WO2008146188A2

WO2008146188A2 - Reaction controller for electrolysis apparatus and method of using same

Info

Publication number: WO2008146188A2
Application number: PCT/IB2008/051872
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nehemia Davidson
Original assignee: Kuzo Holding Inc.
Priority date: 2007-05-30
Filing date: 2008-05-10
Publication date: 2008-12-04
Also published as: WO2008146188A3; CA2590437A1

Abstract

An electrolysis system reaction rate controller and method of using same is provided. The electrolysis system includes an electrolysis tank (101), a membrane (105) separating the tank into two regions and at least one pair of pulsed high voltage electrodes (121/123). The electrolysis system also includes either at least one pair of pulsed low voltage electrodes (115/117) or a plurality of metal members (1001/1003). The reaction rate controller includes at least one permanent magnet (601/603) or at least one electromagnetic coil (127/129) capable of generating a magnetic field within at least a portion of the electrolysis tank. Preferably a power controller (131) is coupled to the electromagnetic coil or coils, the controller providing a means of varying the intensity of the field generated by the coil or coils, thereby affecting the rate of the electrolysis occurring within the tank.

Description

Description Reaction Controller for Electrolysis Apparatus and Method of Using

Same

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates generally to electrolysis systems.

Background Art

[2] Electrolysis is a well known electrochemical process which occurs in an electrolytic cell when an electric current is passed through a pair of electrodes in contact with an electrolyte contained within the cell. The process causes the separation of compounds contained within the cell due to positively charged ions within the electrolyte being attracted to the cathode electrode and negatively charged ions within the electrolyte being attracted to the anode.

[3] Electrolysis is used in a variety of different industrial processes. For example, electrolysis is used in the manufacture of aluminum, lithium, sodium, potassium, chlorine and a host of other materials. Electrolysis is also one of the primary techniques used to produce hydrogen, a technique which has been known and used to this end for over 80 years. To produce hydrogen using this technique, electrolysis is performed on water causing hydrogen to be produced at the cathode and oxygen to be produced at the anode. Conventional electrolysis uses electricity to drive the process while in an alternative approach known as high temperature or steam electrolysis, heat is used as a portion of the energy required to drive the reaction.

[4] In many industrial applications of the electrolysis process, controlling the reaction rate is critical to achieving the desired level of process efficiency. In some systems, controlling reactant concentrations within the electrolyte provide the desired level of control. For example, aluminum producing electrolysis systems often control the concentration of alumina dissolved in the electrolysis bath as a means of optimizing aluminum production and reducing fluorocarbon gas emissions. In still other systems, the current applied to the electrolytic cell is used to control system performance. For example, in electrolysis systems used to produce alkaline ion water and acidic ion water, water flow rates and/or cell resistance are typically used to control the applied current, and thus the system's electrolyzing strength. Technical Problem

[5] Although a variety of electrolysis system control techniques have been devised, typically these systems are either difficult to implement or they offer only a relatively coarse level of system control. Accordingly, what is needed is a new electrolysis system control technique. Technical Solution

[6] The present invention provides an electrolysis system reaction rate controller and method of using same.

[7] In one embodiment, the reaction rate controller is coupled to an electrolysis system that includes an electrolysis tank, a membrane separating the tank into two regions, at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and means for simultaneously pulsing the power supplied to the high voltage and low voltage electrodes. The electrolysis system also includes at least one permanent magnet or at least one electromagnetic coil capable of generating a magnetic field within a portion of the electrolysis tank. A controller is coupled to the electromagnetic coil or coils, the controller providing a means of varying the intensity of the field generated by the coil or coils, thereby affecting the rate of the electrolysis occurring within the tank.

[8] In at least one other embodiment, the reaction rate controller is coupled to an electrolysis system that includes an electrolysis tank, a membrane separating the tank into two regions, at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, metal barrier elements interposed between the electrolysis tank membrane and the high voltage electrodes, and means for pulsing the power supplied to the high voltage electrodes. The electrolysis system also includes at least one permanent magnet or at least one electromagnetic coil capable of generating a magnetic field within a portion of the electrolysis tank. A controller is coupled to the electromagnetic coil or coils, the controller providing a means of varying the intensity of the field generated by the coil or coils, thereby affecting the rate of the electrolysis occurring within the tank. Description of Drawings

[9] Fig. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[10] Fig. 2 is an illustration of an alternate exemplary embodiment utilizing larger electromagnetic coils than those used in the embodiment of Fig. 1 ;

[11] Fig. 3 is an illustration of an alternate exemplary embodiment utilizing a single electromagnetic coil interposed between the low voltage electrodes and the high voltage electrodes within one region of the electrolysis tank;

[12] Fig. 4 is an illustration of an alternate exemplary embodiment utilizing a single electromagnetic coil interposed between the high voltage electrodes;

[13] Fig. 5 is an illustration of an alternate exemplary embodiment utilizing electromagnetic coils surrounds a portion of the outside of the electrolysis tank;

[14] Fig. 6 is an illustration of an electrolysis system similar to that of Fig. 1 in which the electromagnetic coils are replaced by permanent magnets;

[15] Fig. 7 is an illustration of one mode of operation;

[16] Fig. 8 is an illustration of an alternate mode of operation that includes initial elec- trolysis process optimization steps;

[17] Fig. 9 is an illustration of an alternate mode of operation in which the underlying electrolysis process undergoes continuous optimization;

[18] Fig. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an optimization control system;

[19] Fig. 11 is an illustration of an embodiment similar to that shown in Fig. 1, except for the addition of a system controller;

[20] Fig. 12 is an illustration of an embodiment similar to that shown in Fig. 1, except that the low voltage electrodes have been replaced with metal members; and

[21] Fig. 13 is an illustration of an embodiment similar to that shown in Fig. 1, except for the configuration of the underlying electrolysis system. Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[22] Fig. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the invention integrated within a dual voltage electrolysis system 100. As described in detail below, the invention is not limited to use within an electrolysis system that uses this particular configuration.

