Method and Device for Electrolysis

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a new method and device for producing hydrogen via electrolysis that allows the process to operate at low pressures while still generating hydrogen at high pressures. The approach uses a special additive (auxiliary substance) in the catholyte, which is reduced at the cathode and later re-oxidized with protons using a catalyst to form hydrogen. This separation means the electrolysis cell can be made simpler, cheaper, and less prone to efficiency losses caused by high internal pressures and gas cross-permeation.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• On-site hydrogen production for refueling stations for fuel cell vehicles
• Industrial-scale hydrogen generation for chemical and energy applications
• Integration with renewable energy sources (solar/wind) for green hydrogen production and storage
• Portable or distributed hydrogen generators for backup or off-grid power solutions
• Hydrogen supply for microgrids or decentralized energy systems

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables production of high-pressure hydrogen without mechanical compressors, reducing complexity and cost
• Allows safer and simpler electrolysis cell designs that operate at low pressure
• Reduces gas cross-permeation across cell membranes, increasing system efficiency and purity of produced hydrogen
• Enables continuous or batch hydrogen production strategies, providing operational flexibility
• Recyclable usage of additives results in potentially lower operational costs and environmental impact

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for electrolysis, wherein H2O is brought into contact with an anode (2) and a catholyte is brought into contact with a cathode (3), wherein the catholyte contains an additive, wherein an electrical voltage is applied between the anode (2) and the cathode (3) such that oxygen is formed on the anode (2) and the additive is reduced on the cathode (3), and wherein protons and the reduced additive are brought into contact with a catalyst (4) such that the reduced additive is oxidised and hydrogen is formed from the protons. The additive means that the electrolysis can be carried out under low pressure and hydrogen can still be obtained at high pressure. This simplifies the design of the electrolysis cell and prevents efficiency-reducing gas cross-permeation.