WO2012011252A1

WO2012011252A1 - Gas generation device and gas generation method, and device and method utilizing the device and the method

Info

Publication number: WO2012011252A1
Application number: PCT/JP2011/003987
Authority: WO
Inventors: 正治棚橋; 宏恵近藤; 棚橋　正和; 祥子登
Original assignee: 有限会社ターナープロセス
Priority date: 2010-07-21
Filing date: 2011-07-12
Publication date: 2012-01-26
Also published as: CN203238334U; JPWO2012011252A1; JP5311245B2

Abstract

The device of the present invention can generate a gas by electrolyzing an aqueous liquid (25) placed in first and second vessels (11, 12). The device comprises a separator (23), the first and second vessels (11, 12) which are connected to each other through the separator (23), a first electrode (21) which is arranged in the first vessel (11), and a second electrode (22) which is arranged in the second vessel (12). In the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (25), the first and second vessels (11, 12) are so adapted that the lowering of the level of the liquid surface of the aqueous liquid (25) in the second vessel (12) can be prevented when the pressure in a gas in the second vessel (12) becomes higher than that in the first vessel (11).

Description

GAS GENERATOR, GAS GENERATION METHOD, AND DEVICE AND METHOD USING THE SAME

The present invention relates to a gas generation apparatus and a gas generation method, and an apparatus and method using the same.

Hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are gases that are often used in chemical experiments. However, when these gases are used, gas cylinders are usually used, and management of the gas cylinders is difficult. Moreover, when using a gas cylinder, it was necessary to move a gas cylinder to the place which uses hydrogen gas or oxygen gas, or to perform piping. Therefore, conventionally, the labor for obtaining hydrogen gas and oxygen gas at an arbitrary place and at an arbitrary time has been great.

On the other hand, apparatuses that generate hydrogen gas and oxygen gas by electrolyzing an aqueous solution have been proposed (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 2004-143508 and 2007-284730). In the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-143508, an electrolytic solution is electrolyzed using an ion exchange membrane. However, since the capacity of the ion exchange membrane decreases due to use, it has been necessary to exchange or regenerate it. In addition, since the electric resistance of the ion exchange membrane is relatively large, it is necessary to apply a high voltage during electrolysis.

In the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-284730, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are generated by electrolysis of alkaline electrolyzed water. In this apparatus, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas controlled to have an equal pressure are supplied to the outside (downstream side). Specifically, when the pressure of hydrogen gas reaches 3.5 kg / cm ² , the hydrogen gas is caused to flow downstream, and when the pressure of oxygen gas reaches 3.5 kg / cm ² , the oxygen gas flows downstream. Flushed to the side. In the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-284730, the pressure of the gas-liquid separation tank for hydrogen gas is adjusted to be equal to the pressure of the gas-liquid separation tank for oxygen gas (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-284730). [0025] paragraph).

In the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-284730, in addition to the electrolytic cell, a gas-liquid separation tank, an intermediate tank, an isobar for equalizing hydrogen gas pressure and oxygen gas pressure, and the like are necessary. Is complicated. In the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-284730, an electrolytic solution is supplied by a pump so as to fill the electrolytic cell (paragraph [0020]). That is, in the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-284730, the electrolytic cell is always filled with the electrolytic solution.

JP 2004-143508 A JP 2007-284730 A

In an apparatus in which a tank in which hydrogen gas is generated and a tank in which oxygen gas is generated are partitioned by a porous film, when the level of the aqueous solution to be electrolyzed falls to the position of the film, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas May be mixed. When these gases are mixed, it becomes impossible to obtain high purity hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. Moreover, when the liquid level of the aqueous solution to be electrolyzed is lowered and the electrode is exposed, the electrolysis efficiency is lowered.

In such a situation, one of the objects of the present invention is to provide a novel gas generation apparatus and gas generation method that can easily limit the lowering of the liquid level of the electrolyzed aqueous liquid. Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel apparatus and method using the gas generating apparatus and gas generating method of the present invention.

To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a first gas generating device. The first gas generating device is a gas generating device that generates gas by electrolyzing an aqueous liquid placed in the first and second tanks, and is connected to the separator with the separator interposed therebetween. During the electrolysis of the first and second tanks, the first electrode disposed in the first tank, the second electrode disposed in the second tank, and the aqueous liquid, Limiting means for limiting a decrease in at least one liquid level selected from the group consisting of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the first tank and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank.

Furthermore, the present invention provides a second gas generator. The second gas generation device is a gas generation device that generates gas by electrolyzing aqueous liquids placed in the first and second tanks, and is connected to the separator with the separator interposed therebetween. During the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid, including the first and second tanks, the first electrode disposed in the first tank, and the second electrode disposed in the second tank The shape in which the lowering of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank is limited when the gas pressure in the second tank becomes higher than the gas pressure in the first tank. The first and second tanks have.

Furthermore, the present invention provides an apparatus for increasing the dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas in a liquid. This apparatus includes the gas generator of the present invention and means for bringing the gas generated by the gas generator into contact with the liquid.

Furthermore, the present invention provides a gas generation method. The gas generation method includes (i) a step of placing an aqueous liquid in the first and second tanks connected with a separator interposed therebetween, and (ii) a first electrode disposed in the first tank, Electrolyzing the aqueous liquid by applying a voltage between the second electrode disposed in the second tank, and in the step (ii), The lowering of at least one liquid level selected from the group consisting of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank is limited.

Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for producing a liquid having a high dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas. The manufacturing method includes (I) a step of generating a gas by the gas generation method of the present invention, and (II) a step of bringing the gas into contact with a liquid.

According to the gas generating apparatus and the gas generating method of the present invention, it is possible to easily prevent troubles caused by a decrease in the liquid level in the tank, for example, troubles such as gas mixing and electrolysis efficiency. That is, according to the apparatus and method of the present invention, it is possible to efficiently obtain a gas having a high purity. Moreover, according to the gas generator of the present invention, a predetermined gas can be easily generated. Further, according to the method and apparatus of the present invention, an aqueous liquid having a high dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas can be easily obtained.

It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the apparatus of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the pressure difference regulator of the apparatus shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of the use condition of the pressure difference regulator shown to FIG. 2A. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of a pressure difference regulator provided with a heater. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the use condition of the apparatus shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows the subject which this invention tends to solve. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of the pressure difference regulator used with the apparatus of this invention. It is a figure which shows one component of the pressure difference regulator shown to FIG. 5A. It is a figure which shows the other components of the pressure difference regulator shown to FIG. 5A. It is a figure which shows the other components of the pressure difference regulator shown to FIG. 5A. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of a use condition about another example of the apparatus of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows another example of the pressure difference regulator used with the apparatus of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows another example of the pressure difference regulator used with the apparatus of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows another example of the pressure difference regulator used with the apparatus of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the pressure difference regulator shown to FIG. 7C. FIG. 7B is another cross-sectional view of the pressure difference regulator shown in FIG. 7C. FIG. 7B is another cross-sectional view of the pressure difference regulator shown in FIG. 7C. It is sectional drawing which shows an example of the gas distributor used with the apparatus of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the gas distributor shown to FIG. 8A. It is sectional drawing which shows the function of the gas distributor shown to FIG. 8A. It is a figure which shows an example of the electrode used with the apparatus of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of arrangement | positioning of an electrode and a separator. It is a schematic diagram which shows another example of the apparatus of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the use condition of the apparatus shown in FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows a part of other example of the apparatus of this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the other part of the apparatus shown to FIG. 12A. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the use condition of the apparatus shown to FIG. 12A and 12B. It is a schematic diagram which shows another example of the apparatus of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically an example of the tank used for the apparatus which raises the dissolved concentration of gas.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described. In the following description, embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of examples, but the present invention is not limited to the examples described below. In the following description, specific numerical values and materials may be exemplified, but other numerical values and materials may be applied as long as the effects of the present invention can be obtained. Moreover, in the description using drawing, the same code | symbol may be attached | subjected to the same part and the overlapping description may be abbreviate | omitted.

[Gas generator (gas generator)]
Items common to the first and second gas generating apparatuses of the present invention will be described. The gas generator of the present invention generates gas by electrolyzing an aqueous liquid placed in the first and second tanks. The apparatus includes a separator, a first tank, a second tank, a first electrode, and a second electrode.

The apparatus of the present invention can generate a predetermined gas by electrolyzing a solvent in an aqueous liquid. Specifically, the first gas generating device of the present invention can generate the first and second gases by electrolyzing a solvent in the aqueous liquid. Similarly, the 2nd gas production | generation apparatus of this invention can produce | generate the 1st and 2nd gas by electrolyzing the solvent in an aqueous liquid. For example, the apparatus of the present invention can generate hydrogen gas and oxygen gas by electrolyzing water in an aqueous liquid. Therefore, the apparatus of the present invention can be used as a hydrogen gas generator, an oxygen gas generator, or a hydrogen gas and oxygen gas generator.

In this specification, “aqueous liquid” means a liquid containing water. Below, the aqueous liquid electrolyzed with the apparatus of this invention may be called "aqueous liquid (A)." As long as the effect of the present invention can be obtained, the aqueous liquid (A) may contain a solvent (for example, alcohol) other than water. The proportion of water in the solvent of the aqueous liquid (A) is usually 50% by weight or more (for example, 80% by weight or more, 95% by weight or more, or 100% by weight). Typically, the aqueous liquid (A) is an aqueous solution containing other ions in addition to hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions. Examples of such an aqueous liquid (A) include tap water.

When the aqueous liquid (A) contains alcohol, it is possible to generate at least carbon dioxide (carbon dioxide) and hydrogen gas by electrolyzing water and alcohol in the aqueous liquid. As the alcohol, for example, at least one selected from the group consisting of methanol, ethanol, propanol, and butyl alcohol can be used. Examples of the electrode reaction when the aqueous liquid (A) contains methanol include the following reactions.
(Anode) CH ₃ OH + H ₂ O → CO ₂ + 6H ⁺ + 6e ⁻
(Cathode) 6H ⁺ + 6e ⁻ → 3H ₂
(Total) CH ₃ OH + H ₂ O → CO ₂ + 3H ₂

The alcohol concentration in the aqueous liquid (A) used for the generation of carbon dioxide is not particularly limited, and is, for example, in the range of 0.1 mol / L to 10 mol / L, preferably in the range of 1 mol / L to 5 mol / L. .

