QUANTUMSPHERE, INC. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20140246816 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING NANO-PARTICLES - Nano-scale particles of materials can be produced by vaporizing the material and allowing the material to flow in a non-violently turbulent manner into thermal communication with a cooling fluid, thereby forming small particles of the material that can be in the nano-scale size range. | 09-04-2014 |
20140242205 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING NANO-PARTICLES - Nano-scale particles of materials can be produced by vaporizing material and allowing the material to flow in a non-violently turbulent manner into thermal communication with a cooling fluid, thereby forming small particles of the material that can be in the nano-scale size range. A raw material feeder can be configured to feed raw material toward a heater which vaporizes the raw material. The feeder can include a metering device for controlling the flow of raw material toward the heater. A gas source can also be used to cause gas to flow through a portion of the raw material feeder along with the raw material. | 08-28-2014 |
20140072499 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 03-13-2014 |
20130216921 | PORTABLE METAL-AIR BATTERY ENERGY SYSTEM FOR POWERING AND/OR RECHARGING ELECTRONIC DEVICES - A system is provided for delivering energy to an electronic device, where the system comprises a metal-air battery having one or more metal-air cells within a housing, a first surface having at least one air hole therein for permitting the influx of air from the surrounding ambient into the interior of the battery housing for exposure to the one or more cells, and a cover that may be entirely or partially moved relative to the air hole for selectively controlling the exposure of the air hole to the ambient when it is desired to generate energy for discharge to the rechargeable power source. The system may include a carriage for positioning the battery therewithin in a removable and/or repositionable manner. | 08-22-2013 |
20130177664 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING NANO-PARTICLES - Nano-scale particles of materials can be produced by vaporizing the material and allowing the material to flow in a non-violently turbulent manner into thermal communication with a cooling fluid, thereby forming small particles of the material that can be in the nano-scale size range. | 07-11-2013 |
20120308467 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 12-06-2012 |
20120267297 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FORWARD OSMOSIS FLUID PURIFICATION USING CLOUD POINT EXTRACTION - A process for purification of fluids, for example, desalination of seawater or brackish water, using organic solutes in a concentrated water solution for use in a forward osmosis process, to extract fresh water out of salt water through the forward osmosis membrane, and subsequently separating the organic solutes out of the diluted forward osmosis permeate by cloud point extraction, thereby regenerating a concentrated organic solution for recycling to the forward osmosis process, and fresh water for potable water use. | 10-25-2012 |
20120100986 | GAS DIFFUSION CATHODE USING NANOMETER SIZED PARTICLES OF TRANSITION METALS FOR CATALYSIS - A gas diffusion cathode for electrochemical cells provides higher power capability through the use of nano-particle catalysts. The catalysts comprise nanometer-sized particles of transition metals such as nickel, cobalt, manganese, iron, palladium, ruthenium, gold, silver, and lead, as well as alloys thereof, and respective oxides. These catalysts can substantially replace or eliminate platinum as a catalyst for oxygen reduction. Cathodes using such catalysts have applications to metal-air batteries, hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs), and other air breathing electrochemical systems. | 04-26-2012 |
20120094216 | NANO-MATERIAL CATALYST DEVICE - A catalyst member comprising a blended mixture of nano-scale metal particles compressed with larger metal particles and sintered to form a structurally stable member of any desired shape. The catalyst member can be used in one of many different applications; for example, as an electrode in a fuel cell or in an electrolysis device to generate hydrogen and oxygen. | 04-19-2012 |
20120088182 | NANO-MATERIAL CATALYST DEVICE - A catalyst member can comprise nano-scale nickel particles. The catalyst member can be used for a plurality of different uses, for example, electrodes of a fuel cell or an electrolysis device. The nano-scale nickel particles can be sintered or combined in other manners to form the desired shape. | 04-12-2012 |
20120087854 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia at mid- to low-pressures using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles . Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a packed bed of supported nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that form the catalyst. | 04-12-2012 |
20120082612 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 04-05-2012 |
20120082611 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 04-05-2012 |
20120028163 | COMPOSITIONS OF NANOMETAL PARTICLES CONTAINING A METAL OR ALLOY AND PLATINUM PARTICLES - A composition comprising an admixture of at least platinum particles and metal nanoparticles of metal that, when in admixture with the platinum particles, beneficially alters the characteristics of the platinum, including metals selected from one or more of the metals in groups 3-16, lanthanides, combinations thereof, and/or alloys thereof. The composition could be used to form an ink that further comprises an ionically conductive material, such as a polymer, capable of ionic networking throughout the ink composition so as to create a substantially structurally coherent mass without significantly impacting the reactivity of a substantial number of the nanoparticles. In one application, the ink may be used to form a catalyst whereby the ink is applied to an electrically conductive backing material, such as carbon paper or fibers. In another application, the ink may be used to form an electrode whereby the ink may be applied to an electrically conductive material, and wherein the ink comprises an admixture of platinum particles and metal nanoparticles. | 02-02-2012 |
20120014073 | CONDUCTIVE NANOPARTICLE SUBSTRATE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - A device comprising a substrate with first and second layers is prepared by applying a cellulosic base layer on the substrate followed by a silver nanoparticle coating. The nanoparticle coating is durable and highly electrically conductive. This conductive substrate maybe used for the application of integrated circuitry components, and does not outgas upon application of reflow solder. | 01-19-2012 |
20110300471 | NANOPARTICLE COATED ELECTRODE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - An electrode comprising a primary and secondary metal nanoparticle coating on a metallic substrate is prepared by dispersing nanoparticles in a solvent and layering them onto the substrate, followed by heating. The enhanced surface area of the electrode due to the catalytic nanoparticles is dramatically enhanced, allowing for increased reaction efficiency. The electrode can be used in one of many different applications; for example, as an electrode in an electrolysis device to generate hydrogen and oxygen, or a fuel cell. | 12-08-2011 |
20110262840 | ELECTRO-CATALYTIC RECHARGING COMPOSITION - A composition useful for the fueling and refueling of electrochemical devices is described. The composition comprises an ion-conducting medium such as an electrolyte, and catalyst nanoparticles. Unlike traditional electrodes, such as those typically used in electrolyzers and fuel cells, the inventive composition may be quickly drained from the device and refilled to maintain maximum cell performance. In addition, the electro-catalytic charging composition can be stored as a solid for safe handling; for example in a portable cartridge. | 10-27-2011 |
20110192717 | HIGH RATE ELECTROCHEMICAL DEVICE - A device and system useful for highly efficient chemical and electrochemical reactions is described. The device comprises a porous electrode and a plurality of suspended nanoparticles diffused within the void volume of the electrode when used within an electrolyte. The device is suitable within a system having a first and second chamber preferably positioned vertically with respect to each other, and each chamber containing an electrode and electrolyte with suspended nanoparticles therein. When reactive metal particles are diffused into the electrode structure and suspended in electrolyte by gasses, a fluidized bed is established. The reaction efficiency is increased and products can be produced at a higher rate. When an electrolysis device can be operated such that incoming reactants and outgoing products enter and exit from opposite faces of an electrode, reaction rate and efficiency are improved. Ideally, this device and system can be used to rapidly produce significant quantities of high purity hydrogen gas with minimal electricity cost. | 08-11-2011 |
20110190116 | GAS DIFFUSION CATHODE USING NANOMETER SIZED PARTICLES OF TRANSITION METALS FOR CATALYSIS - A gas diffusion cathode for electrochemical cells provides higher power capability through the use of nano-particle catalysts. The catalysts comprise nanometer-sized particles of transition metals such as nickel, cobalt, manganese, iron, palladium, ruthenium, gold, silver, and lead, as well as alloys thereof, and respective oxides. These catalysts can substantially replace or eliminate platinum as a catalyst for oxygen reduction. Cathodes using such catalysts have applications to metal-air batteries, hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs), and other air breathing electrochemical systems. | 08-04-2011 |
20110179908 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COLLECTING NANO-PARTICLES - Nano-scale particles of materials can be produced by vaporizing material and allowing the material to flow in a non-violently turbulent manner into thermal communication with a cooling fluid, thereby forming small particles of the material that can be in the nano-scale size range. A raw material feeder can be configured to feed raw material toward a heater which vaporizes the raw material. The feeder can include a metering device for controlling the flow of raw material toward the heater. A gas source can also be used to cause gas to flow through a portion of the raw material feeder along with the raw material. | 07-28-2011 |
20110171100 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 07-14-2011 |
20110165055 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 07-07-2011 |
20110158889 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia at mid- to low-pressures using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a packed bed of supported nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that form the catalyst. | 06-30-2011 |
20110155571 | NANO-MATERIAL CATALYST DEVICE - A catalyst member comprising a blended mixture of nano-scale metal particles compressed with larger metal particles and sintered to form a structurally stable member of any desired shape. The catalyst member can be used in one of many different applications; for example, as an electrode in a fuel cell or in an electrolysis device to generate hydrogen and oxygen. | 06-30-2011 |
20110130269 | ELECTROCHEMICAL CATALYSTS - A composition useful in electrodes provides higher power capability through the use of nanoparticle catalysts present in the composition. Nanoparticles of transition metals are preferred such as manganese, nickel, cobalt, iron, palladium, ruthenium, gold, silver, and lead, as well as alloys thereof, and respective oxides. These nanoparticle catalysts can substantially replace or eliminate platinum as a catalyst for certain electrochemical reactions. Electrodes, used as anodes, cathodes, or both, using such catalysts have applications relating to metal-air batteries, hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs), and other air or oxygen breathing electrochemical systems as well as some liquid diffusion electrodes. | 06-02-2011 |
20110123901 | NANO-MATERIAL CATALYST DEVICE - A catalyst member can comprise nano-scale nickel particles. The catalyst member can be used for a plurality of different uses, for example, electrodes of a fuel cell or an electrolysis device. The nano-scale nickel particles can be sintered or combined in other manners to form the desired shape. | 05-26-2011 |
20110091831 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING NANO-PARTICLES - Nano-scale particles of materials can be produced by vaporizing the material and allowing the material to flow in a non-violently turbulent manner into thermal communication with a cooling fluid, thereby forming small particles of the material that can be in the nano-scale size range. | 04-21-2011 |
20110091796 | ELECTROCHEMICAL CATALYSTS - A composition useful in electrodes provides higher power capability through the use of nanoparticle catalysts present in the composition. Nanoparticles of transition metals are preferred such as manganese, nickel, cobalt, iron, palladium, ruthenium, gold, silver, and lead, as well as alloys thereof, and respective oxides. These nanoparticle catalysts can substantially replace or eliminate platinum as a catalyst for certain electrochemical reactions. Electrodes, used as anodes, cathodes, or both, using such catalysts have applications relating to metal-air batteries, hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs), and other air or oxygen breathing electrochemical systems as well as some liquid diffusion electrodes. | 04-21-2011 |
