Method and apparatus for generating hydrogen

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METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING art. In particular, one embodiment of the present invention HYDROGEN is a hydrogen generator System that comprises: (a) an anode 0001) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provi material; (b) a cathode material; and (c) an electrolyte; sional Application No. 60/375,140, filed on Apr. 24, 2002, wherein the electrolyte comprises a metal hydride, at least which application is incorporated herein by reference. one Stabilizing agent, and a Solvent; and wherein hydrogen gas is generated whenever the anode material and the

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION cathode material are electrically connected. 0002 One or more embodiments of the present invention BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING pertain to method and apparatus for generating hydrogen.

0008 FIG. 1 shows a cross sectional view of a hydrogen

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION generator that is fabricated in accordance with one or more 0.003 Hydrogen is a “clean fuel” because it can be embodiments of the present invention; reacted with oxygen in hydrogen-consuming devices, Such 0009 FIG. 1A shows the hydrogen generator of FIG. 1 as a fuel cell or combustion engine, to produce energy and with a Switch assembly used to make an electrical connec water. Virtually no other reaction byproducts are produced in tion between the anode material and cathode material in the exhaust. As a result, the use of hydrogen as a fuel may accordance with one or more embodiments of the present Solve many environmental problems associated with the use invention;

of petroleum based fuels. Safe and efficient Storage of 0010 FIG. 2 shows a cross sectional view of a further hydrogen gas is important for many applications that use hydrogen generator that is fabricated in accordance with one hydrogen. In particular, minimizing the Volume and weight or more embodiments of the present invention; of hydrogen Storage Systems is important in mobile appli cations. 0011 FIG. 3 shows an exploded cross sectional view of 0004 Several methods of storing hydrogen currently a further hydrogen generator that is fabricated in accordance exist but are either inadequate or impractical for consumer with one or more embodiments of the present invention; applications. For example, hydrogen can be Stored in liquid 0012 FIG. 4 shows an exploded cross sectional view of form at very low temperature or hydrogen can be Stored a further hydrogen generator that is fabricated in accordance under high pressure in cylinders, however, both of Such with one or more embodiments of the present invention; Storage methods are not practical for most consumer appli 0013 FIGS. 5-6 show water storage and release struc cations for a number of well known reasons related, for tures that may be utilized to fabricate one or more embodi example, to Safety and economics. Other methods of hydro ments of the present invention; and gen Storage include the use of chemical compounds that either: (a) chemically react with water or other species to 0014 FIGS. 7-8 show cross sectional views of further generate hydrogen; or (b) reversibly adsorb and then release hydrogen generators that are fabricated in accordance with hydrogen. However, these methods are also not practical for one or more embodiments of the present invention. most consumer applications for a number of well known reasons related, for example, to Safety and economics. DETAILED DESCRIPTION 0005 Lastly, U.S. Pat. No. 6,534,033 issued Mar. 18, 0.015 FIG. 1 shows hydrogen generator 300 that is 2003 discloses a hydrogen generation System that includes a fabricated in accordance with one or more embodiments of Stabilized metal hydride Solution and a hydrogen generation the present invention. Advantageously in accordance with catalyst System which includes a Supported hydrogen gen one or more Such embodiments of the present invention, eration catalyst having molecules of a hydrogen generation hydrogen generator 300 may be fabricated in sizes compa catalyst bound to, entrapped within, and/or coated onto a rable to those of commercially available button cell batter Substrate. In one disclosed System, mechanical pumps pump ies, for example and without limitation, an “A” cell battery, a Sodium borohydride Solution through a catalyst chamber an “AAA” cell battery, a “D' cell battery, and so forth containing precious metal catalysts. One disadvantage of depending on the amount of hydrogen gas required for a Such a System is that mechanical pumps are not only particular application.

unreliable and heavy, but tend to leak and/or clog in the 0016. As shown in FIG. 1, hydrogen generator 300 presence of the highly caustic Solutions used. This reduces includes container 200. In accordance with one or more the reliability of the device. In addition, precious metal catalysts tend to wash out of the catalyst chamber due to the embodiments of the present invention, container 200 may be abrasive nature of the Solution. This loSS of precious metal fabricated from a cathode material (embodied as described catalyst is not only expensive but also results in Seriously in detail below) or it may be fabricated form a further reduced catalytic activity and reduced hydrogen output. In material that is coated, plated, and So forth with the cathode further addition, the catalyst chamber must be periodically material (which coating, plating, and So forth is disposed on replaced. the inside of container 200, i.e., facing region 220). In accordance with one or more Such embodiments, the further 0006. In light of the above, there is a need in the art for material may be, for example and without limitation, a method and apparatus for generating hydrogen that Solves non-conductive plastic, a metal, a conductive plastic, a one or more of the above-identified problems. ceramic, Stone, fiberglass, and So forth (as a specific

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

example, container 200 could be steel which is chrome plated on the inside). Thus, in accordance with one or more 0007 One or more embodiments of the present invention embodiments of the present invention, container 200 may be satisfy one or more of the above-identified problems in the fabricated as a structure that: (a) has at least an inner cathode

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material portion wherein an electrical connection can be limitation, a metal, a conductive ceramic, a conductive made to the inner cathode material portion (for example and plastic, and so forth. Alternatively, cap 250 may be fabri without limitation, by fabricating a container wherein the cated from an insulating material, and in Such a case one entire container is electrically conductive); and (b) can may not need to use insulator 240. In accordance with one withstand the chemistry and pressure generated by the or more embodiments of the present invention, cap 250 is reaction therewithin (to be described in detail below). In affixed to container 200 using any one of a number of addition, and as one can readily appreciate, container 200 methods that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the may be fabricated in any number of shapes and sizes. art Such as, for example and without limitation, a crimping 0.017. As further shown in FIG. 1, hydrogen generator method like that which is well known to those of ordinary 300 includes core 210. In accordance with one or more skill in the art to fabricate button cell batteries, by using threads and a Screw mechanism, and So forth.

embodiments of the present invention, core 210 is fabricated from an anode material (embodied as described in detail 0021. In accordance with one or more such embodiments below). In addition, core 210 may be fabricated in any one of the present invention, a hydrogen generation reaction (to of a number of forms Such as, for example and without be described below) proceeds whenever the cathode material limitation, a porous anode material, a metal wool-like mate of container 200 is electrically connected to the anode rial, or plastic wool-like material coated with anode mate material of core 210. For example and without limitation, rial, a plastic foam coated with anode material, a mesh of conduit 220 can fit into a battery clip device (for example anode material, an anode material cloth, an “expanded” and without limitation, a battery clip device like any one or anode material, a woven anode material, a honeycomb sheet of number of commercially available devices) that is dis of anode material, a perforated sheet of anode material, a posed, for example and without limitation, in a fuel cell plastic plated with anode material, a Sintered metal filter of (which fuel cell uses hydrogen generated in hydrogen gen anode material, a microporous sheet of anode material, a erator 300) to provide an electrical connection between, for Solid anode material, anode material in the form of beads, example, conduit 230 and container 200 (in such an embodi Small balls, chunks, or wires enclosed in a filter mesh, and ment, container 200 would be the negative terminal and So forth (as a specific example, the anode material of core conduit 220 would be the positive terminal). Alternatively, 210 could be, for example and without limitation, nickel). one could provide an electrical connection between conduit 230 and container 200 using any one of a number of 0.018. As further shown in FIG. 1, hydrogen generator electrical Switches that are well known to those of ordinary 300 includes region 220. In accordance with one or more skill in the art Such as, for example and without limitation, embodiments of the present invention, at least a portion of manual Switches, electrical Switches, and So forth. Further region 220, as well as at least a portion of the region alternatively, one could provide an electrical connection occupied by core 210, is filled with an electrolyte (embodied between conduit 230 and container 200 using a circuit that as described in detail below). includes pressure Sensor (embodied, for example and with 0.019 AS further shown in FIG. 1, hydrogen generator out limitation, using any one of a number of preSSure 300 includes conduit 230 that provides a conduit for hydro Switches that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the gen gas generated therein to exit hydrogen generator 300. In art) that senses the pressure of hydrogen gas and makes or accordance with one or more embodiments of the present breaks the electrical connection depending on predeter invention, conduit 230 is affixed to cap 250 using any one of mined values of hydrogen preSSure in accordance with any a number of methods that are well known to those of one of a number of methods that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art Such as, for example and without ordinary skill in the art. The hydrogen pressure may be that limitation, by a force fit, by a Screw attachment mechanism, of hydrogen that exits conduit 230 (in which case the and So forth. In accordance with one or more embodiments preSSure Sensor would be disposed, for example, in conduit of the present invention, conduit 230 is electrically conduc 230 to measure Such pressure) or it may the pressure of tive, and is electrically connected to core 210 using any one hydrogen in a tank into which the hydrogen gas is stored (in of a number of methods that are well known to those of which case the pressure Sensor would be disposed, for ordinary skill in the art Such as, for example and without example, in the tank to measure Such pressure) prior to use limitation, by welding, or by using any one of a number of in, for example and without limitation, a fuel cell. Further mechanisms that are well known to those of ordinary skill in alternatively, one could provide an electrical connection the art that promote electrical connectivity. AS Such, conduit between, for example, conduit 230 and container 200 using 230 may be fabricated from any one of a number of an SCR device (for example and without limitation, any one of a number of SCR devices that are well known to those of materials. Such as, for example and without limitation, a ordinary skill in the art) that senses the voltage generated metal, a conductive ceramic, a metal plated ceramic, a conductive plastic, and So forth. when conduit 230 and container 200 are electrically con nected and makes or breaks the electrical connection 0020. As further shown in FIG. 1, hydrogen generator depending on predetermined values of Voltage in accordance 300 includes cap 250 and insulator 240. In accordance with with any one of a number of methods that are well known one or more embodiments of the present invention, if cap to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further alternatively, one 250 fabricated from an electrically conductive material, it is could provide an electrical connection between, for electrically separated from container 200 by insulator 240. example, conduit 230 and container 200 using a micropro In accordance with Such embodiments, insulator 240 may be cessor controlled electronic Switch (for example and without fabricated from, for example and without limitation, a limitation, any one of a number of microprocessor con plastic Such as nylon, polyester, Teflon, polyethylene, and So trolled electronic Switches that are well known to those of forth. In addition, cap 250 may be fabricated from any one ordinary skill in the art) to start and stop hydrogen genera of a number of materials. Such as, for example and without tion by making or breaking the electrical connection based,

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for example and without limitation, on time or Voltage level preferred metals are magnesium, aluminum, Zinc, beryllium, in accordance with any one of a number of methods that are titanium, Vanadium, chromium, Silicon, iron, nickel, and well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example Zirconium.

and without limitation, the microprocessor could determine 0025. In accordance with one or more embodiments of the amount of time that the electrical connection has been made So the amount of hydrogen gas provided and/or the present invention, the active metal acts as an anode remaining to be provided may be determined and reported material. In this case, the reaction at an anode of the hydrogen generator is:

using a display in accordance with any one of a number of methods that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the M+H.O->M(OH)+H+xe (1) art. The determination of the amount of hydrogen gas 0026 where M is the metal provided and/or remaining to be provided may be deter mined either by calculation or by routine experimentation, and the results may be stored in the microprocessor. FIG. 1A shows hydrogen generator 300 of FIG. 1 with Switch assembly 260 that is used to make an electrical connection 0027. It is believed that the external electrical connection between the anode material and cathode material in accor between the anode material and the cathode material facili dance with one or more embodiments of the present inven tates these exothermic reactions, which exothermic reactions tion. As described above, Switch assembly 260 may include are otherwise inhibited by an oxide coating on the metal. In a manual Switch, a preSSure Switch, an SCR device, a addition, it is believed that the cathode material produces microprocessor controlled electronic Switch, and So forth.

reduced species in the water (OH), which reduced species migrate back to the anode material and react with the anode 0022. It is believed that, whenever the anode material and material to complete the reaction as Stated above. Thus, the cathode material are electrically connected in the pres hydrogen generation can be turn on or off by making or ence of an electrolyte, an oxidation-reduction potential is breaking the electrical connection between the anode mate rial and the cathode material.

generated between the anode material and the cathode material. Further, it is believed that the oxidation-reduction 0028. It is believed that a corresponding reaction at a potential enables: (a) an electro-galvanic hydrogen genera cathode of the hydrogen generator formed of an inert tion mechanism that causes hydrogen gas to be generated cathode material is:

from an electrolyte that includes water; and (b) a chemical hydrogen generation mechanism that causes hydrogen gas to be generated from a chemical reaction among constituents of 0029. As one can readily appreciate from this, there is no the electrolyte, both of which hydrogen generation mecha need for the cathode to participate chemically. However, nisms are regulated by the rate at which current is drawn by embodiments of the present invention exist wherein the electrically connecting the anode material and the cathode cathode material is consumable. For example and without material. limitation, a consumable cathode material may be MnO2. For Such a cathode material, a reaction at the cathode of the 0023 Electro-galvanic action is a well known phenom hydrogen generator would be:

enon wherein, for example, a metal that is more reducing than hydrogen has the ability, when placed in water, to reduce protons in the water to hydrogen gas (in theory any 0030. As was described above, the OH species will be material more negative in the electrochemical Series than attracted to the anode to maintain the charge balance from Zero volts should have this ability). However, in practice, the loSS of electrons, and the corresponding reaction at the many materials that have negative Voltages in the electro anode of the hydrogen generator, for example and without chemical Series do not necessarily release hydrogen from limitation, would be:

water. One reason is that Some metals become encased in an oxide coating that is not Soluble in water, which oxide coating protects Such metals from further oxidation. Metals 0031. It should be noted that the presence of a consum Such as aluminum, magnesium, titanium, chromium and able cathode material may take up space that might be used nickel all have Such oxide coatings. As a result, Such metals for anodic material, thereby reducing the amount of hydro tend to react better in acids or bases that dissolve the oxide gen that can be produced from a given Space.

coating and expose fresh metal to the water.

