The proposed innovation melds two proven water electrolysis technologies into a new electrolyzer that promises unprecedented simplicity, ruggedness and operational capabilities. The two technologies are (1) Solid Metal Cathode (SMC) electrolysis, which previously always required a liquid electrolyte, and (2) use of proton exchange membranes to permit electrolysis of water containing no added electrolyte. Owing to the electrolyzer's simple and robust design, it promises unexcelled reliability and operational flexibility. Generation of oxygen (O2) and hydrogen (H2) at elevated pressures will be possible because of gases are separated by solid metal, even within the electrolysis cells. Therefore, our innovation will lead to a common electrolyzer, generating O2 and H2 at near ambient pressure for regenerative life support as well as generating 6,000 psia O2 to ref ill extravehicular activity (EVA) O2 bottles, and producing 3, 000 psia O2 and 3,000 psia H2 for use in future O2/H2 propulsion systems.In addition to the potential aerospace applications (i.e., regenerative life support, EVA and O2/H2 propulsion), two commercial applications have been identified for the proposed SMC electrolyzer. The first will eliminate the need for O2 and H2 compressed gas cylinders currently used in the home health-care industry. The SMC electrolyzer will be the only electrolyzer simple and robust enough to be used in home and business, and the only electrolyzer capable of safely generating O2 and H2 at pressures high enough to replace or recharge compressed gas cylinders.
Keywords: Phase_I, NASA, Abstract, FY94