As described above, the gas generating device of the present invention can also be used as a device for generating carbon dioxide gas or a device for generating carbon dioxide gas and hydrogen gas. In addition, when electrolyzing the aqueous liquid (A) containing alcohol, oxygen gas may be produced in addition to carbon dioxide gas and hydrogen gas.

The higher the conductivity of the aqueous liquid (A), the lower the voltage required for the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A). Therefore, the aqueous liquid (A) may be an acidic aqueous solution, an alkaline aqueous solution, or an aqueous solution in which a salt is dissolved. However, these solutions may require care in handling or may be troublesome to prepare. Therefore, it is convenient if an aqueous liquid (for example, tap water) that is easy to handle and obtain can be used as the aqueous liquid (A). In the apparatus of the present invention, by adopting an appropriate configuration, an aqueous liquid (for example, tap water) having a conductivity in the range of 100 μS / cm to 1000 μS / cm (for example, 100 μS / cm to 300 μS / cm) is electrolyzed. It is possible. When electrolyzing the aqueous liquid (A) having this degree of conductivity, it is possible to electrolyze water at a voltage of 15 volts or less by appropriately arranging appropriate electrodes. The pH of the aqueous liquid (A) is not limited, but the aqueous liquid (A) having a pH in the range of about 5 to 9 has an advantage that it is easy to handle.

In addition, when the electrical conductivity of aqueous liquid (A) is too low, you may dissolve the compound (for example, salt) which produces an ion in aqueous liquid (A). There is no limitation on the salt to be added. The salt to be added is preferably such that the ions produced thereby do not react within the electrolysis potential of water. Examples of the salt to be added include a salt containing a proton ion or an alkali metal ion as a cation and a sulfate ion (SO ₄ ²⁻ ) or a phosphate ion (PO ₄ ³⁻ ) as an anion. The salt concentration in the aqueous liquid (A) is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, in the range of 0.01 mol / L to 1 mol / L.

In order to obtain oxygen gas with high purity, it is preferable to use an aqueous liquid (A) that does not contain chlorine ions. By using the aqueous liquid (A) that does not contain chlorine ions, generation of chlorine gas during electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A) can be suppressed. The aqueous liquid (A) not containing chlorine ions can be obtained, for example, by dissolving a salt (eg, potassium sulfate) containing no chlorine in reverse osmosis water obtained by a reverse osmosis membrane. By using a gas with high purity, it is possible to obtain an aqueous liquid in which a predetermined gas (hydrogen gas, oxygen gas, or carbon dioxide gas) has a high dissolved concentration and another gas has a low dissolved concentration.

When the aqueous liquid (A) in the first and second tanks is reduced by electrolysis, the reduced amount of aqueous liquid (for example, water) may be added during the electrolysis. However, adding an aqueous liquid during electrolysis complicates the device. Thus, in a typical example, no aqueous liquid (eg, water) is added during electrolysis.

By electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A), a first gas is generated in the first tank (first electrode surface), and a second gas is generated in the second tank (second electrode surface). . Hereinafter, the pressure difference between the gas pressure in the first tank and the gas pressure in the second tank may be referred to as “pressure difference (DP)”. When the pressure difference (DP) increases, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank shift. When this positional deviation increases, one of the liquid levels reaches a position where it contacts the separator. In that case, the gas with the higher pressure passes through the separator, and the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank are mixed.

In addition, when the first electrode or the second electrode is exposed due to a decrease in the liquid level of either one, the efficiency of electrolysis decreases. In order to avoid such a problem, the apparatus of the present invention provides a liquid surface of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank and an aqueous solution in the second tank during the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A). Limiting means (or structure) for limiting a decrease in at least one liquid level selected from the group consisting of the liquid levels of the liquid (A) is included. In one example, the restricting means prevents the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) from reaching a specific member. Here, the specific member may be a separator that partitions the first tank and the second tank, or may be the first and second electrodes. The specific member may be at least one member selected from the group consisting of a separator, a first electrode, and a second electrode. Hereinafter, the specific member may be referred to as “specific member (S)”.

The limiting means is that the level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank or the level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank is lowered during the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A). May be a means for preventing the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank from being mixed. In the following, such limiting means may be referred to as “mixing prevention means”.

The first and second tanks are connected with a separator in between. In another aspect, the first and second tanks are partitioned by a separator. In a normal use state, the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank are not released from other than the gas path. That is, in a normal use state, the first and second tanks are cut off from the atmosphere except for the gas path. However, in the second gas generation device described later, the tank on the side where the unused gas among the generated gases exists may be open to the atmosphere.

Electrolysis is performed in the first and second tanks. The first electrode is disposed in the first tank. The second electrode is disposed in the second tank. In addition, the upper part between the 1st tank and the 2nd tank may be partitioned off by the partition which does not permeate | transmit neither a liquid nor gas. And the lower part of the partition may be partitioned off by the separator. As long as the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) is at the partition wall, the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank are not mixed.

The first and second tanks may be formed by separating one container with a separator. Moreover, you may connect the container which comprises a 1st tank, and the container which comprises a 2nd tank on both sides of a separator. In one aspect, the apparatus of the present invention includes a tank that is divided into a first tank and a second tank by a separator.

The first and second tanks are formed of a material that can hold the aqueous liquid (A). The first and second tanks can be formed of, for example, glass, resin, rubber, metal, or a composite thereof. At least a part of the first and second tanks may be formed of a transparent material so that the inside of the tank can be observed.

The inner surfaces of the first and second tanks may be hydrophilic. By making the inner surface of the tank hydrophilic, it is possible to suppress the generated gas from adhering to the inner surface of the tank. Examples of the method for making the inner surface of the tank hydrophilic include a method of attaching a hydrophilic film to the inner surface of the tank and a method of hydrophilizing the inner surface of the resin tank. Examples of the hydrophilic film include a membrane filter (manufactured by Micropore, product number: JCWP14225). Examples of the hydrophilic treatment include a method of treating with an oxidizing agent such as potassium permanganate, a corona discharge treatment, and a plasma discharge treatment.

There are no particular limitations on the internal volumes of the first tank and the second tank. The internal volumes of the first tank and the second tank may each be in the range of 100 cm ³ to 2000 cm ³ (for example, in the range of 300 cm ³ to 1000 cm ³ ).

The separator (diaphragm) allows the aqueous liquid (A) and ions (cation and anion) to pass through. The separator prevents a short circuit between the first electrode and the second electrode. Therefore, the separator is formed of a material (for example, an insulating material) that can prevent a short circuit between the first electrode and the second electrode. The separator allows the aqueous liquid (A) in the first and second tanks to pass through. On the other hand, when the gas generated on the surface of the electrode passes through the separator, at least one of the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank becomes a mixed gas. Therefore, it is preferable that the separator does not transmit the gas bubbles generated on the surface of the electrode when immersed in the aqueous liquid (A). The gas permeability can be controlled by, for example, the surface density of the separator or the roughness of the eyes. There is no limitation in particular in the form of a separator, A porous film | membrane may be sufficient and the cloth (woven fabric or nonwoven fabric) formed with the fiber may be sufficient.

The separator may be hydrophilic. In the hydrophilic separator, the liquid is easily adsorbed on the surface, and the gas is difficult to be adsorbed. Therefore, even if the first and second electrodes are brought closer to each other so as to contact the separator, mixing of the first gas and the second gas (for example, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas) can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to bring the first and second electrodes closer by using a hydrophilic separator. Further, by using a hydrophilic separator, it is possible to use a porous separator that can reduce the voltage drop.

Examples of hydrophilic separators include separators formed using fibers having a hydrophilic surface. Examples of hydrophilic separators include cloths and membranes formed of cotton, hemp, rayon, hair, silk, and the like. Alternatively, a separator made of a hydrophilic synthetic resin or a separator made of a synthetic resin that has been subjected to a hydrophilic treatment may be used.

As a measure of whether or not it is hydrophilic, whether or not a phenomenon such as a capillary phenomenon occurs can be cited as one of measures. Specifically, a part of the separator is immersed in water, and the remaining part is taken out of the water. At that time, if the water rises against the gravity against the remaining portion, it can be estimated that the separator is hydrophilic.

The separator used in the apparatus of the present invention has a path (for example, a hydrophilic path) through which the aqueous liquid (A) can pass. The aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank and the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank are connected via this path. This pathway then passes both cations and anions. The separator (diaphragm) used in the apparatus of the present invention usually does not have an ion exchange capacity, and allows both cations and anions to pass therethrough. In the apparatus of the present invention, it is not necessary to use an ion exchange membrane (ion exchange material). Therefore, the apparatus of the present invention usually does not include an ion exchange membrane (ion exchange material). By not including an ion exchange membrane (ion exchange material), it becomes easy to maintain the apparatus, and water can be electrolyzed at a low voltage. However, as long as the effect of the present invention is obtained, the apparatus of the present invention may include an ion exchange membrane (ion exchange material).

The first electrode and the second electrode are arranged so as to sandwich the separator. The shortest distance between the first electrode and the second electrode is preferably 10 mm or less (for example, in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm). For example, when the flat plate-like first electrode and the flat plate-like second electrode are arranged in parallel, the shortest distance between the first electrode and the second electrode is 20 mm or less (for example, 0.5 mm to A range of 10 mm or a range of 1 mm to 5 mm is preferable. By setting the shortest distance between the first electrode and the second electrode to 10 mm or less, the voltage drop due to the aqueous liquid (A) between the electrodes can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to electrolyze an aqueous liquid having a conductivity of 100 μS / cm to 500 μS / cm at a voltage of 15 volts or less. The shortest distance between the first electrode and the second electrode may be 0.5 mm or more (for example, 1 mm or more). The shortest distance between the first electrode and the second electrode may be 8 mm or less, or 5 mm or less. When the aqueous liquid (A) having high conductivity is used (for example, when the aqueous liquid (A) to which salt is added is used), the shortest distance between the first electrode and the second electrode is longer. However, the aqueous liquid (A) can be electrolyzed at a low voltage.

In order to electrolyze the aqueous liquid (A) having low conductivity at a relatively low voltage, the distance between the first electrode and the second electrode may be shortened. However, there is a problem that the first gas generated by the first electrode and the second gas generated by the second electrode are mixed only by shortening the distance between the electrodes. Further, there is a risk that the first electrode and the second electrode are short-circuited. Therefore, in this invention, the separator is arrange | positioned between the 1st electrode and the 2nd electrode, and mixing of gas and the short circuit of an electrode are prevented.

