System for electrolysis of water

Abstract: An electrolytic cell (12, 80)and method of electrolysizing and heating water (59, 89) containing a conductive salt in solution. The electrolytic cell (12, 80) includes a non-conductive housing (14, 82) having an inlet (58, 88)and an outlet (60,90) and spaced apart first and second conductive foraminous grids (38/44, 96/98) connected within the housing (14, 82). A plurality of non-conductive microspheres ((36, 91, 104) each having a uniformly thick outer conductive palladium layer thereon are positioned within the housing (14, 82) in electrical contact with the first grid (38, 96, 102) adjacent the inlet. An electric power source is operably connected across the first and second grids whereby electrical current flows between the grids within the water solution.

Description: This invention generally relates to electrolytic cells, and more particularly to an improved electrolytic cell for electrolysis of water and the production of heat. The present invention utilizes microspheres formed of non-metallic beads which are plated with a uniformly thick coating of palladium or another metal which will form hydrides in the presence of hydrogen. Palladium coated microspheres are taught in my previous U.S. patent 4,943,355 and 5,036,031. In these above-recited previous patents cross linked polymer microspheres having a plating of palladium are taught to exhibit improvements in the absorption of hydrogen. The use of a palladium sheet to form one electrode within an electrolytic cell to produce excess heat, the electrolytic cell being a Pons-Fleischmann-type is taught by Edmund Storms. The description of the Storms electrolytic cell and his experimental performance results are described in an article entitled Measurements of Excess Heat from a Pons-Fleischmann-Type Electrolytic Cell Using Palladium Sheet appearing in Fusion Technology, Volume 3, Mar. 1993. In a previous article, Storms reviewed experimental observations about electrolytic cells for producing heat in an article entitled "Review of Experimental Observations About the Cold Fusion Effect" FUSION TECHNOLOGY, Vol. 20, Dec. 1991. None of the previously reported experimental results or other prior art devices known to applicant have utilized palladium coated (or other metals which will form "metallic hydrides" in the presence of hydrogen) non-conductive microspheres within an electrolytic cell for the production of heat and the electrolysis of water into its hydrogen and oxygen components. The present invention discloses various embodiments of palladium coated microspheres within an electrolytic cell in conjunction with an electrolytic media containing either water or heavy water, particularly deuterium oxide. This invention is directed to an electrolytic cell, a system and method of electrolizing and heating a liquid electrolyte. The electrolytic cell includes a non-conductive housing having an inlet and an outlet and spaced apart first and second conductive foraminous grids connected within the housing. A plurality of non-conductive microspheres each having an outer conductive metallic surface thereon are positioned within the housing in electrical contact with the first grid adjacent the inlet. An electric power source may be operably connected across the first and second grids whereby electrical current flows between the grids within the water solution. The invention may utilize palladium coated microspheres as previously disclosed in U.S. Patents 4,943,355 and 5,036,031 within an electrolytic cell for the production of either hydrogen and oxygen and/or heat. More generally, the invention utilizes metal coated non-conductive microspheres in the electrolytic cell, the metal chosen from those which exhibit strong hydrogen absorption properties to form "metallic hydrides". A variety of cathode constructions utilizing the palladium coated microspheres within an electrolytic cell are disclosed. The electrolytic cell has increased production of heat in the form of heated water or heavy water-based electrolyte exiting the cell, is fault tolerant and has a long mean operating time to failure. Accordingly, the present invention provides a system for electrolysis and producing heating of a liquid electrolyte comprising: an electrolytic cell including a non-conductive housing and an inlet and an outlet; a first conductive foraminous grid positioned within said housing