JP2006172742A - Collector member for fuel cell, and fuel cell stack using it, and fuel cell - Google Patents

Collector member for fuel cell, and fuel cell stack using it, and fuel cell Download PDF

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JP2006172742A
JP2006172742A JP2004359850A JP2004359850A JP2006172742A JP 2006172742 A JP2006172742 A JP 2006172742A JP 2004359850 A JP2004359850 A JP 2004359850A JP 2004359850 A JP2004359850 A JP 2004359850A JP 2006172742 A JP2006172742 A JP 2006172742A
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fuel cell
strip
current collecting
thin plate
fuel
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JP4942293B2 (en
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Norimitsu Fukamizu
則光 深水
Kenji Shimazu
健児 島津
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Kyocera Corp
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Kyocera Corp
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    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02EREDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/30Hydrogen technology
    • Y02E60/50Fuel cells

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Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a collector member for a fuel cell in which a contact area with a fuel cell cell is fully securable and which is excellent in linking reliability. <P>SOLUTION: The collector member for the fuel cell is a collector member for connecting adjacent fuel cell cells electrically, and divided according to a slit 11 formed in an interior. A plurality of thin plate-like members 1 configured from a plurality of strips of rectangular parts 14 mutually joined at first ends 12 and second ends 13 are connected in series on the identical side through a connector 2 so that the first ends 12 and the second ends 13 are arranged on the same rank in parallel, and the adjacent strips of the rectangular parts can extend inversely mutually at a thickness direction. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

本発明は、隣り合う燃料電池セルを電気的に接続するための燃料電池用集電部材及びこれを用いた燃料電池セルスタック、燃料電池に関するものである。   The present invention relates to a current collecting member for a fuel cell for electrically connecting adjacent fuel cells, a fuel cell stack using the same, and a fuel cell.

次世代エネルギーとして、近年、燃料電池セルスタックを収納容器内に収容した燃料電池が種々提案されている。   In recent years, various fuel cells in which a fuel cell stack is accommodated in a storage container have been proposed as next-generation energy.

上記の燃料電池セルスタックは、隣り合う燃料電池セルを集電部材を介して電気的に複数個接続することにより得られるものである。このような集電部材としては、導電率の高い金属が採用され、さらに高温下で使用されることから、耐熱金属が好ましく採用されている。   The fuel cell stack described above is obtained by electrically connecting a plurality of adjacent fuel cells via a current collecting member. As such a current collecting member, a metal having high conductivity is employed, and since it is used at a high temperature, a heat resistant metal is preferably employed.

そして、この集電部材の形状については、図11(a)に示すように矩形状板の一端部に複数のスリット81を略平行に形成し、図11(b)に示すようにスリット81間の集電片82を板状集電部材の両側に交互に突出させ、基部の一端部に複数の集電片82が形成された横断面U字状の櫛刃形状とされたものや、図12に示すように、複数のスリットを略平行に形成し、その間の集電片91を交互に板状集電部材の両側に突出させて形成された集電片群を長さ方向に所定間隔をおいて形成して構成し、基部92と集電片91を交互に形成したもの等が知られている。(特許文献1参照)
特開2003−282101号公報
As for the shape of the current collecting member, a plurality of slits 81 are formed substantially in parallel at one end of the rectangular plate as shown in FIG. 11A, and between the slits 81 as shown in FIG. The current collecting pieces 82 are alternately projected on both sides of the plate-like current collecting member, and a plurality of current collecting pieces 82 are formed at one end of the base, and the cross-sectional U-shaped comb blade shape is used. As shown in FIG. 12, a plurality of slits are formed substantially in parallel, and current collecting pieces 91 formed between the slits alternately projecting on both sides of the plate-like current collecting member are arranged at predetermined intervals in the length direction. A structure in which the base 92 and the current collecting pieces 91 are alternately formed is known. (See Patent Document 1)
JP 2003-282101 A

しかしながら、燃料電池セルはしばしば反りが発生したり傾斜してしまうことがあり、隣り合う燃料電池セルの間隔(燃料電池セル間寸法)が一定とならず位置により異なってしまうという問題が生じている。   However, the fuel cell often warps or tilts, and there is a problem that the distance between adjacent fuel cells (the dimension between fuel cells) is not constant and varies depending on the position. .

このとき、図11に示す横断面U字形状の集電部材は、基本的に片持ち構造であるため、図13に示すように、燃料電池セル間寸法が過剰に小さくなった場合には、U字の先端が燃料電池セルから離れ、逆に燃料電池セル間寸法が大きくなった場合には、U字の中央部分が燃料電池セルより離れる結果となり、集電部材の接触面積が減少し、接続信頼性が低くなるという問題があった。即ち、燃料電池セル間の寸法と集電部材の最適寸法の調整が困難であった。   At this time, since the current collecting member having a U-shaped cross section shown in FIG. 11 is basically a cantilever structure, as shown in FIG. 13, when the dimension between fuel cells becomes excessively small, When the U-shaped tip is separated from the fuel cell, and the dimension between the fuel cells is increased, the U-shaped central portion is separated from the fuel cell, and the contact area of the current collecting member is reduced. There was a problem that connection reliability was lowered. That is, it is difficult to adjust the dimension between the fuel cells and the optimum dimension of the current collecting member.

また、図12に示す形状の集電部材は、スリットと燃料電池セルの長手方向とが平行となるように配置した場合には接触面積が十分ではなく、またスリットと燃料電池セルの長手方向とが垂直となるように配置した場合には、集電片群が両側で固定されているために自由度が少なく、燃料電池セル間寸法の変化に追随できずに、集電部材の接触面積が減少し、接続信頼性が低くなるという問題があった。   Further, when the current collecting member having the shape shown in FIG. 12 is arranged so that the slit and the longitudinal direction of the fuel cell are parallel, the contact area is not sufficient, and the slit and the longitudinal direction of the fuel cell are Is arranged so that the current collecting pieces are fixed on both sides, the degree of freedom is small, and the change in the dimension between the fuel cells cannot be followed. There is a problem that the connection reliability is lowered.

本発明は、燃料電池セルとの接触面積を十分に確保できるとともに接続信頼性に優れた燃料電池用集電部材を提供することを目的とする。   An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell current collecting member that can sufficiently secure a contact area with a fuel battery cell and is excellent in connection reliability.

本発明者等は集電部材の形状について鋭意検討した結果、以下の形状が上記の目的を達成することを見出し、本発明に到達した。   As a result of intensive studies on the shape of the current collecting member, the present inventors have found that the following shape achieves the above object, and have reached the present invention.

すなわち本発明は、隣り合う燃料電池セルを電気的に接続するための集電部材であって、内部に形成されたスリットにより区画され、第一の端部及び第二の端部で互いに接合された複数の短冊状部から構成される薄板状部材が、前記短冊状部が平行に且つ前記第一の端部及び前記第二の端部がそれぞれ同列上に配置されるように、接続部を介して直列に複数個接続され、隣り合う前記短冊状部が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられてなることを特徴とする燃料電池用集電部材である。これにより、燃料電池セルとの接触面積を十分に確保できるとともに接続信頼性に優れた燃料電池用集電部材を得ることができる。   That is, the present invention is a current collecting member for electrically connecting adjacent fuel cells, partitioned by a slit formed inside, and joined to each other at a first end and a second end. In addition, the thin plate-like member composed of a plurality of strip-shaped portions has a connecting portion so that the strip-shaped portions are parallel and the first end portion and the second end portion are arranged on the same line. A fuel cell current collecting member, wherein a plurality of the strip-shaped portions adjacent to each other in series are pushed and spread in opposite directions in the thickness direction. As a result, it is possible to obtain a current collecting member for a fuel cell that can secure a sufficient contact area with the fuel cell and is excellent in connection reliability.

ここで、接続部が前記第一の端部と前記第二の端部を接続するように屈曲して形成され、前記短冊状部に平行な第一の領域と、前記第一の端部と前記第一の領域及び前記第二の端部と前記第一の領域とを接続する第二の領域とからなり、前記第一の領域が前記短冊状部と同様に厚み方向に押し広げられてなるのが好ましい。このように第一の端部と第二の端部を接続するように構成することにより、短冊状部と同じように押し広げることができ、燃料電池セルとの接触面積を多くかせぐことができる。   Here, a connection portion is formed to be bent so as to connect the first end portion and the second end portion, a first region parallel to the strip-shaped portion, and the first end portion, It consists of the first region and the second region connecting the second end and the first region, and the first region is expanded in the thickness direction like the strip-shaped portion. Preferably it is. Thus, by comprising so that a 1st edge part and a 2nd edge part may be connected, it can spread like a strip-shaped part, and can increase a contact area with a fuel cell. .

このとき、薄板状部材が、前記短冊状部を2本有する口字状、前記短冊状部を3本有する日字状、前記短冊状部を4本有する目字状のいずれかに形成された部材であるのが好ましい。この本数であれば、第一の端部及び第二の端部からの束縛により、ねじれが生じにくくなり、特に口字状よりも日字状、日字状よりも目字状のほうが第一の端部と第二の端部による束縛が強くなり、よりねじれを生じにくくすることができる。   At this time, the thin plate-like member was formed in any one of a letter shape having two strip-shaped portions, a Japanese character shape having three strip-shaped portions, and a mark shape having four strip-shaped portions. A member is preferred. With this number, twisting is less likely to occur due to the restraint from the first end and the second end. The binding by the end portion and the second end portion becomes stronger, and it is possible to make the twist less likely to occur.

また本発明は、薄板状部材が前記短冊状部を少なくとも5本以上具備し、前記接続部が接続方向の中心軸に沿って配置されたことを特徴とする燃料電池用集電部材である。これにより、短冊状部を略バランスよく逆側に押し広げることができる。   Further, the present invention is the current collector for a fuel cell, wherein the thin plate-like member includes at least five strip-like portions, and the connection portions are arranged along a central axis in the connection direction. Thereby, a strip-shaped part can be spread on the reverse side in a substantially balanced manner.

上記燃料電池用集電部材においては、前記薄板状部材が少なくとも3個以上接続されるのが好ましい。これにより、第一の端部または第二の端部による束縛を弱めることとなり、燃料電池セル間の寸法変動に追随できるようになるからである。尚、第一の端部と第二の端部による束縛はねじれ解消のために必要だが、この束縛が接続方向(長手方向)全体に亘ると燃料電池セル間の寸法変動に追随できなくなるので、短冊状部材の本数と薄板状部材の接続個数を調整することが、より効果的な燃料電池用集電部材の形状となる。   In the fuel cell current collecting member, it is preferable that at least three thin plate-like members are connected. This is because the restraint by the first end or the second end is weakened, and it becomes possible to follow the dimensional variation between the fuel cells. In addition, although the constraint by the first end and the second end is necessary for eliminating the twist, it becomes impossible to follow the dimensional variation between the fuel cells when this constraint extends over the entire connection direction (longitudinal direction). Adjusting the number of strip-shaped members and the number of connected thin plate-shaped members provides a more effective shape of a current collecting member for a fuel cell.

さらに本発明は、隣り合う前記燃料電池セルの間に前記燃料電池用集電部材を介在させ、複数の燃料電池セルを直列に電気的に接続してなる燃料電池セルスタックである。また本発明は、この燃料電池セルスタックが収納容器内に収納されてなる燃料電池である。このような燃料電池セルスタック及び燃料電池により、電圧低下の少ない長期信頼性に優れた燃料電池を得ることができる。   Furthermore, the present invention is a fuel cell stack formed by interposing the fuel cell current collecting member between adjacent fuel cells and electrically connecting a plurality of fuel cells in series. Moreover, this invention is a fuel cell by which this fuel cell stack is accommodated in a storage container. By such a fuel cell stack and a fuel cell, a fuel cell excellent in long-term reliability with little voltage drop can be obtained.

本発明によれば、燃料電池セルとの接触面積を十分に確保できるとともに接続信頼性に優れた燃料電池用集電部材が得られるので、燃料電池セルとの接触面積が容易に減少することなく、セル間の電気的接続を安定して行うことが出来る。   According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a current collecting member for a fuel cell that can secure a sufficient contact area with the fuel cell and is excellent in connection reliability, so that the contact area with the fuel cell is not easily reduced. The electrical connection between the cells can be performed stably.

以下、本発明の実施形態について図面に基づいて説明する。   Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

本発明の燃料電池用集電部材は、図1及び図2に示すように、内部に形成されたスリット11により区画され、第一の端部12及び第二の端部13で互いに接合された複数の短冊状部14から構成される薄板状部材1が、短冊状部14が平行に且つ第一の端部12及び第二の端部13がそれぞれ同列上に配置されるように、接続部2を介して同一面上で直列に複数個接続され、隣り合う短冊状部14が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられたものである。   As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the current collector for a fuel cell according to the present invention is partitioned by a slit 11 formed inside and joined to each other at a first end 12 and a second end 13. The thin plate-like member 1 composed of a plurality of strip-like portions 14 has a connecting portion so that the strip-like portions 14 are parallel and the first end portion 12 and the second end portion 13 are arranged in the same row. A plurality of strip-shaped portions 14 connected in series on the same surface through 2 are spread in opposite directions in the thickness direction.

薄板状部材1は、図1及び図2に示す点線で囲まれる領域で表されるものである。この薄板状部材1には、内部にスリット11が形成されている。このスリット11は、ちょうど薄板状部材1の接続方向に直交する方向に沿って形成されている。ここで、内部にスリット11が形成されているとは、スリット11が薄板状部材1の外縁に到達していないことを意味している。また、薄板状部材1では、スリット11により区画された2本の短冊状部14が形成されており、この2本の短冊状部14は、第一の端部12及び第二の端部13で互いに接合されている。言い換えると、短冊状部14は、薄板状部材1の接続方向に直交する方向に延びており、複数の短冊状部14の長さ方向両側を連結する第一の端部12、第二の端部13が形成されている。ここで、第一の端部12及び第二の端部13とは、スリット11が到達していない領域であって、図2の一点鎖線で囲まれる領域で表されるものである。このような構成により、薄板状部材1は、図面上、いわゆる口字形状を呈している。   The thin plate-like member 1 is represented by a region surrounded by a dotted line shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The thin plate-like member 1 has a slit 11 formed therein. The slit 11 is formed along the direction orthogonal to the connecting direction of the thin plate-like member 1. Here, that the slit 11 is formed inside means that the slit 11 does not reach the outer edge of the thin plate member 1. Further, in the thin plate-like member 1, two strip-shaped portions 14 partitioned by the slits 11 are formed. The two strip-shaped portions 14 are formed by the first end portion 12 and the second end portion 13. Are joined together. In other words, the strip-shaped part 14 extends in a direction orthogonal to the connection direction of the thin plate-like member 1, and the first end 12 and the second end that connect both sides in the length direction of the plurality of strip-shaped parts 14. A portion 13 is formed. Here, the 1st edge part 12 and the 2nd edge part 13 are the area | regions where the slit 11 has not reached | attained, Comprising: It represents with the area | region enclosed with the dashed-dotted line of FIG. With such a configuration, the thin plate-like member 1 has a so-called mouth shape in the drawing.