As the first and second electrodes, electrodes capable of causing an electrolysis reaction of water are used. Examples of the first and second electrodes include an electrode including a metal portion. For example, the first and second electrodes may be metal electrodes. It is preferable that a metal that easily undergoes an electrolysis reaction of water exists on the surfaces of the first and second electrodes. Examples of metals that are susceptible to electrolysis of water include platinum. A preferred example of the first and second electrodes is a metal electrode having platinum on the surface. Specifically, a platinum electrode or a metal electrode whose surface in contact with a liquid is coated with platinum is preferably used. Examples of metals coated with platinum include niobium, titanium, and tantalum, and other metals. In particular, the surface of the electrode (anode) that generates oxygen gas is preferably coated with platinum. The cathode may be an electrode made of a metal that generally has little corrosion, such as nickel or stainless steel. Note that an electrode including a conductive material other than metal (for example, a conductive carbon material) may be used. Alternatively, an electrode obtained by coating the surface of these conductive materials with a metal (platinum or other metal) may be used.

A DC voltage is usually applied between the first electrode and the second electrode. As long as the aqueous liquid (A) is electrolyzed, the magnitude of the applied voltage and the application method are not particularly limited. The voltage may be applied between the electrodes so that the current is constant. Alternatively, a constant voltage may be applied between the electrodes. In one example, a DC voltage in the range of 2 to 70 volts or 5 to 20 volts is applied between the electrodes.

The first and second electrodes may each have a shape that spreads two-dimensionally. For example, the first and second electrodes may be flat electrodes. In this specification, the “flat electrode” means an electrode having a flat shape as a whole, and includes an electrode formed by two-dimensionally arranging linear electrodes. A through-hole may be formed in the flat electrode. Further, each of the first and second electrodes may be composed of a plurality of linear electrodes arranged on one plane, or may be an expanded metal. When the first and second electrodes have a flat plate shape, they are preferably arranged so as to face each other in parallel with the separator interposed therebetween.

Each of the first electrode and the second electrode may include a plurality of linear electrodes arranged in a stripe shape along the vertical direction. By using such an electrode, the gas generated on the surface of the electrode is likely to rise in the vertical direction. Each of the first and second electrodes may be a comb-like electrode. In order to quickly raise the gas (bubbles) generated on the surface of the electrode, the surface of the linear electrode is preferably curved rather than flat. Therefore, the cross section of the linear electrode is preferably circular rather than rectangular. The distance L between two adjacent linear electrodes may be 1.5 mm or less. The distance L may be in the range of 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm, for example. By setting the distance L to 1.5 mm or less, it is possible to particularly suppress the gas generated on the electrode surface from staying on the electrode surface.

When the first and second electrodes include the linear electrode, the distance between the first electrode and the separator is 1 mm or less, and the distance between the second electrode and the separator is 1 mm or less. May be. For example, the first and second electrodes may be in contact with the separator. When each of the first and second electrodes includes a plurality of linear electrodes arranged along the vertical direction, the gas generated on the surface of the linear electrode forms a gap between the linear electrodes. It rises up. Therefore, even when the distance between the electrode and the separator is close, the gas can be quickly discharged from the aqueous liquid (A).

Alternatively, an electrode having a structure in which gas generated on the electrode surface flows on the side opposite to the separator may be used. For example, you may use the electrode in which the through-hole inclined with respect to the horizontal direction was formed. Examples of such electrodes include electrodes using expanded metal. Such an electrode is particularly preferably used when the electrode and the separator are in contact.

The first and second electrodes are connected to a power source (usually a DC power source) for applying a voltage (usually a DC voltage) to them. The power source may be an AC-DC converter that converts an AC voltage obtained from an outlet into a DC voltage. The power source may be a power generation device such as a solar cell or a fuel cell or a battery (a primary battery and a secondary battery).

Note that the apparatus of the present invention may include a plurality of at least one of the first tank and the second tank. In that case, the first tank and the second tank are alternately arranged. A separator is partitioned between the first tank and the second tank. For example, if the apparatus of the present invention includes three first tanks and two second tanks, they are “first tank / second tank / first tank / second tank / They are alternately arranged in the order of “first tank”. In this case, the electrode and the separator may be, for example, “first electrode / separator / second electrode / second electrode / separator / first electrode / first electrode / separator / second electrode / second”. Electrode / separator / first electrode ”. According to such a configuration, the electrode area per unit volume can be increased, and the resistance between the electrodes can be reduced. Therefore, with this configuration, the amount of Joule heat generated can be reduced, and the temperature of the aqueous liquid (A) is unlikely to rise. That is, with this configuration, it is possible to increase the amount of current without increasing the amount of heat generation.

In the apparatus of the present invention, when a pressure difference (DP) occurs, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank change. Specifically, when the pressure of the gas in the first tank becomes higher than the pressure of the gas in the second tank, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank decreases, and the second The liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the tank rises. When the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank reaches the separator, the gas having a high pressure in the first tank passes through the separator. As a result, the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank are mixed. That is, by reducing a part of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) (the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank or the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank), The gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank may be mixed. Moreover, when a part of liquid level of aqueous liquid (A) falls, a 1st electrode or a 2nd electrode may be exposed and the efficiency of electrolysis may fall. The apparatus of the present invention has means and / or structures that limit such a drop in liquid level. Those limiting means and structure will be described below.

[First gas generator]
In an example of the first gas generation device, the limiting unit adjusts the pressure difference (DP) so that the pressure difference between the gas pressure in the first tank and the gas pressure in the second tank is small. Pressure difference adjuster (pressure difference adjusting means). During the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A), the level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank or the aqueous liquid ( It can restrict | limit that the liquid level of A) falls. In one aspect, the pressure difference regulator is configured such that the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the first tank reaches a specific member (S) and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank is specified. It is an apparatus (means) that prevents the member (S) from being reached. Moreover, in another viewpoint, this pressure difference regulator is such that the gas in the first tank reaches the specific member (S), and the gas in the second tank reaches the specific member (S). It is a device (means) for preventing the arrival.

In one aspect, the first gas generating device of the present invention includes a separator, a first tank, a second tank, a first electrode, a second electrode, and a pressure difference regulator (pressure difference adjusting means). Including. By this pressure difference regulator, mixing of the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank can be prevented. That is, an example of the pressure difference regulator functions as a mixing preventing unit.

As long as the pressure difference (DP) can be adjusted, the pressure difference regulator is not particularly limited. The pressure difference adjuster may adjust the pressure difference (DP) using a force generated by the pressure difference (DP). The pressure difference regulator functions to increase the pressure of the lower pressure of the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank when a pressure difference (DP) occurs. It may be.

An example of the pressure difference regulator includes a container including at least one flow path selected from the group consisting of a first gas flow path and a second gas flow path, and a partition disposed in the container. . The partition divides the flow path of the first gas and the flow path of the second gas in the container. Hereinafter, the container of this example may be referred to as “container (B)”. When the partition is deformed by the pressure difference (DP), the resistance to the gas flow in at least one flow path changes so as to reduce the pressure difference (DP). For example, the resistance changes so that the pressure of the flow path whose pressure is lower than that of the other flow paths becomes higher. In one example, the partition is deformed by a pressure difference (DP), so that the at least one flow path is opened and closed. More specifically, when the partition is deformed by the pressure difference (DP), the flow path whose pressure is lower than that of the other flow paths is closed.

As the partition, a partition that does not substantially transmit the first and second gases and deforms due to a pressure difference (DP) can be used. The partition may be formed of a thin metal plate, a resin sheet, a rubber sheet, or a composite material thereof. Examples of the container (B) include a container that is substantially impermeable to the first and second gases and that is not substantially deformed by the pressure of the first and second gases. The container (B) may be formed of metal, resin, rubber, or a composite material thereof.

In the above example of the pressure difference regulator, the inside of the container (B) may be partitioned into a first space and a second space by a partition. In addition, an inlet and an outlet through which the first gas flows may be connected to the first space. In this case, the first space becomes a part of the flow path of the first gas. An inflow port and a discharge port through which the second gas flows may be connected to the second space. In this case, the second space becomes a part of the flow path of the second gas. Alternatively, only the second gas inlet may be connected to the second space so that the pressure of the second gas is applied to the second space and the partition. Conversely, only the first gas inlet may be connected to the first space, and the inlet and outlet through which the second gas flows may be connected to the second space.

The pressure difference regulator may further include a heater for heating the inside (for example, the partition) of the container (B). This heater may be included in the partition or may exist outside the partition. For example, the inside of the container (B) may be heated by arranging a heater outside the container (B) and heating the entire container (B). Alternatively, a heater may be embedded in the container (B). A known heater can be used as the heater, for example, a resistance heater (for example, a film heater or a ribbon heater) can be used. When gas is generated by the gas generator of the present invention, high-humidity gas flows through the container (B). As a result, water droplets may adhere to the inside (for example, the partition) of the container (B). If water accumulates inside the container (B), the pressure difference may not be adjusted properly. Such a problem can be avoided by heating the inside of the container (B) with a heater. The temperature for heating the container (B) is not limited, and may be in the range of 40 to 100 ° C. (for example, in the range of 50 to 80 ° C. or in the range of 60 to 70 ° C.). Moreover, the apparatus of this invention may also include the heater which heats the flow path of gas other than a container (B).

The pressure difference regulator includes at least one detector that monitors the position of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank and the position of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank. And two flow regulators. The at least one flow regulator changes the flow rate of the first gas and / or the flow rate of the second gas in accordance with the output of the detector. The detector is not particularly limited, and may be a sensor that detects the water level by electricity, a sensor that detects the water level by light, or a sensor that detects the water level by pressure. Examples of the sensor that detects the water level by electricity include a sensor that detects the water level by electric resistance and a sensor that detects the water level by capacitance. When the detector detects that the level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank or the level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank has approached the separator or electrode, the signal is sent to the controller. Is output. The controller adjusts the flow regulator based on the signal. When one of the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank is higher in pressure than the other, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the tank in which one of the gases is lower. The controller reduces the flow rate of the flow path through which the gas existing in the tank different from the tank in which the liquid level has decreased (that is, the tank in which the liquid level has increased). As a result, the liquid level of the tank in which the liquid level has risen is lowered, and the liquid level of the tank in which the liquid level has been lowered is raised. In this way, the liquid level is suppressed from reaching the specific member (S).

