RESEARCH ON THE ELECTROLYSIS OF WATER WITH A HYDROGEN-DIFFUSION CATHODE TO BE USED IN A ROTATING CELL
Abstract
It is shown that the concept of a H-diffusion cathode is technici%%y feasible for potential use in a water-electrolysis cell for production of breathing O under weightless conditions. The best result was a cathode current density of 265 amp/sq ft at a cell voltage of 1.76 v while maintaining for about 1 hour 100% transmission of H through a cathode of Pd-Ag alloy foil (3/8-inch diameter x 0.001-inch thickness). The pure, dry H gas that permeated the cathode foil was collected at atmospheric pressure during electrolysis of a KOH electrolyte (50 wt-% KOH) at 230 C and 15 to 25 psig in a Teflon-lined cell with a Pt anode. The laboratory experiments with a stationary cell indicated the importance of designing for minimum electrolyte contamination and the need for further study of activation of the cathode foil. To supply breathing O for 3 men (6 lb of O/day), preliminary design estimates for a rotating cell (to provide an artificial gravity field for separation of O from the anode and electrolyte) indicate an electrolysis cell (exclusive of motor, controls, etc.) of 4-3/4-inch diameter x 4-3/4-inch height, weighing about 10 lb and consuming an electrolysis power of 670 w. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0289024
Entities
People
- Charles Faust
- John Clifford
Organizations
- Battelle Memorial Institute