そして、この薄板状部材1は接続部2を介して同一面上で直列に複数個接続されている。このとき、隣り合う薄板状部材1は、それぞれの短冊状部14が平行となるように配置されており、隣り合う薄板状部材1の第一の端部12が同列上に配置されるとともに第二の端部13が同列上に配置されている。   A plurality of the thin plate-like members 1 are connected in series on the same surface via the connection portion 2. At this time, the adjacent thin plate-like members 1 are arranged so that the respective strip-like portions 14 are parallel to each other, and the first end portions 12 of the adjacent thin plate-like members 1 are arranged in the same row. Two end portions 13 are arranged on the same line.

接続部2は、隣り合う薄板状部材1を接続するためのもので、一方の薄板状部材1の第一の端部12と他方の薄板状部材1の第二の端部13とを接続するように屈曲して形成されている。具体的には、図2に示すように、薄板状部材1の短冊状部14に平行な第一の領域21と、一方の薄板状部材1の第一の端部12と第一の領域21を接続する第二の領域22、他方の薄板状部材1の第二の端部13と第一の領域21を接続する第二の領域22とから構成される。接続部2は、このように第一の端部と第二の端部を接続するように構成されているから、短冊状部と同じように押し広げることができ、燃料電池セルとの接触面積を多くかせぐことができる。   The connecting portion 2 is for connecting adjacent thin plate-like members 1, and connects the first end portion 12 of one thin plate-like member 1 and the second end portion 13 of the other thin plate-like member 1. It is formed so as to be bent. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the first region 21 parallel to the strip-shaped portion 14 of the thin plate member 1, the first end 12 and the first region 21 of one thin plate member 1. The second region 22 for connecting the first region 21, the second end portion 13 of the other thin plate-like member 1, and the second region 22 for connecting the first region 21. Since the connection portion 2 is configured to connect the first end portion and the second end portion in this manner, the connection portion 2 can be expanded in the same manner as the strip-shaped portion, and the contact area with the fuel cell unit Can earn a lot.

上述の薄板状部材1と接続部2からなる構造は、ちょうど図3に示す蛇行形状(ミアンダー形状)において点線で囲まれる領域3を、図2の点線で囲まれる領域に示す薄板状部材1(口字状の薄板状部材)に置換したような形状になっている。尚、本例はこのように置換したような形状であるから、図1及び図2に示す接続部2はすべて同じように右下がりの屈曲となっているが、置換したような形状に限らず、右下がりと左下がりが入り交じったような構造であってもよい。   The structure composed of the thin plate-like member 1 and the connecting portion 2 described above has the thin plate-like member 1 (shown in the region surrounded by the dotted line in FIG. 2 as the region 3 surrounded by the dotted line in the meandering shape (meander shape) shown in FIG. The shape is such that it is replaced with a thin plate-like member in the shape of a character. In addition, since this example is a shape that has been replaced in this way, all of the connecting portions 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 are bent downward to the right. However, the shape is not limited to the replaced shape. The structure may be such that the lower right and the lower left are mixed.

そして、本発明の集電部材は、隣り合う短冊状部14が薄板状部材1の厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられた、言い換えると、短冊状部14が薄板状部材1の厚み方向両側に膨らんで突出しているものであり、図1(b)に示すように、横断面は第一の端部12と第二の端部13を両端として短冊状部14が扁平に膨らんだような形状になっている。このような形状は、図1(a)のようにスリットが形成された部材に、短冊状部に合わせて凹凸形状が形成された金型、ちょうど上金型と下金型の凹凸が逆に形成されてなる金型を用いて上下方向からプレスすることにより、得ることができる。   In the current collecting member of the present invention, the adjacent strip-like portions 14 are spread in opposite directions in the thickness direction of the thin plate-like member 1, in other words, the strip-like portions 14 are on both sides in the thickness direction of the thin-plate-like member 1. As shown in FIG. 1 (b), the cross section is such that the strip-like portion 14 swells flat with the first end portion 12 and the second end portion 13 as both ends. It has a shape. Such a shape is a mold in which a slit is formed as shown in FIG. 1 (a), and a mold having a concavo-convex shape formed in accordance with the strip-shaped portion, and the concavo-convex of the upper mold and the lower mold are reversed. It can obtain by pressing from the up-down direction using the metal mold | die formed.

ここで、図3に示す形状のものについて、図1に示すように隣り合う短冊状部を厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げて集電部材を作製し、図4(d)に示すように、集電部材を燃料電池セル間に挟み、燃料電池セルの間隔が狭くなった場合に、集電部材がねじれてしまう。尚、図4(a)は燃料電池セルの間隔が広い状態、図4(b)は燃料電池セルの間隔が適当な状態、図4(c)は燃料電池セルの間隔が狭くなった状態、図4(d)はついに集電部材がねじれてしまい、集電部材と燃料電池セルの接触面積が減少してしまった状態を示している。これに対し、図3の点線で囲まれる領域3を図1及び図2に示すような2本の短冊状部14が第一の端部12と第二の端部13で接合されてなる薄板状部材1で置換することにより、隣り合う短冊状部14がある程度の束縛を受けるため、容易にねじれが生じにくくなり、接触面積を十分に確保できるというものである。   Here, with respect to the shape shown in FIG. 3, as shown in FIG. 1, adjacent strips are spread out in the thickness direction in opposite directions to produce a current collecting member, as shown in FIG. When the current collecting member is sandwiched between the fuel cells and the interval between the fuel cells is reduced, the current collecting member is twisted. 4 (a) shows a state in which the intervals between the fuel cells are wide, FIG. 4 (b) shows a state in which the intervals between the fuel cells are appropriate, and FIG. 4 (c) shows a state in which the intervals between the fuel cells are reduced. FIG. 4D shows a state where the current collecting member is finally twisted and the contact area between the current collecting member and the fuel cell is reduced. On the other hand, in a region 3 surrounded by a dotted line in FIG. 3, a thin plate formed by joining two strip-like portions 14 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 at the first end portion 12 and the second end portion 13. By replacing the strip-shaped member 1 with each other, the adjacent strip-shaped portions 14 are subjected to a certain degree of restraint, so that twisting is not easily generated, and a sufficient contact area can be secured.

図1及び図2に示す接続部2に対応して使用される薄板状部材としては、図1及び図2に示す口字状の薄板状部材1の他、図5に示すような日字状の薄板状部材4、さらには目字状の薄板状部材(図示しない)などが採用できる。口字状よりも日字状、日字状よりも目字状のほうが第一の端部12と第二の端部13による束縛が強くなり、よりねじれを生じにくくすることができる。   As a thin plate-like member used corresponding to the connecting portion 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the letter-like member as shown in FIG. 5 is used in addition to the square-shaped thin plate member 1 shown in FIGS. The thin plate-like member 4, and further, a plate-like thin plate-like member (not shown) can be employed. The binding of the first end portion 12 and the second end portion 13 is stronger in the case of the Japanese character shape than the character shape, and the shape of the character character than the character shape, so that twisting can be made more difficult to occur.

また、短冊状部14の幅L1は0.5〜2.0mmであるのが好ましく、第一の端部12、第二の端部13の幅L2は1.5〜3.0mmであるのが好ましい。   Further, the width L1 of the strip-shaped portion 14 is preferably 0.5 to 2.0 mm, and the width L2 of the first end portion 12 and the second end portion 13 is 1.5 to 3.0 mm. Is preferred.