adjacent to said inlet; a second conductive foraminous grid positioned within said housing spaced from said first conductive grid and adjacent to said outlet; a plurality of conductive microspheres each having a conductive metallic surface formed over a non-metallic bead, said conductive metallic surface readily combinable with hydrogen or an isotope of hydrogen to form a metallic hydride, said plurality of conductive microspheres positioned between the first and second grids in electrical communication with said first conductive grid and electrically isolated from said second grid; means for pumping said liquid electrolyte into said electrolytic cell through said inlet, said electrolyte having a conductive salt in solution with water; an electric power source having terminals operably connected to said first and second grids. The invention also provides an electrolytic cell for electrolysis and producing heating of a liquid electrolyte comprising: a non-conductive housing having an inlet and an outlet; a first conductive foraminous grid positioned within said housing adjacent to said inlet; a second conductive foraminous grid positioned within said housing spaced from said first conductive grid and adjacent to said outlet; a plurality of conductive microspheres each having a conductive metallic surface formed over a non-metallic bead, said metallic layer readily combinable with hydrogen or an isotope of hydrogen to form a metallic hydride, said conductive microspheres being positioned between said first and second grids in electrical communication with said first conductive grid and electrically isolated from said second grid. The conductive metallic surface may be a uniformly thick outer layer. The invention further provides a method of electrolysis and producing heating of a water solution containing a conductive salt forming a liquid electrolyte comprising the steps of: A. circulating said electrolyte through an electrolytic cell of the kind stated above ; B. passing an electrical current between said first and second grids when said electrolyte is circulating through said electrolytic cell. C. removing heat from said electrolyte for use after said electrolyte exits said electrolytic cell through said outlet. In accordance with these and other objects which will become apparent hereinafter, embodiments of the instant invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 is a schematic view of an experimental system embodying the present invention. Figure 2 is a section view of the electrolytic cell shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a section view of another embodiment of the electrolytic cell during flow of an electrolyte therethrough. Figure 4 is a partial section view of Figure 3 with the electrolytic cell at rest. Figure 5 is yet another embodiment of the combined anode and cathode of an electrolytic cell of the present invention. Figure 6 is an end view of Figure 5. Figure 7 is an enlarged section view in the direction of arrows 7-7 in Figure 5. Figure 8 is a graphic representation of the temperature differential between the electrolyte entering and exiting the electrolytic cell of Figure 2 utilizing conventional platinum coated microspheres. Figure 9 is a graph similar to Figure 8 utilizing palladium coated microspheres and an electrolyte containing water within the electrolytic cell of Figure 2. Figure 10 is a graph similar to Figure 8 utilizing palladium coated microspheres and an electrolyte containing deuterium within the electrolytic cell of Figure 2. Figure 11 is a graph representing test results of the system tested in Figure 9 operating at an elevated pressure. Figure 12 is a graph representing test results of the system tested in Figure 10 operating at an elevated pressure. Figure 13 is a graphic summary of test results operating the electrolytic cell shown in Figure 2 showing voltage across the conductive grids within the electrolytic cell vs. current flow through the cell for various embodiments of microspheres, electrolytes and internal operating pressures. Figure 14 is a graphic representation of test results using two forms of coated microspheres and three forms of water at atmospheric pressure showing power input vs. heat output from the electrolytic cell. Figure 15 is a graphic representation of test results using two forms of coated microspheres and three forms of water at approximately 1240 kPa (180 psi) internal operating pressure showing power input vs. heat output from the electrolytic cell. Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to Figures 1 and 2, an experimental system embodying concepts of the invention utilized during testing procedures is shown generally at numeral 10 . This testing system 10 includes an electrolytic cell shown generally at numeral 12 interconnected at each end with a closed loop electrolyte circulation system. The circulation system includes a pump 18 which draws a liquid electrolyte 59 from a reservoir 32 and forces the electrolyte 59 in the direction of the arrow into inlet 54 of electrolytic cell 12 . This pump 18 is a constant volume pump. After the electrolytic cell 12 is completely filled with the electrolyte 59 , the fluid then exits an outlet 56 , then flowing into a gas trap 26 which is provided to separate hydrogen and oxygen gas from the electrolyte 59 when required. A throttle valve 28 downstream of the gas trap 26 regulate the electrolyte flow so as to also regulate the fluid pressure within the electrolytic cell 12 as monitored by pressure gauge 20 . A slide valve 22 provides for the intermittent introduction of ingredients into the liquid electrolyte 59 via syringe 24 . A second slide valve 30 provides for the periodic removal of electrolyte 59 into test reservoir 34 for analysis to determine correct electrolyte make-up. In Figure 2, the details of the electrolytic cell 12 utilized during testing procedures is there shown. A cylindrical glass non-conductive housing 14, open at each end, includes a moveable non-conductive end member 46 and 48 at each end thereof. These end members 46 and 48 are sealed within the housing 14 by O-rings 62 and 64 . The relative spacing between these end members 46 and 48 is controlled by the movement of end plates 50 and 52 thereagainst. Each of the end members 46 and 48 includes an inlet stopper 54 and an outlet stopper 56 , respectively. Each of these stoppers 54 and 56 define an inlet and an outlet passage, respectively into and out of the interior volume, respectively, of the electrolytic cell 12 . These end members 46 and 48 also include a fluid chamber 58 and 60 , respectively within which are mounted electrodes 15 and 16 , respectively, which extend from these chambers 58 and 60 to the exterior of the electrolytic cell 12 for interconnection to a d.c. power supply (not shown) having its negative and positive terminals connected as shown. This d.c. power supply is a constant current type. Also positioned within the chambers 58 and 60 are thermocouples 70 and 72 for monitoring the electrolyte temperature at these points of inlet and outlet of the electrolytic cell 12 . A plurality of conductive microspheres 36 are positioned within housing 14 immediately adjacent and against a conductive foraminous grid 38 formed of platinum and positioned transversely across the housing 14 as shown. These conductive microspheres 36 are formed of non-conductive inner beads having a uniform outer palladium coating. The preferred size of these conductive microspheres are in the range of 1.0 mm or less in diameter and the details of the manufacture of these conductive microspheres 36 are taught in my previous U.S. Patents 4,943,355 and 5,036,031. In the herein reported testing, an intermediate layer of nickel was added over a copper flash coat. The nickel intermediate layer, producing a mean microsphere density of 1.51 g/cm 3 , was positioned immediately beneath the palladium plated layer to increase the density of the conductive microspheres 36. A non-conducive foraminous nylon mesh 40 is positioned against the other end of these conductive microspheres 36 so as to retain them in the position shown. Adjacent the opposite surface of this non-conductive mesh 40 is a plurality of non-conductive microspheres 42 formed of cross-linked polystyrene spherical beads. Against the other surface of this layer of non-conductive microspheres 42 is a conductive foraminous grid 44 positioned transversely across the housing 14 as shown. The end of the electrode 15 is in electrical contact at 66 with conductive grid 38 , while electrode 15 is in electrical contact at 68 with conductive grid 44 as shown. By this arrangement, when there is no electrolyte within the electrolytic cell 12, no current will flow between the electrodes 15 and 16 . ELECTROLYTE However, when the electrolytic cell 12 is filled with a liquid electrolyte 59 , current will flow between the electrodes 15 and 16 . The preferred formulation for this electrolyte 59 is generally that of a conductive salt in solution with water. The preferred embodiment of water is that of either light water (H 2 1 0) or heavy water and more specifically that of deuterium oxide (H 2 2 0). The purity of all of the electrolyte components is of utmost importance. The water (H 2 1 0) and the deuterium oxide (H 2 2 0) must have a minimum resistance of one megohm with a turbidity of less than 0.2 n.t.u. This turbidity is controlled by ultra membrane filtration. The preferred salt is lithium sulfate (Li 2 S0 4 ) in a 2-molar mixture with water and is of chemically pure quality. In general, although a lithium sulfate is preferred, other conductive salts chosen from the group containing boron, aluminum, gallium, and thallium, as well as lithium, may be utilized. The preferred pH or acidity of the electrolyte is 9.0. CONDUCTIVE BEADS Palladium coated microspheres 36 are preferred. However, palladium may be substituted by other transition metals, rare earths and also uranium. In general, any of these metals which are capable of combining with high volumes of hydrogen to form "metallic hydrides" are acceptable. These metals known to applicant which will serve as a substitute are lanthanum, praseodymium, cerium, titanium, zirconium, vanadium, tantalum, uranium, hafnium and thorium. Authority for the inclusion of these elements within this group is found in a book entitled " Inorganic Hydrides by B.L. Shaw , published by Pergamon Press, 1967. However, palladium is the best known and most widely studied metallic hydride and was utilized in my previously referenced patents to form conductive hydrogen-absorbing microspheres. In an even more general sense, the broad requirement here is to provide a "metallic hydride" surface, the makeup of the core of the microspheres being a secondary consideration. ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, an alternate embodiment of the electrolytic cell 80 is there shown. In this embodiment 80 , a non-conductive glass cylindrical housing 82 is again utilized with non-metallic delrin (trade mark) end members 84 and 86 sealably engaged by O-rings 92 and 94 within the ends of housing 82 . Inlet and outlet chambers 88 and 90 , respectively are formed into the end members 84 and 86 , respectively, end member 84 defining an inlet end, while end member 86 defines an outlet end of the electrolytic cell 80 . A plurality of conductive microspheres 91 formed of a palladium coating over non-metallic beads having a first conductive copper layer and an intermediate nickel layer as previously described are disposed against a concave foraminous conductive grid 96 formed of platinum which is, in turn, disposed against the inner end of end member 84 as shown. An electrode 16 is in electrical contact with the conductive grid 96 within inlet chamber 88 as shown. A thermocouple 70 monitors the temperature of the electrolyte 89 flowing into inlet chamber 88 . These conductive microspheres 91 are loosely packed whereby, when the electrolyte 89 flows in the direction of the arrows through the electrolytic cell 80 as shown in Figure 3, they rise above the upright housing 82 so as to be spaced upwardly toward a non-conductive foraminous nylon mesh 98 positioned adjacent the inner end of end member 86 . Thus, by controlling the flow rate of the electrolyte 89 , the spread or spacing between the conductive microspheres 91 and the degree of movement or agitation is regulated. Although the loose microspheres 91 roll and mix about, electrical contact is maintained therebetween. A second conductive foraminous platinum grid 100 is positioned between the non-conductive mesh 98 and end member 86 in electrical contact with another electrode 15 at 68 . A thermocouple 72 monitors the temperature of the electrolyte 89 as it flows out of the electrolytic cell 80 . As previously described, the end members 84 and 86 are movable toward one another within housing 82 by pressure exerted against plates 50 and 52 . This end member movement serves to regulate the volume of the electrolyte 89 within the electrolytic cell 80 . The conductive beads 91 shown in Figure 4 are shown in their at-rest position during which very little, if any, electrolyte flow is occurring through the electrolytic cell 82 . Referring now to Figures 5, 6 and 7, another embodiment of the conductive grids is there shown. A conductive plate 102 formed of silver plated metal having the conductive microspheres 104 epoxy (non-conductive) bonded at 114 and 116 to the conductive plate 102 is utilized to define the cathode of the electrolytic cell. Thus, the only exposed conductive surface in the cathode is that of the conductive microspheres 104 . Non-conductive split polyethylene tubes 108 and 110 extend along the opposing edges of conductive plate 102 , around which are wound a plurality of conductive wire bands 112 formed of platinum plated silver wire 0.1 cm in diameter. By this arrangement, the electrolyte may flow along the length of the conductive plate 102 and conductive microspheres 104 to form the necessary electrolytic current flow path between the conductive plate 102 (cathode) and the conductive wire bands 112 (anode), all of the conductive bands 112 being in electrical contact with the positive (+) side of the d.c. power supply (not shown), while the conductive plate 102 being in electrical communication with the negative (-) terminal of that power supply. EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS Utilizing the experimental arrangement described in Figures 1 and 2, the testing procedures incorporated two stages. The first stage may be viewed as a loading stage during which a relatively low level current (0.05 amps) is introduced across the electrodes 15 and 16 , that current facilitated between conductive grids 38 and 44 by the presence of the electrolyte 59 as previously described. During the initial loading, electrolysis of the water within the electrolyte 59 occurs so that the palladium surface of the conductive microspheres 36 fully absorbs and combines with hydrogen, i.e. becomes "loaded". This loading takes about two hours under a current flow through the cell of about 0.05 amps. After hydrogen and/or hydrogen isotopes, loading of the palladium coating on the conductive microspheres 36 , the current level between electrodes 15 and 16 is then incrementally increased, during which time the thermocouples 70 and 72 are monitored to measure inlet and outlet temperature of the electrolyte 59 . The temperature of the electrolyte 59 flowing through the electrolytic cell 12 was additionally controlled by increasing the flow rate of the electrolyte 59 therethrough. A strip recorder was used to monitor and record the inlet and outlet temperatures from thermocouples 70 and 72 over time. Other variables during the testing procedure monitored were the d.c. voltage across the electrodes 15 and 16 , the current in amps flowing through the cell between the electrodes 15 and 16 , the electrolyte flow rate in milliliters per minute (ml/min) and the fluid pressure [kPa (psi)] of the electrolyte 59 . The graphic presentation of test results shown in Figures 8 to 10 depicts a vertical axis representing the temperature in degrees centigrade (°C) of the electrolyte, while the horizontal axis to the left represents elapsed time. During these tests, the electrolyte pressure was maintained at atmospheric pressure, or about 100kPa (about 14.7 psi). The test results shown in Figure 8 depict a baseline run shown at 120 wherein the conductive microspheres are coated with platinum, rather than palladium. The water utilized in the electrolyte is H 2 1 0. Line 126 represents the ongoing temperature of the electrolyte 59 as it enters into the electrolytic cell 12 . Line 128 represents the temperature of the electrolyte 59 as it exits the electrolytic cell 12 . At any given point in time, then, ΔT represents the increase in temperature of the electrolyte 59 as it passes through the electrolysis cell 12 . Table I herebelow represents a tabularization of those test results in Figure 8. Additionally shown in Table I are the calculations of the power applied across the electrolytic cell in watts (voltage x amps) and a representation of the heat out or derived from the cell, temperature differential x flow rate (ΔT x FR). Pt + H 2 1 0 @ 100 kPa (14.7 psi) (Ref. Fig. 8) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Flow Rate (ml/min) ΔT (°C) Heat Out (ΔTxFR) Watts In (VxA) 3.7 0.05 0.34 2.5 0.8 0.19 4.7 0.10 0.34 10.0 3.4 0.47 4.7 0.10 0.57 6.5 3.7 0.47 6.2 0.20 0.57 16.5 9.4 1.24 7.7 0.30 0.60 33.0 18.0 2.31 7.7 0.30 1.11 22.0 24.4 2.31 9.0 0.40 1.08 32.0 34.6 3.60 9.0 0.40 1.30 24.0 31.2 3.60 In Figure 