive membrane, a polymeric material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is formed integrally with a hydroxide source as a thick film. In a first formulation, one mole of KOH and 0.1 mole of calcium chloride are dissolved in a mixed solution of 60 milliliters of water and 40 milliliters of tetrahydrogen furan (THF). Calcium chloride is provided as a hygroscopic agent. Thereafter, one mole of PEO is added to the mixture. In a second formulation, the same materials for the first formula are used, with the substitution of PVC for PEO. The solution is cast (or coated) as a thick film onto substrate, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) type plastic material. Other substrate materials preferably having a surface tension higher than the film material may be used. As the mixed solvents evaporate from the applied coating, an ionically-conductive solid state membrane (i.e. thick film) is formed on the PVA substrate. By peeling the solid state membrane off the PVA substrate, a solid-state ionically-conductive membrane or film is formed. Using the above formulations, it is possible to form ionically-conductive films having a thickness in the range of about 0.2 to about 0.5 millimeters.
- Other embodiments of conductive membranes suitable as a separator are described in greater detail in: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/259,068, entitled “Solid Gel Membrane”, by Muguo Chen, Tsepin Tsai, Wayne Yao, Yuen-Ming Chang, Lin-Feng Li, and Tom Karen, filed on Feb. 26, 1999; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/482,126 entitled “Solid Gel Membrane Separator in Rechargeable Electrochemical Cells”, by Tsepin Tsai, Muguo Chen and Lin-Feng Li, filed Jan. 11, 2000; U.S. Ser. No. 09/943,053 entitled “Polymer Matrix Material”, by Robert Callahan, Mark Stevens and Muguo Chen, filed on Aug. 30, 2001; and U.S. Ser. No. 09/942,887 entitled “Electrochemical Cell Incorporating Polymer Matrix Material”, by Robert Callahan, Mark Stevens and Muguo Chen, filed on Aug. 30, 2001; all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
- In certain embodiments, the polymeric material used as a membrane in the
oxygen separator 120 comprises a polymerization product of one or more monomers selected from the group of water soluble ethylenically unsaturated amides and acids, and optionally a water soluble or water swellable polymer. The polymerized product may be formed on a support material or substrate. The support material or substrate may be, but not limited to, a woven or nonwoven fabric, such as a polyolefin, polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose, or a polyamide, such as nylon. The electrolyte may be added prior to polymerization of the above monomer(s), or after polymerization. For example, in one embodiment, electrolyte may be added to a solution containing the monomer(s), an optional polymerization initiator, and an optional reinforcing element prior to polymerization, and it remains embedded in the polymeric material after the polymerization. Alternatively, the polymerization may be effectuated without the electrolyte, wherein the electrolyte is subsequently included. The water soluble ethylenically unsaturated amide and acid monomers may include methylenebisacrylamide, acrylamide, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, 1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone, N-isopropylacrylamide, fumaramide, fumaric acid, N, N-dimethylacrylamide, 3,3-dimethylacrylic acid, and the sodium salt of vinylsulfonic acid, other water soluble ethylenically unsaturated amide and acid monomers, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing monomers. The water soluble or water swellable polymer, which acts as a reinforcing element, may include polysulfone (anionic), poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate), carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium salt of poly(styrenesulfonic acid-co-maleic acid), corn starch, any other water-soluble or water-swellable polymers, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing water soluble or water swellable polymers. The addition of the reinforcing element enhances mechanical strength of the polymer structure. Optionally, a crosslinking agent, such as methylenebisacrylamide, ethylenebisacrylamide, any water-soluble N,N′-alkylidene-bis(ethylenically unsaturated amide), other crosslinkers, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing crosslinking agents. A polymerization initiator may also be included, such as ammonium persulfate, alkali metal persulfates and peroxides, other initiators, or combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing initiators. Further, an initiator may be used in combination with radical generating methods such as radiation, including for example, ultraviolet light, X-ray, γ-ray, and the like. However, the chemical initiators need not be added if the radiation alone is sufficiently powerful to begin the polymerization. - In one method of forming the polymeric material, the selected fabric may be soaked in the monomer solution (with or without the ionic species), the solution-coated fabric is cooled, and a polymerization initiator is optionally added. The monomer solution may be polymerized by heating, irradiating with ultraviolet light, gamma-rays, x-rays, electron beam, or a combination thereof, wherein the polymeric material is produced. When the ionic species is included in the polymerized solution, the hydroxide ion (or other ions) remains in solution after the polymerization. Further, when the polymeric material does not include the ionic species, it may be added by, for example, soaking the polymeric material in an ionic solution. Polymerization is generally