尚、この形状における薄板状部材1の接続される個数は、燃料電池セルの長さや短冊状部14の幅、本数などに応じて適宜決定される。   Note that the number of the thin plate-like members 1 connected in this shape is appropriately determined according to the length of the fuel cell, the width of the strip-like portion 14, the number of the like, and the like.

他の実施形態として、図6及び図7に示す形態も好ましく採用できる。上述の接続部2が一方の薄板状部材1の第一の端部12と他方の薄板状部材1の第二の端部13とを接続するように屈曲して形成されているのに対して、図6及び図7に示す接続部6は、隣り合う薄板状部材5をそれぞれの接続方向両端に位置する短冊状部51を拘束するように接続しており、直線形状を呈し、接続方向の中心軸に沿って配置されている。尚、この配置の位置については中心軸に沿っているものに限定されず、多少ずれていてもよい。また、接続部6の長さや幅は、燃料電池セル間寸法の変化への追随性、燃料電池セルとの接触面積等を考慮して決定されるが、長さとしては2〜4mm、幅としては0.5〜2mmであるのが好ましい。   As other embodiments, the forms shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 can also be preferably employed. Whereas the connecting portion 2 described above is formed to be bent so as to connect the first end portion 12 of one thin plate-like member 1 and the second end portion 13 of the other thin plate-like member 1. 6 and 7 connect the adjacent thin plate-like members 5 so as to constrain the strip-like portions 51 located at both ends of each connection direction, exhibit a linear shape, and connect in the connection direction. Arranged along the central axis. Note that the position of this arrangement is not limited to that along the central axis, and may be slightly shifted. In addition, the length and width of the connecting portion 6 are determined in consideration of the followability to changes in dimensions between fuel cells, the contact area with the fuel cells, etc., but the length is 2 to 4 mm and the width is Is preferably 0.5 to 2 mm.

そして、図6及び図7に示す薄板状部材5は、7本の短冊状部51を具備している。ここで、接続部6は隣り合う薄板状部材5の接続方向両端に位置する短冊状部51を拘束しており、短冊状部を押し広げる際にはこの拘束された短冊状部51は同じ側に押し広げられることとなるから、バランスを考慮して、薄板状部材5における短冊状部51の本数は少なくとも5本以上であって、奇数本数であるのが好ましい。ただし、燃料電池セルの間隔は、燃料電池セルの反りや傾斜により変動するので、この燃料電池セル間の寸法変動に追随できるように、薄板状部材の短冊状部の本数は20本未満が好ましい。   And the thin plate-shaped member 5 shown in FIG.6 and FIG.7 has comprised the seven strip-shaped parts 51. FIG. Here, the connection part 6 restrains the strip-like part 51 located in the connection direction both ends of the adjacent thin plate-like member 5, and when the strip-like part is spread, the restrained strip-like part 51 is on the same side. In view of balance, the number of the strip-like portions 51 in the thin plate-like member 5 is preferably at least 5 and more preferably an odd number. However, since the interval between the fuel cells varies depending on the warp or inclination of the fuel cells, the number of the strip-shaped portions of the thin plate member is preferably less than 20 so that the dimensional variation between the fuel cells can be followed. .

さらに、薄板状部材が少なくとも3個以上接続されるのが好ましい。言い換えると、接続部が2個以上設けられるのが好ましい。薄板状部材を少なくとも3個以上接続することは、短冊状部51の第一の端部52または第二の端部53による束縛を弱めることとなり、燃料電池セル間の寸法変動に追随できるようになるからである。特に、5〜10個接続するのが好ましい。   Further, it is preferable that at least three thin plate members are connected. In other words, it is preferable that two or more connection portions are provided. Connecting at least three or more thin plate-like members weakens the binding by the first end 52 or the second end 53 of the strip-like portion 51, and can follow the dimensional variation between the fuel cells. Because it becomes. In particular, it is preferable to connect 5 to 10 pieces.

尚、短冊状部における第一の端部と第二の端部による束縛はねじれ解消のために必要だが、この束縛が接続方向(長手方向)全体に亘ると燃料電池セル間の寸法変動に追随できなくなるので、短冊状部材の本数と薄板状部材の接続個数を調整することが、より効果的な燃料電池用集電部材の形状となる。すなわち、薄板状部材の短冊状部の幅や本数、接続する薄板状部材の個数をバランスよく決定することにより、燃料電池セルとの接触面積を十分に確保できるとともに接続信頼性に優れた燃料電池用集電部材を得ることができる。   In addition, the binding by the first end and the second end in the strip-shaped portion is necessary for eliminating the twist, but this constraint follows the dimensional variation between the fuel cells when the entire connection direction (longitudinal direction) is applied. Since it becomes impossible, adjusting the number of strip-shaped members and the number of thin plate-shaped members will provide a more effective shape of the current collecting member for the fuel cell. That is, by determining the width and number of the strip-shaped portions of the thin plate-like member and the number of thin plate-like members to be connected in a well-balanced manner, a fuel cell that can sufficiently secure a contact area with the fuel cell and has excellent connection reliability A current collecting member can be obtained.

ここで、短冊状部51の幅については、薄板状部材5の個数や短冊状部51の本数、燃料電池セルの長さ等により適宜決定されるが、通常は先の実施形態と同様なものが採用される。   Here, the width of the strip-shaped portion 51 is appropriately determined depending on the number of the thin plate-like members 5, the number of the strip-shaped portions 51, the length of the fuel cell, and the like, but usually the same as in the previous embodiment. Is adopted.

また、図6及び図7に示す薄板状部材5では、薄板状部材5の内部に所定の間隙を有するようなスリット54が形成されていたが、図8に示すように、ほとんど間隙を有していないスリット55、いわゆる切目の形成された薄板状部材7も好ましく採用できる。図6及び図7に示す内部のスリット54は、この部分をエッチング加工、または打抜き加工により形成されていたが、図8に示すスリット55は金型を用いて短冊状部51を押し広げるのと同時にせん断加工することができるので、材料を無駄なく利用することができる。   Further, in the thin plate member 5 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, slits 54 having a predetermined gap are formed inside the thin plate member 5, but as shown in FIG. A slit 55 that is not formed, that is, a thin plate-like member 7 in which a so-called cut is formed can also be preferably used. The internal slit 54 shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 was formed by etching or punching this portion, but the slit 55 shown in FIG. Since shearing can be performed at the same time, the material can be used without waste.

尚、本発明においては、内部に形成されたスリットにより区画され、第一の端部及び第二の端部で互いに接合された複数の短冊状部から構成される薄板状部材があって、この隣り合う短冊状部が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられてなるという表現を用いたが、上述のようにスリットの形成と押し広げる加工とが同時になされて形成されるものも含むものである。また、本発明においては、薄板状部材と接続部という表現を用いたが、これらは通常同材質で一体に設けられるものであって、一枚の金属板状部材を加工することにより得られるものを意味する。材質としては、Fe-Cr系やFe-Ni系の耐熱性合金等が好ましく採用され、その厚みは0.3〜0.6mmのものが好ましく採用されるが、特に限定はされない。   In the present invention, there is a thin plate-like member composed of a plurality of strip-like portions that are partitioned by slits formed inside and joined to each other at the first end portion and the second end portion. Although the expression that adjacent strip-shaped portions are spread out in the thickness direction opposite to each other is used, it also includes those formed by simultaneously forming the slit and expanding as described above. Further, in the present invention, the expressions of a thin plate member and a connection portion are used, but these are usually provided integrally with the same material, and obtained by processing a single metal plate member. Means. The material is preferably a heat-resistant alloy such as Fe—Cr or Fe—Ni, and the thickness is preferably 0.3 to 0.6 mm, but is not particularly limited.

