WO2008044499A1

WO2008044499A1 - Hydrogen generation device

Info

Publication number: WO2008044499A1
Application number: PCT/JP2007/069040
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yukinobu Mori
Original assignee: Yukinobu Mori
Priority date: 2006-10-06
Filing date: 2007-09-28
Publication date: 2008-04-17
Also published as: JPWO2008044499A1

Abstract

Provided is a hydrogen generation device for a fuel cell not using a compressed hydrogen and not requiring a high-pressure bottle or a high-pressure station. The device uses an eco-friendly electrolytic liquid as an original energy source so as to obtain a high efficiency, reduce wear, and facilitate maintenance. The device includes a first tub containing a catalyst and a second tub partitioned by a negative ion exchange film so as to have a first section and a second section having a positive and a negative electrode. The first tub, the first and the second section contain acidic electrolyte liquid of pH 1 to 4, pure water, alkaline electrolytic liquid of pH 9 to 14, respectively. When a part of power energy generated by the fuel cell is applied to the positive and the negative electrode, a hydrogen gas and pure water are generated from the first tub; an oxygen gas and an acidic liquid are generated from the first section, and a hydrogen gas is generated from the second section. The hydrogen gas is sent to the fuel cell so that power energy and pure water are generated and the acidic electrolytic liquid is sent from the first section to the first tub.

Description

Specification

Hydrogen generator

Technical field

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to a hydrogen generator, and more particularly to a hydrogen generator that supplies hydrogen to a fuel cell that burns hydrogen to obtain electric energy.

Background art

[0002] Currently, the most consumed energy resources in the world are fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas. However, fossil fuels are even said to disappear during the 21st century, considering future energy consumption. Furthermore, the more important problem is that global environmental problems such as global warming and acid rain become serious due to the combustion of fossil fuels! Therefore, the demand for hydrogen energy, which is clean energy friendly to the global environment and does not produce harmful substances such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides even when burned, is expected to increase significantly in the future.

[0003] Hydrogen energy is generated by burning hydrogen, that is, in a process opposite to the electrolysis of water, by chemically reacting hydrogen and oxygen to be taken out as electric energy. Several methods have already been proposed to generate this hydrogen. The performance depends largely on the electrolyte used, especially the content of the solid electrolyte. Conditions for generating hydrogen that is safe and low cost are always established. It has not been.

For example, a polymer membrane that is usually used at a high temperature as a solid electrolyte is difficult to maintain due to the rapid deterioration of the ion exchange membrane electrode.

[0004] In addition, a method for producing low-cost hydrogen in a large-scale plant has been established. In particular, hydrogen gas is delivered to the user for use in vehicles. In order to use hydrogen with ease, it is necessary to have a storage tank for ultra-high pressure hydrogen at 600 atmospheres, but the technology that can be used safely is established!

[0005] In relation to these technologies, for example, in Patent Document 1, hydrogen produced by electrolysis of high-pressure hydrogen gas and pure water is used in combination, and the solid polymer electrolyte membrane part and the oxidation part are integrated into a cell shape. In a fuel cell, pure water is produced by purifying circulating water using the high pressure of high-pressure hydrogen gas. The technology to do is disclosed!

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-149971

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The present invention was made to solve the various problems in the hydrogen generator for fuel cells as described above. A hydrogen generator that does not use high-pressure hydrogen and does not require a high-pressure cylinder or a high-pressure station is provided. The purpose is to provide.

[0008] The present invention also provides a hydrogen generator having an electrolysis system that is highly efficient, has power, consumes less parts, and is easy to maintain by using an electrolyte solution that is friendly to the global environment as a raw energy source. For the purpose.

[0009] In the present invention, oxygen and pure water, which are by-products generated in the electrolysis system and the fuel cell, are circulated and used, so that only the electrolytic solution that is basically the source of energy is replenished. The purpose is to provide an integrated system for fuel cells and hydrogen generators that is friendly to the global environment because it forms a Krant system.

Means for solving the problem

[0010] To achieve the above object, a hydrogen generator according to claim 1 of the present invention includes a first tank provided with a catalyst, and a first positive electrode partitioned by a first diaphragm. A second tank having a first compartment and a second compartment having a first negative electrode, wherein an acidic electrolyte is injected into the first tank, and a pure water is injected into the first compartment of the second tank. Water is supplied, an alkaline electrolyte is injected into the second compartment of the second tank, a first pipe is provided between the first tank and the first compartment of the second tank, and the power energy is When applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas and pure water are generated in the first tank, hydrogen gas is generated in the second section of the second tank, Oxygen gas and acidic electrolyte are generated in the first section, and the acidic electrolyte is sent from the first section of the second tank to the first tank through the first pipe, Liquid and the alkaline electrolyte force S, each pH;!, Characterized in that an electrolytic solution of 14; ~ 4 and PH9～.

