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Hybridised Photocatalysis-Electrolysis Hydrogen Generation System

Summary

In conventional electrolysis, water molecules first dissociate into intermediate ions, namely, negative hydroxyl ions (OH-), positive hydrogen ions (H+) and positive hydronium ions (H3O+), before further decomposition into oxygen and hydrogen. This process of generating hydrogen is inefficient due to the high probability of hydroxyl ions recombining with either hydrogen ions or hydronium ions to form back water molecules. The technology described herein is related to a hybridised process which enhances hydrogen production rate of a conventional electrolysis system through combining the hybridised process with photocatalytic decomposition reaction. By combining the hybridised process with photo-catalytic decomposition, the probability of intermediate radical/ion recombination is reduced. This results in an increase in hydrogen and oxygen production of up to 25%. A prototype has been developed to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of producing hydrogen and oxygen based on the hybrid photocatalyst-electrolysis method. With a strong knowledge in optimisation of the operating parameters in a hybrid photocatalyst-electrolysis reaction, the technology owner would like to seek partnership from the industry to commercialise the technology.  

Technology Benefits

Safety - Storage of flammable compound is not required. As the system is designed to enable safe release of residual hydrogen gas into the atmosphere, any risk of hydrogen explosion is eliminatedMinimise wastage or any possible risk of hydrogen leakage - hydrogen is generated on demand from waterHigher Energy Efficiency - Lesser electricity required to produce hydrogen gas compared to conventional electrolysisCost Effective - Lower cost of generating hydrogen gas compared to conventional electrolysis and investment in hydrogen gas storage system is not required

Technology Application

Hydrogen gas applications One of the main interests of the invention is its use as a hydrogen gas generator. Using hydrogen as fuel to produce naked flame offers an alternative for various applications such asAcrylic ProcessCommercial CookingCooking ApplicationCopper BrazingSteam Boiler ApplicationSteel Cutting Application.Oxygen gas applications The secondary interest of the invention is its use as an oxygen gas generator. High concentration or purity oxygen has medical uses, such as:Provide a basis for virtually all modern anaesthetic techniquesRestore tissue oxygen tension by improving oxygen availability in a wide range of conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cyanosis, shock, severe haemorrhage, carbon monoxide poisoning, major trauma, cardiac/respiratory arrestAid resuscitation Provide life support for artificially ventilated patient aid cardiovascular stability.

Detailed Technology Description

Conventional electrolysis of water requires the use of appliances that operate with at least 13-amp current or with a 3-phase power source. During electrolysis, water molecules first dissociate into intermediate ions, before further decomposing into oxygen and hydrogen. However, there is a high probability for these ions to recombine with each other to form water again. By combining electrolysis with photocatalytic decomposition, the presence of nanoparticles and UV light will help reduce the probability of intermediate ion recombination. In conventional electrolysis, the electrolyte has high resistance which contributes to unwanted heat generation. Although electrolysis is an endothermic process, it is unable to absorb all the waste heat itself. Photocatalytic decomposition, too, is also an endothermic process. Thus, when combining with electrolysis, it will help in the absorption of heat that would otherwise be lost. This causes the hydrogen generation process to be more energy effective.

Application Date

06-Sep-2015

ID No.

TO17196

Country/Region

Singapore