[23] The electrolysis system includes a tank 101 comprised of a non-conductive material, the size and shape of the tank depending primarily upon the desired system output and the intended application. Other exemplary tank shapes include vertically-configured cylindrical tanks, square tanks, irregularly-shaped tanks, etc. Tank 101 is substantially filled with liquid 103. Preferably liquid 103 is comprised of water with an electrolyte, the electrolyte being either an acid electrolyte or a base electrolyte. Exemplary electrolytes include potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide. The term 'water' as used herein refers to water (H₂O), deuterated water (deuterium oxide or D₂O), tritiated water (tritium oxide or T₂O), semiheavy water (HDO), heavy oxygen water (H₂ ¹⁸O or H₂ ¹⁷O) or any other water containing an isotope of either hydrogen or oxygen, either singly or in any combination thereof (for example, a combination of H₂O and D₂O).

[24] Preferably the electrolysis system with which the invention is intended to be used employs a relatively low electrolyte concentration, thereby maintaining a relatively high initial water resistivity. Preferably the water resistivity prior to the addition of an electrolyte is on the order of 1 to 28 megohms. Preferably the concentration of electrolyte is in the range of 0.05 percent to 10 percent by weight, more preferably the concentration of electrolyte is in the range of 0.05 percent to 2.0 percent by weight, and still more preferably the concentration of electrolyte is in the range of 0.1 percent to 0.5 percent by weight.

[25] Separating tank 101 into two regions is a membrane 105. Membrane 105 permits ion/ electron exchange between the two regions of tank 101. Additionally, assuming that the electrolysis system produces oxygen and hydrogen, membrane 105 also maintains the separation between the hydrogen and oxygen gas regions, thereby simplifying collection of pure hydrogen gas and pure oxygen gas while minimizing the risk of explosions due to the inadvertent recombination of the two gases. As is well known by those of skill in the art, there are a variety of materials that meet all of these criteria, exemplary materials including polypropylene, tetrafluoroethylene, asbestos, etc. In at least one embodiment, membrane 105 is 25 microns thick and comprised of polypropylene.

[26] As noted herein, the present system is capable of generating considerable heat. Accordingly, system components such as tank 101 and membrane 105 that are expected to be subjected to the heat generated by the system must be fabricated from suitable materials and designed to indefinitely accommodate the intended operating temperatures as well as the internal tank pressure. For example, in at least one preferred embodiment the system is designed to operate at a temperature of approximately 90° C at standard pressure. In an alternate exemplary embodiment, the system is designed to operate at elevated temperatures (e.g., 100° C to 150° C) and at sufficient pressure to prevent boiling of liquid 103. In yet another alternate exemplary embodiment, the system is designed to operate at even higher temperatures (e.g., 200° C to 350° C) and higher pressures (e.g., sufficient to prevent boiling). Accordingly, it will be understood that the choice of materials (e.g., for tank 101 and membrane 105) and the design of the system (e.g., tank wall thicknesses, fittings, etc.) will vary, depending upon the intended system operational parameters (primarily temperature and pressure).

[27] Other standard features of electrolysis tank 101 are gas outlets 107 and 109, one located on either side of membrane 105. Oxygen gas produced in the tank region containing the anodes exits the tank through outlet 107 while hydrogen gas produced in the tank region containing the cathodes exits the tank through outlet 109. Replenishment of liquid 103 is preferably through a separate conduit, for example conduit 111. In at least one embodiment, another conduit 113 is used to remove liquid 103 from the system. If desired, a single conduit can be used for both liquid removal and replenishment. It will be appreciated that the system can either be periodically refilled or water can be continuously added at a very slow rate during system operation.

[28] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the electrolysis rate control system is intended to be used with an electrolysis system utilizing both low voltage and high voltage electrodes, each type of electrode being comprised of one or more electrode pairs with each electrode pair including at least one cathode (i.e., a cathode coupled electrode) and at least one anode (i.e., an anode coupled electrode). All cathodes, regardless of the type, are kept in one region of tank 101 while all anodes, regardless of the type, are kept in the other tank region. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1, each type of electrode includes a single pair of electrodes.

[29] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1, low voltage electrodes 115/117 are coupled to a low voltage source 119 and high voltage electrodes 121/123 are coupled to a high voltage source 125. In the illustration and as used herein, voltage source 119 is labeled as a 'low' voltage source not because of the absolute voltage produced by the source, but because the output of voltage source 119 is maintained at a lower output voltage than the output of voltage source 125. Preferably and as shown, the individual electrodes of each pair of electrodes are parallel to one another; i.e., the face of electrode 115 is parallel to the face of electrode 117 and the face of electrode 121 is parallel to the face of electrode 123.

[30] In a preferred embodiment, electrodes 115/117 and electrodes 121/123 are comprised of titanium. In another preferred embodiment, electrodes 115/117 and electrodes 121/123 are comprised of stainless steel. It should be appreciated, however, that other materials can be used and that the same material does not have to be used for both the low and high voltage electrodes, nor does the same material have to be used for both the anode(s) and the cathode(s) of the low voltage electrodes, nor does the same material have to be used for both the anode(s) and the cathode(s) of the high voltage electrodes. In addition to titanium and stainless steel, other exemplary materials that can be used for the low voltage and high voltage electrode pairs include, but are not limited to, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of these materials. As used in the present specification, a metal hydride refers to any compound of a metal and hydrogen or an isotope of hydrogen (e.g., deuterium, tritium) . Preferably the area of the face of electrode 115, and similarly the area of the face of electrode 117, covers a large percentage of the cross-sectional area of tank 101, typically on the order of at least 40 percent of the cross-sectional area of tank 101, and often between approximately 70 percent and 90 percent of the cross-sectional area of tank 101.