9, the graphic test results with respect to the electrolytic cell of Figure 2 having palladium coated microspheres is shown at 130 . Again, the electrolyte inlet temperature is shown at line 132 , while the electrolyte outlet temperature is shown at 130 . This test was conducted at atmospheric pressure, or 100 kPa (14.7 psi) The tabularized results of the experimental test shown in Figure 9 is listed in Table II herebelow. Again, the input variables of voltage, current, and flow rate are shown, the output results of temperature differential (Delta T) and calculated results of wattage in and heat out are also there shown. Pd + H 2 1 0 @ 100 kPa (14.7 psi) (Ref. Fig. 9) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Flow Rate (ml/min) ΔT (°C) Heat Out (ΔTxFR) Watts In (VxA) 4.4 0.05 0.34 4.3 1.5 .22 4.4 0.05 0.40 3.5 1.4 .22 5.3 0.10 0.38 8.5 3.2 .53 6.8 0.20 0.38 21.0 8.0 1.36 8.5 0.30 0.48 61.0 29.3 2.55 8.5 0.30 0.62 38.5 23.4 2.55 9.0 0.30 1.01 30.0 30.3 2.70 10.0 0.30 1.55 24.0 37.2 3.00 10.0 0.35 1.06 28.0 29.7 3.50 10.0 0.30 1.27 34.0 43.2 3.00 ---- 0.70 1.44 30.0 43.2 9.0(est) 0.31 1.50 23.0 34.5 2.80(est) 9.0(est) 0.31 1.55 24.0 37.2 2.80(est) Referring to Figure 10, the electrolytic cell of Figure 2 was tested utilizing palladium coated microspheres as previously described and operated at atmospherical 100 kPa (14.7 psi). However, in this experiment, the electrolyte included heavy water or deuterium (H 2 2 0) in solution with lithium sulfate in quantities as above described. The graphic results are generally depicted at 136 and include the electrolyte input temperature at line 138 and the electrolyte output temperature at line 140 . Tabularization of these results is shown at Table III set forth herebelow. Pd + H 2 2 0 @ 100 kPa (14.7 psi) (Ref. Fig. 10) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Flow Rate (ml/min) ΔT (°C) Heat Out (ΔTxFR) Watts In (VxA) 4.3 0.05 0.57 3.0 1.7 .22 5.5 0.10 0.57 8.0 4.6 .55 7.0 0.20 0.55 22.0 12.1 1.40 7.3 0.30 0.53 37.0 19.6 2.19 9.3 0.37 0.51 64.0 32.6 3.44 9.7 0.40 0.89 37.0 32.9 3.88 9.7 0.40 0.85 46.0 39.1 3.88 3.5 0.05 0.40 5.5 2.2 0.18 7.8(est) 0.27 1.57 66.0 103.6 2.11(est) 9.1(est) 0.35 1.78 23.0 40.9 3.19(est) 4.5 0.05 1.78 1.5 2.7 0.23 8.7(est) 0.33 1.90 22.0 41.8 2.87(est) Referring additionally to Figures 11 and 12, the test results wherein the electrolytic cell was operated at an elevated fluid pressure of about 1240 kPa (180 psi) are there shown generally at numerals 142 and 148. In Figure 11, the electrolytic cell was operated in that test utilizing gold (Au) plated microspheres and an electrolyte utilizing water (H 2 1 0) The electrolyte inlet temperature is shown at line 144 while the electrolyte outlet temperature is shown at line 146 . Table IV set forth herebelow again tabularizes those input/output and computed results as previously described. Au + H 2 1 0 @ 1240 kPa (180 psi) (Ref. Fig. 11) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Flow Rate (ml/min) ΔT (°C) Heat Out (ΔTxFR) Watts In (VxA) 3.5 0.05 .55 .0 .0 0.02 3.6 0.05 .55 .0 .0 0.02 4.2 0.10 .55 2.0 1.1 0.42 5.0 0.20 .55 4.0 2.2 1.00 5.3 0.30 .55 11.0 6.0 1.59 5.6 0.40 .55 20.0 11.0 2.24 5.7 0.50 .55 29.0 15.9 2.85 5.8 0.60 .55 36.0 19.8 3.48 6.2 0.70 .55 48.0 26.4 4.34 6.4 0.80 .55 58.0 31.9 5.12 6.7 0.90 .55 69.0 37.9 6.03 7.3 1.00 .55 77.0 42.3 7.30 In Figure 12, the electrolytic cell 12 was again operated utilizing palladium coated microspheres 36 , rather than gold plated microspheres, in combination with an electrolyte utilizing water (H 2 1 0) under 1240 kPa (180 psi). Line 150 depicts the electrolyte inlet temperature, while line 152 depicts the electrolyte outlet temperature. Table V set forth herebelow sets forth those input, output and calculated test results similar to those previously described. Pd + H 2 1 0 @ 1240 kPa (180 psi) (Ref. Fig. 12) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Flow Rate (ml/min) ΔT (°C) Heat Out (ΔTxFR) Watts In (VxA) 3.5 0.05 .57 3.0 1.7 0.18 4.5 0.10 .59 3.0 1.8 0.45 5.4 0.20 .59 7.0 4.1 1.08 6.0 0.30 .57 15.0 8.5 1.80 6.6 0.46 .59 25.0 14.7 3.04 7.2 0.50 .59 38.0 22.4 3.60 7.4 0.60 .59 50.0 29.5 4.44 6.5 0.60 .59 60.0 35.4 3.90 6.6 0.60 .59 59.0 34.8 3.96 6.6 0.60 .59 62.0 36.6 3.96 RERUNS To evaluate the repeatability of the above results, two additional tests were rerun and are tabularized herebelow in Tables VI and VII. Pd + H 2 1 0 @ 1240 kPa (180 