In order to achieve the above object, a hydrogen generator according to claim 2 of the present invention includes a first tank provided with a catalyst, a first compartment provided with a first negative electrode, and a first positive electrode. District 3 with electrodes And a second tank having a second section in contact with the first and third sections through the second and first diaphragms, respectively, an alkaline electrolyte being injected into the first tank, Pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments of the second tank, an alkaline electrolyte is poured into the second compartment of the second tank, and the first compartments of the first and second tanks are supplied. There is a first pipe in between, and when power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas and pure water are generated in the first tank, and the third section of the second tank Oxygen gas is generated in the first tank of the second tank.

V, hydrogen gas and alkaline electrolyte are generated, the alkaline electrolyte is sent from the first section of the second tank to the first tank through the first pipe, and the alkaline electrolyte is pH 9 ~; It is characterized by 14 electrolytes.

In order to achieve the above object, a hydrogen generator according to claim 3 of the present invention includes a first tank provided with a catalyst, a first compartment provided with a first positive electrode, and a first negative electrode. A third compartment provided with an electrode, and a second tank having a second compartment in contact with the first and third compartments via first and second diaphragms, respectively. Liquid is injected, pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments of the second tank, an acidic electrolyte is injected into the second section of the second tank, and the first tank and the second tank are supplied. A first pipe is provided between the first compartments of the tank, and when power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas and pure water are generated in the first tank, and the second tank Oxygen gas and acidic electrolyte are generated in the first compartment of the second tank and the third compartment of the second tank.

V, hydrogen gas is generated, and the acidic electrolyte is sent from the first section of the second tank to the first tank through the first pipe, and the acidic electrolyte is an electrolyte of ρΗ1 to 4 It is characterized by this.

[0013] In order to achieve the above object, a hydrogen generator according to claim 4 of the present invention includes a first compartment having a first positive electrode partitioned by a first diaphragm and a first negative electrode. A second tank having an electrode and a second compartment, wherein pure water is supplied to the first compartment, alkaline electrolyte is injected into the second compartment, and power energy is supplied to the first compartment. When applied to positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas is generated in the second compartment, oxygen gas and acidic electrolyte are generated in the first compartment, and the acidic electrolyte and alkaline electrolyte are each ρΗ1 It is characterized by an electrolyte solution of ~ 4 and pH 9 ~;

[0014] In order to achieve the above object, a hydrogen generator according to claim 5 of the present invention provides a first negative A second section having a first section having an electrode, a third section having a first positive electrode, and a second section in contact with the first and third sections through second and first diaphragms, respectively. A pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments, an alkaline electrolyte is injected into the second compartment, and when power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, Oxygen gas is generated in the third section, hydrogen gas and alkaline electrolyte are generated in the first section, and the alkaline electrolyte is an electrolyte having a pH of 9 to 14; Features.

[0015] In order to achieve the above object, a hydrogen generator according to claim 6 of the present invention includes a first section including a first positive electrode, and a third section including a first negative electrode, A second tank having a second compartment in contact with the first and third compartments via first and second diaphragms; pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments; When an acidic electrolyte is injected and power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, oxygen gas and acidic electrolyte are generated in the first section, and hydrogen gas is generated in the third section. A hydrogen generator, wherein the acidic electrolyte is an electrolyte having a pH of 1 to ₄ .

[0016] In order to achieve the above object, the hydrogen generator according to claim 7 of the present invention comprises a first tank provided with a catalyst made of aluminum, and an alkaline electrolyte is injected into the first tank. In the first tank, hydrogen gas and aluminum hydroxide are generated, and the alkaline electrolyte has a pH of 9 to 14;

[0017] Further, as described in claim 8, the first and second diaphragms are an anion exchange membrane and a cation exchange membrane, respectively.

[0018] Further, as described in claim 9, in order to supply pure water to the second tank, a second pipe including a pump that operates by applying electric energy to the second positive and negative electrodes. The pure water generated in the first tank is joined to the second pipe.