次に、本発明の燃料電池用集電部材が用いられる燃料電池セル、燃料電池セルスタック、燃料電池について説明する。
本発明に関わる燃料電池セル10は、図9に示すように、内部に適当な間隔で複数の燃料ガス通路101aが形成された平板状の支持基板101を備え、この支持基板101上に各種の部材が設けられた構造を有している。
Next, a fuel cell, a fuel cell stack, and a fuel cell in which the fuel cell current collector of the present invention is used will be described.
As shown in FIG. 9, the fuel battery cell 10 according to the present invention includes a flat plate-like support substrate 101 in which a plurality of fuel gas passages 101 a are formed at appropriate intervals. Various types of fuel cell cells 101 are provided on the support substrate 101. It has a structure in which members are provided.

支持基板101は、横断面が平坦部と平坦部の両端の弧状部とからなっている。平坦部の対向する一対の面の一方とその両側の弧状部を覆うように燃料極層102が設けられており、さらに、この燃料極層102を覆うように、緻密質な固体電解質層103が積層されており、この固体電解質層103の上には、燃料極層102に対応するように、空気極104が積層されている。また、燃料極層102及び固体電極層103が積層されていない平坦部の他方の面には、インターコネクタ105が形成されている。図9から明らかな通り、燃料極層102及び固体電解質層103は、インターコネクタ105の両サイドにまで延びており、支持基板101の表面が外部に露出しないように構成されている。   The support substrate 101 is composed of a flat portion and arcuate portions at both ends of the flat portion. A fuel electrode layer 102 is provided so as to cover one of a pair of opposed surfaces of the flat portion and arcuate portions on both sides thereof. Further, a dense solid electrolyte layer 103 is formed so as to cover the fuel electrode layer 102. The air electrode 104 is laminated on the solid electrolyte layer 103 so as to correspond to the fuel electrode layer 102. An interconnector 105 is formed on the other surface of the flat portion where the fuel electrode layer 102 and the solid electrode layer 103 are not stacked. As is clear from FIG. 9, the fuel electrode layer 102 and the solid electrolyte layer 103 extend to both sides of the interconnector 105 and are configured so that the surface of the support substrate 101 is not exposed to the outside.

このような構造の燃料電池セル10では、燃料極層102の空気極104と対面している部分が燃料極として作動して発電する。即ち、空気極104の外側に空気等の酸素含有ガスを流し、且つ支持基板101内の燃料ガス通路101aに燃料ガス(水素)を流し、所定の作動温度まで加熱することにより、空気極104で下記式(1)の電極反応を生じ、また燃料極層102の燃料極となる部分では例えば下記式(2)の電極反応を生じることによって発電する。   In the fuel cell 10 having such a structure, the portion of the fuel electrode layer 102 facing the air electrode 104 operates as a fuel electrode to generate electric power. That is, by flowing an oxygen-containing gas such as air outside the air electrode 104 and flowing a fuel gas (hydrogen) through the fuel gas passage 101a in the support substrate 101 and heating it to a predetermined operating temperature, the air electrode 104 Electricity is generated by generating an electrode reaction of the following formula (1) and generating an electrode reaction of the following formula (2), for example, in the portion of the fuel electrode layer 102 that becomes the fuel electrode.

空気極: 1/2O+2e → O2− (固体電解質) …(1)
燃料極: O2− (固体電解質)+ H → HO+2e…(2)
かかる発電によって生成した電流は、支持基板101に取り付けられているインターコネクタ105を介して集電される。
Air electrode: 1 / 2O 2 + 2e → O 2− (solid electrolyte) (1)
Fuel electrode: O 2− (solid electrolyte) + H 2 → H 2 O + 2e (2)
The current generated by such power generation is collected via the interconnector 105 attached to the support substrate 101.

ここで、支持基板101は、燃料ガスを燃料極まで透過させるためにガス透過性であること、及びインターコネクタ105を介しての集電を行うために導電性であることが要求されるが、このような要求を満たすと同時に、同時焼成により生じる不都合を回避するために、鉄属金属成分と特定の希土類酸化物とから支持基板101を構成する。   Here, the support substrate 101 is required to be gas permeable to allow the fuel gas to permeate to the fuel electrode and to be conductive to collect current via the interconnector 105. In order to satisfy such requirements and to avoid the disadvantages caused by simultaneous firing, the support substrate 101 is composed of an iron group metal component and a specific rare earth oxide.

鉄族金属成分は、支持基板101に導電性を付与するためのものであり、鉄族金属単体であってもよいし、また鉄族金属酸化物、鉄族金属の合金もしくは合金酸化物であってもよい。鉄族金属には、鉄、ニッケル及びコバルトがあり、本発明では、何れをも使用することができるが、安価であること及び燃料ガス中で安定であることからNi及び/またはNiOを鉄族成分として含有していることが好ましい。   The iron group metal component is for imparting conductivity to the support substrate 101, and may be a single iron group metal, or an iron group metal oxide, an iron group metal alloy or an alloy oxide. May be. The iron group metals include iron, nickel, and cobalt. In the present invention, any of them can be used, but Ni and / or NiO is changed to iron group because it is inexpensive and stable in fuel gas. It is preferable to contain as a component.

また希土類酸化物成分は、支持基板101の熱膨張係数を、固体電解質層103を形成している安定化ジルコニアと近似させるために使用されるものであり、高い導電率を維持し且つ固体電解質層3等への拡散を防止するために、希土類元素を含む酸化物Y、Ybが、上記鉄族成分と組合せで使用される。 The rare earth oxide component is used to approximate the thermal expansion coefficient of the support substrate 101 to the stabilized zirconia forming the solid electrolyte layer 103, and maintains a high conductivity and is a solid electrolyte layer. In order to prevent diffusion to 3 etc., oxides Y 2 O 3 and Yb 2 O 3 containing rare earth elements are used in combination with the iron group component.

特に支持基板101の熱膨張係数を安定化ジルコニアと近似させるという点で、上述した鉄族成分は、支持基板101中に35〜65体積%の量で含まれ、希土類酸化物は、支持基板101中に35〜65体積%の量で含まれていることが好適である。   In particular, the iron group component described above is contained in the support substrate 101 in an amount of 35 to 65% by volume in terms of approximating the thermal expansion coefficient of the support substrate 101 to stabilized zirconia, and the rare earth oxide is included in the support substrate 101. It is preferably contained in an amount of 35 to 65% by volume.

上記のような鉄族金属成分と希土類酸化物とから構成される支持基板101は、燃料ガス透過性を有していることが必要であるため、通常、開気孔率が30%以上、特に35乃至50%の範囲にあることが好適である。また、支持基板101の導電率は、300S/cm以上、特に440S/cm以上であることが好ましい。   Since the support substrate 101 composed of the iron group metal component and the rare earth oxide as described above needs to have fuel gas permeability, the open porosity is usually 30% or more, particularly 35. It is preferable to be in the range of up to 50%. Further, the conductivity of the support substrate 101 is preferably 300 S / cm or more, and particularly preferably 440 S / cm or more.

また、支持基板101の平坦部の長さは、通常、15〜35mm、弧状部の長さ(弧の長さ)は、3〜8mm程度であり、支持基板101の厚みは(平坦部の両面の間隔)は2.5〜5mm程度であることが望ましい。   Further, the length of the flat portion of the support substrate 101 is usually 15 to 35 mm, the length of the arc-shaped portion (arc length) is about 3 to 8 mm, and the thickness of the support substrate 101 is (both surfaces of the flat portion). Is preferably about 2.5 to 5 mm.