0024. While any material with a voltage in the electro 0032. In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, the electrolyte includes a reducing chemical Series less than Zero Volts maybe used as an anode compound (as in the case of a Solution of a borohydride). It material to fabricate one or more embodiments of the present invention, the more negative the Voltage, the faster is believed that the oxidation-reduction potential generated between the anode material and the cathode material facili hydrogen will be produced. Preferred metals have high tates the release of hydrogen from the borohydride as well. negative Voltages and low molecular weights, So that a In particular, it is believed that a chemical reaction occurs reasonable weight percentage of hydrogen is obtained per wherein the borohydride is oxidized by water to generate weight of metal. Also, preferred are metals of higher density hydrogen. Such a chemical reaction wherein hydrogen gas So that good Volumetric densities are also obtained. Pre (H) and borate (BO) are generated by reacting borohy ferred metals include, all metals with Voltages more negative dride with water is represented as follows: than -0.75 Volts. Such metals include all metals in group 2 and 3, i.e., the lanthanide metals and actinide metals, and

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0033. The resulting borate is non-toxic and environmen into account Since Such Solubility difference can be Substan tally Safe. In addition, borate can be regenerated into boro tial. For example, adding too much lithium hydroxide to a hydride. concentrated solution of sodium borohydride would result in 0034) Hydride solutions useful in fabricating one or more precipitation of lithium borohydride. embodiments of the present invention include a metal 0037 Other non-hydroxide stabilizing agents include hydride. The term “solution,” as used herein, includes a those that can raise the Overpotential of the metal hydride liquid in which all the components are dissolved and/or a Solution to produce hydrogen. These non-hydroxide Stabi Slurry in which Some of the components are dissolved and lizing agents may be used in combination with hydroxide Some of the components are undissolved Solids. The term Salts. Non-limiting examples of non-hydroxide Stabilizing “about,” as used herein, means plus or minus 10% of the agents include compounds containing the Softer metals on Stated value. Complex metal hydrides may also useful in the right Side of the periodic chart. Non-limiting examples of fabricating one or more embodiments of the present inven these non-hydroxide Stabilizing agents include compounds tion. Such complex metal hydrides have a general chemical containing lead, tin, cadmium, Zinc, gallium, mercury, and formula MBH. M is an alkali metal selected from Group 1 combinations thereof. Compounds containing gallium and (formerly Group IA) of the periodic table, for example and Zinc are preferred, because these compounds are stable and without limitation, lithium, Sodium or potassium-M may, Soluble in the basic medium. For example, Zinc and gallium in Some cases, also be ammonium or organic groups; B is an form Soluble Zincates and gallates, respectively, which are element selected from group 13 (formerly Group IIIA) of the not readily reduced by borohydride. periodic table, for example and without limitation, boron, 0038 Compounds containing some of the non-metals on aluminum, and gallium; and H is hydrogen. Examples of the right Side of the periodic chart are also useful in metal hydrides useful in fabricating one or more embodi Stabilizing metal hydride Solutions. Non-limiting examples ments of the present invention include, for example and of these non-hydroxide Stabilizing agents include com without limitation, NaBH (sodium borohydride), LiBH pounds containing Sulfur, Such as Sodium Sulfide, thiourea, (lithium borohydride), KBH (potassium borohydride), carbon disulfide, and mixtures thereof. NHBH (ammonium borohydride), (CH4), NH, BH (tet ramethyl ammonium borohydride ((CH)NHBH), 0039 Since metal hydride solutions used to provide one NaAlH, LiAlH, KAIH, NaGaH, LiGaH, KGaH, qua or more embodiments of the present invention are Stabilized, ternary borohydrides, and mixtures thereof. It is believed hydrogen will not be generated unless and until an electrical that metal hydrides, especially borohydrides, are most stable connection is made between the anode material and the in water, i.e., the metal hydrides do riot readily decompose cathode material. Further, upon removal of the electrical when in contact with water. connection, no hydrogen generation occurs. 0035) In accordance with one or more embodiments of 0040. The reaction of a metal hydride with water (for the present invention, Stabilized metal hydride Solutions example, as per of eqn. (7) depends on temperature So that useful in fabricating one or more embodiments of the higher rates of hydrogen gas production occur as the reac present invention include: (i) a metal hydride, (ii) at least tion temperatures increase. However, it is believed that the one Stabilizing agent, and (iii) a Solvent. In accordance with rate of hydrogen generation is fairly constant even for one or more Such embodiments of the present invention, the decreasing concentrations of borohydride, and that the metal hydride Solution includes at least one Stabilizing agent hydrogen generation rate will be fairly constant at a given Since acqueous borohydride Solutions slowly decompose temperature until the metal hydride concentration in Solution unless Stabilized. A Stabilizing agent, as used herein, is any is almost exhausted.

component which retards, impedes, or prevents the reaction 0041) Note that according to eqn. (7) all of the hydrogen of metal hydride with water. Typically, effective stabilizing atoms present in borohydride and water are converted to agents maintain metal hydride Solutions at a room tempera hydrogen gas, and that half of the hydrogen atoms in the ture (25 C.) pH of greater than about 7, preferably greater hydrogen gas produced by eqn. (7) comes from the water. AS than about 11, more preferably greater than about 13, and Such, a theoretical hydrogen conversion ratio can be calcu most preferably greater than about 14. lated from eqn. (7). For example, if lithium borohydride is 0.036 Useful stabilizing agents include the corresponding used, the total weight of the reactants is 58 grams/mole: one hydroxide of the cation part of the metal hydride. For mole of lithium borohydride weighs 22 grams, and two example, if Sodium borohydride is used as the metal hydride, moles of water weighs 36 grams. Since 8 hydrogen atoms the corresponding Stabilizing agent would be Sodium are produced, the theoretical hydrogen conversion ratio is hydroxide. Hydroxide concentrations in stabilized metal 13.8% by weight of hydrogen. The maximum solubilities of hydride Solutions of the present invention are greater than various borohydrides are as follows: NaBH4 -about 35% about 0.1 molar, preferably greater than about 0.5 molar, and by weight of the stabilized metal hydride solution; LiBH more preferably greater than about 1 molar or about 4% by about 7% by weight of the stabilized metal hydride solution; weight. Typically, metal hydride Solutions are Stabilized by KBH-about 19% by weight of the stabilized metal dissolving a hydroxide in water prior to adding the borohy hydride Solution. Weight percentages in excess of the maxi dride salt. Examples of useful hydroxide salts include, for mum solubilities for each listed borohydride will result in a example and without limitation, Sodium hydroxide, lithium Slurry, i.e., a liquid mixture having insoluble components. AS hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and mixtures thereof. is well known in the art, mixing or Stirring means are Sodium hydroxide is preferred because of its high solubility typically used to help dissolve the Solid components of a in water of about 44% by weight. Although other hydroxides slurry with additional water. For example, in the above are suitable, the, solubility differences between various calculation, 22 grams of lithium borohydride in 36 grams of metal hydrides and various hydroxide Salts must be taken water provides a 37.9% by weight solution of lithium

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borohydride. Since the 37.9% by weight solution of lithium electrons produced by the hydrogen generator will charge borohydride exceeds its maximum solubility, this fuel mix the capacitor (because the capacitor will prevent electrons ture is a slurry. from flowing from the anode material to the cathode mate 0.042 Since two water molecules are consumed for each rial, it is believed that this Suppresses hydrogen production). borohydride molecule, according to eqn. (7), the concentra Then, in accordance with one or more Such further alterna tion of all the remaining components (i.e., the cation, the tive embodiments of the present invention, a Switch in the borate, and the borohydride) will increase as the reaction of circuit electrically reverses the capacitor in accordance with eqn. (7) continues. Therefore, twice as many water mol any one of a number of methods that are well known to those ecules as borohydride molecules are needed to Sustain a of ordinary skill in the art So that the capacitor may dis constant rate of reaction. In accordance with one or more charge. It is believed that this discharge will enable hydro gen to be generated, and if the capacitor's discharge charge embodiments of the present invention, this excess water can is in addition to an electrical connection between the anode be provided in a number of ways: (a) charging the electrolyte material and the cathode material, it is believed that this will with excess water, i.e., starting with a dilute Solution, (b) increase the hydrogen generation rate over that obtained adding water from a Separate Source during or after the with the electrical connection between the anode material reaction, and (c) adding water from an internal Source during and the cathode material alone. In further embodiments, the or after the reaction. Adding water from a separate Source capacitor could apply a pulsing discharge to the hydrogen during or after the reaction may be useful when the hydrogen generator by being charged by a Subsidiary pulse oscillator generator is utilized in conjunction with a hydrogen-con

Suming device (as used herein, a hydrogen-consuming circuit in accordance with any one of a number of methods device means a device that uses hydrogen as a fuel Such as, that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In for example and without limitation, a fuel cell, a combustion a still further alternative embodiment, a Voltage regulator engine, a gas turbine, and So forth) because a main byprod could be placed in the circuit to regulate the Voltage to the uct of hydrogen oxidation in a hydrogen-consuming device generator to increase or decrease the Voltage to the genera is water. In Such a case, water output from the hydrogen tor, to increase or decrease the hydrogen generator rate (and consuming device can be added to the electrolyte. Therefore, even to decrease it to Zero by breaking the electrical con nection between the anode material and the cathode mate in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present rial). In a still further alternative embodiment, Semiconduc invention, for example the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 and tor devices could be used to regulate hydrogen gas output, described in detail below, an adjacent mixing tank is used to resistors could be used to limit hydrogen gas output, logic add additional water through conduit 14, wherein the water circuits could be used to regulate the Voltage to the generator may be obtained from an exhaust of the hydrogen consum and its function of generating hydrogen. In light of the ing device. Adding water from an internal Source during or above, Switch assembly 260 shown in FIG. 1A would after the reaction may be carried in accordance with the include the battery, power Supply, Solid State Switch, the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 and described in detail below.

capacitor circuit, the logic circuits to regulate the Voltage to 0043. In accordance with one or more alternative the generator, the microprocessor controlled Switch, and So embodiments of the present invention, the chemical reaction forth described above.

of eqn. (7) may also be driven by a potential between an 0045. In accordance with one or more further embodi anode material and a cathode material that is provided by a ments of the present invention, Since a current is created by power Source Such as, for example and without limitation, a one or more of the above-described eXothermic reactions, battery, a power Supply, and So forth. In one or more Such the electrical energy that is created at the same time that the alternative embodiments, the anode material and the cathode hydrogen is generated may also be beneficially used as well. material may be the same Since the potential that drives the For example, it may be used to recharge a battery. chemical reaction is provided by the external power Source. 0046 AS one or more specific examples, and in accor 0044) In accordance with one or more further embodi dance with one or more Such embodiments of the present ments of the present invention, a battery or a power Supply invention, the anode material and the cathode material are may be electrically connected between the cathode material dissimilar metals. For example, metals in order of increasing of container 200 of hydrogen generator 300 shown in FIG. reactivity from cathodic to anodic include, for example and 1 (using the negative terminal of the battery or power without limitation: platinum, gold, graphite, Silver, Stainless supply) and conduit 230 of hydrogen generator 300 shown Steel, inconel, nickel, monel, aluminum bronze, tin bronze, in FIG.1 (using the positive terminal of the battery or power copper, brass, tin lead, lead tin Solder, carbon Steel, pure Supply). A Switch, for example and without limitation, a aluminum, cadmium, aluminum alloys, Zinc, magnesium Solid State Switch, a computer or microprocessor controlled alloys, and magnesium. Using this information, one obtains Switch, may also be utilized to make or break the electrical that, for example, container 200 of hydrogen generator 300 connection. In accordance with one or more Such embodi shown in FIG. 1 may be fabricated using, for example and ments, when the battery or power Supply is provided: (a) without limitation, Stainless Steel, nickel, monel, and So forth more hydrogen is generated when the anode and cathode and, that in light of these choices, core 210 may be fabri material are Such that they provide an oxidation-reduction cated using, for example and without limitation, copper and potential; and (b) hydrogen is generated when the anode and aluminum. Also note that it is believed that the effect cathode material are Such that they do not provide an provided by the oxidation-reduction potential is enhanced as oxidation-reduction potential, for example, they are the differences in reactivity of the metals increases, and further Same material. In accordance with one or more further depends on the relative areas of the two metals. For example, alternative embodiments of the present invention, a capaci it is believed that a Smaller area of the anode material tor can be connected in the circuit which electrically con compared to a larger area of the cathode material Suffers a nects the anode material and the cathode material So that more intense Sacrificial reaction.

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0047 As one or more specific examples, and in accor 0050 AS further shown in FIG. 2, hydrogen generator dance with one or more Such embodiments of the present 400 includes region 320. In accordance with one or more invention, the electrolyte is, for example and without limi embodiments of the present invention, at least a portion of tation, Salt water (for example, Sea water); or a Solution of region 320, as well as at least a portion of the region Sodium borohydride, Sodium hydroxide (as a stabilizing occupied by core 310, is filled with an electrolyte (embodied agent), and water (and perhaps a gel Such as Sodium silicate as described in detail above).

or Sodium metasilicate to act as a thickening agent in an amount in a range from about 0.001% to about 16% to help 0051 AS further shown in FIG. 2, hydrogen generator prevent Sloshing). In accordance with one or more further 400 includes conduit 330 that provides a conduit for hydro embodiments of the present invention, an additive Such as, gen gas generated therein to exit hydrogen generator 400. AS for example and without limitation, ethylene glycol could be further shown in FIG. 2, a portion of conduit 330 is added to the electrolyte to prevent freezing. In accordance surrounded by insulator 340, and insulator 340 is surrounded with one or more embodiments of the present invention, the (optionally by pipe 301), and is held in place, by cap 350, for Viscosity of the electrolyte can be from water-like to grease example and without limitation, using a Screw connection to or tar-like, or any Viscosity, i.e., the electrolyte may be in a the top of container 301. In accordance with one or more liquid form or in a jelly form. embodiments of the present invention, conduit 330 is elec trically conductive, and is electrically connected to core 310 0048 FIG. 2 shows hydrogen generator 400 that is using any one of a number of methods that are well known fabricated in accordance with one or more embodiments of to those of ordinary skill in the art Such as, for example and the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, container 301 is, without limitation, by welding or by using any one of a number of mechanisms that are well known to those of for example and without limitation, a pipe. In accordance ordinary skill in the art that promote electrical connectivity. with one or more embodiments of the present invention, As such, conduit 330 may be fabricated from any one of a container 301 may be fabricated from a cathode material number of materials. Such as, for example and without (embodied as was described in detail above) or it may be limitation, a metal, a conductive ceramic, a conductive fabricated from a further material that is coated, plated, and plastic, and so forth. Insulator 340 prevents electrical con So forth with the cathode material (which coating, plating, nection between the cathode material of container 301 and and so forth is disposed on the inside of container 301, i.e., core 310. In accordance with Such embodiments of the facing region 320). In accordance with one or more Such present invention, insulator 340 may be fabricated from, for embodiments, the further material may be, for example and example and without limitation, plastic Such as nylon, without limitation, a non-conductive plastic, a metal, a polyester, Teflon, polyethylene, and So forth. In addition, cap conductive plastic, a ceramic, Stone, fiberglass, and So forth 350 may be fabricated from any one of a number of (as a specific example, container 301 could be steel which is materials. Such as, for example and without limitation, a chrome-plated on the inside). AS further shown, container metal, a conductive ceramic, a metal plated ceramic, a 301 includes a screw-top and an optional screw-bottom. conductive plastic, and so forth. Alternatively, cap 350 may Thus, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the be fabricated from an insulating material. In addition, cap present invention, container 301 may be fabricated as a 360 may be fabricated from any one of a number of Structure that: (a) has at least an inner cathode material materials. Such as, for example and without limitation, a portion wherein an electrical connection can be made to the metal, a conductive ceramic, an insulating material Such as inner cathode material portion (for example and without a non-conductive plastic, and so forth. Cap 360 may be limitation, by fabricating a container wherein the entire affixed to container 301 using any one of a number of container is electrically conductive); and (b) can withstand methods that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the the chemistry and pressure generated by the reaction there art Such as, for example and without limitation, by Screwing within (as described in detail above). In addition, and as one or by welding it to container 301. can readily appreciate, container 301 may be fabricated in any number of Shapes and sizes. 0052 Lastly, control of hydrogen generation from hydro gen generator 400 may be provided by controlling electrical 0049. As further shown in FIG. 2, hydrogen generator connection between the anode material and the cathode 400 includes core 310. In accordance with one or more material using any of the embodiments described above with embodiments of the present invention, core 310 is fabricated respect to hydrogen generator 300 shown in FIG. 1. from an anode material (embodied as described in detail above). In addition, core 310 may fabricated in any one of 0053. In accordance with one or more alternative a number of forms Such as, for example and without embodiments of the present invention, a hydrogen generator limitation, a. porous anode material, a metal wool-like like hydrogen generator 400 shown in FIG. 2 may be material, or plastic wool-like material coated with anode fabricated wherein container 301 is tube-like and is formed, material, a plastic foam coated with anode material, a mesh for example and without limitation, in a curved shape Such of anode material, an anode material cloth, an “expanded” as an arc or an “S” to enable it to fit into predetermined anode material, a woven anode material, a honeycomb sheet shapes. Advantageously, Such hydrogen generators could be of anode material, a perforated sheet of anode material, a held in place by mechanisms. Such as clamps. In accordance plastic plated with anode material, a Sintered metal filter of with one or more Such alternative embodiments, container anode material, a microporous sheet of anode material, a 301 may be comprised of, for example and without limita Solid anode material, anode material in the form of beads, tion, braided hose assemblies, tubing fabricated from plastic Small balls, chunks, or wires enclosed in a filter mesh, and or metal, interlocking metal hose material, and So forth. In So forth (as a specific example, the anode material of core Some Such cases the containers are completely fabricated 310 could be, for example and without limitation, nickel). from cathode material, and in others of Such cases the inside

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of the containers may be, for example and without limita the container to prevent electrical conduction between the tion, coated or plated with cathode material. anode material and the cathode material when hydrogen 0.054 FIG. 3 shows an exploded cross sectional view of generator 500 is assembled. The frame may be fabricated hydrogen generator 500 that is fabricated in accordance with from any one of a number of insulating materials Such as, for one or more embodiments of the present invention. AS example and without limitation, non-conductive plastic. shown in FIG. 3, a container for hydrogen generator 500 0056. As further shown in FIG. 3, hydrogen generator comprises container portions 400 and 400. In accordance 500 includes regions 425 and 425. In accordance with one with one or more embodiments of the present invention, or more embodiments of the present invention, at least a container portions 400 and 400 may be fabricated from a portion of regions 425 and 425, as well as at least a portion cathode material (embodied as was described in detail of the region occupied by core portions 410 and 410, are above) or they may be fabricated from a further material that filled with an electrolyte (embodied as described in detail is coated, plated, and So forth with the cathode material above).

(which coating, plating, and So forth is disposed on the insides of container portions 400 and 400, i.e., facing 0057. As further shown in FIG. 3, hydrogen generator regions 425 and 425, respectively). In accordance with one 500 includes conduit 430 that provides a conduit for hydro or more Such embodiments, the further material may be, for gen gas generated therein to exit hydrogen generator 500. AS example and without limitation, a non-conductive plastic, a further shown in FIG. 3, a portion of conduit 430 is metal, a conductive plastic, a ceramic, Stone, fiberglass, and surrounded by insulator 440. In accordance with one or more so forth (as a specific example, portions 400, and 400 could embodiments of the present invention, conduit 430 is elec be steel which is chrome-plated on the inside). Thus, in trically conductive, and is electrically connected to core accordance with one or more embodiments of the present portions 410 and 410 using any one of a number of invention, container 301 may be fabricated as a structure methods that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the that: (a) has at least an inner cathode material portion art Such as, for example and without limitation, by welding wherein an electrical connection can be made to the inner or by using any one of a number of mechanisms that are well cathode material portion (for example and without limita known to those of ordinary skill in the art that promote tion, by fabricating a container wherein the entire container electrical connectivity. As such, conduit 430 may be fabri is electrically conductive); and (b) can withstand the chem cated from any one of a number of materials. Such as, for istry and pressure generated by the reaction there within (as example and without limitation, a metal, a conductive described in detail above). Container portions 400 and 400 ceramic, a metal plated ceramic, a conductive plastic, and So may be joined to form the container by crimping, welding, forth. Insulator 440 prevents electrical connection between or by affixing them using any one of a number of methods the cathode material of the container and core portions 410 that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art and 410. In accordance with such embodiments of the including, for example, and without limitation, by using present invention, insulator 440 may be fabricated from, for Screws. In addition, and as one can readily appreciate, the example and without limitation, plastic Such as nylon, container formed from container portions 400, and 400 may polyester, Teflon, polyethylene, and So forth. be fabricated in any number of shapes and sizes. 0.058 As further shown in FIG. 3, conduit 430 is filled 0.055 As further shown in FIG. 3, hydrogen generator with hydrophobic filter 450, which hydrophobic filter may 500 includes core portions 410 and 410. In accordance be fabricated utilizing any one of a number of filter materials with one or more embodiments of the present invention, core that are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art such portions 410 and 410 are fabricated from an anode material as, for example and without limitation, filters obtained from (embodied as described in detail above). In addition, core one or more of Whatman, Inc. of Clifton, N.J., Pall Corpo portions 410 and 410 may fabricated in any one of a ration of East Hills, N.Y., Osmonics of Minnetonka, Minn., number of forms Such as, for example and without limita and Arbor Technologies, Inc. of Ann Arbor, Mich. Although tion, a porous anode material, a metal wool-like material, or hydrophobic filter 450 is shown to be disposed inside plastic wool-like material coated with anode material, a conduit 430, alternative embodiments exist wherein hydro plastic foam coated with anode material, a mesh of anode phobic filter 450 may be disposed outside or even inside material, an anode material cloth, an “expanded anode hydrogen generator 500 in a position so that the hydrogen material, a woven anode material, a honeycomb sheet of gas generated passes therethrough. As a result, water is anode material, a perforated sheet of anode material, a prevented or impeded, in flowing with or amongst the plastic plated with anode material, a Sintered metal filter of hydrogen gas. It should be noted that Such a hydrophobic anode material, a microporous sheet of anode material, a filter may be similarly used with any of the embodiments Solid anode material, anode material in the form of beads, described herein.

Small balls, chunks, or wires enclosed in a filter mesh, and 0059 Lastly, control of hydrogen generation from hydro So forth (as a specific example, the anode material of core gen generator 500 may be provided by controlling electrical portions 410, and 410 could be, for example and without connection between the anode material and the cathode limitation, nickel). As further shown in FIG.3, screens 420, material using any of the embodiments described above with and 420 are disposed on either side of core portions 410 respect to hydrogen generator 300 shown in FIG. 1. and 410, respectively, to insulate core portions 410 and 410, from making electrical contact with the container when 0060 FIG. 4 shows an exploded cross sectional view of hydrogen generator 500 is assembled. Screens 420, and hydrogen generator 600 that is fabricated in accordance with 420, may be fabricated from any one of a number of one or more embodiments of the present invention. Hydro insulating materials. Such as, for example and without limi gen generator 600 is the same as hydrogen generator 500 tation, non-conductive plastic. Additionally, core portions shown in FIG. 3 with the addition of water storage and 410, and 410, may be encased in a porous frame that fits into release structures 470 and 470. In accordance with one or

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more embodiments of the present invention, structures 470 disposed on the insides of container 19), it may be fabricated and 470 are water containers that release water to make up from an electrical conductor, or it may be fabricated from an for water utilized in generating hydrogen in the manner insulating material Such as, for example and without limi described above. FIGS. 5-6 show water storage and release tation, an insulating plastic. In accordance with one or more structures 700 and 800 that may be utilized to fabricate one Such embodiments, the further material may be, for example or more embodiments of the present invention. AS shown in and without limitation, a nonconductive plastic, a metal, a FIG. 5, water storage and release structure 700 comprises conductive plastic, a ceramic, Stone, fiberglass, and So forth layers 701-703 wherein layers 701 and 703 may store water (as a specific example, container 19 could be steel which is or electrolyte, and wherein layer 702 may store water or chrome-plated on the inside). Thus, in accordance with one electrolyte. Layers 701-703 are comprised of materials that or more embodiments of the present invention, container 19 Store the water and/or electrolyte, and then release them over may be fabricated as a structure that: (a) has at least an inner time. In accordance with one or more embodiments of the cathode material portion wherein an electrical connection present invention, layers 701-703 may be formed of a can be made to the inner cathode material portion (for Sponge Such as, for example and without limitation, a cloth example and without limitation, by fabricating a container Sponge, a metal Sponge, a foamed rubber Sponge, a plastic wherein the entire container is electrically conductive); (b) Sponge, a natural Sponge, and So forth. In accordance with can withstand the chemistry and pressure generated by the one or more alternative embodiments of the present inven reaction therewithin (as described in detail above). tion, layers 701-703 may be formed of paper, rope, cellulose, 0064. As further shown in FIG. 7, plates 7 are affixed to cotton, rayon, polypropylene, and woven belts. In accor container 19 for Support in accordance with any one of a dance with one or more alternative embodiments of the number of methods that are well known to those of ordinary present invention, layers 701-703 may be formed of filters skill in the art. In accordance with one or more embodiments such as hydrophobic or hydrophilic filters that release water of the present invention, plates 7 may be fabricated from a in response to being heated by the above-described reactions cathode material (embodied as was described in detail which generate hydrogen. In accordance with one or more above), or it may be fabricated from a further material that alternative embodiments of the present invention, layers is coated, plated, and So forth with the cathode material. In 701-703 may be formed of any one of a number of mem accordance with one or more Such embodiments, the further branes that are commercially available which allow water to material may be, for example and without limitation, a Slowly drip into the electrolyte. In accordance with one or non-conductive plastic, a metal, a conductive plastic, a more alternative embodiments of the present invention, ceramic, Stone, fiberglass, and So forth (as a specific layers 701-703 may be formed of masonry; porous ceramics; example, plates 7 could be monel, nickel, and Stainless foams, gels, gelatin; membrane mucilage; Tragacanth gum; Steel). Thus, in accordance with one or more embodiments man-made membranes from companies Such as, for example of the present invention, plates 7 may be fabricated as and without limitation, W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. of Structures that: (a) have at least an outer cathode material Elkton, Md., Celgard, Inc. of Charlotte, N.C., and so forth; portion wherein an electrical connection can be made to the and so forth. outer cathode material portion (for example and without 0061 As shown in FIG. 6, water storage and release limitation, by fabricating plates wherein the entire plates are structure 800 comprises layers 801-807 wherein layers 801, electrically conductive); and (b) can withstand the chemistry 803, 805, and 807 may store water, and wherein layers 802, and pressure generated by the reaction therewithin (as 804, and 806 may store electrolyte. Layers 801-807 are described in detail above). As further shown in FIG. 7, embodied utilizing the above-described materials that Store electrical conductor 20 electrically connects plates 7, and water or electrolyte, and then release them over time. passes through container 19 to provide a mechanism for electrically connecting to plates 7. Electrical conductor 20 0.062. In accordance with one or more further embodi may be fabricated from materials Such as, for example and ments of the present invention, hydrogen generator 300 without limitation, monel, nickel, and Stainless Steel as well shown in FIG. 3, hydrogen generator 400 shown in FIG. 4, as other materials that are not affected by electrolyte 8 hydrogen generator 500 shown in FIG. 5, and hydrogen (electrolyte 8 is embodied as described in detail above). generator 600 shown in FIG. 6 may include a tube (not 0065. As further shown in FIG. 7, hydrogen generator shown) that is used to transfer electrolyte into the hydrogen 100 includes inner plates 1-5. Inner plates 1-5 are affixed to generators. Then, after the electrolyte has been transferred, the tubes may be removed, and the containers may be Sealed container 19 for support (not shown) so that there is no using any one of a number of methods that are well known electrical connection therebetween in accordance with any one of a number of methods that are well known to those of to those of ordinary skill in the art Such as, for example and ordinary skill in the art. In accordance with one or more without limitation, a plastic plug. Alternatively, the electro embodiments of the present invention, inner plates 1-5 are lyte may be transferred into the container before the hydro gen generator is completely assembled. fabricated from an anode material (embodied as described in detail above). In addition, inner plates 1-5 may fabricated in 0063 FIG. 7 shows hydrogen generator 100 that is any one of a number of forms Such as, for example and fabricated in accordance with one or more embodiments of without limitation, a porous anode material, a metal wool the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, hydrogen gen like material, or plastic wool-like material coated with anode erator 100 comprises container 19. In accordance with one material, a plastic foam coated with anode material, a mesh or more embodiments of the present invention, container 19 of anode material, an anode material cloth, an “expanded” may be fabricated from a cathode material (embodied as was anode material, a woven anode material, a honeycomb sheet described in detail above), it may be fabricated from a of anode material, a perforated sheet of anode material, a further material that is coated, plated, and So forth with the plastic plated with anode material, a Sintered metal filter of cathode material (which coating, plating, and So forth is anode material, a microporous sheet of anode material, a

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Solid anode material, anode material in the form of beads, nected plates (not shown) like plates 7 described above in Small balls, chunks, or wires enclosed in a filter mesh, a conjunction with hydrogen generator 100 and shown in further material that is coated, plated, and So forth with the FIG. 7.

anode material, and So forth. In accordance with one or more 0070 AS further shown in FIG. 8, hydrogen generator Such embodiments, the further material may be, for example 200 includes plate set 116. In accordance with one or more and without limitation, a non-conductive plastic, a metal, a embodiments of the present invention, plate Set 116 includes conductive plastic, a ceramic, Stone, fiberglass, and So forth a multiplicity of electrically connected plates that are fab (as a specific example, inner plates 1-5 could be aluminum, ricated from an anode material (embodied as described in magnesium, or zinc). As further shown in FIG. 7, electrical detail above). In addition, the plates may fabricated in any conductor 6 electrically connects inner plates 1-5, and passes one of a number of forms Such as, for example and without through container 19 (without electrically connecting to limitation, a porous anode material, a metal wool-like mate container 19) to provide a mechanism for electrically con rial, or plastic wool-like material coated with anode mate necting to plates 6. Electrical conductor 6 may be fabricated rial, a plastic foam coated with anode material, a mesh of from materials. Such as, for example and without limitation, anode material, an anode material cloth, an “expanded” copper as well as other materials that are not affected by anode material, a woven anode material, a honeycomb sheet electrolyte 8.

of anode material, a perforated sheet of anode material, a 0.066 As further shown in FIG. 7, hydrogen generator plastic plated with anode material, a Sintered metal filter of includes lid 9. In accordance with one or more embodiments anode material, a microporous sheet of anode material, a of the present invention, lid 9 is a removable lid for container Solid anode material, anode material in the form of beads, 19 (lid 9 may be removed to provide access to remove and Small balls, chunks, or wires enclosed in a filter mesh, a replace spent inner plates 1-5). As further shown in FIG. 7, further material that is coated, plated, and So forth with the (a) conduit 10 is an outlet for hydrogen gas; (b) conduit 14 anode material, and So forth. In accordance with one or more is a conduit through which electrolyte 8 that is stored, for Such embodiments, the further material may be, for example example and without limitation, in a tank (not shown) is and without limitation, a non-conductive plastic, a metal, a pumped into container 19; (c) pump 13 pumps electrolyte 8 conductive plastic, a ceramic, Stone, fiberglass, and So forth into container 19 through conduit 14; (d) conduit 12 is a (as a specific example, the plates could be aluminum, drain for spent electrolyte 8; (e) pump 15 pumps spent magnesium, or Zinc).

electrolyte 8 from container 19, (f) container 16 is a storage 0.071) As further shown in FIG. 8, (a) conduit 118 is an tank for spent electrolyte 8 that has been pumped from outlet for hydrogen gas generated in container 113; (b) container 19, and (g) valve 18 is a valve to enable electrolyte conduit 119 is conduit through which electrolyte is trans stored in container 16 to be drained therefrom. Pumps 13 mitted to refill container 113; (c) conduit 120 is a drain for and 15 may be any one of a number of commercially spent electrolyte; and (d) lid 130 is a removable lid for available pumps that are well known to those of ordinary container 113 that is removed to provide access to remove skill in the art. and replace spent plates from plate Set 116. 0067 Lastly, control of hydrogen generation from hydro 0072 Dotted line 117 shown in FIG. 8 indicates a top gen generator 100 may be provided by controlling electrical level of electrolyte 115 (electrolyte 115 is embodied as connection between conductorS 6 and 20 using any of the described in detail above) in container 113, and region 114 embodiments described above with respect to hydrogen of container 113 provides a region into which plate set 116 generator 300 shown in FIG. 1. may be moved So that it is not in contact with electrolyte

