Hydrogen removal system for metal/air cell
Abstract
Abstract A metal/air fuel cell is described in which hydrogen is effectively removed from a cell stack and electrolyte storage tank without emitting caustic vapor or mist. The fuel cell comprises: (a) a fuel cell assembly housing, (b) a plurality of metal/air cells disposed in the housing, (c) an electrolyte storage tank, (d) a recirculation loop for continuously recirculating electrolyte from the storage tank through the metal/air cells, (e) air injection means for flowing air between the metal/air cells, (f) a degassing vessel connected to the recirculating loop to receive electrolyte containing hydrogen gas from the metal/air cells, the vessel being arranged to discharge hydrogen gas through a top opening and discharge electrolyte through a bottom outlet for return to the storage tank and this vessel being further arranged to have at least the top portion thereof bathed in air which has passed between the metal/air cells, (g) purging air means adapted to pass air through the electrolyte storage tank and then through the degassing vessel, said purging air serving to dilute the hydrogen and to remove hydrogen from the storage tank, (h) a gas discharge conduit for drawing off purge air and hydrogen discharging from the degassing vessel and (i) filter means connected to said discharge conduit for removing caustic vapor or mist from the discharging purge air and hydrogen.
Inventors
- 👤 Steven P. Lapp
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 5References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1995-10-20 | 1996-04-20 | 1996-10-20 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1999-10-20 | 2000-04-20 | 2000-10-20 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2003-10-20 | 2004-04-20 | 2004-10-20 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |