WO2022124309A1 - アルカリ水電解システム、およびアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法 - Google Patents
アルカリ水電解システム、およびアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法 Download PDFInfo
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- WO2022124309A1 WO2022124309A1 PCT/JP2021/044970 JP2021044970W WO2022124309A1 WO 2022124309 A1 WO2022124309 A1 WO 2022124309A1 JP 2021044970 W JP2021044970 W JP 2021044970W WO 2022124309 A1 WO2022124309 A1 WO 2022124309A1
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- Prior art keywords
- alkaline water
- water electrolysis
- electrolysis system
- gas
- separation tank
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Images
Classifications
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B1/00—Electrolytic production of inorganic compounds or non-metals
- C25B1/01—Products
- C25B1/02—Hydrogen or oxygen
- C25B1/04—Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B15/00—Operating or servicing cells
- C25B15/02—Process control or regulation
- C25B15/021—Process control or regulation of heating or cooling
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B15/00—Operating or servicing cells
- C25B15/02—Process control or regulation
- C25B15/023—Measuring, analysing or testing during electrolytic production
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B15/00—Operating or servicing cells
- C25B15/08—Supplying or removing reactants or electrolytes; Regeneration of electrolytes
- C25B15/083—Separating products
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B9/00—Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
- C25B9/17—Cells comprising dimensionally-stable non-movable electrodes; Assemblies of constructional parts thereof
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B9/00—Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
- C25B9/60—Constructional parts of cells
- C25B9/67—Heating or cooling means
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B9/00—Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
- C25B9/70—Assemblies comprising two or more cells
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B9/00—Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
- C25B9/70—Assemblies comprising two or more cells
- C25B9/73—Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type
- C25B9/75—Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type having bipolar electrodes
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B9/00—Cells or assemblies of cells; Constructional parts of cells; Assemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assemblies; Process-related cell features
- C25B9/70—Assemblies comprising two or more cells
- C25B9/73—Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type
- C25B9/77—Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type having diaphragms
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C25—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B—ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF COMPOUNDS OR NON-METALS; APPARATUS THEREFOR
- C25B15/00—Operating or servicing cells
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/30—Hydrogen technology
- Y02E60/36—Hydrogen production from non-carbon containing sources, e.g. by water electrolysis
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
- Y02P20/00—Technologies relating to chemical industry
- Y02P20/10—Process efficiency
- Y02P20/133—Renewable energy sources, e.g. sunlight
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an alkaline water electrolysis system and an operation method of the alkaline water electrolysis system.
- renewable energy fluctuates greatly depending on climatic conditions. For this reason, it is difficult to transport the power generated using renewable energy to the general power system, and there are concerns about social impacts such as imbalance between power supply and demand and destabilization of the power system. There is. Therefore, research is being conducted to store electric power and use it in place of a transportable form.
- hydrogen is generated by electrolysis (electrolysis) of water, and hydrogen is used as an energy source or a raw material. Is being considered.
- Hydrogen is widely used industrially in fields such as petroleum refining, chemical synthesis, and metal refining, and in recent years, its potential for use in hydrogen stations for fuel cell vehicles, smart communities, hydrogen power plants, etc. has expanded. ing. Therefore, there are high expectations for the development of technology for obtaining hydrogen from renewable energy.
- the alkaline water electrolysis method is an electrolytic method in which an alkaline aqueous solution (alkaline water) in which an alkaline salt is dissolved is used as an electrolytic solution to electrolyze water to generate hydrogen gas from the cathode and oxygen gas from the anode. Is.
- Patent Document 1 a water electrolyzer in which a plurality of cell stacks are electrically connected in series or in parallel, a power supply means for supplying electric power to the water electrolyzer, and a variable voltage to be supplied to the water electrolyzer.
- Hydrogen production with improved energy efficiency by providing a voltage control unit to control and a stack number control unit that selects the number of cell stacks to be used so that the voltage and current acting on the cell stack satisfy a predetermined range.
- the equipment is disclosed.
- Patent Document 2 describes a plurality of hydrogen production devices connected in series or in parallel with a power generation device that converts renewable energy into electric energy, and a plurality of hydrogen production devices that produce hydrogen gas using the electric energy, and a plurality of hydrogen production devices.
- a switching element for switching the connection configuration of the device
- a voltage applying means for applying a voltage to the hydrogen producing device
- a control device for controlling the switching element and the voltage applying means
- the conventional system equipped with a plurality of electrolytic cells has a problem that the frequency of purging the inert gas due to the shutdown of the entire system is high, and it is difficult to improve the maintainability of the high-purity hydrogen supply.
- An object of the present invention made in view of such circumstances is to provide an alkaline water electrolysis system capable of continuously producing high-purity hydrogen, and an operation method of the alkaline water electrolysis system.
- the present invention is as follows.
- the alkaline water electrolysis system includes a rectifier that is connected to a fluctuating power source and converts AC power into DC power.
- a plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells that generate hydrogen and oxygen by electrolysis of water using an electrolytic solution based on a predetermined DC voltage supplied from the rectifier.
- a gas-liquid separation tank that is connected to a plurality of the bipolar electrolytic cells, separates the hydrogen and the oxygen from the electrolytic solution, and stores the electrolytic solution.
- An on-off valve provided between the gas-liquid separation tank and the multipolar electrolytic cell, It is characterized by having.
- the alkaline water electrolysis system according to the embodiment is further provided with a pressure adjusting valve for adjusting the pressure inside the gas-liquid separation tank.
- the alkaline water electrolysis system according to the embodiment is further provided with a control device for determining the DC voltage and controlling the operation or stop of the bipolar electrolytic cell.
- the control device is It is characterized in that the operation or stop of the multipolar electrolytic cell is controlled so that the current for operating the alkaline water electrolysis system matches the target current.
- the control device is It is characterized in that the operation or shutdown of the bipolar electrolytic cell is controlled based on the ratio of the current density of the operating bipolar electrolytic cell to the maximum current density.
- the control device is When the electric power supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, all the multipolar electrolytic cells are operated. When the electric power supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system is smaller than the first threshold value, a part of the bipolar electrolysis tank is operated. Further, in the alkaline water electrolysis system according to the embodiment, the control device is When power is supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system When the current density of the bipolar electrolytic cell that has started operation is equal to or higher than the second threshold value, the number of the bipolar electrolytic cells to be operated is increased.
- the alkaline water electrolysis system according to the embodiment is further provided with a heating device for heating the electrolytic solution stored inside the gas-liquid separation tank.
- the renewable energy supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system is It is characterized by energy obtained from at least one of wind power, solar power, hydraulic power, tidal power, wave power, ocean current, and geothermal power.
- the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells are characterized in that each has an individual rectifier.
- the operation method of the alkaline water electrolysis system includes a step in which a rectifier connected to a fluctuating power source converts AC power into DC power.
- the on-off valve provided between the gas-liquid separation tank and the bipolar electrolytic cell is a conduction of the electrolytic solution, hydrogen, and oxygen between the gas-liquid separation tank and the bipolar electrolytic cell.
- the steps to suppress It is characterized by including.
- the control device controls the operation or stop of the plurality of the bipolar electrolytic cells, and opens and closes the inlet valve in the on-off valve and the outlet on-off valve in the on-off valve. It is characterized by further comprising a step of closing the valve, or a step of closing either the inlet on-off valve or the outlet on-off valve. Further, in the operation method of the alkaline water electrolysis system according to the embodiment, when the control device is filled with the electrolytic solution in the bipolar electrolytic cell, the inlet on-off valve and the outlet on-off valve are opened. It further comprises a closing step or a step of closing either the inlet on-off valve or the outlet on-off valve.
- the heat exchanger provided inside the gas-liquid separation tank further includes a step of adjusting the temperature of the electrolytic solution.
- the gas-liquid separation tank is provided on the upper part of a plurality of the bipolar electrolysis tanks.
- an alkaline water electrolysis system capable of continuously producing high-purity hydrogen, and a method for operating the alkaline water electrolysis system.
- vertical means a direction parallel to the Z axis of the coordinate axis display drawn in the drawing
- upper means a positive direction in the Z axis.
- Down shall mean the negative direction on the Z axis.
- horizontal means a direction parallel to the XY plane of the coordinate axis display drawn in the drawing.
- diagonal means a direction forming a predetermined angle (angle excluding 0 °, 90 °, 180 °, 270 °) with respect to the XY plane of the coordinate axis display drawn in the drawing. ..
- left means a negative direction in the X-axis of the coordinate axis display drawn in the drawing
- right means a positive direction in the X-axis of the coordinate axis display drawn in the drawing. It shall be.
- vertical, horizontal”, “diagonal”, “top”, “bottom”, “right”, and “left” are only for convenience and should not be interpreted in a limited way. do not have.
- the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 includes a plurality of rectifiers 74_1 to 74_N, a plurality of multipolar electrolytic tanks 50_1 to 50_N, an on-off valve 62, a gas-liquid separation tank 72, a heat exchanger 79, a control device 30, and the like. It includes a temperature control valve 61, a pressure gauge 78, a pressure control valve 80, and a circulation pump 90.
- a configuration in which a plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells are connected to different rectifiers will be described as an example, but the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells are connected to the same rectifier. It may be configured to be. Further, the number of a plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells is not particularly limited.
- the plurality of rectifiers 74_1 to 74_N are electrically connected to the plurality of multipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N, respectively. Further, the plurality of rectifiers 74_1 to 74_N are electrically connected to the control device 30.
- the rectifier 74 is connected to a fluctuating power source, and when fluctuating electric power (for example, renewable energy) is supplied from the outside of the alkaline water electrolysis system 70, AC power is converted into DC power.
- fluctuating electric power for example, renewable energy
- Renewable energy is, for example, energy obtained from at least one of wind power, solar power, hydraulic power, tidal power, wave power, ocean current, and geothermal power. Since the regenerative energy tends to fluctuate in electric power, electric power is randomly supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 over a wide range from a low current density to a high current density.
- the rectifier 74 applies a predetermined direct current between the anode terminal and the cathode terminal in the multipolar electrolytic cell 50.
- the predetermined DC voltage is determined by the control device 30.
- the rectifier 74 energizes between the anode terminal and the cathode terminal in the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 with a current density of 10 [kA / m 2 ] determined by the control device 30.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 operates at an operating rate of 100%.
- the rectifier 74 energizes between the anode terminal and the cathode terminal in the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 with a current density of 5 [kA / m 2 ] determined by the control device 30.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 operates at an operating rate of 50%.
- the rectifier 74 energizes between the anode terminal and the cathode terminal in the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 with a current density of 3 [kA / m 2 ] determined by the control device 30.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 operates at an operating rate of 30%.
- the rectifier 74 does not apply a voltage between the anode terminal and the cathode terminal in the multipolar electrolytic cell 50. As a result, the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is stopped.
- the rectifier 74 applies a predetermined DC voltage determined by the control device 30 between the anode terminal and the cathode terminal in the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50, so that the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 can be used. Operation or shutdown is controlled. In the present specification, controlling the operation or stop of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 not only means simple on / off control of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50, but also means the operation of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50. It shall also include control of the operating rate at the time.
- the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N are provided in the lower part of the gas-liquid separation tank 72, and are electrically connected to the plurality of rectifiers 74_1 to 74_N, respectively. Further, the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N are connected to the oxygen separation tank 72o via the on-off valve 62o (inlet on-off valve 62oi, outlet on-off valve 62oo), and the on-off valve 62h (inlet on-off valve 62hi, outlet). It is connected to the hydrogen separation tank 72h via the on-off valve 62ho).
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 generates oxygen from the anode side and hydrogen from the cathode side by electrolyzing water using an electrolytic solution based on a predetermined DC voltage supplied from the rectifier 74.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 includes a plurality of electrolytic cells 65 (see FIG. 4). The details of the configurations of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 and the electrolytic cell 65 will be described later.
- the electrolytic solution is an alkaline aqueous solution in which an alkaline salt is dissolved, for example, a NaOH aqueous solution, a KOH aqueous solution, or the like.
- concentration of the alkaline salt is preferably 20% by mass to 50% by mass, more preferably 25% by mass to 40% by mass.
- the electrolytic solution is a KOH aqueous solution having an alkaline salt concentration of 25% by mass to 40% by mass, or a NaOH aqueous solution having a concentration of 10% by mass to 40% by mass. It is particularly preferable to have.
- the operation or stop of the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N is controlled by the control device 30.
- the operation or stop of each of the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N is controlled by the control device 30 so that the current for operating the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 matches the target current.
- the operation or stop of each of the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N is controlled by the control device 30 based on the ratio of the current density of the operating bipolar electrolytic cell to the maximum current density.
- the operation or stop of each of the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N is controlled by the control device 30 based on the electric power supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70.
- control device 30 appropriately controls the operation or shutdown of each of the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N, whereby the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 continuously produces high-purity hydrogen. can do.
- the on-off valve 62 is provided between the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the on-off valve 62o is provided between the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the oxygen separation tank 72o.
- the on-off valve 62h is provided between the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the hydrogen separation tank 72h.
- the inlet on-off valve 62oi is provided between the bipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72o via the circulation pump 90.
- the inlet on-off valve 62hi is provided between the bipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72h via the circulation pump 90.
- the opening and closing of the on-off valve 62 is controlled by the control device 30.
- the on-off valve 62 When the on-off valve 62 is opened, the electrolytic solution flows between the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the on-off valve 62 When the on-off valve 62 is closed, the flow of the electrolytic solution is blocked between the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the on-off valve 62 is closed, not only the flow of the electrolytic solution is blocked between the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72, but also the on-off valve 62 is closed to form the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50.
- the diffusion of gas between the gas-liquid separation tank 72 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is suppressed, and the intrusion of gas into the inside of the multipolar electrolytic cell can be prevented. As a result, gas contamination and the like can be reduced.
- the on-off valve 62 is closed in a state where the inside of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is filled with the electrolytic cell, so that the diaphragm inside the multi-polar electrolytic cell 50 is constantly immersed in the electrolytic cell, and the multi-pole type It is possible to suppress gas diffusion through the diaphragm of oxygen and hydrogen gas that has entered the inside of the electrolytic cell 50. As a result, gas contamination and the like can be further reduced.
- the inlet on-off valves 62hi and 62oi have the effect of preventing the transfer of the electrolytic solution to the gas-liquid separation tank 72 due to its own weight, constantly filling the multipolar electrolytic cell 50, and constantly immersing the diaphragm in the electrolytic solution. be.
- the outlet on-off valves 62ho and 62oo are particularly effective in preventing the diffusion of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas in the piping.
- the effect is maximized by closing all the inlet on-off valves 62hi and 62oi and the outlet on-off valves 62ho and 62oo, but it is effective even when only the inlet on-off valves 62hi and 62oi are closed and only the outlet on-off valves 62ho and 62oo are closed. Is obtained.
- the circulation pump 90 sends an electrolytic solution to the bipolar electrolytic tank 50, and by driving the circulation pump, the inside of the bipolar electrolytic tank 50 is filled with the electrolytic solution and consumed by electrolysis. It has the effects of replenishing the generated water, making the concentration of the electrolytic solution uniform, and cooling the inside of the multipolar electrolytic tank 50 by circulating the electrolytic solution.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is provided above the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N and is connected to the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 separates the generated gas (hydrogen, oxygen) from the electrolytic solution, and stores the electrolytic solution that has flowed in from the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 includes an oxygen separation tank 72o and a hydrogen separation tank 72h.
- One oxygen separation tank 72o is connected to a plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N, and one hydrogen separation tank 72h is connected to a plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N.
- the position of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 provided with respect to the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N is not particularly limited.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is provided under the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N, and has a plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N. It may be connected.
- the oxygen separation tank 72o separates oxygen into the upper gas phase and the electrolytic solution into the lower liquid phase from the mixture of oxygen and the electrolytic solution flowing in from the multipolar electrolytic cell 50.
- the separated oxygen is discharged from the discharge port provided above the oxygen separation tank 72o.
- the separated electrolytic solution is stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o, flows out from the outlet provided below the oxygen separation tank 72o, and flows into the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 again.
- the hydrogen separation tank 72h separates hydrogen into the gas phase of the upper layer and the electrolytic solution into the liquid phase of the lower layer from the mixture of hydrogen and the electrolytic solution flowing in from the multipolar electrolytic cell 50.
- the separated hydrogen is discharged from the discharge port provided above the hydrogen separation tank 72h.
- the separated electrolytic solution is stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h, flows out from the outlet provided below the hydrogen separation tank 72h, and flows into the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 again.
- the oxygen or hydrogen discharged from the discharge port of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is in a state of containing alkaline mist. Therefore, it is preferable that the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is provided on the downstream side of the discharge port with a device such as a mist separator or a cooler capable of liquefying excess mist and returning it to the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- a device such as a mist separator or a cooler capable of liquefying excess mist and returning it to the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the degree of gas-liquid separation is determined by the line bundle of the electrolytic solution stored inside, the floating speed of gas bubbles, the residence time of gas, and the like. If the degree of gas-liquid separation is properly determined, when the electrolytic solution or the like flows from the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 into the gas-liquid separation tank 72, oxygen and hydrogen are mixed and the gas purity is lowered. Can be avoided.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 preferably has a small capacity in consideration of the installed volume, but if the volume is too small, the electrolyte liquid stored inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 due to a change in pressure or current. The surface fluctuation becomes large. Therefore, it is preferable that the capacity of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is designed in consideration of the liquid level fluctuation of the electrolytic solution.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 may further include a liquid level gauge for measuring the height of the liquid level of the electrolytic solution stored inside.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 may have at least a shape capable of storing an electrolytic solution inside, and may have a cylindrical shape, for example.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is preferably formed of an alkali-resistant metal material, and examples of such a material include nickel and SUS.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 preferably has a resin lining layer on the inner surface.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 has a resin lining layer on the inner surface, it is preferable that the outer surface is covered with a heat insulating material.
- the thickness of the resin lining layer is preferably 0.5 mm to 4.0 mm, more preferably 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm. If it is thinner than 0.5 mm, deterioration of the inner surface of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 due to gas and electrolytic solution is likely to occur, and if it is thicker than 4.0 mm, residual stress is released by high temperature and alkali, resulting in deformation. Or the possibility of causing peeling increases. When the thickness of the resin lining layer satisfies the above range, the durability of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 can be improved.
- the standard deviation of the thickness of the resin lining layer is preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.5 mm or less.
- the resin lining layer is preferably formed of two or more layers.
- the resin lining layer can be formed by a known method. Examples of such a method include a rotary firing method, a coating method by powder coating, a liquid coating method, and a spraying method.
- a rotary firing method a coating method by powder coating
- a liquid coating method a coating method by powder coating
- a spraying method a spraying method.
- the inner surface of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 may be subjected to one or more degreasing treatments, blast treatments using sand or the like, primer treatments, and the like.
- the resin lining layer is preferably formed of a fluororesin material.
- the fluororesin material include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), tetrafluoroethylene / perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer (PFA), tetrafluoroethylene / hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP), and tetrafluoroethylene.
- PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene
- PFA perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer
- FEP tetrafluoroethylene / hexafluoropropylene copolymer
- ETFEs ethylene copolymers
- the heat insulating material may be a known heat insulating material, for example, glass wool, a foaming material, or the like.
- the inner surface of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is significantly deteriorated by gas and electrolytic solution, especially under high temperature conditions, and the outer surface of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is covered with a heat insulating material to suppress such deterioration. be able to.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is provided above the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N. As a result, the liquid with high density is guided to the lower side and the gas with low density is guided to the upper side. Therefore, even if a fluctuating electric power is applied to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70, the electrolytic solution is stably circulated and self-circulates. Can be promoted. Further, when the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is stopped, the inside of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is separated by the gas-liquid separation tank due to the density difference generated between the gas-liquid separation tank 72 and the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50.
- the electrolytic solution possessed by 72 can be filled, the diffusion of gas through the diaphragm can be suppressed. Further, it is possible to avoid a problem that the impurity gas is mixed between the oxygen separation tank 72o and the hydrogen element separation tank 72h via the multipolar electrolytic cell 50.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is located above the gas-liquid separation tank 72, the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is lifted to the upper part of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 by a crane or the like in the maintenance of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50. It is necessary and maintenance is complicated, but when the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is provided at the bottom of the gas-liquid separation tank 72, it is not necessary to lift the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 with a crane or the like, so maintenance is smooth. Is possible.
- the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is connected to a plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N, and the high-purity gas generated in the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N separates the gas and liquid. A large amount of water flows into the tank 72. Therefore, even if the impurity concentration becomes high in any of the bipolar electrolytic cells 50, the low-purity gas is diluted with a large amount of high-purity gas at once inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the gas discharged from the gas-liquid separation tank 72 can be a high-purity gas (see FIG. 2).
- the heat exchanger 79 is preferably provided inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the amount of heat exchanged is controlled by the control device 30, and the temperature of the electrolytic solution stored inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is adjusted.
- the heat exchanger 79 may be controlled by the control device 30 based on the flow rate of the electrolytic solution measured by the flow meter (not shown).
- the heat exchanger 79o adjusts the temperature of the electrolytic solution stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o.
- the heat exchanger 79o can efficiently adjust the temperature of the electrolytic solution. Further, by providing the heat exchanger 79o inside the oxygen separation tank 72o, the occupied area of the entire system can be reduced.
- the heat exchanger 79h adjusts the temperature of the electrolytic solution stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h.
- the heat exchanger 79h can efficiently adjust the temperature of the electrolytic solution. Further, by providing the heat exchanger 79h inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h, the occupied area of the entire system can be reduced.
- the heat exchanger 79 cools the electrolytic solution stored inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the heat exchanger 79 heats the electrolytic solution stored in the gas-liquid separation tank 72 because it descends.
- the temperature of the electrolytic solution can be maintained at an appropriate temperature in the entire system. can. This makes it possible to realize an alkaline water electrolysis system 70 capable of highly efficient operation.
- the heat exchanger 79 is provided inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 connected to the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N, so that the electrolytic solution stored inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is stored.
- the temperature can be easily maintained at an appropriate temperature. For example, even if the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 stops its operation and restarts its operation, it does not consume unnecessary power, so that the alkaline water electrolysis system can be operated efficiently and continuously.
- the system 70 can be realized.
- the control device 30 may be any computer that can perform predetermined processing by a program, and is, for example, a notebook PC (personal computer) used by an operator, a mobile phone such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like.
- the control device 30 controls each part of the alkaline water electrolysis system 70.
- the control device 30 includes a control unit and a storage unit.
- the control unit may be configured by dedicated hardware, a general-purpose processor, or a processor specialized for a specific process.
- the storage unit includes one or more memories, and may include, for example, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, an optical memory, and the like. Each memory included in the storage unit may function as, for example, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. Each memory does not necessarily have to be provided inside the control device 30, and may be provided outside the control device 30.
- the control device 30 generates a control signal for controlling the operation or stop of the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 and outputs it to the rectifier 74.
- the control device 30 outputs a control signal for operating the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 at an operating rate of 100% to the rectifier 74.
- the control device 30 outputs a control signal for operating the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 at an operating rate of 50% to the rectifier 74.
- the control device 30 outputs a control signal for operating the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 at an operating rate of 30% to the rectifier 74.
- the control device 30 outputs a control signal for stopping the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 to the rectifier 74.
- control device 30 appropriately determines the predetermined DC voltage to be supplied to each of the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N, whereby the operation of each of the plurality of multi-pole electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N is performed. (Or uptime) or outage is controlled.
- the control device 30 when the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 includes six multi-pole electrolytic cells, the control device 30 includes a multi-pole electrolytic cell 50_1, a multi-pole electrolytic cell 50_1, and a multi-pole electrolytic cell.
- the electrolytic cell 50_3, the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50_4, the multi-polar electrolytic cell 50_5, and the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50_6 are controlled to operate at an operating rate of 100%.
- the control device 30 operates the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50_1 at an operating rate of 30%. It is controlled to stop the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50_2, the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50_3, the multi-polar electrolytic cell 50_4, the multi-polar electrolytic cell 50_5, and the multi-polar electrolytic cell 50_6.
- the impurity concentration is preferably low, but tends to increase as the current load decreases.
- the operation or shutdown of each of the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N is appropriately controlled by the control device 30, for example, from 100% to 5 It can be seen that the impurity concentration inside all the multi-polar electrolytic cells 50 can be maintained in an extremely low state even if the current load is reduced in the entire system up to%. Therefore, it can be seen that the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 capable of operating in a wide range can be realized.
- An alkaline water electrolysis system capable of continuously producing high-purity hydrogen by providing a gas-liquid separation tank 72 capable of diluting low-purity gas with a large amount of high-purity gas at one time. It is suggested that 70 can be realized.
- the control device 30 controls the operation or stop of the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 so that the current for operating the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 matches the target current (for example, 10 [kA]). For example, the control device 30 outputs a control signal for operating or stopping each of the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N so that the target current is uniformly distributed to the operating bipolar electrolytic cells 50. Output to the rectifier 74. For example, the control device 30 operates or stops each of the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N so that the target current is unevenly distributed to the operating bipolar electrolytic cells 50. Is output to the rectifier 74.
- the target current for example, 10 [kA]
- the control device 30 controls the operation or stop of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 based on the ratio of the current density of the operating multi-polar electrolytic cell 50 to the maximum current density (for example, 10 [kA / m 2 ]). do. For example, when the current density of the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 is 40% or less of the maximum current density, the control device 30 outputs a control signal for stopping the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 to the rectifier 74. When the current density of the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 is larger than 40% of the maximum current density, a control signal for operating the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 as it is is output to the rectifier 74. ..
- the control device 30 when the current density of the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 is 20% or less of the maximum current density, the control device 30 outputs a control signal for stopping the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 to the rectifier 74.
- a control signal for operating the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 as it is is output to the rectifier 74. ..
- the control device 30 when the current density of the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 is 10% or less of the maximum current density, the control device 30 outputs a control signal for stopping the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 to the rectifier 74.
- a control signal for operating the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 as it is is output to the rectifier 74. ..
- the control device 30 outputs a control signal for stopping the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 to the rectifier 74.
- a control signal for operating the operating bipolar electrolytic cell 50 as it is is output to the rectifier 74. ..
- the ratio value is not limited to 40%, 20%, 10%, and 5%, and may be arbitrarily set by the control device 30.
- the control device 30 controls the operation or stop of the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 based on the electric power supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70. For example, when the electric power supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, the control device 30 outputs a control signal for operating all the multipolar electrolytic cells 50 to the rectifier 74. In this case, the control device 30 may control each of the multi-pole electrolytic cells 50 so that the current flows uniformly to all the multi-pole electrolytic cells 50, or the control device 30 may control all the multi-pole electrolytic cells 50. Each multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 may be controlled so that the current flows non-uniformly.
- the control device 30 when the power supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 is smaller than the first threshold value, the control device 30 outputs a control signal for operating a part of the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 to the rectifier 74, and the rest A control signal for stopping the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is output to the rectifier 74.
- the control device 30 can arbitrarily control the number of the bipolar electrolytic cells 50 to be operated and the number of the bipolar electrolytic cells 50 to be stopped.
- the first threshold value may be arbitrarily set by the control device 30, and its value is not particularly limited.
- the control device 30 controls the number of the multi-pole electrolytic cells 50 to be operated based on the current density of the multi-polar electrolytic cell 50 that has started the operation when the electric power is supplied to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70. For example, the control device 30 operates the bipolar electrolytic cell 50 when the current density of the bipolar electrolytic cell 50 (for example, the third bipolar electrolytic cell) that has started operation is equal to or higher than the second threshold value. Decide to increase the number of units. Then, the control device 30 has a control signal for operating a new multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 (for example, a fourth multi-pole electrolytic cell), and a multi-pole electrolytic cell that has already started operation.
- a new multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 for example, a fourth multi-pole electrolytic cell
- a control signal for operating 50 (for example, the first to third multi-pole electrolytic cells) as it is is output to the rectifier 74.
- the control device 30 is operated when the current density of the bipolar electrolytic cell 50 (for example, the third bipolar electrolytic cell) that has started operation is smaller than the second threshold value. Decide to keep the number. Then, the control device 30 outputs a control signal for operating the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 (for example, the first to third multi-pole electrolytic cells) that has already started operation as it is to the rectifier 74. do.
- the second threshold value may be arbitrarily set by the control device 30, and its value is not particularly limited.
- the control device 30 generates a control signal for controlling the on-off valve 62 and outputs it to the on-off valve 62. For example, when the control device 30 outputs a control signal for opening the on-off valve 62 to the on-off valve 62, the on-off valve 62 is opened. As a result, the electrolytic solution can flow between the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72. For example, when the control device 30 outputs a control signal for closing the on-off valve 62 to the on-off valve 62, the on-off valve 62 is closed. This makes it possible to prevent the flow of the electrolytic solution between the multipolar electrolytic cell 50 and the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the control device 30 generates a control signal for controlling the pressure regulating valve 80 and outputs the control signal to the pressure regulating valve 80.
- the control device 30 controls the pressure control valve 80o connected to the oxygen separation tank 72o based on the measurement result of the pressure gauge 78o that measures the pressure inside the oxygen separation tank 72o.
- the pressure inside the oxygen separation tank 72o is adjusted to an appropriate pressure (for example, 100 kPa).
- the control device 30 controls the pressure adjusting valve 80h connected to the hydrogen separation tank 72h based on the measurement result of the pressure gauge 78h that measures the pressure inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h.
- the pressure inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h is adjusted to an appropriate pressure (for example, 100 kPa).
- the control device 30 generates a control signal for controlling the temperature control valve 61 and outputs the control signal to the temperature control valve 61.
- the control device 30 controls the temperature control valve 61o connected to the heat exchanger 79o based on the flow rate of the electrolytic solution measured by the flow meter.
- the temperature of the electrolytic solution stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o is adjusted to an appropriate temperature (for example, 80 degrees).
- the control device 30 controls the temperature control valve 61h connected to the heat exchanger 79h based on the flow rate of the electrolytic solution measured by the flow meter.
- the temperature of the electrolytic solution stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h is adjusted to an appropriate temperature (for example, 80 degrees).
- the control device 30 generates a control signal for controlling the exchange heat amount of the heat exchanger 79 and outputs the control signal to the heat exchanger 79.
- the control device 30 controls the exchange heat amount of the heat exchanger 79o provided inside the oxygen separation tank 72o based on the flow rate of the electrolytic solution measured by the flow meter.
- the electrolytic solution stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o is cooled, heated, or kept warm.
- the control device 30 controls the exchange heat amount of the heat exchanger 79h provided inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h based on the flow rate of the electrolytic solution measured by the flow meter.
- the electrolytic solution stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h is cooled, heated, or kept warm.
- the control device 30 controls each part of the alkaline water electrolysis system 70, in addition to the above-mentioned multi-pole electrolytic cell 50, rectifier 74, on-off valve 62, pressure control valve 80, temperature control valve 61, and heat exchanger 79.
- the temperature control valve 61 is controlled by the control device 30.
- the temperature control valve 61 is connected to the heat exchanger 79, and the temperature of the electrolytic solution stored inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 is within a predetermined range (for example, 50 to 90 degrees, preferably 60 to 80 degrees, and further.
- the temperature of the electrolytic solution is adjusted so as to be within (preferably 75 to 85 degrees).
- the temperature control valve 61o is connected to the heat exchanger 79o and is controlled by the control device 30 based on the flow rate of the electrolytic solution measured by the flow meter, so that the electrolysis is stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o. Adjust the temperature of the liquid.
- the temperature control valve 61h is connected to the heat exchanger 79h and is controlled by the control device 30 based on the flow rate of the electrolytic solution measured by the flow meter, so that the electrolysis is stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h. Adjust the temperature of the liquid.
- the control device 30 By appropriately controlling the temperature control valve 61 by the control device 30, it is possible to suppress an excessive rise in the temperature of the electrolytic solution or an excessive decrease in the temperature of the electrolytic solution, and to make the temperature of the electrolytic solution an appropriate temperature. can.
- the pressure gauge 78 is provided on the upper part of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 and is connected to the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the pressure gauge 78o measures the pressure inside the oxygen separation tank 72o and outputs the measurement result to the control device 30.
- the pressure gauge 78h measures the pressure inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h and outputs the measurement result to the control device 30.
- the pressure inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h is maintained at an appropriate pressure.
- the pressure regulating valve 80 is controlled by the control device 30.
- the pressure regulating valve 80 is provided on the upper part of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 and is connected to the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the pressure regulating valve 80o is connected to the oxygen separation tank 72o and is controlled by the control device 30 based on the pressure inside the oxygen separation tank 72o measured by the pressure gauge 78o, whereby the oxygen separation tank 72o is controlled.
- Adjust the internal pressure For example, the pressure regulating valve 80h is connected to the hydrogen separation tank 72h and is controlled by the control device 30 based on the internal pressure of the hydrogen separation tank 72h measured by the pressure gauge 78h, whereby the hydrogen separation tank 72h Adjust the internal pressure.
- the pressure regulating valve 80 By appropriately adjusting the pressure regulating valve 80 by the control device 30, it is possible to suppress an excessive increase in the pressure inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 or an excessive decrease in the pressure inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the pressure inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 can be set to an appropriate pressure. Further, even if the pressure inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72 exceeds the design pressure due to the gas generated by the electrolysis of water, the pressure can be safely reduced.
- the flow meter is provided at the bottom of the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 and is connected to the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50.
- the flow meter measures the flow rate of the electrolytic solution circulating in the multipolar electrolytic cell 50, and outputs the measurement result to the control device 30.
- the control device 30 controls the heat exchanger 79o and the temperature control valve 61o, so that the electrolytic solution stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o is maintained at an appropriate temperature.
- the control device 30 controls the heat exchanger 79h and the temperature control valve 61h based on the measurement result, so that the electrolytic solution stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h is maintained at an appropriate temperature.
- the flow meter outputs the measurement result to the control device 30 as appropriate, and the control device 30 appropriately controls the temperature of the electrolytic solution based on the measurement result, so that the power varies to the alkaline water electrolysis system 70. Is charged, the electrolytic solution can be circulated stably and self-circulation can be promoted. This makes it possible to realize an alkaline water electrolysis system 70 capable of producing high-purity hydrogen while enabling highly efficient operation.
- the heating device is provided at the lower part of the gas-liquid separation tank 72 and heats the electrolytic solution stored inside the gas-liquid separation tank 72.
- the heating device is, for example, a heater.
- the electrolytic solution that has cooled down can be used.
- the temperature can be instantly returned to a constant temperature. This makes it possible to realize an alkaline water electrolysis system 70 capable of highly efficient operation. Further, for example, even when the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 stops the operation and starts the operation again, it is possible to avoid wasting power, so that the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 can be operated efficiently and continuously.
- the water electrolysis system 70 can be realized.
- the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 may include a water replenisher, an oxygen densitometer, a hydrogen densitometer, a detector, and the like.
- a water replenisher an oxygen densitometer, a hydrogen densitometer, a detector, and the like.
- the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 can reduce the frequency of purging the inert gas due to the shutdown of the entire system and enhance the maintainability of the high-purity hydrogen supply. .. This makes it possible to realize an alkaline water electrolysis system 70 capable of continuously producing high-purity hydrogen.
- a plurality of multi-pole elements 60 are arranged between the anode terminal element (anode terminal) 51a and the cathode terminal element (cathode terminal) 51c.
- the anode terminal element 51a and the cathode terminal element 51c are electrically connected to the rectifier 74. Further, the anode terminal element 51a is electrically connected to the anode 2a located at the leftmost end, and the cathode terminal element 51c is electrically connected to the cathode 2c located at the rightmost end.
- the current flows from the anode terminal element 51a to the cathode terminal element 51c via the cathode 2c and the anode 2a included in the plurality of bipolar elements 60.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 includes a fast head 51g1, an insulating plate 51i1, an anode terminal element 51a, an anode-side gasket portion 7a, a diaphragm 4, a cathode-side gasket portion 7c, a plurality of multi-pole elements 60, and an anode.
- the side gasket portion 7a, the diaphragm 4, the cathode side gasket portion 7c, the cathode terminal element 51c, the insulating plate 51i2, and the loose head 51g2 are arranged in this order.
- the plurality of multipolar elements 60 are arranged so that the cathode 2c faces the anode terminal element 51a side and the anode 2a faces the cathode terminal element 51c side.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is embodied as a whole by being tightened by the tie rod method 51r. A hydraulic cylinder or the like may be used as the tightening mechanism. Further, the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 can be arbitrarily rearranged from either the anode side or the cathode side, and is not limited to the above-mentioned order.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 can reduce the current of the power source as compared with the single-pole electrolytic cell, and can mass-produce compounds, predetermined substances, and the like in a short time. Therefore, industrially, it is possible to reduce the cost by using a multi-pole electrolytic cell rather than a single-pole electrolytic cell.
- the multipolar element 60 includes an anode 2a, a cathode 2c, a partition wall 1 that separates the anode 2a and the cathode 2c, and an outer frame 3 that borders the partition wall 1.
- the multipolar element 60 has an anode 2a on one surface and a cathode 2c on the other surface.
- the logarithm of the multipolar element 60 is not particularly limited, and the logarithm may be repeatedly arranged as many as necessary for the design production amount, but the number is preferably 50 to 500, and 70 to 300. It is more preferable that there are 100 to 200 pieces, and it is particularly preferable that the number is 100 to 200 pieces.
- the logarithm of the multipolar element 60 When the logarithm of the multipolar element 60 is small, the adverse effect on gas purity due to the leakage current is alleviated. Further, if the number of logarithms of the multipolar element 60 is large, it becomes difficult to uniformly distribute the electrolytic solution to each electrolytic cell 65. Further, if the logarithm of the multi-pole element 60 is too large, it becomes difficult to manufacture the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50. When a large number of multi-pole elements 60 having poor manufacturing accuracy are stacked, the sealing surface pressure becomes non-uniform in the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50, and electrolytic solution leakage and gas leakage are likely to occur.
- the logarithm of the multipolar element 60 satisfies the above range, the self-discharge generated when the power supply is stopped can be reduced, and the electric control system can be stabilized.
- the electrolytic cell 65 includes a partition wall 1, an anode chamber 5a, and an anode 2a included in one adjacent bipolar element 60, and a cathode 2c, a cathode chamber 5c, and a partition wall 1 included in the other adjacent bipolar element 60. , An outer frame 3, a diaphragm 4, and a gasket 7.
- the cathode chamber 5c includes a current collector 2r, a conductive elastic body 2e, and a straightening vane 6.
- the electrolytic cell 65 may include a baffle plate 8.
- the temperature of the electrolytic solution inside the electrolytic cell 65 is preferably 40 ° C. or higher, more preferably 80 ° C. or higher. Further, in the electrolytic cell 65, the temperature of the electrolytic solution inside is preferably 110 ° C. or lower, more preferably 95 ° C. or lower. By satisfying the temperature of the electrolytic solution inside the electrolytic cell 65, it is possible to effectively suppress deterioration of various members included in the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 due to heat while maintaining high electrolysis efficiency. ..
- the lower limit of the given current density is preferably 1 [kA / m 2 ] or more, and more preferably 8 [kA / m 2 ] or more.
- the upper limit of the applied current density is preferably 15 [kA / m 2 ] or less, and more preferably 10 [kA / m 2 ] or less.
- the internal pressure of the electrolytic cell 65 is preferably 3 [kPa] to 1000 [kPa], and more preferably 3 [kPa] to 300 [kPa].
- the partition wall 1 separates the anode 2a and the cathode 2c.
- the partition wall 1 is electrically connected to the current collector 2r via the straightening vane 6.
- the partition wall 1 is preferably formed of a conductive material.
- the conductive material include nickel, nickel alloys, mild steels, and nickel alloys plated with nickel.
- the partition wall 1 is made of nickel as the material of the member that comes into contact with the electrolytic solution. Thereby, alkali resistance, heat resistance and the like can be improved.
- the shape of the partition wall 1 is not particularly limited, but it is preferably a plate shape having a predetermined thickness. Further, the partition wall 1 may have, for example, a rectangular shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape in a plan view, and when the partition wall 1 has a rectangular shape, the corners may be rounded.
- the anode 2a is provided in the anode chamber 5a, and the cathode 2c is provided in the cathode chamber 5c.
- the anode 2a and the cathode 2c belonging to one electrolytic cell 65 are electrically connected to each other. Further, the cathode 2c is electrically connected to the current collector 2r via the conductive elastic body 2e.
- the electrode 2 is preferably a porous body in order to increase the surface area used for electrolysis of water and to efficiently remove the gas generated by the electrolysis of water from the surface of the electrode 2.
- the porous body include a plain weave mesh, a punching metal, an expanded metal, a metal foam, and the like.
- the electrode 2 may be the base material itself, but it is preferable that the electrode 2 has a catalyst layer having high reaction activity on the surface of the base material.
- the base material is preferably made of a material such as mild steel, stainless steel, nickel, or a nickel-based alloy because of its resistance to the usage environment.
- the catalyst layer of the anode 2a is preferably formed of a material having high oxygen-evolving ability and good durability, and examples of such a material include nickel or cobalt, iron or a platinum group element.
- materials for achieving the desired catalytic activity, durability and the like for example, palladium, iridium, platinum, gold, ruthenium, rhodium, cerium, nickel, cobalt, tungsten, iron, molybdenum, silver, copper and zirconium.
- Examples thereof include elemental metals such as titanium, hafnium, and lanthanoids, compounds such as oxides, composite oxides or alloys composed of a plurality of metal elements, or mixtures thereof, and carbon materials such as graphene.
- the catalyst layer of the cathode 2c is preferably formed of a material having a high hydrogen generating ability, and examples of such a material include nickel or cobalt, iron or a platinum group element.
- examples of the material for achieving the desired catalytic activity, durability, etc. include elemental metals, compounds such as oxides, composite oxides or alloys composed of a plurality of metal elements, or mixtures thereof. .. Specifically, for example, for example, a Rane alloy composed of a combination of a plurality of materials such as Rane nickel, nickel and aluminum, or nickel and tin, a porous coating prepared by a plasma spraying method using a nickel compound or a cobalt compound as a raw material, nickel and cobalt.
- platinum group element such as platinum or ruthenium having a high hydrogen generating ability
- metal or oxidation of those platinum group elements examples thereof include a mixture of a substance and a compound of another platinum group element such as iridium and palladium, a compound of a rare earth metal such as lanthanum or cerium, and a carbon material such as graphene.
- a plurality of catalyst layers formed of the above materials may be laminated, or a plurality of materials may be mixed in the catalyst layer.
- an organic substance such as a polymer material may be contained in the material.
- the electrolytic voltage greatly depends on the performance of the electrode 2. By reducing the electrolysis voltage, the energy consumption in the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 can be reduced.
- the electrolytic voltage is the voltage required for electrolysis of water, which is theoretically required, the overvoltage of the anode reaction (oxygen generation), the overvoltage of the cathode reaction (hydrogen generation), and the voltage due to the distance between the electrodes of the anode 2a and the cathode 2c. And so on.
- the overvoltage means a voltage that needs to be excessively applied beyond the theoretical decomposition potential when a certain current is passed. By lowering the overvoltage, the electrolytic voltage can be reduced.
- the electrode 2 has high conductivity, high oxygen-evolving ability or hydrogen-generating ability, and high wettability of the electrolytic solution on the surface of the electrode 2.
- the electrode 2 has such a performance, the above-mentioned overvoltage can be lowered. Further, even if unstable electric power such as renewable energy is supplied to the electrode 2, the base material and the catalyst layer may be corroded, the catalyst layer may fall off, the catalyst layer may be dissolved, the inclusions may be attached to the diaphragm 4, and the like. It is preferable to have a performance that does not easily cause.
- the current collector 2r has a function of transmitting electricity to the conductive elastic body 2e and the electrode 2, supporting the load received from the conductive elastic body 2e and the electrode 2, and allowing the gas generated from the electrode 2 to pass through the partition wall 1 side without any trouble. Has.
- the current collector 2r preferably has a shape such as an expanded metal or a punched perforated plate. It is preferable that the current collector 2r has an aperture ratio satisfying a range in which the hydrogen gas generated from the electrode 2 can be extracted to the partition wall 1 side without any trouble. If the aperture ratio is too large, problems such as a decrease in the strength of the current collector 2r or a decrease in conductivity to the conductive elastic body 2e are likely to occur, and if the aperture ratio is too small, gas release becomes poor. Therefore, it is preferable that the aperture ratio of the current collector 2r is appropriately set in consideration of these problems.
- the current collector 2r is preferably formed of, for example, a material such as nickel, nickel alloy, stainless steel, or mild steel. From the viewpoint of corrosion resistance, the current collector 2r is preferably nickel-plated on nickel, mild steel, or stainless steel nickel alloy.
- the conductive elastic body 2e is in contact with the current collector 2r and the electrode 2, and is provided between the current collector 2r and the cathode 2c.
- the conductive elastic body 2e has a function of bringing the diaphragm 4 into close contact with the electrode 2 by evenly applying an appropriate pressure to the electrode 2 so as not to damage the diaphragm 4.
- the conductive elastic body 2e has conductivity to the electrode 2 and does not hinder the diffusion of the gas generated from the electrode 2. If the diffusion of gas is hindered by the conductive elastic body 2e, the electrical resistance increases and the area of the electrode 2 used for electrolysis of water decreases, so that the electrolysis efficiency decreases. ..
- the structure of the conductive elastic body 2e is not particularly limited, and may be a known structure.
- the conductive elastic body 2e may be, for example, a cushion mat in which a nickel wire having a wire diameter of about 0.05 mm to 0.5 mm is woven and corrugated.
- the outer frame 3 is provided along the outer edge of the partition wall 1 so as to surround the partition wall 1.
- the outer frame 3 may have a shape that can surround the partition wall 1, and the shape is not particularly limited, but the inner surface along the vertical direction with respect to the plane of the partition wall 1 extends over the outer surface of the partition wall 1. It is preferable that the shape is provided. It is preferable that the outer frame 3 is appropriately set according to the plan view shape of the partition wall 1.
- the outer frame 3 is preferably formed of a conductive material, and examples of such a material include nickel, nickel alloy, mild steel, and nickel alloy. Further, from the viewpoint of alkali resistance and heat resistance, the outer frame 3 is preferably nickel-plated on, for example, nickel, nickel alloy, mild steel, or nickel alloy.
- the diaphragm 4 partitions the anode chamber 5a having the anode 2a and the cathode chamber 5c having the cathode 2c.
- the diaphragm 4 is provided between the anode terminal element 51a and the multi-polar element 60, between adjacent multi-polar elements 60, and between the multi-polar element 60 and the cathode terminal element 51c.
- the diaphragm 4 has ion permeability and separates hydrogen gas and oxygen gas while conducting ions.
- the diaphragm 4 is composed of an ion exchange membrane having an ion exchange ability, a porous membrane capable of permeating an electrolytic solution, and the like.
- the diaphragm 4 preferably has low gas permeability, high ionic conductivity, low electron conductivity, and high strength.
- the porous membrane has a plurality of fine through holes and has a structure that allows the electrolytic solution to permeate.
- Examples of the porous membrane having such a structure include a polymer porous membrane, an inorganic porous membrane, a woven fabric, and a non-woven fabric. These films are formed by applying known techniques.
- the porous membrane preferably contains, for example, at least one polymer resin selected from the group consisting of polysulfone, polyethersulfone and polyphenylsulfone. This makes it possible to maintain excellent ion permeability.
- the porous membrane exhibits ionic conductivity when the electrolytic solution permeates, it is preferable that the porous structure such as pore size, porosity, and hydrophilicity is appropriately controlled.
- the porous structure in the porous membrane it is possible not only to allow the electrolytic solution to permeate but also to improve the blocking property of the generated gas.
- the thickness of the porous membrane is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 200 ⁇ m or more and 700 ⁇ m or less, for example. When the thickness of the porous membrane is 250 ⁇ m or more, more excellent gas blocking property can be obtained, and the strength of the porous membrane against impact can be further improved. From this viewpoint, the lower limit of the thickness of the porous membrane is more preferably 300 ⁇ m or more, more preferably 350 ⁇ m or more, and further preferably 400 ⁇ m or more.