[0019] Also, as described in claim 10, in the first tank, the catalyst is further provided with an electrode capable of applying a positive voltage to the alkaline electrolyte, and the progress of the reaction in the first tank is suppressed. It is characterized by.

[0020] Further, as described in claim 11, in the first tank, the catalyst is further provided with an electrode capable of applying a negative voltage to the acidic electrolyte, and the progress of the reaction in the first tank is suppressed. It is characterized by. [0021] Further, as described in claims 12 and 15, in the first tank and / or the second tank,

V is provided with a fuel cell that is supplied with hydrogen gas generated and burns to generate electric energy and pure water, and a part of the electric energy is applied to the first, second positive and negative electrodes. It is characterized by that.

[0022] Further, as described in claims 13 and 16, in the first tank and / or the second tank,

V, a hydrogen gas generated in this manner is supplied, and a fuel cell that generates electric power energy and pure water by burning it is provided, and the pure water is supplied to the second tank.

[0023] In addition, as described in claims 14 and 17, in the first tank and / or the second tank,

V is provided with a fuel cell that is supplied with hydrogen gas generated and burns to generate electric energy and pure water, and oxygen gas generated in the second tank is sent to the fuel cell. To do.

The invention's effect

[0024] The fuel cell hydrogen generator according to the present invention does not use high-pressure hydrogen !, and therefore does not require a high-pressure cylinder or a high-pressure station. Therefore, it is safe and lightweight, can be easily mounted on a vehicle and refueled, and infrastructure such as a high-pressure station is not required.

[0025] The hydrogen generator for a fuel cell according to the present invention further has high efficiency and power by using inexpensive electrolyte solutions each having pH:! To 4 or pH 9 to 14; Maintenance is easy with little consumption. That is, it is economical.

[0026] The hydrogen generator for a fuel cell according to the present invention basically basically uses oxygen as a by-product generated in the hydrogen generator and pure water as a by-product generated in the fuel cell. It is friendly to the global environment because it forms a closed system in which only the electrolyte that is the energy source needs to be replenished.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a system including a related fuel cell in a hydrogen generator according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a hydrogen generator according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a system including a related fuel cell in a hydrogen generator according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a hydrogen generator according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a hydrogen generator according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a hydrogen generator according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention in comparison with a comparative example.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a hydrogen generator according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. Explanation of symbols

1, 4 1st tank

2 3 Second tank

10 19 Acidic electrolyte

11 20 Alkaline electrolyte

14 Catalyst

15

16 filters

18

21 1st section of 2nd tank

22 Second section of tank 2

23 3rd section of 2nd tank

24 (First) negative electrode

25 Anion exchange membrane

26 (first) positive electrode

27 Acidic electrolyte

28 Alkaline electrolyte

29 Cation exchange membrane

31, 33, 34 Hydrogen piping

32

35, 37, 39 Pure water piping

36 1st piping

38 Second piping 50 Fuel cell

56 Charger

57 battery

59 DC—AC inverter

60 motor

62 Alternator

64 buffers

70, 72, 73, 74, 76, 77, 78

102, 103 electrolytic cell (comparative example)

114 aluminum plate

214 Aluminum hydroxide

H Hydrogen gas

2

H O pure water

2

o Oxygen gas

2

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

Example 1

In FIG. 1, the hydrogen generator according to the present embodiment includes a first tank 1 that is a chemical reaction tank and a second tank 2 that is an electrolysis tank.

The chemical reaction tank is provided with a catalyst 14, and the electrolysis tank has a first compartment 21 and a second compartment 22 separated by an anion exchange membrane 25, and each has a first positive electrode 26 and a first negative electrode. Have 24.

[0032] Specifically, an amphoteric metal such as magnesium, aluminum, zinc, or lead is used as the catalyst 14, and the shape of the catalyst 14 is in the vertical direction in addition to the horizontally stacked plates as shown in the figure. It is possible to increase the effective reaction area as a catalyst by providing minute unevenness on the surface of these catalysts, even if they are laminated in a plate, 2D or 3D network, porous, or granular. Good. The volume of the second compartment 22 is larger than that of the first compartment 21.

First, the acidic electrolyte 10 is injected into the first tank 1, pure water is injected into the first compartment 21 of the second tank 2, and the alkaline electrolyte is injected into the second compartment 22 of the second tank 2. Liquid 20 is injected.

A first pipe 36 and a second pipe 38 having a pump 18 are provided between the first tank 1 and the first section 21 of the second tank 2.