carried out at a temperature ranging from room temperature to about 130° C., but preferably at an elevated temperature ranging from about 75° to about 100° C. Optionally, the polymerization may be carried out using radiation in conjunction with heating. Alternatively, the polymerization may be performed using radiation alone without raising the temperature of the ingredients, depending on the strength of the radiation. Examples of radiation types useful in the polymerization reaction include, but are not limited to, ultraviolet light, gamma-rays, x-rays, electron beam, or a combination thereof. To control the thickness of the membrane, the coated fabric may be placed in suitable molds prior to polymerization. Alternatively, the fabric coated with the monomer solution may be placed between suitable films such as glass and polyethylene teraphthalate (PET) film. The thickness of the film may be varied will be obvious to those of skill in the art based on its effectiveness in a particular application. In certain embodiments, for example for separating oxygen from air, the membrane or separator may have a thickness of about 0.1 mm to about 0.6 mm. Because the actual conducting media remains in aqueous solution within the polymer backbone, the conductivity of the membrane is comparable to that of liquid electrolytes, which at room temperature is significantly high.
- In still further embodiments of the separator, anion exchange membranes are employed. Some exemplary anion exchange membranes are based on organic polymers comprising a quaternary ammonium salt structure functionality; strong base polystyrene divinylbenzene cross-linked Type I anion exchangers; weak base polystyrene divinylbenzene cross-linked anion exhangers; strong base/weak base polystyrene divinylbenzene cross-linked Type II anion exchangers; strong base/weak base acrylic anion exchangers; strong base perfluoro aminated anion exchangers; naturally occurring anion exchangers such as certain clays; and combinations and blends comprising at least one of the foregoing materials. An exemplary anion exchange material is described in greater detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/307,312 entitled “Anion Exchange Material”, by Muguo Chen and Robert Callahan, filed on Jul. 23, 2001, and incorporated by reference herein. Another example of a suitable anion exchange membrane is described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,183,914 and incorporated by reference herein. The membrane includes an ammonium-based polymer comprising (a) an organic polymer having an alkyl quaternary ammonium salt structure; (b) a nitrogen-containing, heterocyclic ammonium salt; and (c) a source of hydroxide anion.
- The
oxygen separator 120 may be coupled to a controller (not shown), for example, for varying the amount of voltage applied to the pump, varying the air flow into thepump 130, or a combination thereof. Therefore, the quantity of oxygen in the air stream exiting via anoutlet 132 of themixer 130 may be variably adjusted with a suitable control system. In preferred embodiments, for systems based on human use, the oxygen concentration exiting the system may be adjusted between about 20% and about 25%. In further embodiments, the exit flow from theoutlet 132 is delivered to a user or a device utilizing enriched air with a pump or other air metering device. -
FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of anenhanced air system 200 according to another embodiment. Theenhanced air system 200 generally includes an inlet 2O2 for intake of ambient air, which may be contaminated, oxygen depleted, or a combination thereof. Air is purified at anair purifier 210, which may comprise a filter (such as active carbon or aluminum), ultraviolet (UV) source to irradiate the air, ionic purification scheme (such as an ozone purification device) or other air purification systems. The purified air from thepurifier 210 is fed to amixer 230 via apassage 212. - An
oxygen source 220 is also coupled to thenmixer 230. Theoxygen source 220 may comprise any chemical oxygen source, such as systems based on conversion of hydrogen peroxide or other oxygen releasing chemicals. Release of oxygen from theoxygen source 220 may be effectuated by addition of water, catalyst, heat, mechanical agitation or a combination thereof. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,030,583, 5,823,181, 5,783,105, and 4,490,274 teach various oxygen releasing compositions and systems. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , a further embodiment of an air enrichment system is shown. Asystem 300 comprises similar components as insystem 200 described above, further wherein anoxygen source 320 is provided that also supplies oxygen to anair purifier 310. In this embodiment, theair purifier 310 comprises an ozone purifier. The oxygen supplied fromsource 320 to theair purifier 310 is subjected to an electric field, whereby oxygen (O2) is formed into ozone (O3). The electric field may be generated from an on-board battery, or alternatively from an external power supply. The incoming air stream is exposed to the ozone, which effectively reduces contaminants in the ambient air. Thesource 320 may comprise any suitable oxygen source, as described above with respect toFIG. 3 , or alternatively may comprise an oxygen pump as described with respect toFIG. 2 . - In a specific embodiment of an oxygen source (suitable as
oxygen source 220 or 320), sodium peroxide may be provided. Upon contact with water, sodium peroxide reacts as follows:
Na2O2(s)+H2O(l)→2Na+(aq)+OH−(aq)+H2O2(aq) (3). - The hydrogen peroxide may then be converted into oxygen and water upon exposure to a catalyst, heat, agitation, or a combination thereof.
- In addition to these described systems, the enriched air may further including a controllable quantity of water, for example, by the inclusion of a humidifier or dehumidifier in any of the systems.
- In certain embodiments, airflow may be caused by motion of the system, for example, when the system is part of a vehicle or worn by an individual on a vehicle that is in motion (for example, were in the system is integral with a scooter or motorbike, or where the system is worn as a pack by an operator of such a vehicle). Further, to provide airflow, one or more fans or pumps may be used to input and/or output air into the purifier and/or mixer and/or oxygen separator.
- The primary benefit of certain embodiments of present invention relates to the efficiency realized upon providing enriched air by mixing ambient air with a pure or substantially pure oxygen source. In this manner, air enrichment may be adjustable by simply increasing or decreasing the quantity of pure oxygen provided to the mixer. The systems described herein may be employed to enhance air respiration in aerobic organisms, including but not limited to humans, pets, beasts of burden, fish (e.g., within a tank or other aquarium setting) or other animals. Further, the system herein may be used to enhance respiration of devices that operate on oxygen, including but not limited to combustions engines of vehicles such as automobiles and scooters, diesel engines, and heaters (e.g., operating on combustion of natural gas).
- While preferred embodiments have been shown and described, various modifications and substitutions may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the present invention has been described by way of illustrations and not limitation.
Claims (11)
1-17. (Canceled)
18. An oxygen enrichment system comprising:
an electrochemical cell for generating oxygen through hydroxide conduction;
a mixer coupled to said electrochemical cell, wherein said mixer mixes oxygen generated by said electrochemical cell with ambient air;
an outlet coupled to said mixer, wherein enriched air is expelled.
19. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 18 , where the electrochemical cell comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, an electrolyte in ionic communication with the first electrode and the second electrode.
20. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 19 , wherein the electrolyte comprises an ion conducting membrane.
21. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 20 , wherein the ion conducting membrane comprises a hydroxide conducting membrane.
22. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 21 , wherein the hydroxide conducting membrane comprises a gelatinous alkaline material.
23. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 21 , wherein the hydroxide conducting membrane comprises an aqueous electrolyte.
24. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 20 , wherein the ion conducting membrane comprises an anion exchange membrane.
25. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 18 , further comprising a power source.
26. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 25 , wherein the power source comprises a battery.