- the thickness of the porous film is 700 ⁇ m or less, the ion permeability is less likely to be hindered by the resistance of the electrolytic solution contained in the pores during the operation of the alkaline water electrolysis system 70, so that the porous film is more excellent in ion permeability. Can be maintained.
- the upper limit of the thickness of the porous membrane is more preferably 600 ⁇ m or less, more preferably 550 ⁇ m or less, and further preferably 500 ⁇ m or less.
- ion exchange membrane As the ion exchange membrane, either a cation exchange membrane that selectively permeates a cation or an anion exchange membrane that selectively permeates an anion may be used.
- the material of the ion exchange membrane is not particularly limited, and a known material can be used.
- the ion exchange membrane is preferably formed of, for example, a fluorine-containing resin or a modified resin of a polystyrene / divinylbenzene copolymer. From the viewpoint of excellent heat resistance and chemical resistance, it is particularly preferable that the ion exchange membrane is formed of a fluorine-containing resin.
- the electrode chamber 5 is defined by a partition wall 1, an outer frame 3, a diaphragm 4, and the like through which an electrolytic solution is passed.
- the defined range of the electrode chamber 5 varies depending on the structure of the outer frame 3 provided at the outer end of the partition wall 1.
- the electrode chamber 5 includes an electrolytic solution inlet for introducing the electrolytic solution into the electrode chamber 5 and an electrolytic solution outlet for drawing out the electrolytic solution from the electrode chamber 5 at the boundary with the outer frame 3.
- the anode chamber 5a includes an anode electrolytic solution inlet for introducing the electrolytic solution into the anode chamber 5a, and an anode electrolytic solution outlet for drawing out the electrolytic solution to be derived from the anode chamber 5a.
- the cathode chamber 5c includes a cathode electrolytic solution inlet that introduces an electrolytic solution into the cathode chamber 5c, and a cathode electrolytic solution outlet that leads out an electrolytic solution derived from the cathode chamber 5c.
- the electrode chamber 5 may be provided with a baffle plate 8 for adjusting the gas-liquid ratio inside the multipolar electrolytic cell 50. Further, the electrode chamber 5 may include an internal distributor for uniformly distributing the electrolytic solution in the two surfaces of the electrodes inside the multipolar electrolytic cell 50. Further, the electrode chamber 5 is used to make the concentration of the electrolytic solution and the temperature of the electrolytic solution uniform inside the bipolar electrolytic cell 50, or to promote defoaming of the gas adhering to the electrode 2 and the diaphragm 4. In addition, a protrusion for creating a Karman vortex may be provided.
- the current collector 2r may be provided not only inside the cathode chamber 5c but also inside the anode chamber 5a.
- the current collector 2r may have the same material and configuration as the current collector provided inside the cathode chamber 5c. It is also possible to make the anode 2a itself function as a current collector.
- the straightening vane 6 supports the anode 2a and is provided between the anode 2a and the partition wall 1. Further, the straightening vane 6 supports the cathode 2c and the current collector 2r, and is provided between the current collector 2r and the partition wall 1.
- the straightening vane 6 is attached to one bulkhead 1 of the adjacent electrolytic cell 65, and for example, in the anode chamber 5a, a structure in which the bulkhead 1, the straightening vane 6, and the anode 2a are superposed in this order from left to right is adopted. It's okay.
- the partition wall 1, the straightening vane 6, and the anode 2a may be electrically connected and physically directly connected. Welding and the like can be mentioned as a method of directly attaching each of these components to each other.
- a structure in which the partition wall 1, the straightening vane 6, the current collector 2r, the conductive elastic body 2e, and the anode 2a are superposed in this order from left to right may be adopted.
- the straightening vane 6 is attached to the other bulkhead 1 of the adjacent electrolytic cell 65, for example, in the cathode chamber 5c, from left to right, the cathode 2c, the conductive elastic body 2e, the current collector 2r, the straightening vane 6, and the bulkhead.
- a structure in which the layers are stacked in the order of 1 may be adopted.
- the cathode 2c, the conductive elastic body 2e, the current collector 2r, the straightening vane 6, and the partition wall 1 may be electrically connected and physically directly connected. Welding and the like can be mentioned as a method of directly attaching each of these components to each other.
- the straightening vane 6 is preferably made of a conductive metal material.
- a conductive metal material examples include nickel-plated mild steel, stainless steel, nickel and the like.
- the straightening vane 6 has conductivity, and it is more preferable that all of the straightening vane 6 has conductivity. Since the straightening vane 6 has conductivity, it is possible to suppress an increase in the voltage of the electrolytic cell 65 due to electrode deflection.
- the gasket 7 is provided on the outer frame 3 that borders the partition wall 1.
- the gasket 7 has a function of preventing leakage of the electrolytic solution and generated gas to the outside of the bipolar electrolytic cell 50, gas mixing between the anode chamber 5a and the cathode chamber 5c, and the like.
- the gasket 7 has a quadrangular shape or a ring shape in which two electrodes are hollowed out so as to be in contact with the outer frame 3. By sandwiching the diaphragm 4 between the two gaskets, the diaphragm 4 can be stacked between the adjacent bipolar elements 60.
- the gasket 7 is provided with a slit portion capable of accommodating the diaphragm 4 so that the diaphragm 4 can be held. Further, it is preferable that the gasket 7 is provided with an opening that allows the diaphragm 4 to be exposed on both surfaces of the gasket 7. By providing the gasket 7 with an opening, it is possible to accommodate the edge portion of the diaphragm 4 in the slit portion and cover the end face at the edge portion of the diaphragm 4. This makes it possible to reliably prevent the electrolytic solution and the gas from leaking from the end face at the edge portion of the diaphragm 4.
- the material of the gasket 7 is not particularly limited, and a known rubber material or resin material having insulating properties can be selected.
- the rubber material or resin material include natural rubber (NR), styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), chloroprene rubber (CR), butadiene rubber (BR), acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), and silicone rubber (SR). ), Ethylene-propylene rubber (EPT), ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM), fluororubber (FR), isobutylene-isoprene rubber (IIR), urethane rubber (UR), chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber (CSM) and other rubbers.
- NR natural rubber
- SBR styrene butadiene rubber
- CR chloroprene rubber
- BR butadiene rubber
- NBR acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber
- silicone rubber silicone rubber
- EPT Ethylene-propylene rubber
- PTFE polytetrafluoroethylene
- PFA tetrafluoroethylene / perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer
- ETFE tetrafluoroethylene / ethylene copolymer
- ECTFE chlorotrifluoethylene / ethylene copolymer
- Resin materials such as a fluororesin material, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyethylene, polyimide, and polyacetal can be used.
- PPS polyphenylene sulfide
- EPDM ethylene-propylene-diene rubber
- FR fluororubber
- the baffle plate 8 is a partition plate having a function of limiting the flow of the electrolytic solution inside the electrode chamber 5.
- the baffle plate 8 adjusts the ratio of the electrolytic solution and the gas inside the electrode chamber 5, and separates the electrolytic solution and the gas so that, for example, only the electrolytic solution flows on the back side and the electrolytic solution and the gas flow on the front side. do. That is, by retaining the gas in a predetermined place by the baffle plate 8, the electrolytic solution can be internally circulated in the electrode chamber 5 and the concentration of the electrolytic solution can be made more uniform.
- the baffle plate 8 is provided inside, for example, the cathode chamber 5c.
- the baffle plate 8 is preferably provided between the cathode 2c and the partition wall 1 diagonally or parallel to the partition wall 1 along the lateral direction of the cathode chamber 5c.
- the concentration of the electrolytic solution decreases and hydrogen is generated. This may cause a difference in the specific gravity of the gas and liquid, but by arranging the baffle plate 8 inside the cathode chamber 5c, the internal circulation of the electrolytic solution in the cathode chamber 5c is promoted, and the electrolytic solution in the cathode chamber 5c.
- the concentration distribution of can be made more uniform.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is not limited to the above configuration.
- the multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 may include, for example, a header for distributing or collecting the electrolytic solution.
- step S101 the plurality of rectifiers 74_1 to 74_N convert AC power into DC power when fluctuating power is supplied from the outside of the alkaline water electrolysis system 70. Then, the plurality of rectifiers 74_1 to 74_N apply a predetermined DC voltage between the anode terminal and the cathode terminal in the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N.
- step S102 the plurality of bipolar electrolytic cells 50_1 to 50_N generate oxygen from the anode side by electrolyzing water using an electrolytic solution based on predetermined DC voltages applied from the plurality of rectifiers 74_1 to 74_N. Generate and generate hydrogen from the cathode side.
- the operation or stop of each multi-pole electrolytic cell 50 is controlled by the control device 30.
- the oxygen separation tank 72o separates oxygen from the mixture of oxygen and the electrolytic solution that has flowed in from the multipolar electrolytic cell 50.
- the separated oxygen is discharged from the discharge port provided above the oxygen separation tank 72o.
- the separated electrolytic solution is stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o.
- the hydrogen separation tank 72h separates hydrogen from a mixture of hydrogen and an electrolytic solution that has flowed in from the bipolar electrolytic cell 50.
- the separated hydrogen is discharged from the discharge port provided above the hydrogen separation tank 72h.
- the separated electrolytic solution is stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h.
- step S104 the heat exchanger 79o adjusts the electrolytic solution stored inside the oxygen separation tank 72o to an appropriate temperature. Further, the heat exchanger 79h adjusts the electrolytic solution stored inside the hydrogen separation tank 72h to an appropriate temperature.
- the operation method of the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 according to the present embodiment even if the current load is reduced in the entire system 70, the impurity concentration is kept extremely low inside all the multipolar electrolytic cells 50. Can be maintained. As a result, the frequency of purging the inert gas due to the shutdown of the entire system can be reduced, and the maintainability of the high-purity hydrogen supply can be improved. Therefore, by applying the operating method of the alkaline water electrolysis system 70 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to continuously produce high-purity hydrogen.