[0034] Therefore, the fuel cell 50 has a power that generates power energy, as will be described later, partly through the power wirings 78 and 76, the first positive electrode 26, the first negative electrode 24, and the second positive, Hydrogen gas H and pure water HO are generated from the first tank 1 when applied to a pump 18 having a negative electrode (no number).

2 2 and hydrogen gas H is generated from the second section 22 of the second tank 2, and each of the hydrogen gas H is separated from the hydrogen pipe 3.

twenty two

Through 3 and 31, the fuel cell 50 is supplied through the combined hydrogen pipe 34.

Oxygen gas O and acidic electrolyte 27 are generated from the first section 21 of the second tank 2, and the oxygen gas O

2 2 It is sent to the fuel cell 50 through the oxygen pipe 32.

At that time, the acidic electrolyte solution 27 is sent to the first tank 1 through the first pipe 36.

At that time, water is generated in the first tank 1 and becomes pure water H 2 O through the filter 16, and the second distribution.

2

It flows through the pipe 38 and joins with pure water H 2 O generated in the fuel cell as described later.

2

Circulated and supplied to the first section 21 of the second tank 2 as pure water H 2 O.

2

Pure water may be supplied to the first compartment 21 of the second tank 2 from the outside, but if such a closed system is used, it is economical and does not burden the outside.

In the fuel cell 50, the hydrogen gas H in the hydrogen pipe 34 and the oxygen gas in the oxygen pipe 32

2

O is used to generate power energy and pure water H 2 O.

twenty two

The atmosphere (oxygen in the atmosphere) may be used instead of oxygen gas, but oxygen gas can be about 40% more efficient.

[0037] Among them, the power energy is sent to the charger 56 through the power wiring 70, and is sent to the battery 57 through the power wiring 72, and the output of the battery 57 is sent to the DC—AC inverter through the power wiring 73. 59, and the output of the DC-AC inverter 59 drives the motor 60 of the vehicle via the power wiring 74, for example.

A part of the power energy is sent onto the power wiring 76 via the alternator 62 and further sent onto the power wiring 78 via the buffer 64. In this embodiment, the power wiring 78 is DC 5 volts and the buffer 64 can be a low voltage source of DC 5 volts.

[0039] The pure water H 2 O generated by the fuel cell 50 passes through the pure water pipe 35 and passes through the pure water in the second pipe 38.

2

Merge into water H 2 O.

2

[0040] As described above, when the hydrogen generator according to the present invention is operated, the alkaline electrolyte 20 injected into the second section 22 of the second tank 2 is consumed as an energy source of the present system. Must be refilled accordingly! /.

[0041] On the other hand, the acidic electrolyte 10 injected into the first tank 1 is necessary only as the acidic electrolyte at the time of start-up, and when the system is activated, the first compartment 21 of the second tank 2 21 Acidic electrolyte from 2

Since it is replaced by 7, no replenishment is required.

However, it is necessary to replenish the acidic electrolyte 10 as a regular maintenance work for evaporation, minute leakage, etc.

In addition, since the catalytic capacity of the catalyst 14 is reduced due to adhesion of reaction residues, etc., cleaning or replacement is also required as regular maintenance work.

[0042] The first pipe 36 through which the acidic electrolyte 27 flows and the pure water pipes 35, 37 through which pure water H 2 O flows.

2

, 39 and the second pipe 38 are each provided with a reverse support valve (not shown), and a force S for preventing the backflow thereof is used.

[0043] In the above embodiment, even when the power application to the second tank 2 and the pump 18 is stopped, the acidic electrolyte solution 10 (hereinafter referred to as an alternative to the first tank 1 was sent to the first tank 1) As long as there is acidic electrolyte 27), generation of hydrogen gas H proceeds and the acidic electrolyte 10 is consumed.

2

However, when a copper (Cu) electrode (not shown) is connected to the catalyst 14, a platinum (Pt) electrode (not shown) is placed in the acidic electrolyte, and an appropriate voltage with the copper electrode side as a positive potential is applied between them, The progress of the reaction can be suppressed and consumption of the acidic electrolyte 10 can be prevented.

[0044] The acidic electrolytic solution 10 and the alkaline electrolytic solution 20 are electrolytic solutions having pH:! ~ 4 and pH9 ~; 14, respectively.

Yes

Example 2

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of the hydrogen generator according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 2, the hydrogen generator according to this example includes a first tank 1 that is a chemical reaction tank and a second tank 2 that is an electrolysis tank.