27. The oxygen enrichment system as in claim 26 , further comprising a controller for controlling the amount of oxygen from the oxygen source.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/918,007 US20050016865A1 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2004-08-13 | Air enhancement system |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/373,469 US6541159B1 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 1999-08-12 | Oxygen separation through hydroxide-conductive membrane |
US28417701P | 2001-04-17 | 2001-04-17 | |
US09/836,119 US6767663B2 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2001-04-17 | Oxygen separation through hydroxide-conductive membrane |
US10/124,148 US6790414B2 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2002-04-17 | Air enhancement system |
US10/918,007 US20050016865A1 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2004-08-13 | Air enhancement system |
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US10/124,148 Division US6790414B2 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2002-04-17 | Air enhancement system |
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US10/124,148 Expired - Fee Related US6790414B2 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2002-04-17 | Air enhancement system |
US10/918,007 Abandoned US20050016865A1 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2004-08-13 | Air enhancement system |
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US10/124,148 Expired - Fee Related US6790414B2 (en) | 1999-08-12 | 2002-04-17 | Air enhancement system |
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Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2007060141A1 (en) * | 2005-11-24 | 2007-05-31 | L'air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude | Method for producing oxygen, from air, particularly using an electrochemical cell with ceramic membrane, with control means for continuous production |
US20120011816A1 (en) * | 2010-07-16 | 2012-01-19 | Fu-Chi Wu | Air intake structure of an air purifier |
US20120208095A1 (en) * | 2009-09-09 | 2012-08-16 | Bae Systems Plc | Gaseous product generator |
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WO2014004833A2 (en) * | 2012-06-29 | 2014-01-03 | Mag Aerospace Industries, Inc. | Microbiologically protected fuel cell |
EP3116058B1 (en) | 2015-07-08 | 2019-12-04 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Electrochemical battery and method of operating the same |
US11725291B2 (en) * | 2016-11-01 | 2023-08-15 | Ffi Ionix Ip, Inc. | Electrolysis cell assembly utilizing an anion exchange membrane |
US11710845B2 (en) * | 2017-11-27 | 2023-07-25 | University Of Maryland, College Park | Systems, devices, and methods employing electrochemical processing with oxygen as carrier gas |
EP3746585A4 (en) * | 2018-01-29 | 2021-10-06 | Applied Materials, Inc. | Systems and methods for copper (i) suppression in electrochemical deposition |
CN110523238B (en) * | 2018-05-24 | 2020-08-18 | 厦门大学 | Bionic intelligent air purification system and method |
CN111167040B (en) * | 2020-01-02 | 2021-03-02 | 上海凯斯特民防设备有限公司 | Civil air defense engineering ventilation system |
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SE9304028L (en) * | 1993-12-03 | 1995-06-04 | Siemens Elema Ab | Method of analyzing a gas and gas analyzer |
US5788682A (en) * | 1995-04-28 | 1998-08-04 | Maget; Henri J.R. | Apparatus and method for controlling oxygen concentration in the vicinity of a wound |
US6541159B1 (en) * | 1999-08-12 | 2003-04-01 | Reveo, Inc. | Oxygen separation through hydroxide-conductive membrane |
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2002
- 2002-04-17 US US10/124,148 patent/US6790414B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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US5549988A (en) * | 1995-03-10 | 1996-08-27 | Motorola, Inc. | Polymer electrolytes and electrochemical cells using same |
US5809999A (en) * | 1995-08-30 | 1998-09-22 | Daimler-Benz Aerospace Airbus Gmbh | Method and apparatus for supplying breathable gas in emergency oxygen systems, especially in an aircraft |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2007060141A1 (en) * | 2005-11-24 | 2007-05-31 | L'air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude | Method for producing oxygen, from air, particularly using an electrochemical cell with ceramic membrane, with control means for continuous production |
EP1801070A1 (en) * | 2005-11-24 | 2007-06-27 | L'AIR LIQUIDE, Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procédés Georges Claude | Process for the production of oxygen from air, in particular by means of an electrochemical cell with a ceramic membrane and with controlling means allowing a continuous oxygen production |
US20090031895A1 (en) * | 2005-11-24 | 2009-02-05 | Pascal Del-Gallo | Method for Producing Oxygen, From Air, Particularly Using an Electrochemical Cell with Ceramic Membrane, with Control Means for Continuous Production |
US7846236B2 (en) | 2005-11-24 | 2010-12-07 | L'air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'etude Et L'exploitation Des Procedes Georges Claude | Method for producing oxygen, from air, particularly using an electrochemical cell with ceramic membrane, with control means for continuous production |
US20120208095A1 (en) * | 2009-09-09 | 2012-08-16 | Bae Systems Plc | Gaseous product generator |
US20120011816A1 (en) * | 2010-07-16 | 2012-01-19 | Fu-Chi Wu | Air intake structure of an air purifier |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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US6790414B2 (en) | 2004-09-14 |
US20020166763A1 (en) | 2002-11-14 |
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