SBIR-STTR Award

Modeling and simulation of electrolytic cells
Award last edited on: 2/14/02

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOE
Total Award Amount
$431,941
Award Phase
2
Solicitation Topic Code
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Principal Investigator
William R Brown

Company Information

Helipump Corporation

8435 Brecksville Road
Cleveland, OH 44141
   (216) 368-4238
   N/A
   N/A
Location: Single
Congr. District: 14
County: 

Phase I

Contract Number: ----------
Start Date: 00/00/00    Completed: 00/00/00
Phase I year
1983
Phase I Amount
$46,969
A computer implemented model for simulating electrolytic cells will be developed. The model will provide the total current and its distribution in the cell, the deposit thickness along the electrode, the overpotential components, the overall cell resistance, and the power dissipation as a function of the system parameters. The latter includes the applied cell potential or the total current, the electrode kinetics, the electrolyte composition and its circulation rate, and the cell configuration. Although the program will be applicable to electrochemical cells in general, electrowinning and electro-refining cells will be specifically considered.The potential applications as described by the company:The user-oriented modelling program fills an important need, and it is anticipated that it will gain wide acceptance. The modelling program will be used to optimize the operation of existing electrolytic cells and improve the design of new ones, leading to significant energy and material savings.

Phase II

Contract Number: ----------
Start Date: 00/00/00    Completed: 00/00/00
Phase II year
1984
Phase II Amount
$384,972
The purpose of this project is to develop and implement a computer program for simulating electrochemical cells. This program will provide the current distribution, the various overpotential components, and the power consumption as a function of the process parameters in a general geometry cell. It also will provide the thickness and distribution of the deposit where applicable, and incorporate features such as moving boundaries and variable resolution. The program will be user friendly, be implemented on desk-top and personal computers, and incorporate a comprehensive data base. It is expected that accessibility of such a modeling program will enhance the quantitative engineering treatment of electrochemical systems, indicate optimal operating conditions in existing cells, and be instrumental in the design of new improved cells leading to energy savings, high-product quality, and more effective equipment utilization.Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: The user-ofiented modeling program fills an important need, and it is anticipated that it will gain wide acceptanceThe modeling program will be used to optimize the operation of existing electrolytic cells and improve the design of new ones, leading to significant energy and material savings.