The chemical reaction tank is equipped with a catalyst 14, and the electrolysis tank has first, second and third compartments 21, 22 and 23 partitioned by a cation exchange membrane 29 and an anion exchange membrane 25, and the first Each of the third sections has a first negative electrode 24 and a first positive electrode 26 connected to the power wiring 78.

[0047] Specifically, an amphoteric metal such as magnesium, aluminum, zinc, or lead is used as the catalyst 14, and the shape of the catalyst 14 is vertical as well as horizontally laminated plates as illustrated. It is possible to increase the effective reaction area as a catalyst by providing minute unevenness on the surface of these catalysts, even if they are laminated in a plate, 2D or 3D network, porous, or granular. Good.

The volume of the second compartment 22 is larger than that of the first and third compartments 21 and 23.

[0048] First, the alkaline electrolyte 11 is injected into the first tank 1, pure water is injected into the first section 21 and the third section 23 of the second tank 2, respectively, and the second tank 2 of the second tank 2 is injected. The compartment 22 is injected with an alkaline electrolyte 20.

A first pipe 36 and a second pipe 38 having a pump 18 are provided between the first section 21 of the first tank 1 and the second tank 2.

[0049] Further, the pure water pipe 35 connected to the pure water supply source (not shown) joins the pure water pipe 37 from the first tank to become the second pipe 38, and the pump 18 to which the power wiring 76 is connected is connected. And connected to the first compartment 21 of the second tank 2 and to a pure water pipe 39 branched and connected to the third compartment 23.

[0050] When power energy is applied through power wiring 78, 76 to a pump 18 having a first positive electrode 26, a first negative electrode 24, and a second positive and negative electrode (no number), In the first tank 1, the alkaline electrolyte is decomposed in contact with the catalyst 14 to generate hydrogen gas H and pure water HO.

twenty two

In the tank 2, the alkaline electrolyte in the second compartment is partially decomposed to generate hydrogen gas H and the alkaline electrolyte 28 from the first compartment 21.

2

[0051] The hydrogen gas H generated in the first tank and the second tank was combined through hydrogen pipes 33 and 31, respectively.

2

The solution is output through the hydrogen pipe 34, and the alkaline electrolyte 28 is supplied to the first tank 1 through the first pipe 36. Oxygen gas O is generated from the third section 23 of the second tank 2, and the oxygen gas O passes through the oxygen pipe 32.

twenty two

Are output.

On the other hand, the pure water generated in the first tank 1 flows through the pure water pipe 37 through the filter 16 and joins the second pipe 38 as described above.

[0052] As described above, when the hydrogen generator according to the present invention is operated, the alkaline electrolyte 20 poured into the second section 22 of the second tank 2 is consumed as an energy source of the present system. Must be refilled accordingly! /.

[0053] On the other hand, the alkaline electrolyte 11 injected into the first tank 1 is necessary only as the alkaline electrolyte at the time of start-up, and when the system is activated, the first compartment 21 of the second tank 2 21 No need for replenishment as it is replaced by alkaline electrolyte 28 from

However, it is necessary to replenish the alkaline electrolyte 11 as regular maintenance work for evaporation, minute leakage, and the like.

[0054] A first pipe 36 through which the alkaline electrolyte 28 flows and a pure water pipe 35 through which pure water H 2 O flows.

2

37, 39, and the second pipe 38 are each provided with a counter-support valve (not shown), and the force S can be prevented to prevent such back flow.

In the above embodiment, even if the application of power energy to the second tank 2 and the pump 18 is stopped, the first tank

As long as there is an alkaline electrolyte 11 in 1 (hereinafter, including the alkaline electrolyte 28 sent into the first tank, which is an alternative), the generation of hydrogen gas H proceeds and the alkaline electrolyte 11 is consumed.

2

End up.

However, if the catalyst 14 is used as the positive electrode, the platinum electrode 15 is used as the negative electrode in the alkaline electrolyte 11 and an appropriate voltage is applied to the power line 77, the progress of the reaction is suppressed, and the alkaline electrolyte 11 is consumed. Can be prevented.

[0056] The alkaline electrolyte 20 is an electrolyte having a pH of 9 to 14;

In the present example, the specific experimental results for the second tank 2 alone, that is, the second tank 2 shown in FIG. 5 are shown below.

In the experiment, as alkaline electrolyte 20, 20% 2% NaOH aqueous solution and 3% NaCl A mixture of 200 ml of an aqueous solution was used.

