|
(11) | EP 1 580 303 A3 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||
| (54) | Hydrodynamic means for electrochemical cells |
| (57) The present invention is directed to hydrodynamic means to be installed in existing
electrochemical cells wherein the electrodes are connected to the backwalls by means
of rows of studs or ribs or other types of elongated supports and gaseous products
are generated . The means of the invention consist of flat strips or folded strips
which are inserted between each contiguous couple of studs or ribs or other types
of elongated supports and allow for the separation between the ascending mixed phase
comprising the generated gas and the degassed downcoming electrolyte. This separation
greatly improves the overall internal recirculation, thus eliminating dead areas where
the concentration of the electrolyte may change and/or gas bubbles may be entrapped,
both situations leading to decay of performances. The means of the invention comprise
optional diverting baffles in their upper section to facilitate the separation of
the gas phase from the electrolyte. In addition, the means of the invention may be
provided with side lips whose elastic deformation permits the easy and firm insertion
within the existing rows of studs or ribs or other types of elongated support. The
material of construction may be any metal or plastic material characterized by chemical
resistance to the cell environment and by a proper combination of stiffness and elasticity
as required for securely fixing in place the means.
|