In the device of the present invention, voltage application may be stopped when the liquid level approaches a specific member (S). In order to perform such a process, the apparatus of the present invention includes the position of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank and the position of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank. And a controller that stops voltage application based on an output signal of the detector. The detector described above can be used as the detector. The apparatus of the present invention may include a timer that stops voltage application at a predetermined time.

In another example of the first gas generation device, the limiting means includes a gas-liquid separation unit provided in a space in which the first gas generated in the first tank flows. The space through which the first gas flows includes a space above the first tank and a flow path connecting the first tank and the outside (for example, the atmosphere). This configuration can be adopted when the gas pressure in the second tank is higher than the gas pressure in the first tank. When using the apparatus, when the pressure of the gas in the second tank increases, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank decreases, and the aqueous liquid (A in the first tank) ) The liquid level rises. When the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) arranged in the first tank reaches the gas-liquid separation part, the position of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) does not rise any further. In this embodiment, when the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) arranged in the first tank reaches the gas-liquid separator, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) arranged in the second tank is a specific level. Do not reach the member (S). Such a state can be realized by adjusting the shapes of the first and second tanks and the amount of the aqueous liquid (A) disposed in the tank. In one example, the gas-liquid separator functions as a mixing preventing unit.

The gas-liquid separation unit (gas-liquid separation means) allows only gas to pass without passing liquid. The gas-liquid separation unit may be a layer or a membrane. An example of the gas-liquid separation unit is a gas-liquid separation layer filled with a water repellent. Examples of the water repellent include a fluororesin powder such as polytetrafluoroethylene. Another example of the gas-liquid separation unit is a water-repellent gas-liquid separation membrane. Examples of the gas-liquid separation membrane include liquid phase separation filter paper (for example, liquid phase separation filter paper manufactured by Whatman).

Note that the gas-liquid separation unit may be disposed not only in the space in which the first gas generated in the first tank flows, but also in the space in which the second gas generated in the second tank flows. . That is, the first gas generation device of the present invention may include a first gas / liquid separation unit and / or a second gas / liquid separation unit. The first gas-liquid separation unit restricts the rise of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank, and the second gas-liquid separation part is the liquid of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank. Limit the rise of the surface. For example, the gas-liquid separation unit may be provided in at least one space selected from the group consisting of a space in which the first gas flows and a space in which the second gas flows. Here, the space through which the second gas flows includes a space above the second tank and a flow path connecting the second tank and the outside (for example, the atmosphere). In addition, the first gas generation device of the present invention may include both a pressure difference regulator and a gas-liquid separator.

The first gas generator of the present invention may further include a ventilation resistance member described later. For example, when the restricting means is a gas-liquid separator, the apparatus of the present invention may further include a ventilation resistance member arranged on the downstream side of the gas-liquid separator.

[Second gas generator]
In the second gas generator, during the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A), when the gas pressure in the second tank becomes higher than the gas pressure in the first tank, The first and second tanks have a shape that restricts the lowering of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A). In the second gas generation device, gas mixing and electrode exposure can be prevented by using the first and second tanks having specific shapes. In other words, the first and second tanks having such a shape function as the limiting means. In another aspect, during the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A), when the gas pressure in the second tank becomes higher than the gas pressure in the first tank, the aqueous liquid in the second tank. The first and second tanks have a shape in which the liquid level of (A) hardly reaches the specific member (S).

In an example of the second gas generating device, the horizontal sectional area inside one of the first and second tanks is made larger than the horizontal sectional area inside the other tank. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the fluctuation in the height of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the tank having the larger cross-sectional area. In addition, with such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the installation area of the apparatus while reducing fluctuations in the height of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in one tank.

When the apparatus is used under the condition that the gas pressure in the second tank is higher than the gas pressure in the first tank, the cross-sectional area of the second tank should be larger than the cross-sectional area of the first tank. That's fine. In this case, the rising range of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank is increased. Therefore, in order to prevent the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank from leaking out of the first tank or flowing into the gas flow path, the height in the tank of the first tank is set to You may make it higher than the height in the tank of a 2nd tank. For example, a tubular portion may be provided above the first tank.

In addition, a member for increasing the ventilation resistance of the first gas may be disposed in the flow path of the first gas generated in the first tank. Such a ventilation resistance member is usually disposed in the vicinity of the final end of the flow path of the first gas. By disposing a ventilation resistance member that increases the ventilation resistance, it is possible to suppress rapid fluctuation of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) and pulsation of the liquid level. The ventilation resistance member may utilize a viscous flow of gas. Examples of the ventilation resistance member include a porous member. Examples of the ventilation resistance member also include a member (for example, a thin tube) provided with a channel having a small cross-sectional area. The inner diameter of the flow path in the ventilation resistance member may be in the range of 0.1 mm to 4 mm, for example, in the range of 0.2 mm to 2 mm, or in the range of 0.3 mm to 1 mm. Further, the ventilation cross-sectional area of the flow path resistance in the ^{^{member, 8 × 10 -3 mm 2 ~}} 12mm may be in the range of ^2, for example, ^{^{1 × 10 -2 mm 2 ~ 3mm}} 2 ranging and 7 × 10 ^- it may be in the range of ^{^²} mm ² ~ 0.8mm ^2. The length of the tube may be an appropriate length depending on the inner diameter. For example, when the diameter or cross-sectional area of the flow path in the ventilation resistance member is in any of the above ranges, the length may be in the range of 0.5 mm to 1000 mm, for example, in the range of 1 mm to 200 mm, 5 mm to It may be in the range of 200 mm. Usually, the larger the cross-sectional area of the flow path in the ventilation resistance member, the longer the flow path needs to be.

Moreover, the second gas generation device of the present invention may include the first gas-liquid separation unit and / or the second gas-liquid separation unit described above.

Hereinafter, in this specification, the phrase “tank cross-sectional area” means a horizontal cross-sectional area inside the tank. In addition, the horizontal cross-sectional area inside the first tank may be referred to as “cross-sectional area (S1)”. The horizontal cross-sectional area inside the second tank may be referred to as “cross-sectional area (S2)”. The tank may have a shape in which the horizontal cross-sectional area inside the tank varies depending on the height. In that case, the horizontal cross-sectional area inside the tank means the average of the cross-sectional areas in the range in which the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) present in the tank fluctuates. In the second gas generating device, when the device is used under the condition that the gas pressure in the second tank is higher than the gas pressure in the first tank, the cross-sectional area (S2) is changed to the cross-sectional area (S1). 1.1 to 10 times the range, for example, a range 2 to 10 times, a range 2 to 5 times, or a range 3 to 5 times. Moreover, when the ratio of the cross-sectional area (S1) and the cross-sectional area (S2) is in these ranges, the height in the tank of the first tank is 1.2 of the height in the tank of the second tank. For example, it may be in the range of 5 to 5 times, for example, in the range of 1.3 to 4 times or in the range of 1.5 to 3 times. In addition, when the tubular part is provided above the 1st tank, the height of the tubular part is also included in the height in the tank of the 1st tank. The internal volume of the second tank may be in the range of 200 cm ³ to 3000 cm ³ , and the internal volume of the first tank is smaller than the internal volume of the second tank.

It should be noted that other gas generators obtained by modifying the second gas generator of the present invention can also be used. For example, the shape of the tank is an arbitrary shape, and the ventilation resistance member is disposed in at least one flow path selected from the group consisting of a first gas flow path and a second gas flow path. Devices that do so are also available. In this apparatus, portions other than the shape of the tank can have the same configuration as the second gas generation apparatus. According to this apparatus, it is possible to suppress rapid fluctuations in the liquid level of the aqueous liquid and pulsations of the liquid level.

As long as the effects of the present invention can be obtained, the configuration included in the first gas generation device may be applied to the second gas generation device, and the configuration included in the second gas generation device may be applied to the first gas generation device. You may apply to.

The second gas generation device does not require the pressure difference regulator (pressure difference adjustment means) and the gas-liquid separation unit described in the first gas generation device. However, the second gas generation device of the present invention may include a mixing preventing means used in the first gas generation device of the present invention. For example, the second gas generator of the present invention may include a pressure difference regulator or a gas-liquid separator used in the first gas generator of the present invention. In another aspect, the shapes of the first and second tanks of the first gas generator of the present invention may be the shapes of the first and second tanks used in the second gas generator. For example, in the first gas generator of the present invention having a pressure difference regulator or a gas-liquid separator, the cross-sectional area of one of the first and second tanks is made larger than the cross-sectional area of the other tank. May be.

The first and second gas generation apparatuses of the present invention may include a water vapor trap for removing water vapor or a liquid trap for trapping liquid in the gas flow path. The water vapor trap may be a desiccant such as silica gel, or may be a device that condenses and removes water vapor. A known water vapor trap can be used as such a water vapor trap. The water vapor trap and the heater function as a means for preventing condensation in the pressure difference regulator and in the flow path.

There is no particular limitation on the liquid trap, and a known liquid trap can be used. An example of the liquid trap includes a tank in which a flow path through which gas flows and a flow path through which gas is discharged are connected. The two flow paths are connected to the upper side of the tank. Usually, the tank is airtight except for two channels. By using the liquid trap, it is possible to trap the dew condensation generated in the flow path. Further, by using the liquid trap, when the aqueous liquid (A) flows through the flow channel for some reason, the aqueous liquid (A) can be trapped.

In an apparatus including a ventilation resistance member, it is preferable to arrange a liquid trap in the flow path upstream of the ventilation resistance member. For example, in an apparatus including a gas-liquid separation unit and a ventilation resistance member, it is preferable to arrange a liquid trap in a flow path between the gas-liquid separation unit and the ventilation resistance member. In an apparatus including a liquid trap and a ventilation resistance member, a water vapor trap may be disposed in a flow path between the liquid trap and the ventilation resistance member.

In the gas generating device including the pressure difference regulator, the water vapor trap may be disposed on the upstream side of the pressure difference regulator. For example, the water vapor trap may be disposed in a flow path between a tank in which electrolysis is performed and a pressure difference regulator.

The first and second gas generation apparatuses of the present invention may include a distributor (distribution means) for distributing the generated gas. The distributor is disposed in the gas flow path. In the first gas generating device, the distributor is usually arranged on the downstream side of the pressure difference regulator in the gas flow path. An example of the distributor includes a container and a plurality of sheet-like partitions arranged in the container. The plurality of sheet-like partitions are arranged in parallel to each other. At least a part of the container is divided into a plurality of spaces by a plurality of partitions. The gas generated by the gas generator is divided by a plurality of partitions and discharged from the container. By separating the gas, it can be used for multiple devices and / or applications at once. A partition similar to the partition described in the example of the pressure difference adjuster can be used as the partition.

Note that if condensation occurs inside the distributor, it may be difficult to properly distribute the gas. Therefore, the apparatus of the present invention may include means for preventing condensation inside the distributor. Examples of such means include a steam trap and a heater described as means for preventing condensation inside the pressure difference regulator (pressure difference regulation means). That is, the apparatus of the present invention may further include a heater for heating the inside of the distributor (for example, the inside of the container of the distributor). The heater is disposed inside the distributor or outside the distributor. The apparatus of the present invention may also include a water vapor trap disposed upstream of the distributor (eg, between the pressure differential regulator and the distributor).

In an example of the production apparatus of the present invention, during the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A), the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank and the liquid of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank. Any one of the surfaces is lowered to prevent the first electrode or the second electrode from being exposed. In this apparatus, an ion exchange membrane may be used instead of the separator. When an ion exchange membrane is used, gas mixing is unlikely to occur even when the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) reaches the ion exchange membrane. However, when the electrode is exposed due to a decrease in the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A), the electrolysis efficiency decreases. In the apparatus of this example, a decrease in electrolysis efficiency is prevented by suppressing the exposure of the electrodes.

Another gas generation method is that the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the first tank is lowered during the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first and second tanks connected by the connecting portion. Reaching the connecting portion and preventing the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank from lowering and reaching the connecting portion are prevented. The apparatus in which this method is implemented is the same as the first gas generation apparatus or the second gas generation apparatus except that there is no separator at the connecting portion. Examples of tanks used in this method and apparatus include H-tubes.

[Device for increasing the dissolved concentration of a given gas]
Increasing the dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas in the liquid by bringing the gas generated by the gas generating apparatus (for example, the first gas generating apparatus and the second gas generating apparatus) of the present invention into contact with the liquid. Can do. Therefore, the gas generating device of the present invention can be used as a device for increasing the dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas in a liquid. Hereinafter, the device may be referred to as “device (A)”. In the following, the liquid before contacting with the gas may be referred to as “liquid (L1)”, and the liquid after contacting with the gas may be referred to as “liquid (L2)”. In another aspect, the gas generating apparatus of the present invention can be used as a manufacturing apparatus for a liquid (L2) having predetermined physical properties. For example, it can be used as a production apparatus for a liquid (L2) having a predetermined concentration of dissolved gas and / or an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) within a predetermined range. That is, the description of the apparatus (A) can be read as the description of the liquid (L2) manufacturing apparatus.

The liquid (L2) is produced by bringing the liquid (L1) into contact with the gas generated by the gas generator of the present invention, thereby changing the physical properties of the liquid (L1). The liquid (L1) is not limited as long as it is a liquid whose physical properties are changed by contact with the gas generated by the gas generation apparatus of the present invention. An example of the liquid (L1) is an aqueous liquid containing water, and may contain a solvent (for example, alcohol) other than water. When the liquid (L1) is an aqueous liquid, the proportion of water in the solvent is usually 50% by weight or more (for example, 80% by weight or more, 95% by weight or more, or 100% by weight). An example of the liquid (L1) is water.

The device (A) includes the gas generation device of the present invention and means for bringing the gas generated by the gas generation device into contact with the liquid (L1). There is no limitation in the said means, For example, you may include the flow path for ejecting gas in a liquid (L1). For example, the means may include a tube for ejecting gas into the liquid (L1). This tube allows gas bubbling. Alternatively, the means may include a container for holding the gas generated by the gas generation device and a device for arranging the liquid (L1) in the container. For example, the means may include a container for holding the gas generated by the gas generating device and a spraying device for spraying the liquid (L1) in the container.

The device (A) may include a tank for arranging the liquid (L1). This tank may include means for preventing the atmosphere from being dissolved in the liquid (L1). For example, the tank may include a valve that opens only when the internal pressure of the tank is higher than the external pressure (usually atmospheric pressure). By using such a valve, it can suppress that the gas (usually air | atmosphere) outside a tank mixes in a tank. By setting the operating pressure of this valve to a high pressure, the dissolved concentration of the predetermined gas can be further increased. Moreover, the fine through-hole which lets the inside and outside of a tank pass may be formed in the tank. By allowing the inside and outside of the tank to pass through only such fine through-holes, it is possible to slowly release the gas in the tank to the outside when the pressure of the gas in the tank increases.

The solvent of the liquid (L2) is usually the same as the solvent of the liquid (L1). For example, the liquid (L2) may be an aqueous liquid containing water or a solvent other than water (for example, alcohol). When the liquid (L2) is an aqueous liquid, the proportion of water in the solvent is usually 50% by weight or more (for example, 80% by weight or more, 95% by weight or more, or 100% by weight). Typically, the liquid (L2) is water or an aqueous solution having specific physical properties.

The gas generator of the present invention can generate at least one gas selected from hydrogen gas, oxygen gas, and carbon dioxide gas. By bringing the hydrogen gas generated by the gas generator into contact with the aqueous liquid, an aqueous liquid having a high dissolved hydrogen concentration, for example, hydrogen-rich water, is obtained. Moreover, the aqueous liquid with high dissolved oxygen concentration, for example, oxygen rich water, is obtained by making the oxygen gas produced | generated with the gas production | generation apparatus and aqueous liquid contact. Moreover, the aqueous liquid with high dissolved carbon dioxide concentration, for example, carbonated water, is obtained by making the carbon dioxide gas produced | generated with the gas production | generation apparatus and aqueous liquid contact. That is, according to the apparatus of the present invention, hydrogen-rich water, oxygen-rich water, and carbonated water can be produced.

When the hydrogen gas generated by the gas generator of the present invention is brought into contact with the liquid (L1), the dissolved hydrogen concentration in the liquid (L1) becomes high. As a result, the redox potential (ORP) in the liquid (L1) can be lowered without greatly changing the pH of the liquid (L1). For example, by bringing hydrogen gas into contact with water, the ORP of the water can be set to −300 mV or less, −400 mV or less, −500 mV or less, or −600 mV or less. Even in that case, it is possible to suppress a change in pH. For example, if the pH of the liquid (L1) (eg, water) is in the range of 6-8 (eg, in the range of 5-9), the pH remains in the range of 6-8 (eg, in the range of 5-9). It is possible to reduce the ORP of the liquid (L1). By using the apparatus (A), the liquid (L2) (for example, water) having a pH in the range of 1.5 to 12.5 and an ORP in the range of 100 to −800 mV can be easily produced. Although there is no limitation on the lower limit of the ORP, in one example, it is −850 mV.

The lower the temperature of the aqueous liquid, the higher the dissolved hydrogen concentration in the aqueous liquid. For example, by using the gas generator of the present invention, the dissolved hydrogen concentration of water at room temperature (25 ° C.) can be 0.8 ppm (weight ratio) or more, or 1.2 ppm or more, and the temperature is 0 ° C. The dissolved hydrogen concentration of the ice water can be 1.0 ppm or more or 1.5 ppm or more. Moreover, the residual chlorine concentration contained in tap water can be lowered by using the gas generating device of the present invention. For example, it is possible to obtain hydrogen-rich water having a residual chlorine concentration of 0.1 ppm or less by bringing tap water having a residual chlorine concentration of 0.5 ppm into contact with hydrogen gas. That is, hydrogen-rich water with a low residual chlorine concentration can be obtained by treating tap water with the apparatus of the present invention.

When the oxygen gas generated by the gas generator of the present invention is brought into contact with the liquid (L1), oxygen is dissolved in the liquid (L1), and the dissolved oxygen concentration is increased. Therefore, it is possible to generate oxygen-rich water having a high oxygen concentration without substantially changing the pH of the liquid. For example, if the pH of the liquid (L1) (eg, water) is in the range of 6-8 (eg, in the range of 5-9), the pH remains in the range of 6-8 (eg, in the range of 5-9). The oxygen concentration of the liquid (L1) can be increased. By using the apparatus (A), it is possible to easily produce a liquid (L2) (for example, water) having a pH in the range of 1.5 to 12.5 and an oxygen concentration in the range of 10 to 40 ppm. Moreover, the residual chlorine concentration contained in tap water can be lowered by using the apparatus of the present invention. For example, it is possible to obtain oxygen-rich water having a residual chlorine concentration of 0.1 ppm or less by bringing tap water having a residual chlorine concentration of 0.5 ppm into contact with oxygen gas. That is, by treating tap water with the apparatus of the present invention, oxygen-rich water having a low residual chlorine concentration can be obtained.

There is no limitation on the method of bringing the gas generated by the gas generating apparatus of the present invention into contact with the liquid (L1). For example, the liquid (L1) may be sprayed in a container in which gas exists. Alternatively, gas bubbles may flow in the liquid (L1). In this case, it is preferable to make the gas bubbles small in order to promote the dissolution of the gas. Further, it is preferable that the gas bubbles stay in the liquid (L1) for a long time. To do so, the device (A) may include a structure for increasing the residence time of the gas in the liquid (L1). In other words, the device (A) may include a structure for reducing the rising speed of the gas in the liquid (L1). For example, the device (A) may include a barrier disposed in a tank in which the liquid (L1) is placed. The barrier is impermeable to gas bubbles. The barrier is arranged so that the surface thereof is inclined with respect to the horizontal. In one example, the angle between the surface of the barrier and the horizontal is in the range of 5 ° to 40 °. The barrier may have a configuration in which a plurality of plates are arranged in a vertical direction so that inclinations are alternately reversed. The barrier may be helical. When the gas generated by the gas generating device is released into the liquid (L1), the bubbles of the gas rise in the liquid (L1). The barrier is arranged at a position where the gas bubble passes when rising. If a barrier is present, the barrier prevents the bubbles from rising. The bubble slowly rises along the lower surface of the barrier. As a result, the time during which bubbles stay in the liquid (L1) becomes longer, and the rate of increase in the dissolved concentration of gas can be increased.

[Gas generation method]
The gas generation method of the present invention is a method performed by the gas generation apparatus. Therefore, the matter explained about the gas generating device of the present invention is applicable to the gas generating method of the present invention. In addition, the matters described for the gas generation method of the present invention can be applied to the gas generation apparatus of the present invention.

The gas generation method of the present invention includes step (i) and step (ii). In the step (i), the aqueous liquid (A) is disposed in the first and second tanks connected with the separator interposed therebetween. In step (ii), the aqueous liquid (A) is electrolyzed by applying a voltage between the first electrode arranged in the first tank and the second electrode arranged in the second tank. The And in process (ii), the fall of the at least 1 liquid level chosen from the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in a 1st tank and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in a 2nd tank is carried out. Limited. For example, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the first tank decreases to reach the specific member (S), and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid (A) in the second tank decreases. Reaching a specific member (S) is prevented. In order to prevent this, the above restriction means can be used, and for example, the above pressure difference regulator (pressure difference adjustment means) can be used.

[Method for producing a liquid having a high dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas]
The method and apparatus of the present invention can be used in a method for producing a liquid having a high dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas. Specifically, it can be used in a method for producing a liquid having a high dissolved concentration of at least one gas selected from hydrogen gas, oxygen gas, and carbon dioxide gas. According to this production method, hydrogen-rich water, oxygen-rich water, and carbonated water can be produced. This production method includes a step of generating gas using the gas generation method or gas generation apparatus of the present invention (step (I)) and a step of bringing the generated gas into contact with the liquid (L1) (step (II)). Including. This manufacturing method is performed by the apparatus (A) of the present invention. Therefore, the matters described for the apparatus (A) of the present invention can be applied to this method. In another aspect, this production method is a method for increasing the dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas in a liquid, and the method includes steps (I) and (II).

Any of the devices of the present invention described above may include a controller. The controller includes an arithmetic processing unit and storage means. Note that the storage means may be integrated with the arithmetic processing unit. Examples of the storage means include an internal memory, an external memory, and a magnetic disk (for example, a hard disk drive) of the arithmetic processing unit. The storage means stores a program for executing each process. An example of the controller includes a large scale integrated circuit (LSI). The controller may be connected to equipment (power supply, valve, etc.) and a measuring instrument (water level gauge, etc.) included in the apparatus. The controller may execute processing performed by the device by controlling the device based on the output of the measuring instrument. Note that the apparatus of the present invention may not include a controller.

[Embodiment 1]
Embodiment 1 demonstrates an example of the gas production | generation apparatus containing a pressure difference regulator. A gas generator of Embodiment 1 is schematically shown in FIG. The apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 includes a tank 10, a flat plate-like first electrode 21, a flat plate-like second electrode 22, a separator 23, a DC power supply 24, and a pressure difference regulator 30.

The tank 10 is divided into a first tank 11 and a second tank 12 by a partition wall 10 a and a separator 23. That is, the first tank 11 is adjacent to the second tank 12 via the separator 23. The partition wall 10 a partitions the upper part of the tank 10, and the separator 23 partitions the lower part of the tank 10. The partition wall 10a does not pass either gas or liquid. An aqueous liquid 25 is disposed in the tank 10 (the first tank 11 and the second tank 12). Gases exist on the liquid surface of the aqueous liquid 25 in the first tank 11 and on the liquid surface of the aqueous liquid 25 in the second tank 12, respectively. In the following, only the first gas 26 generated by electrolysis in the first tank 11 exists in the first tank 11, and the electric power in the second tank 12 exists in the second tank 12. Assume that only the second gas 27 produced by the decomposition is present. Hereinafter, a case where hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are generated by electrolysis of the aqueous liquid 25 will be described.

The first electrode 21 is disposed in the first tank 11. The second electrode 22 is disposed in the second tank 12. The first electrode 21 and the second electrode 22 are opposed to each other with the separator 23 interposed therebetween. The first electrode 21 and the second electrode 22 are connected to a DC power supply 24. By applying a voltage between the first electrode 21 and the second electrode 22, water is electrolyzed and oxygen gas and hydrogen gas are generated. Specifically, oxygen gas is generated on the surface of the anode, and hydrogen gas is generated on the surface of the cathode.

FIG. 2A shows a cross-sectional view of the pressure difference regulator 30. The pressure difference adjuster 30 includes a partition 31 and a container 40. The container 40 is formed with an inlet 41a, an outlet 41b, an inlet 42a, and an outlet 42b. The interior of the container 40 is partitioned into a first space 41 and a second space 42 by a partition 31.

The first space 41 communicates with the outside through the inflow port 41a and the discharge port 41b. The discharge port 41b is open to the atmosphere. The inflow port 41a is connected to the first tank 11 via the flow path 28 of FIG. In the apparatus 100, the 1st tank 11 and the pressure difference regulator 30 are connected by the flow path 28 not via a tank etc. The first space 41 is a part of the flow path of the first gas 26. When the pressure of the first gas 26 in the first tank 11 increases, the first gas 26 is released into the atmosphere through the inlet 41a and the outlet 41b.

The second space 42 communicates with the outside through the inlet 42a and the outlet 42b. The discharge port 42b is open to the atmosphere. The inflow port 42a is connected to the second tank 12 through the flow path 29 of FIG. In the apparatus 100, the 2nd tank 12 and the pressure difference regulator 30 are connected by the flow path 29, without passing through a tank etc. The second space 42 is a part of the flow path of the second gas 27. When the pressure of the second gas 27 in the second tank 12 increases, the second gas 27 is released into the atmosphere through the inlet 42a and the outlet 42b.

Here, a case where the pressure of the second gas 27 is larger than the pressure of the first gas 26 will be considered. When the pressure difference (DP) between the two is so large that the partition 31 is deformed, the partition 31 is deformed as shown in FIG. 2B and closes the inflow port 41a and / or the discharge port 41b. That is, the flow path of the first gas 26 is closed. As a result, only the second gas 27 is discharged from the discharge port 42b. As long as the voltage application continues, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are generated on the surface of the electrode, so that the pressure of the first gas 26 gradually increases. When the pressure difference (DP) decreases, the inlet 41a and the outlet 41b are opened, and the first gas 26 and the second gas 27 are both discharged from the pressure difference regulator 30. Thus, by using the pressure difference regulator 30, it can suppress that a pressure difference (DP) becomes large too much.

2C, the pressure difference adjuster 30 may include a heater 32 disposed around the container 40. By heating the container with the heater 32, it is possible to prevent condensation inside the container 40.

The pressure difference (DP) necessary for the partition 31 to block the inlet and / or the outlet may vary depending on the distance between the inlet and / or the outlet and the partition, the material and thickness of the partition 31, and the like. it can. For example, by reducing the distance between the inlet and / or outlet and the partition 31, the inlet and / or outlet can be blocked by the partition 31 with a small pressure difference (DP). In addition, by forming the partition 31 with a highly flexible material or making the partition 31 thinner, the inlet and / or the outlet can be blocked by the partition 31 with a small pressure difference (DP). .

An example of bubbling with hydrogen gas obtained by the apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The apparatus in FIG. 3 is an example of the apparatus (A). As shown in FIG. 3, in this example, a tube 43 is connected to the discharge port 42 b, and the tip of the tube 43 is placed in the liquid 44. The liquid 44 is a liquid in which hydrogen gas is bubbled, and is placed in a tank 45. The tip of the tube 43 is preferably hydrophilic, and particularly preferably hydrophilic and porous. By using such a tip, the gas is easily released in the form of fine bubbles. The discharge port 41b is open to the atmosphere. The inner surface of the tube 43 may be water-repellent, thereby preventing the liquid 44 from entering the tube 43.

As shown in FIG. 3, the aqueous liquid 25 is electrolyzed by applying a voltage between the first electrode 21 and the second electrode 22 so that the first electrode 21 becomes an anode. As a result, oxygen gas is generated on the surface of the first electrode 21, and hydrogen gas is generated on the surface of the second electrode 22. The generated hydrogen gas is released into the liquid 44 through the flow path 29 and the tube 43. The pressure of the hydrogen gas (second gas 27) increases according to the distance from the surface of the liquid 44 to the tip of the tube 43. When the pressure difference (DP) between the pressure of the first gas 26 and the pressure of the second gas 27 is large, the partition 31 of the pressure difference regulator 30 is deformed by the pressure difference (DP). When the pressure difference (DP) is sufficiently large, the inlet 41a and / or the outlet 41b are blocked by the partition 31, as shown in FIG. 2B. This state continues until the pressure of the first gas 26 is increased by the oxygen gas generated on the surface of the first electrode 21, thereby reducing the pressure difference (DP). When the pressure difference (DP) is sufficiently small, the deformation of the partition 31 is small, and as a result, the inlet 41a and the outlet 41b are opened. Thus, in the apparatus of this invention, it can suppress that a pressure difference (DP) becomes large too much. 2B shows a state where both the inflow port 41a and the discharge port 41b are blocked, it is sufficient that either one of them is blocked.

When the pressure difference regulator 30 is not present, the pressure difference (DP) between the pressure of the first gas 26 and the pressure of the second gas 27 may become too large. The pressure difference (DP) causes a difference between the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the first tank 11 and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the second tank 12. When the pressure difference (DP) is too large, one liquid level is lowered to the position of the separator 23 as shown in FIG. In this state, the gas having the higher pressure passes through the separator, and the first gas and the second gas are mixed. Further, even when only the gas with the higher pressure is used, the gas flows from the flow path of the other gas, so that the usable amount of the gas is reduced. In order to prevent such a problem, it is important to prevent the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 from dropping to the position of the separator 23.

[Example of pressure difference regulator]
A cross-sectional view of an example of the pressure difference regulator 30 is shown in FIG. 5A. The pressure difference adjuster 30 in FIG. 5A includes a partition 31 and a container 40. The container 40 is constituted by

containers

40a and 40b. A recess 40ac is formed in the container 40a. The container 40b has a recess 40bc. A space surrounded by the container 40 a and the partition 31 is a first space 41. A space surrounded by the container 40b and the partition 31 becomes the second space 42. The partition 31 is pressed against the container 40b by the O-ring 51.

FIG. 5B shows a view when the container 40a is viewed from the partition 31 side. FIG. 5C shows a view of the container 40b as viewed from the partition 31 side. FIG. 5D shows a view when the partition 31 is viewed from the container 40a side. Screw holes 40ah are formed at the four corners of the container 40a. Similar holes 40bh and 31h are formed in the container 40b and the partition 31, respectively. The container 40a and the container 40b are coupled by screws, but may be coupled by an adhesive or the like. The container 40a is formed with a groove 40ar for fitting the O-ring.

Further, a recess 40ac for forming the first space 41 is formed in the container 40a. The container 40a is formed with an inlet 41a and an outlet 41b, which are connected to the recess 40ac. The first gas 26 flows through the inlet 41a, the first space 41 (recess 40ac), and the outlet 41b.