The applied power is 1 = 0. Constant current drive of 1A is used. Incidentally, the voltage V between the first positive electrode 26 and the first negative electrode 25 observed in the power wiring 78 at that time is 6.0V ~ 7. It was 0V.

[0058] Cumulative generation amounts of oxygen and hydrogen with respect to the elapsed electrolysis time were as follows.

Electrolysis time Oxygen amount Hydrogen amount

10 minutes About 12ml About 21ml

20 minutes About 15ml About 31ml

30 minutes About 18ml About 37ml

Example 3

[0059] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a system including a related fuel cell in a hydrogen generator according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 3, the fuel cell system is above the one-dot chain line, and the hydrogen generator system is below the dashed line.

[0060] In the fuel cell 50, the hydrogen gas H in the hydrogen pipe 34 and the oxygen gas in the oxygen pipe 32

2

O is used to generate power energy and pure water H 2 O.

twenty two

The atmosphere (oxygen in the atmosphere) may be used instead of oxygen gas, but the efficiency of oxygen gas can be increased by about 40%.

[0061] Among them, the power energy is sent to the charger 56 through the power wiring 70, and is sent to the battery 57 through the power wiring 72, and the output of the battery 57 is sent to the DC—AC inverter through the power wiring 73. 59, and the output of the DC-AC inverter 59 drives the motor 60 of the vehicle via the power wiring 74, for example.

[0062] A part of the power energy is sent onto the power wiring 76 via the alternator 62, for example, and further sent onto the power wiring 78 via the buffer 64.

In this embodiment, the power wiring 78 is DC 5 volts and the buffer 64 can be a low voltage source of DC 5 volts.

Although not shown, the direct current output of the notifier 64 may be connected to the power wiring 77 as well.

[0063] Further, the pure water HO generated in the fuel cell 50 is supplied to the pure water pipe 35 as one of the pure water supply sources. Supplied.

[0064] The supply of pure water to the first and third compartments 21 and 23 of the second tank 2 may be supplied from the outside. If such a closed system is used, it is economical and burdens the outside. Absent. Example 4

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a hydrogen generator according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

In this example, unlike Example 2 above, the acidic electrolyte solution 10 is injected into the first tank, the acidic electrolyte solution 27 is injected into the second section of the second tank, and the acidic solution is injected into the first section of the second tank. Electrolyte 19 is generated and sent to the first tank through the first pipe 36.

The acidic electrolyte is an electrolyte with a pH of! ~ 4.

In addition, the polarity of the voltage applied to the catalyst 14 to suppress the progress of the reaction in the first tank is negative with respect to the acidic electrolyte 10.

Except for the above points, the structure and operation of the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment.

Therefore, it can be combined with the fuel cell as in the case of Example 2. Example 5

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of the hydrogen generator according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, unlike the second embodiment, only the second tank 2, which is an electrolysis tank without the first tank, is operated.

As in Example 2 above, the second tank 2 has first, second, and third compartments 21, 22, 23 partitioned by a cation exchange membrane 29 and an anion exchange membrane 25, and the first Each of the third sections has a negative electrode 24 and a positive electrode 26 connected to a power line 78.

As in Example 2 above, alkaline electrolyte 20 having a pH of 9 to 14 is injected into the second compartment 22, pure water is injected into the first compartment 21 and the third compartment 23, and power is supplied to the power wiring 78. When applied, hydrogen gas H is generated in the first section 21 and oxygen gas O is generated in the third section.

twenty two

[0068] Referring to FIG. 6, it is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the hydrogen generator according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention in comparison with the comparative example. That is, the left side in FIG. 6 (A) is a schematic diagram of the second tank 2 shown in FIG. 5 and includes the first, second, and second compartments partitioned by the cation exchange membrane 29 and the anion exchange membrane 25. It has third compartments 21, 22 and 23. The first and third compartments have a first negative electrode 24 and a first positive electrode 26, respectively, and the second compartment is filled with an alkaline electrolyte 20. .

On the other hand, the diagram on the right side in FIG. 6 (A) is a schematic diagram of an electrolytic cell 102 using a solid polymer electrolyte, shown as a comparative example, with an alkaline solid polymer electrolyte layer 120 interposed therebetween and a negative electrode. There are an active material layer 121 and a positive electrode active material layer 123, and a negative electrode 24 and a positive electrode 26 are in contact with each.

[0069] The results of comparison between the two were as follows.