0068. In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, hydrogen generation in hydrogen 0073. Anode movement mechanism 111 is an apparatus generator 100 is stopped by removing electrolyte 8 from that raises or lowers plate Set 116 (attached to plunger rod container 19 or by removing inner plates 1-5 from container 112) out of, or into, respectively, electrolyte 115, thereby 19. In accordance with one or more Such embodiments, a Stopping or starting, respectively, hydrogen generation. In hinge arrangement that is retracted using any one of a accordance with one or more Such embodiments of the number of mechanisms (not shown) that are well known to present invention, anode movement mechanism 111 may be those of ordinary skill in the are Such as, for example and fabricated utilizing, for example and without limitation, a without limitation, a Solenoid that is powered, for example motor, Solenoid plunger, an air cylinder, a plunger rod, a and without limitation, by a battery or an external power rotary motor Screw, Solenoid plunger, and So forth. Supply, a gas cylinder that uses, for example and without limitation, hydrogen gas produced by hydrogen generator; a 0074. In accordance with one or more further embodi motor, and So forth. In accordance with one or more Such ments of the present invention, conduits that enable hydro embodiments, the Solenoid or the motor could be powered gen to exit a hydrogen generator that is fabricated in by energy generated by the Voltaic generator reaction. accordance with any one or more embodiments of the present invention may be fabricated in any one of a number 0069 FIG. 8 shows hydrogen generator 200 that is of shapes. For example and without limitation, the conduits fabricated in accordance with one or more embodiments of may have an arced shape inside the container. In addition, the present invention. As shown in FIG. 8, hydrogen gen and in accordance with one or more Such embodiments of erator 200 includes container 113. In accordance with one or the present invention, the conduit may have a multiplicity of more embodiments of the present invention, container 113 is holes therein which are disposed, for example and without like container 19 described above in conjunction with hydro limitation, inside the container. Advantageously, Such holes gen generator 100 and shown in FIG. 7. In addition, may provide multiple acceSS by hydrogen gas to the conduit hydrogen generator 200 includes a set of electrically con to better enable the hydrogen gas to exit the hydrogen

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generator. In further addition, an end of the conduit inside wherein M is an alkali metal selected from Group 1 of the the container may have an expanded opening (Such as, for periodic table; B is an element selected from Group 13 example and without limitation, an opening in the shape of of the periodic table; and H is hydrogen. a funnel), which expanded opening may better enable hydro 9. A hydrogen generator that comprises: gen gas to exit the hydrogen generator. In accordance with an anode material;

one or more further embodiments of the present invention, filter membranes that only pass hydrogen may be disposed a cathode material; and around and/or inside the conduit. Advantageously, Such filter an electrolyte that contacts the anode material and the membranes may act to prevent electrolyte or reaction cathode material;

byproducts from exiting through the conduit if the hydrogen generator is jostled or turned upside down. Such filter wherein the electrolyte comprises a metal hydride, at least membranes are well known to those of ordinary skill in the one Stabilizing agent, and a Solvent; and art and may be obtained from companies Such as, for wherein a potential is generated between the anode mate example and without limitation, W. L. Gore & ASSociates, rial and the cathode material when they are connected. Inc. of Elkton, Md., Celgard, Inc. of Charlotte, N.C., and so 10. The hydrogen generator of claim 9 wherein the anode forth. material is Selected from the following metals platinum, 0075 Although various embodiments that incorporate gold, graphite, Silver, StainleSS Steel, inconel, nickel, monel, the teachings of the present invention have been shown and aluminum bronze, tin bronze, copper, brass, tin lead, lead tin described in detail herein, those skilled in the art can readily Solder, carbon Steel, pure aluminum, cadmium, aluminum devise many other varied embodiments that Still incorporate alloys, Zinc, magnesium alloys, and magnesium and the cathode material is also Selected from these material but it is these teachings. more cathodic than the anode material. What is claimed is: 11. The hydrogen generator of claim 9 wherein the anode 1. A hydrogen generator that comprises: material and the cathode material are dissimilar materials. an anode material; 12. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein the electrolyte further comprises a gel.

a cathode material; and 13. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 which further an electrolyte, includes a conduit through which hydrogen gas exits the hydrogen generator.

wherein the electrolyte comprises a metal hydride, at least 14. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein: one stabilizing agent, and a Solvent; and the cathode material forms a container; and wherein hydrogen gas is generated whenever the anode the anode material is disposed in the container, is elec material and the cathode material are electrically con trically insulated from the cathode material; and is one nected. of a porous anode material, a metal or plastic wool-like 2. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein the metal anode material, a plastic foam coated with anode mate hydride includes one or more of NaBH (sodium borohy rial, a mesh of anode material, an anode material cloth, dride), LiBH (lithium borohydride), KBH (potassium an “expanded anode material, a woven anode material, borohydride), NH.BH (ammonium borohydride), a honeycomb sheet of anode material, a perforated (CH), NH.BH (tetramethyl ammonium borohydride sheet of anode material, and a plastic plated with anode ((CH)NHBH), NaAlH, LiAlH4, KAIH, NaGaH, material.

LiGaH, KGah, and quaternary borohydrides. 15. The hydrogen generator of claim 14 wherein the 3. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein the at least conduit is electrically connected to the anode material. one Stabilizing agent includes a corresponding hydroxide of 16. The hydrogen generator of claim 15 wherein the a cation part of the metal hydride. conduit is disposed in a cap of the container, which cap is 4. The hydrogen generator of claim 2 wherein the hydrox electrically insulated from the container. ide includes one or more of Sodium hydroxide, lithium 17. The hydrogen generator of claim 16 wherein a hydro hydroxide, and potassium hydroxide. phobic filter is disposed in the conduit. 5. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein the solvent 18. The hydrogen generator of claim 15 wherein the is water. electrolyte comprises water and the container further com 6. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein the anode prises a Source of water.

material is a metal Selected from lanthanide metals and 19. The hydrogen generator of claim 15 wherein an actinide metals. electrical connection is made between the anode material 7. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein the anode and the cathode material by an electrical connection between material is a metal Selected from one or more of magnesium, the conduit and the container.

aluminum, Zinc, beryllium, titanium, Vanadium, chromium, 20. The hydrogen container of claim 19 wherein the Silicon, iron, nickel, and Zirconium. electrical connection between the conduit and the container 8. The hydrogen generator of claim 1 wherein the metal further comprises a Switch.

hydride is a complex metal hydride having a general chemi cal formula MBH; and k k k k k