- an alkaline water electrolysis system capable of continuously producing high-purity hydrogen can be realized, a hydrogen station for fuel cell vehicles as well as fields such as petroleum refining, chemical synthesis, and metal refining can be realized. It is especially useful in applications such as smart communities and hydrogen power plants.
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Abstract
Description
前記整流器から供給される所定の直流電圧に基づいて、電解液を用いて水の電気分解により水素および酸素を発生させる複数の複極式電解槽と、
複数の前記複極式電解槽と接続され、前記水素および前記酸素を前記電解液から分離し、前記電解液を貯留する気液分離タンクと、
前記気液分離タンクと前記複極式電解槽との間に設けられる開閉弁と、
を備える、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記気液分離タンクの内部の圧力を調整する圧力調整弁をさらに備える、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記直流電圧を決定し、前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御する制御装置をさらに備える、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記制御装置は、
前記アルカリ水電解システムを運転させるための電流が目標電流と一致するように、前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御する、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記制御装置は、
最大電流密度に対する稼働中の前記複極式電解槽の電流密度の比に基づいて、前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御する、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記制御装置は、
前記アルカリ水電解システムに供給される電力が第1閾値以上である場合、全ての前記複極式電解槽を稼働させ、
前記アルカリ水電解システムに供給される電力が前記第1閾値より小さい場合、一部の前記複極式電解槽を稼働させる、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記制御装置は、
前記アルカリ水電解システムへの電力が供給される際、
稼働を開始した前記複極式電解槽の電流密度が第2閾値以上である場合、稼働させる前記複極式電解槽の台数を増やし、
稼働を開始した前記複極式電解槽の電流密度が前記第2閾値より小さい場合、稼働させる前記複極式電解槽の台数を維持する、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記気液分離タンクの内部に貯留する前記電解液を加熱する加熱装置をさらに備える、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、前記アルカリ水電解システムに供給される再生可能エネルギは、
風力、太陽光、水力、潮力、波力、海流、および地熱の少なくとも一つから得られるエネルギである、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムにおいて、複数の前記複極式電解槽は、各々個別の前記整流器を有する、ことを特徴とする。
複数の複極式電解槽が、前記整流器から供給される所定の直流電圧に基づいて、電解液を用いて水の電気分解により水素および酸素を発生させるステップと、
複数の前記複極式電解槽と接続される気液分離タンクが、前記水素および前記酸素を前記電解液から分離し、前記電解液を貯留するステップと、
前記気液分離タンクと前記複極式電解槽との間に設けられる開閉弁が、前記気液分離タンクと前記複極式電解槽との間の前記電解液、前記水素、および前記酸素の導通を抑制するステップと、
を含む、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法において、制御装置が、複数の前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御し、前記開閉弁における入口開閉弁および前記開閉弁における出口開閉弁を閉じるステップ、または、前記入口開閉弁若しくは前記出口開閉弁の何れか一方を閉じるステップをさらに含む、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法において、前記制御装置が、前記複極式電解槽の内部に前記電解液が満たされている場合、前記入口開閉弁および前記出口開閉弁を閉じるステップ、または、前記入口開閉弁若しくは前記出口開閉弁の何れか一方を閉じるステップをさらに含む、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法において、前記気液分離タンクの内部に設けられる熱交換器が、前記電解液の温度を調整するステップをさらに含む、ことを特徴とする。
さらに、一実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法において、前記気液分離タンクは、複数の前記複極式電解槽の上部に設けられる、ことを特徴とする。
図1A乃至図5Bを参照して、本実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システム70の構成の一例について説明する。
複数の整流器74_1~74_Nは、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nと、それぞれ電気的に接続される。また、複数の整流器74_1~74_Nは、制御装置30と電気的に接続される。
複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nは、気液分離タンク72の下部に設けられ、複数の整流器74_1~74_Nと、それぞれ電気的に接続される。また、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nは、開閉弁62o(入口開閉弁62oi,出口開閉弁62oo)を介して、酸素分離タンク72oと接続され、開閉弁62h(入口開閉弁62hi,出口開閉弁62ho)を介して、水素分離タンク72hと接続される。
開閉弁62は、複極式電解槽50と気液分離タンク72との間に設けられる。例えば、開閉弁62oは、複極式電解槽50と酸素分離タンク72oとの間に設けられる。例えば、開閉弁62hは、複極式電解槽50と水素分離タンク72hとの間に設けられる。例えば、入口開閉弁62oiは、循環ポンプ90を介して、複極式電解槽50と気液分離タンク72oとの間に設けられる。例えば、入口開閉弁62hiは、循環ポンプ90を介して、複極式電解槽50と気液分離タンク72hとの間に設けられる。
気液分離タンク72は、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nの上部に設けられ、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nと接続されることが好ましい。気液分離タンク72は、発生したガス(水素、酸素)を電解液から分離し、且つ、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nから流入した電解液を貯留する。気液分離タンク72は、酸素分離タンク72oと、水素分離タンク72hと、を備える。1個の酸素分離タンク72oは、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nと接続され、1個の水素分離タンク72hは、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nと接続される。なお、気液分離タンク72は、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nに対して設けられる位置が、特に限定されるものではない。例えば、図1Bに示されるアルカリ水電解システム70Bのように、気液分離タンク72は、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nの下部に設けられ、複数の複極式電解槽50_1~50_Nと接続されていてもよい。
熱交換器79は、気液分離タンク72の内部に設けられることが好ましい。熱交換器79は、制御装置30により、交換熱量が制御され、気液分離タンク72の内部に貯留する電解液の温度を調整する。この際、熱交換器79は、流量計(不図示)により計測された電解液の流量に基づいて、制御装置30により、制御されてよい。
制御装置30は、プログラムによって所定の処理を行うことのできるコンピュータであればよく、例えば、オペレータが使用するノートPC(personal computer)、スマートフォンなどの携帯電話、タブレット端末などである。制御装置30は、アルカリ水電解システム70が備える各部を制御する。
温度調整弁61は、制御装置30により制御される。温度調整弁61は、熱交換器79と接続され、気液分離タンク72の内部に貯留する電解液の温度が、所定範囲(例えば、50度~90度、好ましくは60度~80度、さらに好ましくは75度~85度)に収まるように、電解液の温度を調整する。例えば、温度調整弁61oは、熱交換器79oと接続され、流量計により計測された電解液の流量に基づいて、制御装置30により制御されることで、酸素分離タンク72oの内部に貯留する電解液の温度を調整する。例えば、温度調整弁61hは、熱交換器79hと接続され、流量計により計測された電解液の流量に基づいて、制御装置30により制御されることで、水素分離タンク72hの内部に貯留する電解液の温度を調整する。温度調整弁61が制御装置30により適切に制御されることで、電解液の温度の過度な上昇、あるいは、電解液の温度の過度な下降を抑制し、電解液の温度を適温とすることができる。
圧力計78は、気液分離タンク72の上部に設けられ、気液分離タンク72と接続される。例えば、圧力計78oは、酸素分離タンク72oの内部の圧力を計測し、計測結果を制御装置30へ出力する。当該計測結果に基づいて、制御装置30が圧力調整弁80oを制御することにより、酸素分離タンク72oの内部の圧力が適切な圧力に維持される。例えば、圧力計78hは、水素分離タンク72hの内部の圧力を計測し、計測結果を制御装置30へ出力する。当該計測結果に基づいて、制御装置30が水素分離タンク72hを制御することにより、水素分離タンク72hの内部の圧力が適切な圧力に維持される。
圧力調整弁80は、制御装置30により制御される。圧力調整弁80は、気液分離タンク72の上部に設けられ、気液分離タンク72と接続される。例えば、圧力調整弁80oは、酸素分離タンク72oと接続され、圧力計78oにより計測された酸素分離タンク72oの内部の圧力に基づいて、制御装置30により制御されることで、酸素分離タンク72oの内部の圧力を調整する。例えば、圧力調整弁80hは、水素分離タンク72hと接続され、圧力計78hにより計測された水素分離タンク72hの内部の圧力に基づいて、制御装置30により制御されることで、水素分離タンク72hの内部の圧力を調整する。
流量計は、複極式電解槽50の下部に設けられ、複極式電解槽50と接続される。流量計は、複極式電解槽50を循環する電解液の流量を計測し、計測結果を制御装置30へ出力する。当該計測結果に基づいて、制御装置30が熱交換器79oおよび温度調整弁61oを制御することにより、酸素分離タンク72oの内部に貯留する電解液は、適切な温度に維持される。また、当該計測結果に基づいて、制御装置30が熱交換器79hおよび温度調整弁61hを制御することにより、水素分離タンク72hの内部に貯留する電解液は、適切な温度に維持される。