This example Comparative example

Electrode size (mm ² ) 150 X 120 150 X 120

Number of negative electrodes 1 1

Number of positive electrodes 1 1

Electric energy (Wh) 480 1100

Hydrogen generation rate (ml / min) 7. 9 1. 0

[0070] As described above, in this example, compared to the case of the solid polymer electrolyte electrolytic cell as a comparative example, a hydrogen generation rate of 7.9 times can be obtained with a power consumption of 44%, which is highly efficient. .

In the comparative example, the internal resistance of the solid electrolyte is large and the power consumption is increased. In contrast, in this embodiment, the internal resistance of the electrolytic solution is generally low, and the internal resistance can be adjusted by the concentration of the electrolytic solution.

In addition, in this example, the ion exchange membrane can be manufactured at a low cost, whereas in the comparative example, the solid electrolyte layer and the (solid) active material layer are expensive.

On the other hand, FIG. 6 (B) shows a modified example of the above (A) in which the negative electrode is arranged on both sides of the positive electrode. The second tank 3 according to the present example is on the left and the comparative example is on the right. An electrolytic cell 103 is shown. Compared with the case (A) above, an improvement in the hydrogen generation rate per volume can be expected.

The comparison measurement result of both was as follows.

This example Comparative example

Electrode size (mm ² ) 150 X 120 150 X 120 Number of negative electrodes 2 2

Number of positive electrodes 1 1

Electric power (Wh) 720 1840

Hydrogen generation rate (ml / min) 8. 6 1. 65

Example 6

[0072] Referring to FIG. 7, it is a schematic diagram showing the structure and operation of a hydrogen generator according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, unlike the first and second embodiments, only the first tank 4 which is a chemical reaction tank without the second tank is operated.

The first tank 4 includes a second negative electrode 15 and a second positive electrode made of a plurality of aluminum plates 114, and the tank is filled with the alkaline electrolyte 11.

When the reaction starts, hydrogen gas is generated and aluminum hydroxide 214 is precipitated. According to this method, hydrogen gas for fuel cells can be obtained, and at the same time, aluminum hydroxide can be obtained as a by-product at a low cost.

[0073] The hydrogen generation experiment results of this example using 3% -NaOH solution were as follows.

Reaction time (min) Hydrogen content (ml)

1 186

2 535

3 822

4 833

5 835

6 898

7 916

8 938

The aluminum hydroxide produced on the surface of the aluminum plate is hardly soluble as it is. If it is in a strong alkaline electrolyte exceeding a certain level, it is transformed into water-soluble aluminate and peels and precipitates. Just replenishing

2

fee.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] A first tank having a catalyst, a first compartment having a first positive electrode and a second compartment having a first negative electrode, which are partitioned by a first diaphragm. It consists of 2 tanks,

An acidic electrolyte is injected into the first tank, pure water is supplied to the first section of the second tank, and an alkaline electrolyte is injected into the second section of the second tank. A first pipe is provided between the tank and the first section of the second tank,

When power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas and pure water are generated in the first tank, hydrogen gas is generated in the second section of the second tank, and the second Oxygen gas and acidic electrolyte are generated in the first section of the tank, and the acidic electrolyte is sent from the first section of the second tank to the first tank through the first pipe,

The hydrogen generator, wherein the acidic electrolytic solution and the alkaline electrolytic solution are electrolytic solutions of pH;! -4 and pH9-; 14, respectively.

[2] First tank with catalyst, first compartment with first negative electrode, third compartment with first positive electrode, via second and first diaphragms, respectively A second tank having a second compartment in contact with the first and third compartments,

Alkaline electrolyte is injected into the first tank, pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments of the second tank, and alkaline electrolyte is injected into the second compartment of the second tank, A first pipe is provided between the first tank and the first section of the second tank,

When power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas and pure water are generated in the first tank, oxygen gas is generated in the third section of the second tank, and the second Hydrogen gas and alkaline electrolyte are generated in the first section of the tank, and the alkaline electrolyte is sent from the first section of the second tank to the first tank through the first pipe,

A hydrogen generating apparatus, wherein the alkaline electrolyte is an electrolyte having a pH of 9 to 14;

[3] First tank with catalyst, first compartment with first positive electrode, third compartment with first negative electrode, via first and second diaphragms, respectively A second tank having a second compartment in contact with the first and third compartments,

An acidic electrolyte is injected into the first tank, and pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments of the second tank. An acidic electrolyte is injected into the second compartment of the second tank, and a first pipe is provided between the first tank and the first compartment of the second tank,

When power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas and pure water are generated in the first tank, and oxygen gas and acidic electrolysis are generated in the first section of the second tank. Liquid is generated, hydrogen gas is generated in the third section of the second tank, and the acidic electrolyte is sent from the first section of the second tank to the first tank through the first pipe,

The hydrogen generator according to claim 1, wherein the acidic electrolytic solution is an electrolytic solution having ρΗ1-4.