psi) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Flow Rate (ml/min) ΔT (°C) Heat Out (ΔTxFR) Watts In (VxA) 3.7 0.05 .56 3.0 1.68 .18 4.8 0.10 .56 5.7 3.19 .48 5.6 0.20 .56 15.5 8.68 1.12 6.2 0.30 .56 26.0 14.56 1.86 6.5 0.40 .56 35.0 19.60 2.60 6.8 0.50 .58 48.0 27.84 3.40 7.3 0.60 .58 63.0 36.54 4.38 7.5 0.60 1.10 44.0 48.40 4.50 Pd + H 2 2 0 @ 1240 kPa (180 psi) Voltage (V) Current (Amps) Flow Rate (ml/min) ΔT (°C) Heat Out (ΔTxFR) Watts In (VxA) 3.7 0.05 .58 3.0 1.74 .18 5.0 0.10 .58 6.0 3.44 .50 6.2 0.20 .58 15.0 8.70 1.24 6.6 0.30 .58 25.0 14.50 1.98 7.2 0.40 .58 38.0 22.04 2.88 7.7 0.50 .58 54.0 31.32 3.85 7.3 0.50 .58 53.0 30.74 3.65 In Table VI, the electrolytic cell utilizing palladium coated microspheres in an electrolyte of water (H 2 1 0) operating at an elevated fluid pressure of 1240 kPa (180 psi) was rerun. The same electrolytic cell was again rerun utilizing the same palladium coated microspheres with an electrolyte having heavy water or deuterium (H 2 2 0) operated at 1240 kPa (180 psi). ANALYSIS Referring now to Figures 13, 14 and 15, analytical curves of the above reported experiments and tables are graphically displayed. Figure 13 may be viewed as a calibration curve between voltage applied across the electrolytic cell in the vertical scale plotted against current flow in amps on the horizontal scale. All of the test results of Tables I to VII for these variables are there shown. In the graph shown in Figures 14 and 15, the vertical scale is in wattage input into the electrolytic cell, while the horizontal scale is in heat output as calculated by the product of temperature differential (ΔT) and flow rate (ml/min). Figure 14 is a summary of the tabular results of Tables I, II and III wherein the electrolytic cell is operated at atmospheric pressure or about 100 kPa (about 14.7 psi). Figure 15 summarizes the results of Tables IV, V, VI and VII wherein the electrolytic cell was operated at an elevated pressure of 1240 kPa (180 psi). OBSERVATIONS In Figure 13, it is observed that the relationship between input voltage and current flow varies between the particular electrolytic cells in a predictable manner. Note the grouping of the curves wherein the electrolytic cell was operated at atmospheric versus elevated operating pressures. In Tables II and III, a few of the voltage input entries were not taken during testing and have been estimated. These voltage estimates were derived from the appropriate curve of Figure 13 wherein the current flow was known from the experimental results. The corresponding wattage input was also noted as being estimated. In Figures 14 and 15, the curves with respect to Tables I and IV a plating for the microspheres was chosen (platinum and gold), which is not of the "metallic hydride" group previously discussed. These curves do not appear to show any unusual discontinuity with respect to heat output vs. wattage input. However, the curves depicting the results in Tables II, III, V and VI wherein palladium coated microspheres were utilized, a prominent discontinuity with respect to heat output vs. wattage input is present, indicating an unexpected increase in that heat output. The curve depicting Table VII, however, did not depict such a discontinuity apparently because the wattage input was not raised sufficiently to achieve that level of input required to trigger the discontinuity. Metal coated beads prepared as described in Figures 5 to 7 functioned in a test program as hereinabove described for twenty-one (21) days in an electrolyte previously described at a current rate of 0.2 amps per centimeter squared without any of the conductive microspheres becoming unglued or dislodged from the metal plate 102 . CELL RESISTANCE In preparing the electrolytic cells for testing, the cell resistance utilizing a Whetstone Bridge was utilized prior to the introduction of the electrolyte into the electrolytic cell. This cell resistance, when dry, should be infinitely high. Otherwise, a short between the anode screen and the cathode beads exists and the unit would have to be repacked. Prior to testing, with electrolyte present, the cell resistance was set at 16 ohms by appropriate compression of the end members. While the instant invention has been shown and described herein in what are conceived to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is recognized that departures may be made therefrom within the scope of the claims.