加熱装置は、気液分離タンク72の下部に設けられ、気液分離タンク72の内部に貯留する電解液を加熱する。加熱装置は、例えば、ヒーターである。熱交換器79および温度調整弁61を利用するのみならず、加熱装置を利用して、気液分離タンク72の内部に貯留する電解液を加熱することで、例えば、冷えてしまった電解液の温度を瞬時に一定の温度へ戻すことができる。これにより、高効率な運転が可能なアルカリ水電解システム70を実現できる。また、例えば、アルカリ水電解システム70が、運転を停止し、再び、運転を開始した場合であっても、無駄な電力を消費せずに済むため、高効率且つ持続的な運転が可能なアルカリ水電解システム70を実現できる。
アルカリ水電解システム70は、上述の構成要素の他にも、水補給器、酸素濃度計、水素濃度計、検知器などを備えていてよい。これらの構成要素としては、公知のものを採用することができるため、詳細な説明は省略する。
次に、図4、図5Aおよび図5Bを参照して、本実施形態に係る複極式電解槽50の構成の一例について詳細に説明する。
複極式エレメント60は、陽極2aと、陰極2cと、陽極2aと陰極2cとを隔離する隔壁1と、隔壁1を縁取る外枠3と、を備える。複極式エレメント60は、一方の面が陽極2a、他方の面が陰極2cとなる。
電解セル65は、隣接する一方の複極式エレメント60が含む隔壁1、陽極室5a、および陽極2aと、隣接する他方の複極式エレメント60が含む陰極2c、陰極室5c、および隔壁1と、外枠3と、隔膜4と、ガスケット7と、を備える。陰極室5cは、集電体2rと、導電性弾性体2eと、整流板6と、を備える。電解セル65は、バッフル板8を備えていてもよい。
隔壁1は、陽極2aと陰極2cとを隔離する。隔壁1は、整流板6を介して、集電体2rと電気的に接続される。
陽極2aは、陽極室5aに設けられ、陰極2cは、陰極室5cに設けられる。1つの電解セル65に属する陽極2aと陰極2cとは互いに電気的に接続される。また、陰極2cは、導電性弾性体2eを介して、集電体2rと電気的に接続される。
集電体2rは、導電性弾性体2eおよび電極2へ電気を伝えるとともに、導電性弾性体2eおよび電極2から受ける荷重を支え、電極2から発生するガスを隔壁1側に支障なく通過させる機能を有する。
導電性弾性体2eは、集電体2rおよび電極2と接し、集電体2rと陰極2cとの間に設けられる。導電性弾性体2eは、隔膜4を損傷させない程度の適切な圧力を、電極2に均等に加えることにより、隔膜4と電極2とを密着させる機能を有する。
外枠3は、隔壁1の外縁に沿って、隔壁1を取り囲むように設けられる。外枠3は、隔壁1を取り囲むことができる形状であればよく、その形状が特に限定されるものではないが、隔壁1の平面に対して縦方向に沿う内面を隔壁1の外延に亘って備える形状であることが好ましい。外枠3は、隔壁1の平面視形状に合わせて適宜設定されることが好ましい。
隔膜4は、陽極2aを有する陽極室5aと陰極2cを有する陰極室5cとを区画する。隔膜4は、陽極ターミナルエレメント51aと複極式エレメント60との間、隣接する複極式エレメント60の間、および複極式エレメント60と陰極ターミナルエレメント51cとの間に設けられる。隔膜4は、イオン透過性を有し、イオンを導通させつつ、水素ガスと酸素ガスとを隔離する。隔膜4は、イオン交換能を有するイオン交換膜、電解液を浸透することができる多孔膜などにより構成される。隔膜4は、ガス透過性が低く、イオン伝導率が高く、電子電導度が小さく、強度が強いことが好ましい。
多孔膜は、複数の微細な貫通孔を有し、電解液を透過させる構造を有する。このような構造を有する多孔膜としては、例えば、高分子多孔膜、無機多孔膜、織布、不織布などが挙げられる。これらの膜は、公知の技術を適用することで形成される。
イオン交換膜は、カチオンを選択的に透過させるカチオン交換膜、アニオンを選択的に透過させるアニオン交換膜の何れの交換膜を用いてもよい。
電極室5は、電解液を通過させ、隔壁1、外枠3、隔膜4などにより、画定される。電極室5は、その画定される範囲が、隔壁1の外端に設けられる外枠3の構造により変動する。電極室5は、外枠3との境界において、電極室5に電解液を導入する電解液入口と、電極室5から電解液を導出する電解液出口と、を備える。例えば、陽極室5aは、陽極室5aに電解液を導入する陽極電解液入口と、陽極室5aから導出する電解液を導出する陽極電解液出口と、を備える。例えば、陰極室5cは、陰極室5cに電解液を導入する陰極電解液入口と、陰極室5cから導出する電解液を導出する陰極電解液出口と、を備える。
整流板6は、陽極2aを支持し、陽極2aと隔壁1との間に設けられる。また、整流板6は、陰極2cおよび集電体2rを支持し、集電体2rと隔壁1との間に設けられる。
ガスケット7は、隔壁1を縁取る外枠3に設けられる。ガスケット7は、複極式電解槽50の外部への電解液および発生ガスの漏れ、陽極室5aと陰極室5cとの間でのガス混合などを防ぐ機能を有する。
バッフル板8は、電極室5の内部における電解液の流れを制限する機能を有する仕切り板である。バッフル板8は、電極室5の内部における電解液とガスとの比を調整し、例えば、裏側に電解液のみが流れ、表側に電解液およびガスが流れるように、電解液とガスとを分離する。すなわち、バッフル板8により、所定の箇所にガスを滞留させることで、電極室5において電解液を内部循環させ、電解液の濃度をより均一にすることができる。
図6を参照して、本実施形態に係るアルカリ水電解システム70の運転方法の一例について説明する。
2 電極
2a 陽極
2c 陰極
2e 導電性弾性体
2r 集電体
3 外枠
4 隔膜
5 電極室
5a 陽極室
5c 陰極室
6 整流板
6a 陽極整流板
6c 陰極整流板
7 ガスケット
8 バッフル板
30 制御装置
50 複極式電解槽
51g1 ファストヘッド
51g2 ルーズヘッド
51i1 絶縁板
51i2 絶縁板
51a 陽極ターミナルエレメント
51c 陰極ターミナルエレメント
51r タイロッド
60 複極式エレメント
61 温度調整弁
61o 温度調整弁
61h 温度調整弁
62 開閉弁
62o 開閉弁
62h 開閉弁
62oi 入口開閉弁
62hi 入口開閉弁
62oo 出口開閉弁
62ho 出口開閉弁
65 電解セル
70 アルカリ水電解システム
70B アルカリ水電解システム
72 気液分離タンク
72o 酸素分離タンク
72h 水素分離タンク
74 整流器
78 圧力計
78o 圧力計
78h 圧力計
79 熱交換器
79o 熱交換器
79h 熱交換器
80 圧力調整弁
80o 圧力調整弁
80h 圧力調整弁
90 循環ポンプ
Claims (15)
- 変動する電源と接続され、交流電力を直流電力に変換する整流器と、
前記整流器から供給される所定の直流電圧に基づいて、電解液を用いて水の電気分解により水素および酸素を発生させる複数の複極式電解槽と、
複数の前記複極式電解槽と接続され、前記水素および前記酸素を前記電解液から分離し、前記電解液を貯留する気液分離タンクと、
前記気液分離タンクと前記複極式電解槽との間に設けられる開閉弁と、
を備える、アルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記気液分離タンクの内部の圧力を調整する圧力調整弁をさらに備える、
請求項1に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記直流電圧を決定し、前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御する制御装置をさらに備える、
請求項1又は2に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記制御装置は、
前記アルカリ水電解システムを運転させるための電流が目標電流と一致するように、前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御する、
請求項3に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記制御装置は、
最大電流密度に対する稼働中の前記複極式電解槽の電流密度の比に基づいて、前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御する、
請求項3に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記制御装置は、
前記アルカリ水電解システムに供給される電力が第1閾値以上である場合、全ての前記複極式電解槽を稼働させ、
前記アルカリ水電解システムに供給される電力が前記第1閾値より小さい場合、一部の前記複極式電解槽を稼働させる、
請求項3に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記制御装置は、
前記アルカリ水電解システムへの電力が供給される際、
稼働を開始した前記複極式電解槽の電流密度が第2閾値以上である場合、稼働させる前記複極式電解槽の台数を増やし、
稼働を開始した前記複極式電解槽の電流密度が前記第2閾値より小さい場合、稼働させる前記複極式電解槽の台数を維持する、
請求項3に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記気液分離タンクの内部に貯留する前記電解液を加熱する加熱装置をさらに備える、
請求項1から7のいずれか一項に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 前記アルカリ水電解システムに供給される再生可能エネルギは、
風力、太陽光、水力、潮力、波力、海流、および地熱の少なくとも一つから得られるエネルギである、
請求項1から8のいずれか一項に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 複数の前記複極式電解槽は、各々個別の前記整流器を有する、
請求項1に記載のアルカリ水電解システム。 - 変動する電源と接続される整流器が、交流電力を直流電力に変換するステップと、
複数の複極式電解槽が、前記整流器から供給される所定の直流電圧に基づいて、電解液を用いて水の電気分解により水素および酸素を発生させるステップと、
複数の前記複極式電解槽と接続される気液分離タンクが、前記水素および前記酸素を前記電解液から分離し、前記電解液を貯留するステップと、
前記気液分離タンクと前記複極式電解槽との間に設けられる開閉弁が、前記気液分離タンクと前記複極式電解槽との間の前記電解液、前記水素、および前記酸素の導通を抑制するステップと、
を含む、アルカリ水電解システムの運転方法。 - 制御装置が、複数の前記複極式電解槽の稼働又は停止を制御し、前記開閉弁における入口開閉弁および前記開閉弁における出口開閉弁を閉じるステップ、または、前記入口開閉弁若しくは前記出口開閉弁の何れか一方を閉じるステップをさらに含む、
請求項11に記載のアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法。 - 前記制御装置が、前記複極式電解槽の内部に前記電解液が満たされている場合、前記入口開閉弁および前記出口開閉弁を閉じるステップ、または、前記入口開閉弁若しくは前記出口開閉弁の何れか一方を閉じるステップをさらに含む、
請求項12に記載のアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法。 - 前記気液分離タンクの内部に設けられる熱交換器が、前記電解液の温度を調整するステップをさらに含む、
請求項11から13のいずれか一項に記載のアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法。 - 前記気液分離タンクは、複数の前記複極式電解槽の上部に設けられる、
請求項11から14のいずれか一項に記載のアルカリ水電解システムの運転方法。
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