[4] a second tank having a first compartment with a first positive electrode and a second compartment with a first negative electrode, partitioned by a first diaphragm,

Pure water is supplied to the first compartment, alkaline electrolyte is injected into the second compartment,

When power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, hydrogen gas is generated in the second section, oxygen gas and acidic electrolyte are generated in the first section,

The fuel cell hydrogen generator, wherein the acidic electrolyte solution and the alkaline electrolyte solution are electrolytes of pH;! -4 and pH9--14, respectively.

[5] a first compartment with a first negative electrode, a third compartment with a first positive electrode, and a second and second respectively

And a second tank having a second compartment in contact with the first and third compartments through one diaphragm, wherein pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments, and alkaline electrolysis is provided to the second compartment. Liquid is injected,

When power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, oxygen gas is generated in the third section, hydrogen gas and alkaline electrolyte are generated in the first section, and the alkaline A hydrogen generating apparatus, wherein the electrolyte is an electrolyte having a pH of 9 to 14;

[6] A first compartment with a first positive electrode and a third compartment with a first negative electrode, respectively,

A second tank having a second compartment in contact with the first and third compartments via two diaphragms, wherein pure water is supplied to the first and third compartments, and an acidic electrolyte is provided to the second compartment Is injected,

When power energy is applied to the first positive and negative electrodes, oxygen in the first compartment A hydrogen generator, characterized in that a gas and an acidic electrolyte are generated, hydrogen gas is generated in the third section, and the acidic electrolyte is an electrolyte of ρΗ1-4.

[7] Consists of a first tank with a catalyst made of aluminum,

An alkaline electrolyte is injected into the first tank,

Hydrogen gas and aluminum hydroxide are generated in the first tank,

8. The hydrogen generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first and second diaphragms are an anion exchange membrane and a cation exchange membrane, respectively.

[9] Further, in order to supply pure water to the second tank, the first tank is provided with a second pipe having a pump that operates by applying electric energy to the second positive and negative electrodes. The hydrogen generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the pure water generated by! / Is joined to the second pipe.

[10] The first tank is further equipped with an electrode capable of applying a positive voltage to the alkaline electrolyte to the catalyst, and suppresses the progress of the reaction in the first tank. The hydrogen generator according to claim 2 or 7.

[11] The first tank further comprises an electrode capable of applying a negative voltage to the acidic electrolyte to the catalyst, and suppresses the progress of the reaction in the first tank. The hydrogen generator described in 1.

[12] The fuel cell further includes a fuel cell that is supplied with hydrogen gas generated in the first tank and the second tank and burns the hydrogen gas to generate power energy and pure water, and a part of the power energy is the first tank. 4. The hydrogen generator according to claim 1, wherein the hydrogen generator is applied to the first and second positive and negative electrodes.

[13] The apparatus further includes a fuel cell that is supplied with the hydrogen gas generated in the first tank and the second tank and burns the hydrogen gas to generate electric energy and pure water, and the pure water is supplied to the second tank. The hydrogen generator according to claim 1, wherein the hydrogen generator is supplied.

[14] The apparatus further comprises a fuel cell that is supplied with hydrogen gas generated in the first tank and the second tank and burns the hydrogen gas to generate electric energy and pure water, and further in the second tank. The hydrogen generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the oxygen gas generated in this way is sent to the fuel cell.

[15] The apparatus further includes a fuel cell that is supplied with hydrogen gas generated in the second tank and burns to generate electric energy and pure water, and a part of the electric energy is the first and second. 7. The hydrogen generator according to claim 4, wherein the hydrogen generator is applied to positive and negative electrodes.

[16] Furthermore, a hydrogen fuel cell is provided that is supplied with hydrogen gas generated in the second tank and burns to generate electric energy and pure water, and the pure water is supplied to the second tank. The hydrogen generator according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein:

[17] The apparatus further includes a fuel cell that is supplied with the hydrogen gas generated in the second tank and burns to generate electric energy and pure water, and the oxygen gas generated in the second tank is the fuel. The hydrogen generator according to claim 4, wherein the hydrogen generator is sent to a battery.