Electrochemical Cell Designs for Producing Iron Metal from Oxide Powders and Salt Water.
Lead inventor: Paul Kempler
Co-inventors: Paul Kempler, Anastasiia Konovalova
Licensing contact: Christine Gramer

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1. Technology Overview

The invention presents an innovative electrochemical cell design for producing iron metal from iron oxide powders and salt water. This technology leverages low-cost and abundant raw materials to produce high-purity iron, while co-producing valuable byproducts such as chlorine and sodium hydroxide. The process is highly efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional iron production methods. Currently in the development stage, this technology holds significant potential for cross-industry applications in steel manufacturing, chemical production, and renewable energy.

2. Key Features and Benefits

  • Cost-effective production: Utilizes low-cost and abundant raw materials, reducing overall production costs.
  • High efficiency: Achieves high selectivity and efficiency in iron production.
  • Scalability: Modular design allows for easy scaling to industrial levels.
  • Environmental benefits: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional methods.
  • Co-production of byproducts: Produces valuable byproducts such as chlorine and sodium hydroxide, adding economic value.

3. Applications and Market Focus

  • Steel manufacturing: Enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of steel production.
  • Chemical industry: Providing a cost-effective source of chlorine and sodium hydroxide.
  • Renewable energy: Supporting sustainable materials for renewable energy projects.
  • Environmental solutions: Offering a low-carbon alternative for industrial processes.
  • Research and development: Enabling further innovation in electrochemical processes and materials science.

4. Commercial Advantages

  • Strategic benefits: Offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution for iron production.
  • Implementation advantages: Simplifies the production process and reduces environmental impact.
  • Market positioning: Positions the technology as a key enabler in the green technology sector.
  • Competitive edge: Provides a unique and efficient method for producing iron and valuable byproducts.

5. Partnership Opportunities

  • Licensing partners: Ideal for companies in steel manufacturing, chemical production, and renewable energy.
  • Cross-sector benefits: Offers advantages to multiple industries, including steel, chemicals, and green technology.
  • Market opportunities: Addresses diverse market needs, from sustainable steel production to chemical manufacturing.
  • Collaborative development: Potential for joint ventures with research institutions and industrial partners to further enhance the technology.
Patent filing: US20240200217A1