Electrolyzer apparatus and electrode structure therefor

Abstract

Electrolysis apparatus and electrode structure comprising a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, a porous cathode plate, and a porous anode plate which is electrochemically compatible with the cathode, so that the anode plate and cathode plate are substantially immune from galvanic corrosion. The solid polymer electrolyte membrane is disposed between the anode plate and cathode plate, and means are provided for holding the anode and cathode plates in firm contact with the opposite sides, respectively, of the membrane. In an embodiment employing a plurality of sets of electrode structures means are provided for securing the anode plate, solid polymer electrolyte membranes, and cathode plate of each electrode structure in side-by-side relationship and to secure the respective electrode structures in spaced series arrangement, with a spacer plate positioned between the individual sets of spaced electrode structures. A series of grooves is provided between the anode plate and the plate in contact therewith. The grooves extend in generally parallel relationship across the interface of the anode plate and the other plate. Means are provided for supplying water to the mutually respective ends of the grooves associated with the anode plates and for withdrawing water and electrolysis products produced at the anode from the opposite ends of the grooves. A direct current source supplies current to the anode and cathode plates to cause an electrolytic reaction when water is supplied to the grooves. Water and electrolysis products are withdrawn from the cathode plates through an aligned bore extending through the electrode structures.