20110091787 | COMPOSITIONS OF NANOMETAL PARTICLES CONTAINING A METAL OR ALLOY AND PLATINUM PARTICLES FOR USE IN FUEL CELLS - A composition of nanoparticles of metal or an alloy or having a metal and alloy core with an oxide shell in admixture with platinum particles is useful as a component for electrodes. More particularly, such composition is useful as an electrode ink for the reduction of oxygen as well as the oxidation of hydrocarbon or hydrogen fuel in a direct oxidation fuel cell, such as, but not limited to, the direct methanol fuel cell. These electrodes encompass a catalyst ink containing platinum, the nanoparticles, and a conducting ionomer which may be directly applied to a conductive support, such as woven carbon paper or cloth. This electrode may be directly adhered onto an ion exchange membrane. The nanoparticles comprise nanometer-sized transition metals such as cobalt, iron, nickel, ruthenium, chromium, palladium, silver, gold, and copper. In this invention, these catalytic powders substantially replace platinum as a catalyst in fuel cell electrooxidation and electroreduction reactions. | 04-21-2011 |
20110014310 | Method and apparatus for forming nano-particles - Nano-scale particles of materials can be produced by vaporizing material and allowing the material to flow in a non-violently turbulent manner into thermal communication with a cooling fluid, thereby forming small particles of the material that can be in the nano-scale size range. A raw material feeder can be configured to feed raw material toward a heater which vaporizes the raw material. The feeder can include a metering device for controlling the flow of raw material toward the heater. A gas source can also be used to cause gas to flow through a portion of the raw material feeder along with the raw material. | 01-20-2011 |
20100184588 | METHODS OF MAKING CATALYTIC MATERIALS BY DISPERSION OF NANOPARTICLES ONTO SUPPORT STRUCTURES - Methods are disclosed herein for improving efficient catalyst utilization in processes including thermal catalysis using dry nanoparticle promoters, rather than salts of metal promoters in liquid form. Using selected process steps, the nanoparticles are more controllably dispersed on primary support particles, for effective use on secondary supports when it desired to bring reactants into contact with the secondary support. Applications that generally make use of these catalysts can be but are not limited to: emission abatement catalysts, generation of syngas, generation of liquid fuels from syngas, safety systems (hydrogen recombination catalysts in nuclear power plants) and many industrial processes. | 07-22-2010 |
20100183497 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 07-22-2010 |
20100167175 | ELECTROCHEMICAL CATALYSTS - A composition useful in electrodes provides higher power capability through the use of nanoparticle catalysts present in the composition. Nanoparticles of transition metals are preferred such as manganese, nickel, cobalt, iron, palladium, ruthenium, gold, silver, and lead, as well as alloys thereof, and respective oxides. These nanoparticle catalysts can substantially replace or eliminate platinum as a catalyst for certain electrochemical reactions. Electrodes, used as anodes, cathodes, or both, using such catalysts have applications relating to metal-air batteries, hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs), and other air or oxygen breathing electrochemical systems as well as some liquid diffusion electrodes. | 07-01-2010 |
20100159348 | ELECTRO-CATALYTIC RECHARGING COMPOSITION - A composition useful for the fueling and refueling of electrochemical devices is described. The composition comprises an ion-conducting medium such as an electrolyte, and catalyst nanoparticles. Unlike traditional electrodes, such as those typically used in electrolyzers and fuel cells, the inventive composition may be quickly drained from the device and refilled to maintain maximum cell performance. In addition, the electro-catalytic charging composition can be stored as a solid for safe handling; for example in a portable cartridge. | 06-24-2010 |
20100156353 | LITHIUM NANOPARTICLE COMPOSITIONS FOR USE IN ELECTROCHEMICAL APPLICATIONS - Nanoscale lithium compositions are disclosed which are suitable for use in electrochemical applications such as electrodes and batteries. The compositions can include nanoparticles having lithium metal and/or lithium alloy cores. A shell material is contemplated comprising lithium nitride or another material that conducts lithium ions. Methods of preparing lithium compositions and methods of preparing electrodes comprising lithium compositions are further disclosed. The crystal structure of the nanoscale lithium compositions is preferably body centered cubic, allowing low volume expansion and high diffusivity of lithium from or into the core structures during discharge and charge processes, respectively. | 06-24-2010 |