In addition, the container 40b is formed with a recess 40bc for forming the second space 42. The container 40b has an inlet 42a and an outlet 42b, which are connected to the recess 40bc. The second gas 27 flows through the inlet 42a, the second space 42 (recess 40bc), and the outlet 42b.

The O-ring 51 is disposed so as to surround the inlet 41a, the outlet 41b, the inlet 42a, and the outlet 42b. The partition 31 is annularly pressed against the container 40b by the O-ring 51. The partition 31 may be in close contact with the container 40a and the container 40b without using the O-ring 51. For example, the partition 31 may be bonded to the container 40a and / or the container 40b. In any case, the partition 31 and the container 40 are in close contact or bonded so that the gas does not escape from the contact portion between the partition 31 and the container 40.

Note that only the inlet 42a may be connected to the second space 42. An example of an apparatus provided with such a pressure difference regulator 30a is shown in FIG. The apparatus 100a of FIG. 6 differs from the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 only in that the pressure difference adjuster 30a is used instead of the pressure difference adjuster 30. The pressure difference adjuster 30a differs from the pressure difference adjuster 30 only in that the discharge port 42b is not formed.

The inlet 42a is connected to the flow path of the second gas 27 to be used. When the pressure of the second gas 27 is increased, the partition 31 is deformed to block the inlet 41a and / or the outlet 41b until the pressure difference (DP) is reduced. Therefore, the device 100a can obtain the same effect as the device 100.

Note that it is also possible to use a pressure difference regulator that does not have one of the first space 41 and the second space 42. An example of such a pressure differential regulator is shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. The pressure difference adjuster 30b in FIG. 7A differs from the pressure difference adjuster 30 in FIG. 5A only in that the recess 40ac is not formed in the container 40a. Since the recess 40ac is not formed, the first space 41 does not exist in the pressure difference regulator 30b in a normal state. 7B is different from the pressure difference adjuster 30 of FIG. 5A only in that the recess 40bc is not formed in the container 40b. Since the recess 40bc is not formed, the first space 41 does not exist in the pressure difference regulator 30c in a normal state.

Another example of the pressure difference regulator is shown in FIG. 7C. In addition, cross-sectional views taken along line VIID-VIID, line VIIE-VIIE, and line VIIF-VIIF in FIG. 7C are shown in FIGS. 7D, 7E, and 7F, respectively. Note that the cross-sectional view taken along line VIIG-VIIG in FIG. 7C is the same as the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 7E.

7C includes a partition 31 and a container 40. The pressure difference adjuster 30d illustrated in FIG. The container 40 includes

containers

40a and 40b. A first space 41 is formed by the recess of the container 40 a and the partition 31. A second space 42 is formed by the recess of the container 40 b and the partition 31. The container 40 is formed with an inlet 41 a and an outlet 41 b that communicate with the first space 41, and an inlet 42 a and an outlet 42 b that communicate with the second space 42.

As shown in FIGS. 7D to 7F, the

spaces

41 and 42 have a large cross-sectional area in the vicinity of the inlet and the outlet, respectively, and a small cross-sectional area in the middle between the inlet and the outlet. By adopting such a shape, the pressure can be easily adjusted. Moreover, it can suppress that a water droplet accumulates in the container 40 by setting it as such a shape.

Also in the

pressure difference adjusters

30b, 30c, and 30d, when the pressure difference (DP) between the pressure of the first gas 26 and the pressure of the second gas 27 is increased, the partition 31 is configured to reduce the pressure difference (DP). Is deformed. As a result, the pressure difference (DP) is suppressed from becoming too large. Similarly to the pressure difference adjuster 30a, in the

pressure difference adjusters

30b, 30c and 30d, it is possible to omit either the discharge port 41b or the discharge port 42b.

In the pressure difference regulator used in the present invention, the inlet 41a may be connected to the oxygen gas generation side (anode side), and the inlet 42a may be connected to the hydrogen gas generation side (cathode side). Alternatively, the inlet 41a may be connected to the hydrogen gas generation side (cathode side), and the inlet 42a may be connected to the oxygen gas generation side (anode side). The inflow port 41a may be connected to the high pressure side, and the inflow port 42a may be connected to the low pressure side. Alternatively, the inlet 41a may be connected to the low pressure side, and the inlet 42a may be connected to the high pressure side.

[Example of distributor]
A cross-sectional view of an example of a gas distributor is shown in FIG. 8A. The distributor 80 in FIG. 8A includes a container 81 and a plurality of partitions 82. In the container 81, an introduction path 83 and a plurality of discharge paths 84a to 84g are formed. The gas generated by the gas generator is introduced from the introduction path 83 and discharged from the discharge paths 84a to 84g. At that time, the gas is divided and discharged by a plurality of partitions 82. As a result, the discharged gas can be used for different uses (for example, different devices) for each of the discharge paths 84a to 84g. Of course, gas discharged from two or more discharge ports selected from the discharge paths 84a to 84g can be used for the same application.

FIG. 8B shows a cross-sectional view taken along line VIIIB-VIIIB in FIG. 8A. The upstream side and the downstream side of the partition 82 are fixed to the container 81, respectively. Referring to FIG. 8A, container 81 includes a first region R1 that is not divided by partition 82 and a second region R2 that is divided by partition 82. The second region R2 is divided into routes R2a to R2g, and corresponds to the discharge routes 84a to 84g, respectively. Each of the plurality of partitions 82 is a sheet-shaped partition, and is arranged so as to be parallel to each other. The container 81 includes a fixing portion 81a for fixing the partition 82.

Any of the downstream paths of the discharge paths 84a to 84g may be blocked by water droplets generated by condensation of water vapor. Even if such a state occurs, it is possible to easily remove water droplets on the path due to a change in gas pressure and a change in gas flow rate accompanying the deformation of the partition 82. Here, let us consider a case where, of the gas passing through the discharge paths 84a to 84g, the downstream side of the discharge path 84d is blocked with water droplets. In that case, the pressure in the path R2d increases, and the two partitions 82 forming the path R2d swell outward as shown in FIG. 8C. As a result, the resistance to the gas flowing through the path R2d is reduced. Therefore, the pressure loss in the path R2d is reduced, and the pressure applied to the water droplet can be increased. In this way, the possibility of removing water droplets may be increased.

[Example of electrode]
An example of the flat plate-like first electrode 21 is shown in FIG. 9A. The first electrode 21 in FIG. 9A includes a plurality of linear electrodes 21a arranged in a stripe pattern and a linear electrode 21b connecting them. When the apparatus is used, the first electrode 21 is usually arranged so that the linear electrode 21a is parallel to the vertical direction. The second electrode 22 can also have the same structure as the first electrode 21. An example of the arrangement of the first electrode 21 and the separator 23 is schematically shown in FIG. 9B. In a preferred example, the flat plate-like first electrode 21 and the flat plate-like second electrode 22 are arranged in parallel with the separator 23 interposed therebetween. That is, the first electrode 21, the second electrode 22, and the separator 23 have a two-dimensional outer shape and are arranged so as to be parallel to the vertical direction when in use.

[Embodiment 2]
Embodiment 2 demonstrates an example of the gas production | generation apparatus containing a gas-liquid separation part. A gas generator of Embodiment 2 is schematically shown in FIG. The apparatus 200 in FIG. 10 includes a tank 10, a flat plate-like first electrode 21, a flat plate-like second electrode 22, a separator 23, a DC power supply 24, and a gas-liquid separation membrane 91. The description of the parts overlapping with the apparatus 100 is omitted.

The cylindrical part 11a exists above the 1st tank 11, and the gas-liquid separation film | membrane 91 is arrange | positioned at the cylindrical part 11a. The inside of the first tank 11 is connected to the atmosphere via a gas-liquid separation membrane 91. FIG. 10 shows a state in which the pressure difference (DP) is zero. In the second tank 12, the volume V2 of the aqueous liquid 25a exists above the position where the separator 23 and the aqueous liquid 25 are in contact with each other. A space of volume V1 exists between the aqueous liquid 25 and the gas-liquid separation membrane 91 in the first tank 11. The apparatus 200 is used in a state where the volume V2 is larger than the volume V1. When the volume V2 is smaller than the volume V1, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 is lowered to the position of the separator 23 when the pressure difference (DP) is large, and the first gas 26 and the second gas 27 are mixed. There is. The magnitude relationship between the volume V1 and the volume V2 can be controlled, for example, by adjusting the amount of the aqueous liquid 25 arranged in the tank 10. For example, when the amount of the aqueous liquid 25 is small, the value of (V2 / V1) decreases, and when the amount of the aqueous liquid 25 is large, the value of (V2 / V1) increases.

When water in the aqueous liquid 25 is electrolyzed in the apparatus 200, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are generated. Below, the case where a voltage is applied between the 1st electrode 21 and the 2nd electrode 22 is demonstrated so that the 1st electrode 21 may become an anode. Of course, a voltage may be applied in the reverse direction.

By applying voltage, oxygen gas is generated on the surface of the first electrode 21, and hydrogen gas is generated on the surface of the second electrode 22. Depending on the state of the apparatus, the pressure of the second gas 27 (hydrogen gas) increases. For example, in the situation shown in FIG. 11, the pressure of the second gas 27 is high depending on the distance between the tip of the tube 43 and the liquid level of the liquid 44 and the ventilation resistance of the second gas 27 flowing through the tube 43. Become. As a result, as shown in FIG. 11, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the first tank 11 rises, and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the second tank 12 falls.

As shown in FIG. 11, in the apparatus 200, even when the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the first tank 11 reaches the gas-liquid separation membrane 91, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the second tank 12 is The separator 23 is not reached. Therefore, even if the pressure of the second gas 27 (hydrogen gas) in the second tank 12 increases, the first gas 26 (oxygen gas) and the second gas 27 (hydrogen gas) do not mix. . Thus, according to the apparatus 200 of Embodiment 2, it can prevent that the 1st gas 26 and the 2nd gas 27 are mixed. Further, in the apparatus 200, it is possible to prevent the aqueous liquid 25 from overflowing outside the apparatus.

Note that FIG. 10 shows an example in which the gas-liquid separation unit is disposed only in the space (above the first tank) in which the first gas flows, but the gas-liquid separation unit is a space in which the second gas flows. It may be formed (above the second tank). Further, the gas-liquid separation unit may be formed in both the space in which the first gas flows and the space in which the second gas flows. Furthermore, the position where the gas-liquid separator is arranged is not limited to the position shown in FIG. The gas-liquid separation unit may be arranged so that the first gas and / or the second gas flows through the gas-liquid separation unit. In another viewpoint, the gas-liquid separation part should just be arrange | positioned between the space in a tank, and air | atmosphere.