[31] In the illustrated and preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 1, a magnetic field of controllable intensity is generated between the low voltage and high voltage electrodes within each region of tank 101. Although a single electromagnetic coil can generate fields within both tank regions, in the illustrated embodiment the desired magnetic fields are generated by a pair of electromagnetic coils 127/129. As shown, electromagnetic coil 127 is interposed between the planes containing low voltage electrode 115 and high voltage electrode 121 and electromagnetic coil 129 is interposed between the planes containing low voltage electrode 117 and high voltage electrode 123. Electromagnetic coils 127/129 are coupled to a controller 131 which is used to vary the current through coils 127/129, thus allowing the strength of the magnetic field generated by coils 127/129 to be varied as desired. The inventor has found that by controlling the intensity of the magnetic field between the low and high voltage electrodes, the rate of the reaction driven by the electrolysis system can be controlled. In particular, increasing the intensity of the magnetic field generated by coils 127/129 decreases the reaction rate. Accordingly, a maximum reaction rate is achieved with no magnetic field while the minimum reaction rate is achieved by imposing the maximum magnetic field. It will be appreciated that the exact relationship between the magnetic field strength and the reaction rate depends on a variety of factors including reaction strength, electrode composition and configuration, voltage/pulse frequency/pulse duration applied to the electrodes, electrolyte concentration, and achievable magnetic field, the last parameter dependent primarily upon the composition of the coils, the number of coil turns, and the current available from controller 131.

[32] Although the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 utilizes coils that are interposed between the low voltage and high voltage electrode planes, it will be appreciated that the critical parameter is to configure the system such that there is a magnetic field, preferably of controllable intensity, between the low voltage and high voltage electrode planes. Thus, for example, if the coils extend beyond either, or both, the plane containing the low voltage electrode(s) and the plane controlling the high voltage electrode(s) as shown in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 2, the invention will still work as the field generated by the coils includes the regions between the low voltage and high voltage electrodes. Note that in the view shown in Fig. 2, portions of, or all of, electrodes 115, 117, 121, and 123 are obscured. Additionally it will be appreciated that although the embodiments shown in Figs. 1 and 2 utilize a single controller 131 coupled to both coils 127 and 129, the system can also utilize separate controllers for each coil (not shown). Similarly, while the illustrated embodiments utilize dual coils, the invention can also use a single coil to generate a single field which affects both tank regions, or primarily affects a single tank region. For example, the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3 is identical to that of Fig. 1 except that the illustrated system only uses a single coil 301 interposed between low voltage electrode 117 and high voltage electrode 123. Similarly, the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 4 is identical to that of Fig. 1 except that the illustrated system only uses a single coil 401 interposed between high voltage electrodes 121 and 123. Note that in Fig. 4 electrodes 115 and 117 as well as membrane 105 are obscured from view by coil 401.

[33] As previously noted, the invention is not limited to a specific electrolysis system configuration. In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, the high voltage electrodes (e.g., electrodes 121/123) are positioned outside of the planes containing the low voltage electrodes (e.g., electrodes 115/117). In other words, the separation distance between the planes containing the high voltage electrodes is greater than the separation distance between the planes containing the low voltage electrodes with the low voltage electrodes being positioned between the high voltage electrodes. Although the separation distance between electrode pairs is dependent upon a variety of factors (e.g., tank size, voltage/current, etc.), in at least one preferred embodiment the separation of the low voltage electrodes (e.g., electrodes 115 and 117) is between 0.2 millimeters and 15 centimeters while the separation distance between the high voltage electrodes (e.g., electrodes 121 and 123) is between 30 and 50 centimeters. The high voltage electrodes (e.g., electrodes 121/123) may be larger, smaller or the same size as the low voltage electrodes (e.g., electrodes 115/117).

[34] As previously noted, the voltage applied to high voltage electrode pair 121/123 is greater than that applied to low voltage electrodes 115/117. Preferably the ratio of the high voltage to the low voltage is at least 5:1, more preferably the ratio is between 5:1 and 100:1, still more preferably the ratio is between 5:1 and 33:1, and even still more preferably the ratio is between 5:1 and 20:1. Typically the high voltage generated by source 125 is within the range of 50 volts to 50 kilovolts, and more typically within the range of 100 volts to 5 kilovolts. Typically the low voltage generated by source 119 is within the range of 3 volts to 1500 volts, and more typically within the range of 12 volts to 750 volts.

[35] The power supplied to both the low and high voltage electrodes is pulsed, preferably at a frequency of between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and more preferably at a frequency of between 100 Hz and 10 kHz. The pulse width (i.e., pulse duration) is preferably between 0.01 and 75 percent of the time period defined by the frequency, and more preferably between 1 and 50 percent of the time period defined by the frequency. Thus, for example, for a frequency of 150 Hz, the pulse duration is preferably in the range of 0.67 microseconds to 5 milliseconds, and more preferably in the range of 66.7 microseconds to 3.3 milliseconds. Alternately, for example, for a frequency of 1 kHz, the pulse duration is preferably in the range of 0.1 microseconds to 0.75 milliseconds, and more preferably in the range of 10 microseconds to 0.5 milliseconds. The frequency and/or pulse duration can be changed during system operation, thus allowing the system output efficiency to be continually optimized. Power is simultaneously applied to the low voltage electrodes and the high voltage electrodes, i.e., the pulses applied to the low voltage electrodes coincide with the pulses applied to the high voltage electrodes. In order to achieve the desired pulses, typically either a single pulse generator 133 controls a low voltage switch 135 and a high voltage switch 137 which, in turn, control the output of voltage sources 119 and 125, respectively, or the voltage sources include internal pulsing means which are timed to insure simultaneous pulsing of the low and high voltage electrodes.