20100155329 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FORWARD OSMOSIS FLUID PURIFICATION - A process for purification of fluids, for example, desalination of seawater or brackish water, using organic solutes in a concentrated water solution for use in a forward osmosis process, to extract fresh water out of salt water through the forward osmosis membrane, and subsequently separating the organic solutes out of the diluted forward osmosis permeate by cloud point extraction, thereby regenerating a concentrated organic solution for recycling to the forward osmosis process, and fresh water for potable water use. | 06-24-2010 |
20100143821 | COMPOSITIONS OF NANOMETAL PARTICLES CONTAINING A METAL OR ALLOY AND PLATINUM PARTICLES - A composition comprising an admixture of at least platinum particles and metal nanoparticles of metal that, when in admixture with the platinum particles, beneficially alters the characteristics of the platinum, including metals selected from one or more of the metals in groups 3-16, lanthanides, combinations thereof, and/or alloys thereof. The composition could be used to form an ink that further comprises an ionically conductive material, such as a polymer, capable of ionic networking throughout the ink composition so as to create a substantially structurally coherent mass without significantly impacting the reactivity of a substantial number of the nanoparticles. In one application, the ink may be used to form a catalyst whereby the ink is applied to an electrically conductive backing material, such as carbon paper or fibers. In another application, the ink may be used to form an electrode whereby the ink may be applied to an electrically conductive material, and wherein the ink comprises an admixture of platinum particles and metal nanoparticles. | 06-10-2010 |
20100072439 | COMPOSITION AND METHOD OF PREPARING NANOSCALE THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC MATERIALS - A photo-absorbing layer for use in an electronic device; the layer including metal alloy nanoparticles copper, indium and/or gallium made preferably from a vapor condensation process or other suitable process, the layer also including elemental selenium and/or sulfur heated at temperatures sufficient to permit reaction between the nanoparticles and the selenium and/or sulfur to form a substantially fused layer. The reaction may result in the formation of a chalcopyrite material. The layer has been shown to be an efficient solar energy absorber for use in photovoltaic cells. | 03-25-2010 |
20100069228 | ELECTROCHEMICAL CATALYSTS - A composition useful in electrodes provides higher power capability through the use of nanoparticle catalysts present in the composition. Nanoparticles of transition metals are preferred such as manganese, nickel, cobalt, iron, palladium, ruthenium, gold, silver, and lead, as well as alloys thereof, and respective oxides. These nanoparticle catalysts can substantially replace or eliminate platinum as a catalyst for certain electrochemical reactions. Electrodes, used as anodes, cathodes, or both, using such catalysts have applications relating to metal-air batteries, hydrogen fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), direct oxidation fuel cells (DOFCs), and other air or oxygen breathing electrochemical systems as well as some liquid diffusion electrodes. | 03-18-2010 |
20100068548 | COMPOSITION AND METHOD OF PREPARING NANOSCALE THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC MATERIALS - A photo-absorbing layer for use in an electronic device; the layer including metal alloy nanoparticles copper, indium and/or gallium made preferably from a vapor condensation process or other suitable process, the layer also including elemental selenium and/or sulfur heated at temperatures sufficient to permit reaction between the nanoparticles and the selenium and/or sulfur to form a substantially fused layer. The reaction may result in the formation of a chalcopyrite material. The layer has been shown to be an efficient solar energy absorber for use in photovoltaic cells. | 03-18-2010 |
20100065118 | COMPOSITION AND METHOD OF PREPARING NANOSCALE THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAIC MATERIALS - A photo-absorbing layer for use in an electronic device; the layer including metal alloy nanoparticles copper, indium and/or gallium made preferably from a vapor condensation process or other suitable process, the layer also including elemental selenium and/or sulfur heated at temperatures sufficient to permit reaction between the nanoparticles and the selenium and/or sulfur to form a substantially fused layer. The reaction may result in the formation of a chalcopyrite material. The layer has been shown to be an efficient solar energy absorber for use in photovoltaic cells. | 03-18-2010 |
20090261305 | COMPOSITION OF AND METHOD OF USING NANOSCALE MATERIALS IN HYDROGEN STORAGE APPLICATIONS - A composition for use, for example, in an electrode in a Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery is provided that consists of metal hydrides together with a certain percentage of nano-sized reactive metal particles, preferably either nickel, manganese, aluminum, cobalt, copper, tin, palladium, silver, gold, lanthanum, and/or alloys thereof. The addition of nano-metals enhances the hydrogen charging characteristics of the battery. | 10-22-2009 |
20090202417 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a bed of magnetite supporting nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that forms the catalyst. | 08-13-2009 |
20090148689 | CONDUCTIVE NANOPARTICLE SUBSTRATE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - A device comprising a substrate with first and second layers is prepared by applying a cellulosic base layer on the substrate followed by a silver nanoparticle coating. The nanoparticle coating is durable and highly electrically conductive. This conductive substrate maybe used for the application of integrated circuitry components, and does not outgas upon application of reflow solder. | 06-11-2009 |
20090117014 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AMMONIA SYNTHESIS - Systems and methods are disclosed herein for synthesizing ammonia at mid- to low-pressures using nano-size metal or metal alloy catalyst particles. Hydrogen and nitrogen gases are passed through a system comprising, for example, a packed bed of supported nano-size iron or iron alloy catalyst particles having an optional oxide layer that form the catalyst. | 05-07-2009 |
20090092887 | NANOPARTICLE COATED ELECTRODE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE - An electrode comprising a primary and secondary metal nanoparticle coating on a metallic substrate is prepared by dispersing nanoparticles in a solvent and layering them onto the substrate, followed by heating. The enhanced surface area of the electrode due to the catalytic nanoparticles is dramatically enhanced, allowing for increased reaction efficiency. The electrode can be used in one of many different applications; for example, as an electrode in an electrolysis device to generate hydrogen and oxygen, or a fuel cell. | 04-09-2009 |
20090026077 | RAPID ELECTROCHEMICAL EVALUATION APPARATUS - A system and method are provided for rapidly evaluating electrochemical components such as catalysts, electrodes, electrolyte, and membranes that delivers a high degree of accuracy and requires minimal materials costs. In one embodiment, the system may comprise a detachable electrochemical cell for housing an electrochemical reaction. The cell may comprise an anode chamber and a cathode chamber separated by an ion-diffusion membrane and an electrically conductive current collector in electrochemical communication with the cell. The reaction cell includes an outlet port in the cell to permit the removal of product gasses, and ports to permit the flow of electrolyte through said cell. The system further comprises means, for example, a reciprocating piston, for sealing the reaction cell to the system to prevent exposure of the electrochemical reaction to the ambient environment, where the cell and adjacent components may be sealed by, for example, gaskets, that permit rapid separation. | 01-29-2009 |
20090004549 | HIGH POWER FUEL CELL - A device for highly efficient fuel cell reactions is described. The device comprises a porous electrode and a plurality of suspended nanoparticles diffused within the void volume of the electrode when used within an electrolyte, wherein each chamber contains an electrode and electrolyte with suspended nanoparticles therein. When reactive metal particles are diffused into the electrode structure and suspended in electrolyte by gasses, a fluidized bed is established, allowing for improved power generation. Ideally, this device and system can be used to produce high power output. | 01-01-2009 |
20080280172 | ELECTRO-CATALYTIC RECHARGING COMPOSITION - A composition useful for the fueling and refueling of electrochemical devices is described. The composition comprises an ion-conducting medium such as an electrolyte, and catalyst nanoparticles. Unlike traditional electrodes, such as those typically used in electrolyzers and fuel cells, the inventive composition may be quickly drained from the device and refilled to maintain maximum cell performance. In addition, the electro-catalytic charging composition can be stored as a solid for safe handling; for example in a portable cartridge. | 11-13-2008 |