[Embodiment 3]
In Embodiment 3, an example of the second gas generation device of the present invention will be described. A gas generator of Embodiment 3 is schematically shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. The apparatus 300 of FIG. 12A includes a tank 10, a flat plate-like first electrode 21, a flat plate-like second electrode 22, a separator 23, and a DC power supply 24. The description of the parts overlapping with the apparatus 100 is omitted.

Unlike the apparatus 100, the apparatus 300 does not include the pressure difference regulator 30. Moreover, the shape of the tank 10 of the apparatus 300 is different from the shape of the tank 10 shown in FIG. The device 300 includes a liquid trap 121 and a thin tube 122 that functions as a ventilation resistance member.

The tank 10 shown in FIG. 12A is divided into a first tank 11 and a second tank 12 by a separator 23 (and a partition wall 10a). An aqueous liquid 25 is disposed in the tank 10 (the first tank 11 and the second tank 12). A first gas 26 exists on the liquid surface of the aqueous liquid 25 in the first tank 11. A first gas 27 exists on the liquid surface of the aqueous liquid 25 in the second tank 12. A cylindrical portion 11 a connected to the first tank 11 is formed above the first tank 11. In addition, you may provide a gas-liquid separation part in the cylindrical part 11a. Further, a water vapor trap may be disposed between the liquid trap 121 and the tube 122.

One end of the tube 123 is fixed to the tip of the cylindrical portion 11a. The tube 123 is a relatively thick tube. As shown in FIG. 12B, the other end of the tube 123 is connected to the liquid trap 121. A thin tube 122 is also connected to the liquid trap 121. Since the ventilation resistance of the gas released from the first tank 11 to the atmosphere can be increased by the thin tube 122, it is possible to suppress a rapid fluctuation of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 and a pulsation of the liquid level. Become.

The horizontal cross-sectional area (S2) inside the second tank 12 is larger than the horizontal cross-sectional area (S1) inside the first tank 11. Therefore, the displacement amount of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the second tank 12 is smaller than the displacement amount of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the first tank 11. Considering the case of using the gas generated in the second tank 12 by electrolysis of water, the pressure of the second gas 27 in the second tank 12 may be increased depending on the use situation of the gas. In such a case, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid 25 in the second tank 12 decreases due to the pressure difference (DP) as shown in FIG. However, since the cross-sectional area (S2) is large, the amount of decrease in the liquid level in the second tank 12 can be reduced. As a result, the second gas 27 can be prevented from reaching the separator 23. In addition, although the rise of a liquid level is large in the 1st tank 11 with a small cross-sectional area (S1), as shown in FIG. 13, the aqueous liquid 25 raises the cylindrical part 11a. By making the cylindrical part 11a sufficiently high, the aqueous liquid 25 can be prevented from overflowing from the cylindrical part 11a. In addition, you may make the height of the 1st tank 11 high, without forming the cylindrical part 11a. Thus, mixing of gas can be prevented by enlarging the cross-sectional area of the tank of the side to be used. The appropriate ratio between the cross-sectional area (S1) and the cross-sectional area (S2) can be determined from the pressure difference (DP) that is expected to occur due to use.

In the gas generator of the present invention, it is possible to electrolyze even an aqueous liquid (A) having a low conductivity such as tap water. However, when a constant current is passed through the aqueous liquid (A) having a low conductivity, the generated Joule heat increases. Therefore, when the apparatus of the present invention is used for a long time, the water temperature of the aqueous liquid (A) may increase. One way to avoid such an increase in water temperature is to increase the opposing area of the electrodes. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of tanks may be provided to increase the opposing area of the electrodes. If the facing area is doubled without changing the current, the resistance is halved and the heat generation is halved. Further, by increasing the facing area, it is possible to increase the amount of gas generation with the same calorific value. For example, when the tank partition is increased to double the opposing area of the electrodes, the amount of heat generated is the same even if the current is increased by 1.4.

14 is divided into two first tanks 11 and one second tank 12 by two separators 23. A first electrode 21 is disposed in the first tank 11. A second electrode 22 is disposed in the second tank 12. According to this configuration, the facing area of the electrodes can be increased.

[Example of tank containing liquid (L1)]
An example of the tank that may be included in the device (A) for increasing the dissolved concentration of gas will be described. The tank 150 in FIG. 15 includes a tank body 151, a plurality of plates 152 disposed inside the tank body 151, and a lid 153 that covers the upper portion of the tank body 151. The tube 154 through which the gas passes extends through the tank 150 through a part of the tank 150 (the lid 153 in the example of FIG. 15). The lid 153 includes a lid body 153a and a valve 153b. The valve 153 b is a valve that opens only when the pressure inside the tank 150 is higher than the pressure outside the tank 150. As such a valve 153b, a known valve can be used. For example, a rubber sheet may be used. When the valve 153 b is closed, the inside of the tank 150 is not open to the outside of the tank 150 except for the path of the tube 154.

An aqueous liquid 155 (liquid (L1)) is disposed in the tank body 151. The gas generated by the gas generator is blown into the aqueous liquid 155 through the tube 154. As a result, gas bubbles 156 are released from the tube 154. The plurality of plates 152 are arranged so that the rising speed of the bubbles 156 is thereby suppressed. Specifically, the plurality of plates 152 are arranged in the vertical direction so that the inclinations are alternately reversed. As the gas is fed into the tank 150, the internal pressure of the tank 150 increases. When the internal pressure of the tank 150 reaches a predetermined pressure higher than the external pressure, the valve 153b is opened and the gas in the tank 150 is released to the outside of the tank 150. As a result, it is possible to suppress the pressure in the tank 150 from becoming excessively high, and to prevent the outside air of the tank 150 from entering the tank 150. It is also possible to increase the dissolved concentration of the gas in the aqueous liquid 155 by setting the pressure at which the valve 153a is opened high. The tank 45 described above may include a lid 153 as in the case of the tank 150, and may further include a plurality of plates 152.

The present invention can be used in an apparatus and a method for generating gas by electrolyzing an aqueous liquid. Specifically, the present invention can be used for an apparatus and a method for generating hydrogen gas, oxygen gas, carbon dioxide gas, hydrogen gas and oxygen gas, hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide gas. Further, the present invention can be used in an apparatus and a method for increasing the dissolved concentration of those gases in a liquid.

Claims

A gas generating device that generates gas by electrolyzing an aqueous liquid placed in first and second tanks,
A separator;
The first and second tanks connected via the separator;
A first electrode disposed in the first tank;
A second electrode disposed in the second tank,
During electrolysis of the aqueous liquid, when the pressure of the gas in the second tank becomes higher than the pressure of the gas in the first tank, the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank The gas generator has the shape in which the first and second tanks have a shape in which the decrease in the pressure is limited.
The gas generating device according to claim 1, wherein a horizontal cross-sectional area in the second tank is larger than a horizontal cross-sectional area in the first tank.
Ventilation resistance in at least one flow path selected from the group consisting of the flow path of the first gas generated in the first tank and the flow path of the second gas generated in the second tank The gas generating device according to claim 2, wherein there is a portion for increasing the pressure.
Portions for increasing the flow resistance is in the range cross-sectional area of 1 × 10 -2 mm 2 ~ 3mm 2, is a flow path in the range of 1 mm ~ 200 mm length, according to claim 3 gas Generator.
A gas generating device that generates gas by electrolyzing an aqueous liquid placed in first and second tanks,
A separator;
The first and second tanks connected via the separator;
A first electrode disposed in the first tank;
A second electrode disposed in the second tank;
During electrolysis of the aqueous liquid, at least one liquid level selected from the group consisting of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the first tank and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank. A gas generating device including limiting means for limiting the decrease.
In the electrolysis of the aqueous liquid, the limiting means reduces the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the first tank or the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank. The gas generation device according to claim 5, wherein the gas in the first tank and the gas in the second tank are prevented from being mixed.
The limiting means includes a pressure difference adjuster that adjusts the pressure difference so that a pressure difference between a gas pressure in the first tank and a gas pressure in the second tank becomes small. Item 6. The gas generator according to Item 5.
The gas generation device according to claim 7, wherein the pressure difference adjuster adjusts the pressure difference using a force generated by the pressure difference.
The pressure difference regulator includes at least one flow selected from the group consisting of a flow path of a first gas generated in the first tank and a flow path of a second gas generated in the second tank. A container including a path; and a partition disposed in the container;
The gas generation device according to claim 8, wherein the partition is deformed by the pressure difference, whereby a resistance to a gas flow in the at least one flow path changes so as to reduce the pressure difference.
The gas generating device according to claim 9, wherein the at least one flow path is opened and closed by the partition being deformed by the pressure difference.
The gas generation device according to claim 9, wherein the pressure difference regulator further includes a heater for heating the inside of the container.
The gas generation device according to claim 5, wherein the limiting means includes a gas-liquid separation unit provided in a space in which the first gas generated in the first tank flows.
An apparatus for increasing the dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas in a liquid,
A gas generator according to claim 1 or 5,
And means for bringing the gas produced by the gas production device into contact with the liquid.
A tank for placing the liquid,
14. The apparatus of claim 13, comprising a structure for increasing the residence time of the gas in the liquid.
A gas generation method comprising:
(I) disposing an aqueous liquid in the first and second tanks connected with the separator interposed therebetween;
(Ii) electrolyzing the aqueous liquid by applying a voltage between the first electrode disposed in the first tank and the second electrode disposed in the second tank; Including
In the step (ii), a decrease in at least one liquid level selected from the group consisting of the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the first tank and the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank. Limit the gas generation method.
In the step (ii), the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the first tank or the liquid level of the aqueous liquid in the second tank is lowered to lower the gas in the first tank. The gas generation method according to claim 15, wherein mixing of the gas in the second tank and the gas in the second tank is prevented.
The gas generating method according to claim 15, wherein in the step (ii), hydrogen gas and oxygen gas are generated by electrolyzing water in the aqueous liquid.
The aqueous liquid contains alcohol;
The gas generating method according to claim 15, wherein in the step (ii), at least hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide gas are generated by electrolyzing water and the alcohol in the aqueous liquid.
A method for producing a liquid having a high dissolved concentration of a predetermined gas,
(I) a step of generating gas by the gas generation method according to claim 15;
(II) a step of bringing the gas into contact with a liquid.