燃料極層102は、前述した式(2)の電極反応を生じせしめるものであり、それ自体公知の多孔質の導電性セラミックスから形成される。例えば、希土類元素が固溶しているZrOと、Ni及び/またはNiOとから形成される。この希土類元素が固溶しているZrO(安定化ジルコニア)としては、以下に述べる固体電解質層103の形成に使用されているものと同様のものを用いるのがよい。 The fuel electrode layer 102 causes the electrode reaction of the above-described formula (2), and is formed of a known porous conductive ceramic. For example, it is formed from ZrO 2 in which a rare earth element is dissolved, and Ni and / or NiO. As ZrO 2 (stabilized zirconia) in which the rare earth element is dissolved, the same one used for forming the solid electrolyte layer 103 described below is preferably used.

また、図9の例では、この燃料極層102は、インターコネクタ105の両サイドにまで延びているが、空気極104に対面する位置に存在して燃料極が形成されていればよいため、例えば空気極104が設けられている側の平坦部にのみ燃料極層102が形成されていてもよい。 In the example of FIG. 9, the fuel electrode layer 102 extends to both sides of the interconnector 105, but it is sufficient that the fuel electrode is formed in a position facing the air electrode 104, For example, the fuel electrode layer 102 may be formed only on the flat portion on the side where the air electrode 104 is provided.

この燃料極層102上に設けられている固体電解質層103は、一般に3〜15モル%の希土類元素が固溶したZrO(通常、安定化ジルコニア)と呼ばれる緻密質なセラミックスから形成されている。希土類元素としては、Sc,Y,La,Ce,Pr,Nd,Pm,Sm,Eu,Gd,Tb,Dy,Ho,Er,Tm,Yb,Luを例示することができるが、安価であるという点からY、Ybが望ましい。 The solid electrolyte layer 103 provided on the fuel electrode layer 102 is generally formed of a dense ceramic called ZrO 2 (usually stabilized zirconia) in which 3 to 15 mol% of a rare earth element is dissolved. . Examples of rare earth elements include Sc, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, and Lu, but they are inexpensive. From the point, Y and Yb are desirable.

空気極104は、所謂ABO型のペロブスカイト型酸化物からなる導電性セラミックスから形成される。かかるペロブスカイト型酸化物としては、遷移金属ペロブスカイト型酸化物、特にAサイトにLaを有するLaMnO系酸化物、LaFeO系酸化物、LaCoO系酸化物の少なくとも1種が好適であり、600〜1000℃程度の作動温度での電気伝導性が高いという点からLaFeO系酸化物が特に好適である。尚、上記ペロブスカイト型酸化物においては、AサイトにLaと共にSrなどが存在していてもよいし、さらにBサイトには、FeとともにCoやMnが存在していてもよい。 The air electrode 104 is formed of a conductive ceramic made of a so-called ABO 3 type perovskite oxide. As such a perovskite oxide, at least one of transition metal perovskite oxides, particularly LaMnO 3 oxides, LaFeO 3 oxides, and LaCoO 3 oxides having La at the A site is preferable. LaFeO 3 -based oxides are particularly suitable because they have high electrical conductivity at an operating temperature of about 1000 ° C. In the perovskite oxide, Sr and the like may exist together with La at the A site, and Co and Mn may exist together with Fe at the B site.

支持基板101上に設けられているインターコネクタ105は、一般に、ランタンクロマイト系のペロブスカイト型酸化物(LaCrO系酸化物)が使用される。また、支持基板101の内部を通る燃料ガス及び支持基板101の外部を通る酸素含有ガスのリークを防止するため、かかる導電性セラミックスは緻密質でなければならず、例えば93%以上、特に95%以上の相対密度を有していることが好適である。 The interconnector 105 provided on the support substrate 101 is generally made of a lanthanum chromite perovskite oxide (LaCrO 3 oxide). Further, in order to prevent leakage of the fuel gas passing through the inside of the support substrate 101 and the oxygen-containing gas passing through the outside of the support substrate 101, such conductive ceramics must be dense, for example, 93% or more, particularly 95%. It is preferable to have the above relative density.

インターコネクタ105の外面(上面)には、P型半導体層106を設けることが好ましい。インターコネクタ105には、本発明の燃料電池用集電部材が接続されるが、この燃料電池用集電部材を直接インターコネクタ105に直接接続すると、非オーム接触により、電位降下が大きくなってしまい、集電性能が低下してしまう。このようなP型半導体としては、遷移金属ペロブスカイト型酸化物を例示することができる。   A P-type semiconductor layer 106 is preferably provided on the outer surface (upper surface) of the interconnector 105. The fuel cell current collector of the present invention is connected to the interconnector 105. However, if the fuel cell current collector is directly connected to the interconnector 105, the potential drop increases due to non-ohmic contact. The current collecting performance will be reduced. As such a P-type semiconductor, a transition metal perovskite oxide can be exemplified.

そして、燃料電池セルスタックは、図10に示すように、燃料電池セル10と燃料電池セル10の間に燃料電池用集電部材を介在させ、複数の燃料電池セル10を直列に電気的に接続することにより得られる。このとき、燃料電池用集電部材の押し広げられた短冊状部が、隣り合う燃料電池セルのうちの一方の燃料電池セルの空気極と接触し、隣り合う燃料電池セルのうちの他方の燃料電池セルのP型半導体と接触している。尚、図10は図9に示す燃料電池セル10が立てて配置されたときの上側から見た状態を示している。また、燃料電池は、この燃料電池セルスタックを収納容器内に収納することにより得られる。このような燃料電池セルスタック及び燃料電池により、電圧低下の少ない長期信頼性に優れた燃料電池を得ることができる。   As shown in FIG. 10, the fuel cell stack includes a fuel cell current collecting member interposed between the fuel cell 10 and the fuel cell 10 to electrically connect the plurality of fuel cells 10 in series. Can be obtained. At this time, the elongated strip-shaped portion of the current collecting member for the fuel cell is in contact with the air electrode of one fuel cell of the adjacent fuel cells, and the other fuel of the adjacent fuel cells. It is in contact with the P-type semiconductor of the battery cell. FIG. 10 shows a state viewed from above when the fuel battery cell 10 shown in FIG. 9 is arranged upright. The fuel cell can be obtained by storing the fuel cell stack in a storage container. By such a fuel cell stack and a fuel cell, a fuel cell excellent in long-term reliability with little voltage drop can be obtained.

ここで、燃料電池セルの製造方法について説明する。
先ず、Ni等の鉄族金属或いはその酸化物粉末と、Yなどの希土類酸化物の粉末と、有機バインダーと、溶媒とを混合してスラリーを調製し、このスラリーを用いての押出成形により、支持基板成形体を作製し、これを乾燥する。
Here, the manufacturing method of a fuel cell is demonstrated.
First, a slurry is prepared by mixing an iron group metal such as Ni or its oxide powder, a rare earth oxide powder such as Y 2 O 3 , an organic binder, and a solvent, and extrusion using this slurry. A support substrate molded body is produced by molding and dried.

次に、燃料極層形成用材料(Ni或いはNiO粉末と安定化ジルコニア粉末)、有機バインダー及び溶媒を混合してスラリーを調製し、このスラリーを用いて燃料極層用のシートを作製する。また、燃料極層用のシートを作製する代りに、燃料極形成用材料を溶媒中に分散したペーストを、上記で形成された支持基板成形体の所定位置に塗布し乾燥して、燃料極層用のコーティング層を形成してもよい。   Next, a fuel electrode layer forming material (Ni or NiO powder and stabilized zirconia powder), an organic binder, and a solvent are mixed to prepare a slurry, and a sheet for the fuel electrode layer is prepared using this slurry. Further, instead of producing a sheet for the fuel electrode layer, a paste in which the fuel electrode forming material is dispersed in a solvent is applied to a predetermined position of the formed support substrate and dried, and then the fuel electrode layer is formed. A coating layer may be formed.

さらに、安定化ジルコニア粉末と、有機バインダーと、溶媒とを混合してスラリーを調製し、このスラリーを用いて固体電解質層用シートを作製する。 Furthermore, a stabilized zirconia powder, an organic binder, and a solvent are mixed to prepare a slurry, and a solid electrolyte layer sheet is prepared using this slurry.

上記のようにして形成された支持基板成形体、燃料極用シート及び固体電解質層用シートを、例えば図9に示すような層構造となるように積層し、乾燥する。この場合、支持基板成形体の表面に燃料極層用のコーティング層が形成されている場合には、固体電解質層用シートのみを支持基板成形体に積層し、乾燥すればよい。   The support substrate molded body, the fuel electrode sheet and the solid electrolyte layer sheet formed as described above are laminated so as to have a layer structure as shown in FIG. 9, for example, and dried. In this case, when the coating layer for the fuel electrode layer is formed on the surface of the support substrate molded body, only the solid electrolyte layer sheet may be laminated on the support substrate molded body and dried.

この後、インターコネクタ用材料(例えば、LaCrO系酸化物粉末)、有機バインダー及び溶媒を混合してスラリーを調製し、インターコネクタ用シートを作製する。 Thereafter, the interconnector material (e.g., LaCrO 3 based oxide powder), an organic binder and a solvent were mixed to prepare a slurry, to produce the interconnector sheet.

このインターコネクタ用シートを、上記で得られた積層体の所定位置にさらに積層し、焼成用積層体を作製する。   This interconnector sheet is further laminated at a predetermined position of the laminate obtained above to produce a firing laminate.

次いで、上記の焼成用積層体を脱バインダー処理し、酸素含有雰囲気中、1300〜1600℃で同時焼成し、焼結体を得る。   Next, the above laminate for firing is subjected to binder removal treatment, and co-fired at 1300 to 1600 ° C. in an oxygen-containing atmosphere to obtain a sintered body.

次いでこの焼結体の所定の位置に、空気極形成用材料(例えば、LaFeO系酸化物粉末)と溶媒を含有するペースト、及び必要により、P型半導体層形成用材料(例えば、LaFeO系酸化物粉末)と溶媒を含むペーストを、ディッピング等により塗布し、固体電解質層の表面に空気極用コーティング層を設けた。同時に、上記ペーストを焼結体に形成されているインターコネクタの外面に塗布し、P型半導体用コーティング層を設け、1000〜1300℃で焼き付けを行う。
以上のような工程を経て、燃料電池セルが作製される。
Next, a paste containing an air electrode forming material (for example, LaFeO 3 -based oxide powder) and a solvent and, if necessary, a P-type semiconductor layer forming material (for example, LaFeO 3 -based) at a predetermined position of the sintered body. Oxide powder) and a solvent-containing paste were applied by dipping or the like, and an air electrode coating layer was provided on the surface of the solid electrolyte layer. At the same time, the paste is applied to the outer surface of the interconnector formed in the sintered body, a P-type semiconductor coating layer is provided, and baking is performed at 1000 to 1300 ° C.
A fuel cell is produced through the above steps.

そして、厚さ0.3〜0.6mmのFe-Cr系耐熱性合金の板を用い、前述の形状に加工した集電部材を用意し、この集電部材と前述の燃料電池セルを電気的、及び機械的に接合するため、前述のP型半導体である遷移金属ペロブスカイト型酸化物からなる粉末と有機バインダーと溶剤とを混合して作製したペーストを、燃料電池セルの空気極及びインターコネクタ表面及び集電部材に塗布した後、燃料電池セルと集電部材を交互に積層し、1000〜1300℃で焼き付ける。さらに、上記積層して焼付された燃料電池セルと集電部材を、マニホールドに配置し、燃料電池セルとマニホールドをガラスなどにより封止することにより燃料電池セルスタックが作製される。   Then, using a Fe-Cr heat-resistant alloy plate having a thickness of 0.3 to 0.6 mm, a current collecting member processed into the aforementioned shape is prepared, and the current collecting member and the aforementioned fuel cell are electrically connected. In addition, a paste prepared by mixing a powder composed of the transition metal perovskite oxide, which is the P-type semiconductor, an organic binder, and a solvent for mechanical bonding, is used as the air electrode and the interconnector surface of the fuel cell. And after apply | coating to a current collection member, a fuel cell and a current collection member are laminated | stacked alternately, and it bakes at 1000-1300 degreeC. Further, the stacked fuel cell and the current collecting member are disposed in a manifold, and the fuel cell and the manifold are sealed with glass or the like, thereby producing a fuel cell stack.

そして、燃料電池は、上記複数のセルスタックを収納容器内に配置し、発電に使用するために燃料電池セルに送るための燃料ガス導入管、空気導入管を配管することにより作製される。   The fuel cell is manufactured by arranging the plurality of cell stacks in a storage container and piping a fuel gas introduction tube and an air introduction tube for sending the fuel cell to the fuel cell for use in power generation.

本発明の燃料電池用集電部材の一実施形態を示す説明図であり、(a)は隣り合う短冊状部が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられる前の正面図、(b)は隣り合う短冊状部が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられた後の(a)に示すA−A線横断面図である。BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is explanatory drawing which shows one Embodiment of the current collection member for fuel cells of this invention, (a) is a front view before an adjacent strip-shaped part is spread in the thickness direction mutually oppositely, (b) is adjacent. It is an AA line cross-sectional view shown to (a) after the strip-shaped part which fits was expanded in the thickness direction in the opposite direction mutually. 図1に示す燃料電池用集電部材の一部拡大図である。FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view of a fuel cell current collecting member shown in FIG. 1. 本発明の燃料電池用集電部材を説明するための蛇行形状の部材を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the meander-shaped member for demonstrating the current collection member for fuel cells of this invention. 図3に示す蛇行形状の部材の問題点の説明図であり、(a)は燃料電池セルの間隔が広い状態、(b)は燃料電池セルの間隔が適当な状態、(c)は燃料電池セルの間隔が狭くなった状態、(d)は集電部材がねじれてしまい、集電部材と燃料電池セルの接触面積が減少してしまった状態を示している。It is explanatory drawing of the problem of the meander-shaped member shown in FIG. 3, (a) is a state with a wide space | interval of a fuel cell, (b) is a state with a suitable space | interval of a fuel cell, (c) is a fuel cell. FIG. 4D shows a state in which the cell interval is narrow, and FIG. 4D shows a state in which the current collecting member is twisted and the contact area between the current collecting member and the fuel cell is reduced. 本発明の燃料電池用集電部材の他の実施形態を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows other embodiment of the current collection member for fuel cells of this invention. 本発明の燃料電池用集電部材のさらに他の実施形態を示す説明図であり、(a)は隣り合う短冊状部が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられる前の正面図、(b)は隣り合う短冊状部が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられた後の(a)に示すB−B線横断面図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows further another embodiment of the current collection member for fuel cells of this invention, (a) is a front view before the strip-shaped part which adjoins is pushed apart mutually in the thickness direction, (b) [Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B shown in (a) after adjacent strip-shaped portions are spread in opposite directions in the thickness direction. 図6に示す燃料電池用集電部材の一部拡大図である。FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged view of the fuel cell current collecting member shown in FIG. 6. 本発明の燃料電池用集電部材のまたさらに他の実施形態を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows other embodiment of the current collection member for fuel cells of this invention. 本発明の燃料電池用集電部材とあわせて使用される燃料電池セルの説明図である。It is explanatory drawing of the fuel cell used together with the current collection member for fuel cells of this invention. 本発明の燃料電池セルスタックの説明図であり、図9に示す燃料電池セル10が立てて配置されたときの上側から見た状態を示している。It is explanatory drawing of the fuel cell stack of this invention, and has shown the state seen from the upper side when the fuel cell 10 shown in FIG. 9 is arrange | positioned upright. 従来の燃料電池用集電部材の一例を示す説明図であり、(a)は正面図、(b)は横断面図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of the conventional current collection member for fuel cells, (a) is a front view, (b) is a cross-sectional view. 従来の燃料電池用集電部材の他の例を示す説明図である。It is explanatory drawing which shows the other example of the conventional collector member for fuel cells. 図10に示す燃料電池用集電部材の問題点の説明図であり、(a)は燃料電池セルの間隔が広がった状態、(b)は燃料電池セルの間隔が最適な状態、(c)は燃料電池セルの間隔が狭くなった状態を示している。It is explanatory drawing of the problem of the current collection member for fuel cells shown in FIG. 10, (a) is the state where the space | interval of the fuel cell expanded, (b) is the state where the space | interval of a fuel cell is optimal, (c). Indicates a state in which the interval between the fuel cells is reduced.

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

1、4、5、7・・・薄板状部材
11、54、55・・・スリット
12、52・・・第一の端部
13、53・・・第二の端部
14、51・・・短冊状部
2、6・・・接続部
21・・・第一の領域
22・・・第二の領域
1, 4, 5, 7... Thin plate members 11, 54, 55... Slit 12, 52... First end 13, 53. Strip-shaped part 2, 6 ... connection part 21 ... 1st area | region 22 ... 2nd area | region

Claims (7)

隣り合う燃料電池セルを電気的に接続するための集電部材であって、
内部に形成されたスリットにより区画され、第一の端部及び第二の端部で互いに接合された複数の短冊状部から構成される薄板状部材が、前記短冊状部が平行に且つ前記第一の端部及び前記第二の端部がそれぞれ同列上に配置されるように、接続部を介して直列に複数個接続され、
隣り合う前記短冊状部が厚み方向に互いに逆向きに押し広げられてなることを特徴とする燃料電池用集電部材。
A current collecting member for electrically connecting adjacent fuel cells,
A thin plate-like member composed of a plurality of strip-shaped portions that are partitioned by slits formed inside and joined to each other at the first end and the second end, the strip-shaped portions are parallel and the first A plurality of one end portion and the second end portion are connected in series via the connecting portion so that they are arranged on the same line,
A current collecting member for a fuel cell, wherein the adjacent strip-shaped portions are spread in opposite directions in the thickness direction.
接続部が前記第一の端部と前記第二の端部を接続するように屈曲して形成され、前記短冊状部に平行な第一の領域と、前記第一の端部と前記第一の領域及び前記第二の端部と前記第一の領域とを接続する第二の領域とからなり、
前記第一の領域が前記短冊状部と同様に厚み方向に押し広げられてなることを特徴とする請求項1記載の燃料電池用集電部材。
A connection portion is formed by bending so as to connect the first end portion and the second end portion, a first region parallel to the strip-like portion, the first end portion and the first end And a second region connecting the second end and the first region,
The current collecting member for a fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein the first region is expanded in the thickness direction like the strip-shaped portion.
薄板状部材が、前記短冊状部を2本有する口字状、前記短冊状部を3本有する日字状、前記短冊状部を4本有する目字状のいずれかに形成された部材であることを特徴とする請求項2記載の燃料電池用集電部材。 The thin plate-like member is a member formed in any one of a letter shape having two strip-shaped portions, a Japanese character shape having three strip-shaped portions, and a character shape having four strip-shaped portions. The current collecting member for a fuel cell according to claim 2. 薄板状部材が前記短冊状部を少なくとも5本以上具備し、前記接続部が接続方向の中心軸に沿って配置されたことを特徴とする請求項1記載の燃料電池用集電部材。 2. The fuel cell current collecting member according to claim 1, wherein the thin plate-like member comprises at least five or more strip-like portions, and the connecting portions are arranged along a central axis in a connecting direction. 薄板状部材が少なくとも3個以上接続されたことを特徴とする請求項1〜4のいずれかに記載の燃料電池用集電部材。 The current collecting member for a fuel cell according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least three thin plate-like members are connected. 隣り合う前記燃料電池セルの間に請求項1〜5のいずれかに記載の燃料電池用集電部材を介在させ、複数の燃料電池セルを直列に電気的に接続してなることを特徴とする燃料電池セルスタック。 A current collecting member for a fuel cell according to any one of claims 1 to 5 is interposed between the adjacent fuel cells, and a plurality of fuel cells are electrically connected in series. Fuel cell stack. 請求項6に記載の燃料電池セルスタックが収納容器内に収納されてなることを特徴とする燃料電池。 7. A fuel cell comprising the fuel cell stack according to claim 6 housed in a housing container.
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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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JP2008135195A (en) * 2006-11-27 2008-06-12 Kyocera Corp Cell stack, and fuel battery
JP2010080266A (en) * 2008-09-26 2010-04-08 Kyocera Corp Fuel battery cell stack device, and fuel cell module equipped with the same, and fuel cell device
JP2010231920A (en) * 2009-03-26 2010-10-14 Kyocera Corp Fuel battery cell stack device, fuel battery module, and fuel battery device
JP2011175854A (en) * 2010-02-24 2011-09-08 Kyocera Corp Cell stack unit, fuel battery module, and fuel battery device
JP2017068973A (en) * 2015-09-29 2017-04-06 京セラ株式会社 Cell stack, cell stack device, module and module housing device
US9786927B2 (en) 2012-05-17 2017-10-10 Kyocera Corporation Conductive member, cell stack, electrochemical module, and electrochemical device
JP2019021502A (en) * 2017-07-18 2019-02-07 日本特殊陶業株式会社 Conductive member, electrochemical reaction unit, and electrochemical reaction cell stack

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Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2008135195A (en) * 2006-11-27 2008-06-12 Kyocera Corp Cell stack, and fuel battery
JP2010080266A (en) * 2008-09-26 2010-04-08 Kyocera Corp Fuel battery cell stack device, and fuel cell module equipped with the same, and fuel cell device
JP2010231920A (en) * 2009-03-26 2010-10-14 Kyocera Corp Fuel battery cell stack device, fuel battery module, and fuel battery device
JP2011175854A (en) * 2010-02-24 2011-09-08 Kyocera Corp Cell stack unit, fuel battery module, and fuel battery device
US9786927B2 (en) 2012-05-17 2017-10-10 Kyocera Corporation Conductive member, cell stack, electrochemical module, and electrochemical device
JP2017068973A (en) * 2015-09-29 2017-04-06 京セラ株式会社 Cell stack, cell stack device, module and module housing device
JP2019021502A (en) * 2017-07-18 2019-02-07 日本特殊陶業株式会社 Conductive member, electrochemical reaction unit, and electrochemical reaction cell stack
JP7049781B2 (en) 2017-07-18 2022-04-07 森村Sofcテクノロジー株式会社 Conductive members, electrochemical reaction units, and electrochemical reaction cell stacks

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