[36] The electrolysis process using the dual voltage electrode configuration generates considerable heat. As such, if the system is allowed to become too hot for a given pressure, the fluid within tank 101 will begin to boil. Additionally, various system components may be susceptible to heat damage. Although electrolysis can be terminated or the reaction rate slowed down using control coils 127/129, typically the system will also include active cooling means, thus allowing the system temperature to be maintained within an acceptable range regardless of the strength of the electrolysis process. For example, in at least one embodiment the cooling system does not allow the temperature to exceed 90° C. Although it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to a specific type of cooling system or a specific implementation of the cooling system, in at least one embodiment tank 101 is surrounded by a coolant conduit 139, portions of which are shown in Figs. 1-6 and 11-13. Within coolant conduit 139 is a heat transfer medium, for example water. Coolant conduit 139 can either surround a portion of the electrolysis tank as shown, or be contained within the electrolysis tank, or be integrated within the walls of the electrolysis tank. The coolant pump and refrigeration system is not shown in the figures as cooling systems are well known by those of skill in the art.

[37] It should be understood that the invention is not limited to embodiments in which the electromagnetic coils are mounted within the electrolysis tank. For example, the electromagnetic coils can be fabricated within the walls of the tank, or mounted to the exterior surface of the tank. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 5, electromagnetic coils 501 and 503 are wrapped around the outside of tank 101. By mounting the electromagnetic coils within, or outside, of the tank walls, coil deterioration from electrolytic erosion is minimized.

[38] It should be appreciated that although the use of electromagnetic coils are preferred, as they provide a convenient means of controlling the intensity of the magnetic field, permanent magnets can also be used with the invention to generate the requisite magnetic field. For example, Fig. 6 is an illustration of an electrolysis system similar to that of Fig. 1, with electromagnetic coils 127 and 129 being replaced with permanent magnets 601 and 603, respectively. Note that in the view of Fig. 6, only the edge of electrode 115 is visible while none of electrode 123 is visible.

[39] It will be appreciated that, similar to the variations possible with the electromagnetic implementation, the system shown in Fig. 6 can be altered without departing from the invention. For example, the size and shape of the permanent magnets can be adjusted to fit the specific size of the electrolysis system as well as the desired magnetic field. Similarly, instead of using a pair of permanent magnets a single magnet can be used, for example replacing electromagnetic coil 301 in Fig. 3 or electromagnetic coil 401 in Fig. 4. Additionally, although the primary application of permanent magnets is to provide continuous control over the reaction occurring within the electrolysis tank, the amount of control determined by the strength and location of the permanent magnets, it will be appreciated that the system can utilize means for controllably varying the distance between the permanent magnets and the chamber, thereby varying the impact of the magnets on the reaction.

[40] It should be understood that the present invention can be operated in conjunction with an electrolysis system in a number of modes, the primary differences between modes being differences in operation of the underlying electrolysis system. Fig. 7 illustrates one method of operation requiring minimal optimization of the electrolysis system. As illustrated, initially the electrolysis tank is filled with water (step 701). The level of water in the tank preferably just covers the top of the electrodes although the process can also be run with even more water filling the tank. The electrolyte can either be mixed into the water prior to filling the tank or after the tank is filled. The initial settings for the frequency (step 703), pulse duration (step 705), and low/high voltage (step 707) are then set. It will be appreciated that the order of set-up is clearly not critical to the electrolysis process. Once set-up is complete, electrolysis is initiated (step 709). Although the electromagnetic control system can be used immediately, preferably the system is allowed to reach steady-state operation first (step 711). Once steady-state operation is reached, the electromagnetic coils and controller 131 are used to maintain a system output (e.g., heat, hydrogen, electricity) within a desired range (step 713). This continues until process termination (step 715).

[41] The above sequence of processing steps works best once the operational parameters of the underlying electrolysis process have been optimized for the given system configuration. Exemplary system configuration parameters that affect the optimal electrolysis settings include tank size, quantity of water, type and/or quality of water, electrolyte composition, electrolyte concentration, pressure, electrode size, electrode composition, electrode shape, electrode separation, low voltage setting, high voltage setting, pulse frequency and pulse duration.

[42] Fig. 8 illustrates an alternate procedure appropriate for use with new, untested system configurations, the approach providing optimization steps for the underlying electrolysis process. Initially the tank is filled (step 801) and initial settings for pulse frequency (step 803), pulse duration (step 805), high voltage supply output (step 807) and low voltage supply output (step 809) are made. Typically the initial settings are based on previous settings that have been optimized for a similarly configured system. For example, assuming that the new configuration was the same as a previous configuration except for the composition of the electrodes, a reasonable initial set-up would be the optimized set-up from the previous configuration.

[43] After the initial set-up is completed, electrolysis is initiated (step 811) and the output of the system is monitored (step 813). Thus, for example, assuming that the system is to be optimized for heat production, the rate of temperature increase could be monitored in step 813. Electrolysis optimization can begin immediately or the system can be allowed to run for an initial period (optional step 815) prior to optimization. The initial period of operation can be based on achieving a predetermined temperature, allowing a predetermined time period to pass (e.g., 30 minutes), or meeting a different criteria.

[44] After the initial period of operation is completed, assuming that the selected approach includes step 815, the electrolysis process is optimized (step 817). Typically during the electrolysis process optimization step, i.e. step 817, the pulse duration, pulse frequency, and input voltages for the high voltage and low voltage electrodes are optimized although it will be appreciated that only a subset of these parameters may be optimized during step 817. During process optimization, the output of the system is monitored (step 819) in order to determine if further optimization is required (step 821). This optimization process continues until, based on system performance, a determination is made that the system has been sufficiently optimized (step 823). After this point, the electromagnetic coils and controller 131 are used to maintain the output of the system (e.g., heat, hydrogen, electricity) within the desired range (step 825). The electrolysis process then continues until suspension of the process is desired (step 827).

[45] Fig. 9 illustrates an alternate mode of operation in which continuous electrolysis process optimization is performed. The initial process set-up (i.e., steps 801-815) is performed the same as in the previously described mode. After initial start-up, or after an initial period of operation (step 815) as previously described, the electrolysis process is optimized (step 817) while monitoring the performance of the system (step 819). Once again, a determination is made (step 901) whether or not the system has been sufficiently optimized. Note that the level of performance required by step 901 may be the same as that used in the process of Fig. 8, or a different performance level may be used. After the system has completed the optimization process (step 903), the electromagnetic coils and controller 131 are used to maintain the desired output level (step 905). Unlike the previous embodiment, however, additional electrolysis process optimization may be performed if the system determines it is necessary (step 907). In one embodiment, this determination is made based on the amount of time that has passed since the last optimization, i.e., it is performed periodically. In another embodiment, this determination is made based on system performance criteria, for example a sudden drop in system output. This process continues until the electrolysis process is suspended (step 909).

[46] The optimization process described relative to Figs. 8 and 9 can be performed manually. In the preferred embodiment, however, the system and the optimization of the system are controlled via a system controller as illustrated in the block diagram of Fig. 10. As shown, system controller 1001 receives system performance data from monitor 1003. For example, monitor 1003 can monitor the temperature of the fluid within the tank, thus allowing absolute temperature and the rate of temperature change to be monitored and/or determined. Alternately, monitor 1003 can monitor another system parameter such as hydrogen flow rate or system output power. It will be appreciated that there are a variety of parameters that can be used to gauge the performance of the system, primarily based on the intended application of the system. Using this information, system controller 1001 can optimize the system, as previously described, by varying such parameters as the output of the high voltage source 1005, the output of the low voltage source 1007 and the frequency and pulse duration generated by pulse generator 1009. Additionally, system controller 1001 can control the output of the system using the electromagnetic control system 1011 of the invention.

[47] An exemplary implementation of the system described relative to block diagram Fig.

10 is shown in Fig. 11. System 1100 is similar to system 100 except for the inclusion of a system controller 1101 that is preferably coupled to low voltage source 119, high voltage source 125, power controller 131 and pulse generator 133, thus allowing it full control over the operating parameters of the system. If the system controller is only used to control and optimize a subset of these parameters, the system controller is coupled accordingly (i.e., coupled to the pulse generator to control pulse frequency and duration; coupled to the high voltage source to control the high voltage; coupled to the low voltage source to control the low voltage). In order to allow optimization automation, system controller 1101 is also coupled to a system monitor, for example a temperature monitor 1103 as shown. In at least one preferred embodiment system controller 1101 is also coupled to a monitor 1105, monitor 1105 providing either the pH or the resistivity of liquid 103 within electrolysis tank 101, thereby providing means for determining when additional electrolyte needs to be added. In at least one preferred embodiment system controller 1101 is also coupled to a liquid level monitor 1107, thereby providing means for determining when additional water needs to be added to the electrolysis tank. Preferably system controller 1101 is also coupled to one or more flow valves 1109 which allow water, electrolyte, or a combination of water and electrolyte to be automatically added to the electrolysis system in response to pH/ resistivity data provided by monitor 1105 (i.e., when the monitored pH/resistivity falls outside of a preset range) and/or liquid level data provided by monitor 1107 (i.e., when the monitored liquid level falls below a preset value). It will be appreciated that system controller 1101 can be used both to optimize the system as well as perform routine operation (e.g., system start/stop based on a preset schedule, etc.).

[48] In addition to variations of the electromagnetic control system as described above, it will be appreciated that the electromagnetic rate controller of the invention can be used with other electrolysis systems. For example, the electromagnetic rate controller subsystem can be used with embodiments using high voltage electrodes and metal members as described below and shown in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 12. System 1200 is based on the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 and as such it is basically the same as system 100 except for the replacement of low voltage electrodes 115/117 with a pair of metal members 1201/1203; metal member 1201 interposed between high voltage electrode 121 and membrane 105 and metal member 1203 interposed between high voltage electrode 123 and membrane 105. As in the previous embodiment, preferably the surface area of the faces of members 1201 and 1203 is a large percentage of the cross-sectional area of tank 101, typically on the order of at least 40 percent, and often between approximately 70 percent and 90 percent of the cross- sectional area of tank 101. Preferably the separation between members 1201 and 1203 is between 0.2 millimeters and 15 centimeters. The preferred ranges for the size of the high voltage electrodes as well as the high voltage power, pulse frequency and pulse duration are the same as in the exemplary subsystem shown in Fig. 1 and described above. As with the electromagnetic rate controller used with the dual voltage system, it will be appreciated that configurations using high voltage electrodes and metal members can utilize various configurations of internal electromagnetic coils, electromagnetic coils mounted within the tank walls, electromagnetic coils mounted outside of the tank walls and permanent magnets.

[49] As previously noted, the present invention can be used with electrolysis systems employing a variety of different configurations. Alternate configurations can utilize differently sized/shaped tanks, different electrolytic solutions, and a variety of different electrode materials and configurations (for example, multiple pairs of high voltage electrodes, multiple pairs of low voltage electrodes, etc.). Additionally the underlying electrolysis system can utilize a range of input powers, frequencies and pulse widths (i.e., pulse duration). In general, the exact configuration depends upon the desired output as well as available space and power. Fig. 13 illustrates a few of these alternative aspects of the underlying electrolysis system. Specifically, system 1300 utilizes: a cylindrical tank 1301 with a lengthwise-oriented membrane 1303; multiple high voltage electrode pairs (note: only high voltage electrodes 1305-1307 are visible in this view as the high voltage electrodes in the other tank region are obscured by membrane 1303 and the low voltage electrodes); multiple low voltage electrode pairs (i.e., electrodes 1309-1314); and elliptically-shaped electromagnetic coils 1315-1316.

Claims

[1] An electrolysis rate controller comprising: an electrolysis system comprising: an electrolysis tank; a membrane separating said electrolysis tank into a first region and a second region, wherein said membrane restricts hydrogen gas flow and oxygen gas flow between said first and second regions; at least one pair of low voltage electrodes of a first type contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode; at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region, wherein a first separation distance corresponding to the distance between the high voltage electrodes of each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is greater than a second separation distance corresponding to the distance between the low voltage electrodes of each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes; a low voltage source with a first output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes; a high voltage source with a second output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, wherein said second output voltage is higher than said first output voltage; and means for simultaneously pulsing both said low voltage source and said high voltage source voltage at a specific frequency and with a specific pulse duration; and at least one electromagnetic coil, said at least one electromagnetic coil generating a controllable magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank; and means for controlling magnetic field intensity of said magnetic field, wherein said controlling means is coupled to said at least one electromagnetic coil.

[2] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is contained within said electrolysis tank.

[3] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said at least one electro- magnetic coil is integrated within a wall of said electrolysis tank.

[4] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil surrounds a section of said electrolysis tank.

[5] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[6] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[7] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[8] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is comprised of a first electromagnetic coil and a second electromagnetic coil, wherein said first electromagnetic coil generates a controllable magnetic field within a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and wherein said second electromagnetic coil generates a controllable magnetic field within a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[9] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, said controlling means further comprising a variable output power supply.

[10] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said first output voltage is between 3 volts and 1500 volts, said second output voltage is between 50 volts and 50 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[11] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said first output voltage is between 12 volts and 750 volts, said second output voltage is between 100 volts and 5 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[12] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein each anode of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes is comprised of a first material, wherein each cathode of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes is comprised of a second material, wherein each anode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a third material, wherein each cathode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a fourth material, and wherein said first, second, third and fourth materials are selected from the group consisting of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite and metal hydrides.

[13] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, said electrolysis system further comprising means for cooling said electrolysis system.

[14] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 13, wherein said cooling means is comprised of a conduit containing a heat transfer medium, wherein a portion of said conduit is in thermal communication with at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[15] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 14, wherein said portion of said conduit surrounds at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[16] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 14, wherein said portion of said conduit is contained within said electrolysis tank.

[17] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 14, wherein said portion of said conduit is integrated within a portion of a wall comprising said electrolysis tank.

[18] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 14, wherein said heat transfer medium is comprised of water.

[19] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to said low voltage source and to said high voltage source.

[20] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to a low voltage switch and coupled to a high voltage switch, wherein said low voltage switch is coupled to said low voltage source, and wherein said high voltage switch is coupled to said high voltage source.

[21] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a first internal pulse generator coupled to said low voltage source and a second internal pulse generator coupled to said high voltage source.

[22] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 1, further comprising a liquid within said electrolysis tank.

[23] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 22, wherein said liquid includes at least one of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, or water containing an isotope of oxygen.

[24] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 22, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

[25] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 22, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

[26] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 22, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

[27] An electrolysis rate controller comprising: an electrolysis system comprising: an electrolysis tank; a membrane separating said electrolysis tank into a first region and a second region, wherein said membrane restricts hydrogen gas flow and oxygen gas flow between said first and second regions; at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region; a plurality of metal members contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein at least a first metal member of said plurality of metal members is contained within said first region and interposed between said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein at least a second metal member of said plurality of metal members is contained within said second region and interposed between said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane; a high voltage source with an output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes; means for pulsing said high voltage source voltage at a specific frequency and with a specific pulse duration; and at least one electromagnetic coil, said at least one electromagnetic coil generating a controllable magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank; and means for controlling magnetic field intensity of said magnetic field, wherein said controlling means is coupled to said at least one electromagnetic coil.

[28] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is contained within said electrolysis tank.

[29] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is integrated within a wall of said electrolysis tank.

[30] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil surrounds a section of said electrolysis tank.

[31] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[32] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[33] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and membrane, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[34] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is comprised of a first electromagnetic coil and a second electromagnetic coil, wherein said first electromagnetic coil generates a controllable magnetic field within a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein said second electromagnetic coil generates a controllable magnetic field within a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[35] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, said controlling means further comprising a variable output power supply.

[36] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said output voltage is between 50 volts and 50 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[37] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said output voltage is between 100 volts and 5 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[38] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein each anode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a first material, wherein each cathode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a second material, wherein each metal member of said plurality of metal members is comprised of a third material, and wherein said first, second and third materials are selected from the group consisting of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite and metal hydrides.

[39] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, said electrolysis system further comprising means for cooling said electrolysis system.

[40] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 39, wherein said cooling means is comprised of a conduit containing a heat transfer medium, wherein a portion of said conduit is in thermal communication with at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[41] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 40, wherein said portion of said conduit surrounds at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[42] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 40, wherein said portion of said conduit is contained within said electrolysis tank.

[43] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 40, wherein said portion of said conduit is integrated within a portion of a wall comprising said electrolysis tank.

[44] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 40, wherein said heat transfer medium is comprised of water.

[45] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to said high voltage source.

[46] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, wherein said pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to a high voltage switch, wherein said high voltage switch is coupled to said high voltage source.

[47] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 27, further comprising a liquid within said electrolysis tank.

[48] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 47, wherein said liquid includes at least one of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, or water containing an isotope of oxygen.

[49] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 47, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

[50] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 47, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

[51] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 47, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

[52] An electrolysis rate controller comprising: an electrolysis system comprising: an electrolysis tank; a membrane separating said electrolysis tank into a first region and a second region, wherein said membrane restricts hydrogen gas flow and oxygen gas flow between said first and second regions; at least one pair of low voltage electrodes of a first type contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode; at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region, wherein a first separation distance corresponding to the distance between the high voltage electrodes of each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is greater than a second separation distance corresponding to the distance between the low voltage electrodes of each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes; a low voltage source with a first output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes; a high voltage source with a second output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, wherein said second output voltage is higher than said first output voltage; and means for simultaneously pulsing both said low voltage source and said high voltage source voltage at a specific frequency and with a specific pulse duration; and at least one permanent magnet, said at least one permanent magnet generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[53] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[54] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[55] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[56] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said at least one permanent magnet is comprised of a first permanent magnet and a second permanent magnet, wherein said first permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and wherein said second permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

[57] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said first output voltage is between 3 volts and 1500 volts, said second output voltage is between 50 volts and 50 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[58] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said first output voltage is between 12 volts and 750 volts, said second output voltage is between 100 volts and 5 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[59] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein each anode of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes is comprised of a first material, wherein each cathode of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes is comprised of a second material, wherein each anode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a third material, wherein each cathode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a fourth material, and wherein said first, second, third and fourth materials are selected from the group consisting of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite and metal hydrides.

[60] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, said electrolysis system further comprising means for cooling said electrolysis system.

[61] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 60, wherein said cooling means is comprised of a conduit containing a heat transfer medium, wherein a portion of said conduit is in thermal communication with at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[62] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 61, wherein said portion of said conduit surrounds at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[63] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 61, wherein said portion of said conduit is contained within said electrolysis tank.

[64] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 61, wherein said portion of said conduit is integrated within a portion of a wall comprising said electrolysis tank.

[65] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 61, wherein said heat transfer medium is comprised of water.

[66] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to said low voltage source and to said high voltage source.

[67] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to a low voltage switch and coupled to a high voltage switch, wherein said low voltage switch is coupled to said low voltage source, and wherein said high voltage switch is coupled to said high voltage source.

[68] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a first internal pulse generator coupled to said low voltage source and a second internal pulse generator coupled to said high voltage source.

[69] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 52, further comprising a liquid within said electrolysis tank.

[70] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 69, wherein said liquid includes at least one of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, or water containing an isotope of oxygen.

[71] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 69, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

[72] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 69, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

[73] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 69, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

[74] An electrolysis rate controller comprising: an electrolysis system comprising: an electrolysis tank; a membrane separating said electrolysis tank into a first region and a second region, wherein said membrane restricts hydrogen gas flow and oxygen gas flow between said first and second regions; at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region; a plurality of metal members contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein at least a first metal member of said plurality of metal members is contained within said first region and interposed between said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein at least a second metal member of said plurality of metal members is contained within said second region and interposed between said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane; a high voltage source with an output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes; means for pulsing said high voltage source voltage at a specific frequency and with a specific pulse duration; and at least one electromagnetic coil, said at least one permanent magnet generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[75] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[76] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[77] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and membrane, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[78] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said at least one permanent magnet is comprised of a first permanent magnet and a second permanent magnet, wherein said first permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein said second permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

[79] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said output voltage is between 50 volts and 50 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[80] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said output voltage is between 100 volts and 5 kilovolts, said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, and said specific pulse duration is between 1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

[81] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein each anode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a first material, wherein each cathode of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes is comprised of a second material, wherein each metal member of said plurality of metal members is comprised of a third material, and wherein said first, second and third materials are selected from the group consisting of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite and metal hydrides.

[82] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, said electrolysis system further comprising means for cooling said electrolysis system.

[83] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 82, wherein said cooling means is comprised of a conduit containing a heat transfer medium, wherein a portion of said conduit is in thermal communication with at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[84] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 83, wherein said portion of said conduit surrounds at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

[85] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 83, wherein said portion of said conduit is contained within said electrolysis tank.

[86] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 83, wherein said portion of said conduit is integrated within a portion of a wall comprising said electrolysis tank.

[87] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 83, wherein said heat transfer medium is comprised of water.

[88] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to said high voltage source.

[89] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, wherein said pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to a high voltage switch, wherein said high voltage switch is coupled to said high voltage source.

[90] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 74, further comprising a liquid within said electrolysis tank.

[91] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 90, wherein said liquid includes at least one of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, or water containing an isotope of oxygen.

[92] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 90, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

[93] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 90, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

[94] The electrolysis rate controller of claim 90, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

[95] A method of controlling an electrolysis system output rate, the method comprising the steps of: applying a low voltage to at least one pair of low voltage electrodes contained within an electrolysis tank of an electrolysis system, said low voltage applying step further comprising the step of pulsing said low voltage at a first frequency and with a first pulse duration; applying a high voltage to at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, said high voltage applying step further comprising the step of pulsing said high voltage at said first frequency and with said first pulse duration, wherein said high voltage pulsing step is performed simultaneously with said low voltage pulsing step, and wherein said low voltage electrodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes are positioned between said high voltage electrodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes; and generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank, wherein said magnetic field affects said electrolysis system output rate.

[96] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

[97] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

[98] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second electromagnetic coil adjacent to a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said second region.

[99] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region and a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region.

[100] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

[101] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

[102] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first permanent magnet adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second permanent magnet adjacent to a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said second region.

[103] The method of claim 95, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to a first region and a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region.

[104] The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of controlling an intensity corresponding to said magnetic field.

[105] The method of claim 104, said intensity controlling step further comprising the step of controllably varying an output of a power supply coupled to at least one electromagnetic coil, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil performs said magnetic field generating step.

