Research on a Gravity-Independent Waterelectrolysis Cell with a Palladium-Silver Alloy Cathode

摘要

The experimental investigation has demonstrated that a static water electrolysis cell with a palladium-silver alloy hydrogen-diffusion cathode is technically feasible. The best result was obtained with an experimental cell constructed with a 1/4-inch-diameter palladium-silver alloy tube of 5-mil wall thickness (0.5-inch effective length), a matrix of Teflon threads and calcium hydroxide impregnated with an electrolyte of 50 weight percent sodium hydroxide, and a platinum screen anode. The cell was operated satisfactorily independently of gravity for a minimum of 24 continuous hours with 97-100 percent hydrogen transmission at 75 amp/sq ft and 2.0 volts at 145C with water supplied as vapor (1 atmosphere partial pressure). Preliminary design estimates for a cell to supply breathing oxygen for 3 men (6 pounds O2 per day) indicate a very small cell (25 pounds, 0.2 cu ft) with low power consumption (760 watts). (Author)