Claims: A system (10) for electrolysis and producing heating of a liquid electrolyte (59) comprising: an electrolytic cell (12) including a non-conductive housing (14) and an inlet (54) and an outlet (56); a first conductive foraminous grid (38) positioned within said housing (14) adjacent to said inlet (54); a second conductive foraminous grid (44) positioned within said housing (14) spaced from said first conductive grid (38) and adjacent to said outlet (56); a plurality of conductive microspheres (36) each having a conductive metallic surface formed over a non-metallic bead, said conductive metallic surface readily combinable with hydrogen or an isotope of hydrogen to form a metallic hydride, said plurality of conductive microspheres (36) positioned between the first and second grids (38,44) in electrical communication with said first conductive grid (38) and electrically isolated from said second grid (44); means for pumping (18) said liquid electrolyte (59) into said electrolytic cell (12) through said inlet (54), said electrolyte (59) having a conductive salt in solution with water; an electric power source having terminals operably connected to said first and second grids (38, 44). A system (10) as set forth in Claim 1, wherein: said conductive salt is chosen from a group containing lithium, boron, aluminium, gallium and thallium. A system (10) as set forth in Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein: said pumping means (18) delivers a steady flow of said electrolyte (59) into said electrolytic cell (12). A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein: said pumping means (18) is connected to a closed loop circulating conduit whereby said electrolyte (59) is continuously circulated through said electrolytic cell (12). A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein said electrolytic cell (12) further comprises: a plurality of non-conductive microspheres (42) positioned within said housing (14) adjacent said second grid (44); a foraminous non-conductive mesh (40) positioned within said housing (14) between said conductive and said non-conductive microspheres (36, 42) to prevent said conductive microspheres (36) from contacting said second grid (44). A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 5, wherein said electrolytic cell (12) further comprises: a foraminous non-conductive mesh (40) positioned within said housing (14) adjacent to and spaced from said second grid (44) ; so that when said electrolytic cell (12) is in an upright position, said conductive microspheres (36) are loosely packed within said electrolytic cell (12) and fall by gravity atop said first grid (38) when said pumping means (18) is stopped; said conductive microspheres (36) being elevated and mixed above said first grid (38) by said electrolyte (59) flowing upwardly through said housing (14) at a preselected flow rate, said non-conductive mesh (40) preventing said conductive microspheres (36) from contacting said second grid (44). A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 5, wherein said electrolytic cell (12) further comprises: a conductive plate (102) positioned within said housing (14) defining said first grid; said conductive microspheres (104) adhered against and in electrical communication with said conductive plate; a non-conductive spacer (108, 110) connected along two opposing edges of said conductive plate (102); a plurality of conductive wire bands (112) each connected around said spacers (108, 110) and defining said second grid, said wire bands (112) in electrical isolation from said microspheres (104) and said conductive plate (102); said electrolyte (59) in fluid communication between said conductive microspheres (104) and said conductive bands (112). A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 7, further comprising: temperature monitoring means (70, 72) for measuring an inlet and an outlet temperature of said electrolyte (59). A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 6, or claim 8, further comprising: means (50, 52) for compressing said conductive microspheres together to increase surface contact pressure therebetween. A system as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 9, further comprising: means (28) for pressurization of said electrolyte within said housing. A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 10, wherein: said water is a heavy water. A system (10) as set forth in any one of Claims 1 to 11, wherein: said metallic surface is taken from the group consisting of: palladium, lanthanum, praseodymium, cerium, titanium, zirconium, vanadium, tantalum, uranium, hafnium and thorium. An electrolytic cell (12) for electrolysis and producing heating of a liquid electrolyte (59) comprising: a non-conductive housing (14) having an inlet (54) and an outlet (56); a first conductive foraminous grid (38) positioned within said housing (14) adjacent to said inlet (54); a second conductive foraminous grid (44) positioned within said housing (14) spaced from said first conductive grid (38) and adjacent to said outlet (56); a plurality of conductive microspheres (36) each having a conductive metallic surface formed over a non-metallic bead, said metallic layer readily combinable with hydrogen or an isotope of hydrogen to form a metallic hydride, said conductive microspheres (36) being positioned between said first and second grids (28, 44) in electrical communication with said first conductive grid (38) and electrically isolated from said second grid (44). A method of electrolysis and producing heating of a water solution containing a conductive salt forming a liquid electrolyte (59) comprising the steps of: A. circulating said electrolyte (59) through an electrolytic cell (12) of the kind stated in claim 13; B. passing an electrical current between said first and second grids (38, 44) when said electrolyte (59) is circulating through said electrolytic cell (12). C. removing heat from said electrolyte (59) for use after said electrolyte (59) exits said electrolytic cell (12) through said outlet (56).

Inventors: PATTERSON JAMES A, PATTERSON, JAMES A.
Applicants: PATTERSON JAMES A, PATTERSON, JAMES A.
Application year: 1993
Main classification: G21B1
IPC codes: C25B9, G21B3