[106] The method of claim 95, further comprising the steps of filling said electrolysis tank with a liquid and selecting said liquid from the group consisting of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, or water containing an isotope of oxygen.

[107] The method of claim 106, further comprising the step of adding an electrolyte to said liquid.

[108] The method of claim 107, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

[109] The method of claim 107, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

[110] The method of claim 107, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

[I l l] The method of claim 95, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes a low voltage anode and a low voltage cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes a high voltage anode and a high voltage cathode, the method further comprising the steps of: fabricating said low voltage anode from a first material; fabricating said low voltage cathode from a second material; fabricating said high voltage anode from a third material; fabricating said high voltage cathode from a fourth material; and selecting said first, second, third and fourth materials from the group consisting of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite and metal hydrides.

[112] The method of claim 95, further comprising the steps of selecting said high voltage within the range of 50 volts to 50 kilovolts and selecting said low voltage within the range of 3 volts to 1500 volts.

[113] The method of claim 95, further comprising the steps of selecting said high voltage within the range of 100 volts to 5 kilovolts and selecting said low voltage within the range of 12 volt to 750 volts.

[114] The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage and said low voltage such that a ratio of said high voltage to said low voltage is at least 5 to 1.

[115] The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency to be within the range of 50 Hz and 1 MHz.

[116] The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

[117] The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

[118] The method of claim 95, further comprising the steps of: monitoring said electrolysis system output rate; and optimizing an operating parameter of said electrolysis system in response to said monitored electrolysis system output rate.

[119] The method of claim 118, further comprising the step of selecting said low voltage as said operating parameter.

[120] The method of claim 118, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage as said operating parameter.

[121] The method of claim 118, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency as said operating parameter.

[122] The method of claim 118, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration as said operating parameter.

[123] The method of claim 118, wherein said optimizing step is performed prior to said magnetic field generating step.

[124] The method of claim 118, wherein said optimizing step is performed before and after said magnetic field generating step.

[125] The method of claim 118, further comprising the step of selecting a rate of heat generation as said monitored electrolysis system output rate.

[126] The method of claim 118, further comprising the step of selecting a rate of hydrogen generation as said monitored electrolysis system output rate.

[127] The method of claim 118, wherein said optimizing step is performed repeatedly.

[128] The method of claim 118, wherein said optimizing step is automated.

[129] A method of controlling an electrolysis system output rate, the method comprising the steps of: positioning at least one pair of high voltage electrodes within an electrolysis tank of an electrolysis system, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes at least one high voltage cathode electrode and at least one high voltage anode electrode, wherein each high voltage cathode electrode is positioned within a first region of said electrolysis tank and each high voltage anode electrode is positioned within a second region of said electrolysis tank; positioning a plurality of metal members within said electrolysis tank, said positioning step further comprising the steps of: positioning at least a first metal member of said plurality of metal members within said first region between said high voltage cathode electrodes and a membrane located within said electrolysis tank; and positioning at least a second metal member of said plurality of metal members within said second region between said high voltage anode electrodes and said membrane; and applying a high voltage to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, said applying step further comprising the step of pulsing said high voltage applied to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes at a first frequency and with a first pulse duration; and generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank, wherein said magnetic field affects said electrolysis system output rate.

[130] The method of claim 129, further comprising the steps of filling said electrolysis tank with a liquid and selecting said liquid from the group consisting of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, or water containing an isotope of oxygen.

[131] The method of claim 130, further comprising the step of adding an electrolyte to said liquid.

[132] The method of claim 131, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

[133] The method of claim 131, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

[134] The method of claim 131, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

[135] The method of claim 129, further comprising the steps of: fabricating said at least one high voltage cathode electrode from a first material; fabricating said at least one high voltage anode electrode from a second material; fabricating said plurality of metal members from a third material; and selecting said first, second, and third materials from the group consisting of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon- graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of steel, nickel, copper, iron, stainless steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, titanium, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite and metal hydrides.

[136] The method of claim 129, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage within the range of 50 volts to 50 kilo volts.

[137] The method of claim 129, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage within the range of 100 volts to 5 kilo volts.

[138] The method of claim 129, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency to be within the range of 50 Hz and 1 MHz.

[139] The method of claim 129, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

[140] The method of claim 129, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

[141] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank.

[142] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

[143] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first electromagnetic coil adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second electromagnetic coil adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

[144] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to said first region and said second region of said electrolysis tank.

[145] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank.

[146] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

[147] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first permanent magnet adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second permanent magnet adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

[148] The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to said first region and said second region of said electrolysis tank.

[149] The method of claim 129, further comprising the step of controlling an intensity corresponding to said magnetic field.

[150] The method of claim 149, said controlling step further comprising the step of controllably varying an output of a power supply coupled to at least one electromagnetic coil, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil performs said magnetic field generating step.

[151] The method of claim 129, further comprising the steps of: monitoring said electrolysis system output rate; and optimizing an operating parameter of said electrolysis system in response to said monitored electrolysis system output rate.

[152] The method of claim 151, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage as said operating parameter.

[153] The method of claim 151, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency as said operating parameter.

[154] The method of claim 151, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration as said operating parameter.

[155] The method of claim 151, wherein said optimizing step is performed prior to said magnetic field generating step.

[156] The method of claim 151, wherein said optimizing step is performed before and after said magnetic field generating step.

[157] The method of claim 151, further comprising the step of selecting a rate of heat generation as said monitored electrolysis system output rate.

[158] The method of claim 151, further comprising the step of selecting a rate of hydrogen generation as said monitored electrolysis system output rate.

[159] The method of claim 151, wherein said optimizing step is performed repeatedly.

[160] The method of claim 151, wherein said optimizing step is automated.