Patent ID: 7718047
Filing Date: 2010-05-18
Classification: B01D,F04B

Abstract:
1. An electrochemical pump comprising: an electrochemical cell comprising a first compartment comprising a first electrode and a first electrolyte solution, the first electrolyte solution comprising a first redox couple which participates in a first electrode reaction and a first group of ions different from the first redox couple species, wherein neither of the species of the first redox couple is a gas; a second compartment comprising a second electrode and a second electrolyte solution, the second electrolyte solution comprising a second redox couple which participates in a second electrode reaction and a second set of ions different from the second redox couple species, wherein neither of the species of the second redox couple is a gas; an ionically conducting separator separating the first and second compartment, the separator being in fluid communication with the first and second electrolyte solution; wherein the separator allows transport of at least some species of the first and second groups of ions but restricts transport of the ions of the first and second redox couples; and a source of electric current connected to the first and second electrode; wherein the pump is configured so that when electric current is passed between the electrodes a pressure of greater than 10 atmospheres can be obtained in one compartment.