LABORATORY SCALE OPERATION OF THE SULFATE CYCLE FOR CARBON DIOXIDE REMOVAL AND OXYGEN GENERATION
Abstract
A laboratory-scale sulfate cycle pilot plant was constructed and operated for 70 hr of intermittent service with the last run in this series lasting 24 hr. This joint operation of the major components was satisfactory despite minor difficulties in the electrolyzer, attributed primarily to the diaphragms. The chrysotile asbestos used in the diaphragms, particularly on the anode side, gradually decomposed and then plugged the diaphragms. A diaphragm research group, set up to develop an improved material, has been making satisfactory progress and a solution to this problem is in sight. Current efficiencies for O, H2SO4, H, and NaOH were substantially the same in joint operation as in separate electrolyzer operation. The electrolyzer was still operable on completion of the last run, an indication of the over-all reliability of the system. The average O production rate in the joint operation runs was 14.4 l/hr or 0.51 cu ft/hr. In the 24-hr joint operation run the average O output of the electrolyzer was 14.0 l/hr while the average rate of CO2 removal from the neutralizer was 13.0 l/hr. In the short time of service no trend was observed in either the absorber or neutralizer which could reduce their effectiveness. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 17, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0271116
Entities
People
- A.l. Pitman
- S.t. Gadomski
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory