JP2018104770A - Gas diffusion device and electrochemical hydrogen pump - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a gas diffusion device provided with a throughhole that passes a gas from a gas passage at a position appropriate more than ever.SOLUTION: A gas diffusion device includes: a first metal sheet provided with a gas passage; and one or more second metal sheets provided with a plurality of throughholes through which a gas supplied from the gas passage is supplied, in which in the second metal sheet adjacent to the first metal sheet, the number of the throughholes located below an edge of the gas passage is smaller than the number of the throughholes located below a predetermined line along the edge of the gas passage.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

  The present disclosure relates to gas diffusion devices and electrochemical hydrogen pumps.

  In recent years, hydrogen has attracted attention as a clean alternative energy source to replace fossil fuels due to environmental problems such as global warming and energy problems such as the depletion of petroleum resources. When hydrogen burns, only water is released, and carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides that cause global warming are not discharged. Therefore, hydrogen is expected as clean energy. As an apparatus using hydrogen as a fuel, for example, there is a fuel cell, and the development and popularization of a fuel cell is progressing for a power source for automobiles and a private power generation for home use. In the coming hydrogen society, not only the production of hydrogen, but also the development of technology capable of storing hydrogen at a high density and transporting or using it at a low capacity and at a low cost is required. Furthermore, in order to promote the spread of fuel cells, it is necessary to improve the fuel supply infrastructure. Accordingly, various proposals have been made to purify and boost high-purity hydrogen.

  For example, we propose a high-pressure hydrogen production system that produces high-pressure hydrogen on the cathode side by applying voltage between the anode and cathode provided on the electrolyte membrane and electrolyzing water supplied to the anode side. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

  Further, for example, in Patent Document 2, as shown in FIG. 9, a support member 130 of an electrolyte membrane of an electrochemical cell for high differential pressure is used as a gas diffusion layer in contact with the electrolyte membrane. That is, a plurality of rectangular recesses are formed on one surface of the support member 130, and a plurality of rhombus recesses are formed on the other surface. And the overlapping part of both recessed parts comprises the through-hole 131 through which the fluid passes. This can prevent clogging of the fluid flow path, which may occur in the conventional mesh type gas diffusion layer, and can secure rigidity capable of withstanding the differential pressure between the high pressure side and the low pressure side of the electrochemical cell. Therefore, the deformation that reaches the breakage point of the electrolyte membrane is suppressed by the support of the support member 130.

JP 2001-342587 A JP 2005-179780 A

  However, in the conventional example, the metal sheet constituting the gas diffusion layer is sufficiently studied as to how to arrange the through-hole for allowing the gas supplied from the gas flow path of the appropriate flow path member to pass therethrough. Not.

  One aspect of the present disclosure (aspect) is made in view of such circumstances, and a through-hole through which a gas from a gas flow path passes is provided at an appropriate position of the metal sheet as compared with the conventional one. A gas diffusion device is provided. Moreover, one aspect of the present disclosure provides an electrochemical hydrogen pump including such a gas diffusion device.

  In order to solve the above problems, a gas diffusion device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a first metal sheet including a gas flow path, and a plurality of through holes through which a gas supplied from the gas flow path passes. Two or more second metal sheets, and in the second metal sheet adjacent to the first metal sheet, the through-hole located under the edge of the gas flow path is the gas flow path. Fewer than through holes located below a predetermined line along the edge.

  An electrochemical hydrogen pump according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an electrolyte membrane having a pair of main surfaces, a cathode catalyst layer provided on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane, and the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane. A voltage is applied between the anode catalyst layer provided, the cathode gas diffusion device provided in the cathode catalyst layer, the anode gas diffusion device provided in the anode catalyst layer, and the cathode catalyst layer and the anode catalyst layer. A voltage applicator to be applied, and the anode gas diffusion device includes the gas diffusion device described above.

  The gas diffusion device and the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to one aspect of the present disclosure have an effect that a through-hole through which a gas from a gas flow path passes is provided at an appropriate position of the metal sheet, as compared with the related art.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an electrochemical hydrogen pump according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cathode gas diffusion device of the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an anode gas diffusion device of the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the first modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a conventional gas diffusion layer.

  The metal sheet constituting the gas diffusion layer has been intensively studied on how to arrange through holes for the gas supplied from the gas flow path of the appropriate flow path member to pass, and the following knowledge has been obtained. It was.

  Generally, the more through holes provided in the metal sheet, the lower the strength of the metal sheet. In particular, when taking a configuration in which gas flows into the through hole of the metal sheet through the gas flow path of the flow path member, how to arrange the through hole in the metal sheet is an important factor in the strength design of the metal sheet. It becomes. For example, when the through hole of the metal sheet is located below the edge of the gas flow path, if the metal sheet is pressed on the gas flow path, bending stress concentrates on the through hole, which is not preferable.

  Therefore, the gas diffusion device according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes one or more first metal sheets including a gas flow path and a plurality of through holes through which gas supplied from the gas flow path passes. In the second metal sheet adjacent to the first metal sheet, the through hole located below the edge of the gas flow path is located below a predetermined line along the edge of the gas flow path. There are fewer than through holes.

  According to such a configuration, in the gas diffusion device of this aspect, the through hole through which the gas from the gas flow path passes is provided at an appropriate position of the metal sheet as compared with the conventional case.

  Here, the “predetermined line along the edge of the gas flow path” means a predetermined line substantially parallel to the edge line of the gas flow path. The edge line of the gas flow path means a boundary line between the gas flow path and a region outside the gas flow path in the first metal sheet. Substantially parallel means that the angle formed between the edge line of the gas flow path and the predetermined line is within a range of ± 5 degrees.

  Specifically, when the through hole of the second metal sheet is located below the edge of the gas flow path of the first metal sheet, the through hole is pressed when the second metal sheet is pressed on the gas flow path. Bending stress concentrates on the part. For this reason, in the second metal sheet, as the number of through holes located under the edge of the gas flow path is larger, the second metal sheet may be bent downward by pressing, and damage such as cracks occurs in the through holes. There is a fear. However, the gas diffusion device according to the present aspect reduces the number of through-holes located below the edge of the gas flow path from the number of through-holes located below a predetermined line along the edge of the gas flow path. The metal sheet is configured not to bend downward by pressing. Moreover, it is comprised so that it can suppress that damages, such as a crack, generate | occur | produce in a through-hole.

  The gas diffusion device according to the second aspect of the present disclosure is the gas diffusion device according to the first aspect. The second metal sheet adjacent to the first metal sheet in the gas diffusion device according to the first aspect, The distance between the through holes adjacent to the through hole (hereinafter referred to as the first distance) is located between the plurality of through holes located below the region of the first metal sheet outside the flow path and below the gas flow path. Longer than the distance (hereinafter referred to as the second distance).

  According to such a configuration, in the gas diffusion device of this aspect, since the first distance is longer than the second distance, for example, compared to the case where the through holes are arranged at a uniform interval in the plane of the second metal sheet, The possibility that the through hole of the second metal sheet is located below the edge of the gas flow path of the first metal sheet is reduced. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the second metal sheet bends downward due to pressing and the possibility that damage such as cracks occurs in the through hole.

  Moreover, since the number of through holes of the second metal sheet that does not contribute to gas passage from the gas flow path can be reduced as the first distance is increased, an increase in the total number of through holes of the second metal sheet is suppressed, The strength of the second metal sheet can be appropriately secured. Furthermore, by setting the second distance to a desired length, the number of through-holes in the second metal sheet contributing to gas passage from the gas flow path is suppressed, and the increase in the total number of through-holes in the second metal sheet is suppressed. However, the required number can be provided.

  A gas diffusion device according to a third aspect of the present disclosure is the gas diffusion device according to the first aspect. The second metal sheet adjacent to the first metal sheet has a plurality of through-holes positioned below the gas flow path. The number per unit area is larger than the number per unit area of the plurality of through holes located under the region of the first metal sheet outside the gas flow path.

  According to such a configuration, in the gas diffusion device of this aspect, the number of the former through-holes per unit area is larger than the number of the latter through-holes per unit area. For example, in the plane of the second metal sheet Compared to the case where the through holes are arranged uniformly, the possibility that the through holes of the second metal sheet are located below the edge of the gas flow path of the first metal sheet is reduced. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the second metal sheet bends downward due to pressing and the possibility that damage such as cracks occurs in the through hole.

  In addition, since the number of through holes of the second metal sheet that do not contribute to gas passage from the gas flow path can be reduced, an increase in the total number of through holes of the second metal sheet is suppressed, and the strength of the second metal sheet is reduced. It can be secured appropriately. Furthermore, the required number of through holes of the second metal sheet contributing to gas passage from the gas flow path can be provided while suppressing an increase in the total number of through holes of the second metal sheet.

  A gas diffusion device according to a third aspect of the present disclosure is the gas diffusion device according to the first aspect, in which the plurality of second metal sheets are stacked at least from the first layer to the third layer in the order closer to the first metal sheet. The second metal sheet of the second layer includes a through hole located below the gas flow path in the second metal sheet of the first layer, and a gas flow path in the second metal sheet of the third layer. A communication path is provided that communicates with a through hole located below the area of the first outer metal sheet.

  According to such a configuration, the gas diffusion device of this aspect can diffuse gas more uniformly than in the past. In other words, the second metal sheet of the second layer includes the communication path, so that the gas passing through the plurality of second metal sheets from the gas flow path of the first metal sheet is not limited to one direction, but can be arbitrarily selected. Can be sent in the direction. Then, the direction of the gas flow in a gas diffusion device can be arbitrarily set by laminating | stacking the 2nd metal sheet from which the arrangement pattern of a connection path differs. Thereby, the gas diffusibility of a gas diffusion device improves.

  In addition, since the gas is flowed into the through hole of the second metal sheet of the first layer through the gas flow path of the first metal sheet, the second metal sheet of the second layer has a communication path. When there is not, gas does not flow into the through hole of the second metal sheet located on the vertical line of the portion outside the gas flow path of the first metal sheet. Then, the gas diffusion of the gas diffusion device may be nonuniform. However, in the gas diffusion device of this aspect, since gas can also flow through such a through hole of the second metal sheet through the communication path, gas diffusion of the gas diffusion device becomes non-uniform. This can be suppressed.

  An electrochemical hydrogen pump according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an electrolyte membrane having a pair of main surfaces, a cathode catalyst layer provided on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane, and an anode provided on the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane A catalyst layer; a cathode gas diffusion device provided in the cathode catalyst layer; an anode gas diffusion device provided in the anode catalyst layer; and a voltage applicator for applying a voltage between the cathode catalyst layer and the anode catalyst layer. The anode gas diffusion device comprises the gas diffusion device of any of the first aspect-third aspect.

  According to such a configuration, the electrochemical hydrogen pump of this aspect can appropriately suppress an increase in contact resistance between the cathode catalyst layer and the cathode gas diffusion layer as compared with the conventional one.

  Specifically, during operation of the electrochemical hydrogen pump, if the cathode gas of the electrochemical hydrogen pump is in a high pressure state, the electrolyte membrane does not pass the cathode gas, so that high pressure is applied to the anode gas diffusion device, the anode catalyst layer, and the electrolyte membrane. Take it. At this time, when the second metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device is easily compressed and deformed, the adhesion between the cathode gas diffusion layer and the cathode catalyst layer is lowered, and a gap is easily generated between the two. If there is a gap between the cathode gas diffusion layer and the cathode catalyst layer, the contact resistance between them increases. However, the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to this aspect is configured such that the second metal sheet is less likely to bend downward due to the pressing, and therefore, an increase in contact resistance between the cathode gas diffusion layer and the cathode catalyst layer can be suppressed. Therefore, the electrochemical hydrogen pump of this aspect can suppress the increase in the voltage applied by the voltage applicator, and consequently the decrease in the operation efficiency of the electrochemical hydrogen pump.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of each aspect of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  The embodiment described below shows an example of each aspect of the present disclosure. Therefore, numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions of components, connection forms, and the like shown below do not limit each aspect of the present disclosure unless described in the claims. In addition, among the following constituent elements, constituent elements that are not described in the independent claims indicating the highest concept of this aspect are described as optional constituent elements. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are sometimes omitted. In addition, the drawings schematically show each component for easy understanding, and there are cases where the shape and dimensional ratio are not accurately displayed.

(First embodiment)
[Device configuration]
1 and 2 are diagrams illustrating an example of the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion A in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this embodiment includes an electrolyte membrane 14, a cathode catalyst layer 15, an anode catalyst layer 16, a cathode gas diffusion device 31, and an anode gas diffusion device 9. A voltage applicator 19 and a fastener 27.

  The cathode gas diffusion device 31 includes a cathode gas diffusion layer 31A and a cathode separator 31B. The anode gas diffusion device 9 includes an anode body 1 including an anode gas diffusion layer 24, an anode gas flow path plate 5, and an anode end plate 10.

  Detailed configurations of the cathode gas diffusion device 31 and the anode gas diffusion device 9 will be described later.

  A single cell 100 </ b> A of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 includes an electrolyte membrane 14, a cathode catalyst layer 15, an anode catalyst layer 16, a cathode gas diffusion device 31, and an anode gas diffusion device 9. Therefore, although the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of FIG. 1 constitutes a stack in which three single cells 100A are stacked, the number of single cells 100A is not limited to this. That is, the number of stages of the single cell 100A can be set to an appropriate number based on operating conditions such as the amount of hydrogen of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100.

  The fastener 27 fastens the laminate 100B of the electrolyte membrane 14, the cathode catalyst layer 15, the anode catalyst layer 16, the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A, and the anode gas diffusion layer 24.

  That is, in order to appropriately hold a plurality of single cells 100A including the above-described stacked body 100B in a stacked state, the end surfaces of the uppermost cathode gas diffusion device 31 and the lowermost anode gas diffusion device 9 of the single cell 100A It is necessary to apply a desired fastening pressure to the single cell 100A by sandwiching the end faces between the end plate 26U and the end plate 26D via an insulating plate (not shown). Therefore, a plurality of fasteners 27 including disc springs or the like for applying a fastening pressure to the single cell 100A are provided at appropriate positions of the end plate 26U and the end plate 26D.

  The fastening device 27 may have any configuration as long as the laminated body 100B can be fastened. Examples of the fastener 27 include a bolt penetrating between the end plate 26U and the end plate 26D, and a nut with a disc spring.

  The end plate 26U is provided with a cathode gas outlet pipe 30 through which the cathode gas from the cathode gas diffusion device 31 flows. That is, the cathode gas outlet pipe 30 communicates with a cylindrical cathode gas outlet manifold (not shown) provided in the stacked unit cell 100A. A seal member such as an O-ring (not shown) is provided between the cathode gas diffusion device 31 and the anode gas diffusion device 9 so as to surround the cathode gas extraction manifold in a plan view. It is properly sealed with a member.

  The end plate 26U is also provided with an anode gas outlet pipe 29 through which excess anode gas from the anode gas diffusion device 9 flows. That is, the anode gas outlet pipe 29 communicates with a cylindrical anode gas outlet manifold 29A provided in the stacked single cell 100A. A seal member 40 such as an O-ring is provided between the cathode gas diffusion device 31 and the anode gas diffusion device 9 so as to surround the anode gas extraction manifold 29A in a plan view, and the anode gas extraction manifold 29A is sealed. It is properly sealed with a member 40.

  The end plate 26D is provided with an anode gas introduction pipe 28 through which the anode gas supplied to the anode gas diffusion device 9 flows. That is, the anode gas introduction pipe 28 communicates with a cylindrical anode gas introduction manifold 28A provided in the stacked single cell 100A. A seal member 40 such as an O-ring is provided between the cathode gas diffusion device 31 and the anode gas diffusion device 9 so as to surround the anode gas introduction manifold 28A in a plan view, and the anode gas introduction manifold 28A is sealed. It is properly sealed with a member 40.

The electrolyte membrane 14 includes a pair of main surfaces. The electrolyte membrane 14 is a proton conductive polymer membrane that can transmit protons (H ⁺ ). The electrolyte membrane 14 may be any membrane as long as it is a proton conductive polymer membrane. For example, examples of the electrolyte membrane 14 include a fluorine-based polymer electrolyte membrane. Specifically, for example, Nafion (registered trademark, manufactured by DuPont), Aciplex (trade name, manufactured by Asahi Kasei Co., Ltd.) and the like can be used.

  The cathode catalyst layer 15 is provided on one main surface (for example, the front surface) of the electrolyte membrane 14. In plan view, a sealing member 41 such as an O-ring or a gasket is provided so as to surround the cathode catalyst layer 15, and the cathode catalyst layer 15 is appropriately sealed with the sealing member 41. The cathode catalyst layer 15 includes, for example, platinum as a catalyst metal, but is not limited thereto.

  The anode catalyst layer 16 is provided on the other main surface (for example, the back surface) of the electrolyte membrane 14. In plan view, a sealing member 42 such as an O-ring or a gasket is provided so as to surround the anode catalyst layer 16, and the anode catalyst layer 16 is appropriately sealed with the sealing member 42. The anode catalyst layer 16 includes, for example, RuIrFeOx as a catalyst metal, but is not limited thereto.

  The cathode catalyst layer 15 and the anode catalyst layer 16 are not particularly limited because various methods can be used as a method for preparing the catalyst. For example, examples of the catalyst carrier include conductive porous material powder and carbon-based powder. Examples of the carbon-based powder include powders such as graphite, carbon black, and activated carbon having electrical conductivity. The method for supporting platinum or other catalytic metals on a carrier such as carbon is not particularly limited. For example, a method such as powder mixing or liquid phase mixing may be used. Examples of the latter liquid phase mixing include a method of dispersing and adsorbing a carrier such as carbon in a catalyst component colloid liquid. If necessary, platinum or other catalytic metals can be supported in the same manner as described above using the active oxygen removing material as a carrier. The state of the catalyst metal such as platinum supported on the carrier is not particularly limited. For example, the catalyst metal may be finely divided and supported on the carrier with high dispersion.

  The voltage applicator 19 applies a voltage between the cathode catalyst layer 15 and the anode catalyst layer 16. Specifically, the low potential side terminal of the voltage applicator 19 is connected to the conductive cathode gas diffusion device 31, and the high potential side terminal of the voltage applicator 19 is connected to the conductive anode gas diffusion device 9. ing. The voltage applicator 19 may have any configuration as long as a voltage can be applied between the cathode catalyst layer 15 and the anode catalyst layer 16.

[Configuration of cathode gas diffusion device]
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a cathode gas diffusion device of the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to the first embodiment.

  The cathode gas diffusion device 31 is provided in the cathode catalyst layer 15. Specifically, the cathode gas diffusion layer 31 </ b> A of the cathode gas diffusion device 31 is provided on the main surface of the cathode catalyst layer 15 that does not face the electrolyte membrane 14. The cathode gas diffusion layer 31A may have any configuration as long as it has desired elasticity, desired electrical conductivity, and desired gas permeability. For example, the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A may be formed of a sintered body of metal fibers (not shown). The material of the metal fiber may be, for example, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum alloy or the like. In addition, the material of this metal fiber is an illustration, Comprising: It is not limited to this example.

  The cathode separator 31B of the cathode gas diffusion device 31 includes a recess 35 through which the cathode gas derived from the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A flows. The cathode gas diffusion layer 31 </ b> A is housed in the recess 35, and is disposed so as to protrude from the recess 35 in the thickness direction before the laminate 100 </ b> B is fastened by the fastener 27. The protruding amount Ecd of the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A from the recess 35 in the thickness direction takes into account the compression amount of the anode gas diffusion layer 24, the anode catalyst layer 16 and the electrolyte membrane 14 when the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is operated. And set to an appropriate value.

  The cathode separator 31B includes a manifold hole 32C through which the cathode gas flows, and a cathode gas communication path 32B through which the cathode gas in the recess 35 is led to the manifold hole 32C. That is, when the single cells 100A are stacked, a cylindrical cathode gas lead-out manifold is formed by the manifold hole 32A (see FIG. 4) provided in the anode gas diffusion device 9 and the manifold hole 32C. Thereby, the cathode gas in a high pressure state can be taken out from the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A through the cathode gas communication path 32B.

[Configuration of anode gas diffusion device]
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an anode gas diffusion device of the electrochemical hydrogen pump according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4A is a plan view of the anode body 1 of the anode gas diffusion device 9. FIG. 4B is a plan view of the anode gas flow path plate 5 of the anode gas diffusion device 9. FIG. 4C is a plan view of the anode end plate 10 of the anode gas diffusion device 9.

  FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of the anode gas diffusion device 9. That is, in FIG. 4D, a cross section of the DD portion of the anode gas diffusion device 9 shown in plan view in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C is shown. .

  The anode gas diffusion device 9 is provided on the anode catalyst layer 16. Specifically, the anode gas diffusion layer 24 of the anode gas diffusion device 9 is provided on the main surface of the anode catalyst layer 16 that does not face the electrolyte membrane 14.

  4A and 4D, the anode body 1 of the anode gas diffusion device 9 includes an anode gas diffusion layer 24, a manifold hole 3 for introducing the anode gas, and a manifold hole for extracting the anode gas. 4. The anode body 1 may be made of a metal such as stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloy, or aluminum alloy. The thickness of the anode body 1 may be about several hundred μm (for example, about 400 μm). These materials and thicknesses are examples and are not limited to this example. The anode gas diffusion layer 24 is composed of one or more metal sheets, details of which will be described later.

  The anode gas flow path plate 5 of the anode gas diffusion device 9 is provided on the main surface of the anode body 1. In the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment, the anode gas flow path plate 5 is in surface contact with the main surface of the anode body 1.

  As a material of the anode gas flow path plate 5, for example, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum alloy, or the like can be used. The thickness of the anode gas flow path plate 5 may be about several tens of μm (for example, about 50 μm). These materials and thicknesses are examples and are not limited to this example.

  As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4D, the anode gas flow path plate 5 includes a manifold hole 7 for introducing an anode gas and a manifold hole 8 for extracting the anode gas.

  The manifold hole 7 and the manifold hole 8 are disposed so as to face the manifold hole 3 and the manifold hole 4 of the anode body 1, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the anode gas flow path 6 of the anode gas flow path plate 5 is a serpentine-shaped slit hole 36 having one end communicating with the manifold hole 7 and the other end communicating with both the manifold holes 8. Although not shown, it may be configured by a plurality of linear slit holes communicating with the manifold hole 7 and the manifold hole 8.

  The manifold hole 7 is used for introducing the anode gas into the anode gas diffusion layer 24 by communicating with one end of the slit hole 36. That is, the anode gas that has passed through the contact portion between the slit hole 36 of the anode gas flow path 6 and the anode gas diffusion layer 24 is sent to the anode gas diffusion layer 24. The manifold hole 8 communicates with the other end of the slit hole 36 and is used to lead out the anode gas from the anode gas diffusion layer 24.

  The anode end plate 10 of the anode gas diffusion device 9 is provided on a main surface (hereinafter referred to as an opposite surface) that does not face the anode body 1 among the main surfaces of the anode gas flow path plate 5. Specifically, the serpentine-shaped slit hole 36 of the anode gas flow channel plate 5 is covered from the opposite surface by the anode end plate 10.

  As a material of the anode end plate 10, for example, stainless steel, titanium, a titanium alloy, an aluminum alloy, or the like can be used. The thickness of the anode end plate 10 may be about several tens of μm (for example, about 50 μm). These materials and thicknesses are examples and are not limited to this example.

  Further, the anode end plate 10 includes a manifold hole 11 for introducing an anode gas and a manifold hole 12 for extracting the anode gas. The manifold hole 11 and the manifold hole 12 of the anode end plate 10 are respectively arranged so as to face the manifold hole 7 and the manifold hole 8 of the anode gas flow path plate 5.

  As described above, when the single cells 100A are stacked, the anode gas introduction manifold 28A is formed by the manifold hole 11, the manifold hole 7, the manifold hole 3, and the manifold hole of the cathode separator 31B. The anode gas lead-out manifold 29A is formed by the manifold hole 12, the manifold hole 8, the manifold hole 4, and the manifold hole of the cathode separator 31B.

  In addition, the anode end plate 10, the anode gas flow path plate 5, and the anode main body 1 may be integrally joined by metal joining by welding, brazing, welding, or the like. For example, the main surface of the anode end plate 10, the main surface of the anode gas flow channel plate 5, and the main surface of the anode body 1 may be surface-bonded by diffusion bonding or the like. Thereby, compared with the case where the anode end plate 10, the anode gas flow path plate 5, and the anode main body 1 are fixed and laminated with a mechanical fastening member, the gap at the joint portion disappears, so the anode gas diffusion device 9 contact resistance (electrical resistance) can be reduced. Then, when applying a desired voltage to the anode gas diffusion device 9, an increase in power consumption required for the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 can be suppressed.

  Next, the details of the metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 (anode gas diffusion layer 24) will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the first embodiment. FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the anode gas diffusion device 9 in a region 200 (see FIG. 4) where the anode gas flow path 6 is formed. FIG. 5B shows the second metal sheet 22 constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 (anode gas diffusion layer 24) in the BB part of FIG. It is the figure seen in cross section with the road board 5 and the anode end plate 10).

  As shown in FIG. 5, the anode gas diffusion layer 24 of the anode gas diffusion device 9 includes a plurality of through holes 23 through which the anode gas supplied from the anode gas flow path 6 passes, and one or more second metals. A sheet 22 is provided. FIG. 5 shows only the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A adjacent to the first metal sheet 21 among the second metal sheets 22. A specific example of the second metal sheet 22 laminated on the second metal sheet 22A will be described in the second embodiment.

  In FIG. 5, the first metal sheet 21 including the anode gas flow path 6 is configured by the anode gas flow path plate 5 and the anode end plate 10, but is not limited thereto. The first metal sheet 21 may be a single metal member in which the anode gas flow path is provided in a groove shape.

  The second metal sheet 22 is configured such that portions other than the through holes 23 do not have gas permeability. For example, the second metal sheet 22 may be a metal steel plate having a thickness of about several tens of μm to several hundreds of μm, but is not limited thereto. The second metal sheet 22 can be manufactured, for example, by performing metal casting and rolling. Since the metal casting and rolling processes are known, a detailed description is omitted.

  As a material of the second metal sheet 22, for example, stainless steel, titanium, titanium alloy, aluminum alloy, or the like can be used.

  Here, in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A adjacent to the first metal sheet 21 is positioned below the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6. The number of through holes is smaller than the number of through holes 23 located below a predetermined line 300 along the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6. The through hole 23 may be, for example, a round hole having a diameter of about several tens of μm (for example, about 50 μm). The second metal sheet 22 </ b> A may have any configuration as long as the former through-hole is less than the latter through-hole 23.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, the plurality of through holes 23 of the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A are formed from the ends (that is, the edges 38) of the ribs 37 that define the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. At positions separated by a predetermined horizontal distance on the anode gas flow path 6 side, they are lined up at equal intervals along a pair of lines 300 substantially parallel to the edge line of the anode gas flow path 6. These through holes 23 are configured as openings through which the anode gas of the anode gas flow path 6 passes. Therefore, the through hole 23 contributes to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6.

  Further, in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment, the through hole 23 of the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A does not face the rib 37 that partitions the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. Therefore, in FIG. 5, no through hole is provided in the region of the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A located under the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6. However, if the number is smaller than the number of the through holes 23 located below the line 300, the through holes may be provided so as to be located below the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6.

  As described above, in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment, the through hole 23 through which the gas from the anode gas flow path 6 passes is provided at an appropriate position of the second metal sheet 22A as compared with the conventional case.

  Specifically, the through hole P of the second metal sheet 22A as shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 5A is temporarily located below the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. In this case, when the second metal sheet 22A is pressed on the anode gas flow path 6 by the gas pressure of the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A, bending stress concentrates on the portion of the through hole P. For this reason, in the second metal sheet 22A, the second metal sheet 22A bends downward by pressing as the number of through holes located under the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21 increases. There is a fear that damage such as cracks may occur in the through hole.

  However, in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment, the through hole located under the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6 is changed from the through hole located under the predetermined line 300 along the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6. By making the number less than 23, the second metal sheet 22A is configured not to bend downward by pressing. Moreover, it is comprised so that it can suppress that damages, such as a crack, generate | occur | produce in a through-hole.

  The material and thickness of the second metal sheet 22 and the shape of the through hole 23 of the second metal sheet 22 are examples, and are not limited to this example.

[Operation of electrochemical hydrogen pump]
Hereinafter, an example of the operation (operation) of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

  Part or all of the following operations may be performed by a control program of a controller (not shown). The controller may have any configuration as long as it has a control function. The controller includes, for example, an arithmetic circuit and a storage circuit that stores a control program. Examples of the arithmetic circuit include an MPU and a CPU. An example of the memory circuit is a memory. The controller may be composed of a single controller that performs centralized control, or may be composed of a plurality of controllers that perform distributed control in cooperation with each other.

  First, a voltage is applied between the cathode gas diffusion device 31 and the anode gas diffusion device 9 by the voltage applicator 19.

  Next, the anode gas is supplied to the anode gas diffusion device 9 through the anode gas introduction pipe 28. Specifically, the anode gas is supplied from the anode gas introduction pipe 28 to the manifold hole 7 of FIG. Then, since the manifold hole 7 communicates with one end of the anode gas flow path 6, the anode gas is sent from the manifold hole 7 to the anode gas flow path 6.

  At this time, a part of the anode gas flowing through the anode gas channel 6 is sent to the anode gas diffusion layer 24 of the anode body 1. Since the anode gas diffusion layer 24 has a gas diffusion action, the anode gas directed from the anode gas flow path 6 to the main surface (hereinafter referred to as the opposite surface) of the anode gas diffusion layer 24 not facing the anode gas flow path plate 5 is generated. The anode gas diffusion layer 24 can pass through the opposite surface while being uniformly diffused. As a result, the anode gas is uniformly supplied to the anode catalyst layer 16 disposed on the opposite surface of the anode gas diffusion layer 24. The surplus anode gas that has not passed through the opposite surface is sent to the manifold hole 8 communicating with the other end of the anode gas flow path 6 and discharged to the anode gas outlet pipe 29. Examples of the anode gas include a hydrogen-containing reformed gas and a hydrogen-containing gas generated by a water electrolysis method.

Thus, hydrogen in the anode gas releases electrons on the anode catalyst layer 16 to become protons (H ⁺ ) (formula (1)). The liberated electrons move to the cathode catalyst layer 15 via the voltage applicator 19.

  On the other hand, protons permeate the electrolyte membrane 14 with water molecules and move to the cathode catalyst layer 15. In the cathode catalyst layer 15, a reduction reaction is performed by protons that have permeated through the electrolyte membrane 14 and electrons, and cathode gas (hydrogen gas) is generated (formula (2)).

As a result, the hydrogen gas is purified with high efficiency from the hydrogen gas (anode gas) containing impurities such as CO ₂ gas. The anode gas sometimes contains CO gas as an impurity. In this case, since CO gas reduces the catalytic activity of the anode catalyst layer 16 and the like, it is better to remove the CO gas by a CO remover (not shown) (for example, a converter, a CO selective oxidizer, etc.).

  The cathode gas pressure P2 is increased by increasing the pressure loss of the cathode gas outlet pipe 30 and increasing the voltage E of the voltage applicator 19. Specifically, the relationship among the anode gas pressure P1, the cathode gas pressure P2, and the voltage E of the voltage applicator 19 is formulated by the following equation (3).

Anode: H ₂ (low pressure) → 2H ⁺ + 2e ⁻ (1)
Cathode: 2H ⁺ + 2e ⁻ → H ₂ (high pressure) (2)
E = (RT / 2F) ln (P2 / P1) + ir (3)
In the formula (3), R is a gas constant (8.3145 J / K · mol), T is a temperature (K), F is a Faraday constant (96485 C / mol), P2 is a cathode gas pressure, and P1 is an anode gas pressure. , I is the current density (A / cm ² ), and r is the cell resistance (Ω · cm ² ).

  From equation (3), it can be easily understood that the cathode gas pressure P2 can be increased by increasing the voltage E of the voltage applicator 19. Note that the pressure loss of the cathode gas outlet pipe 30 can be increased or decreased by, for example, the opening degree of an on-off valve provided in the cathode gas outlet pipe 30.

  When the gas pressure in the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure, by reducing the pressure loss of the cathode gas outlet pipe 30 (for example, by increasing the opening of the on-off valve), the cathode of the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A. The gas is charged into a high-pressure hydrogen tank (not shown) through the cathode gas outlet pipe 30. On the other hand, when the gas pressure of the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A becomes less than a predetermined pressure, the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A and the high pressure are increased by increasing the pressure loss of the cathode gas outlet pipe 30 (for example, by reducing the opening of the on-off valve). The hydrogen tank is shut off. As a result, the cathode gas in the high-pressure hydrogen tank is prevented from flowing back to the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A.

  Thus, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 boosts the high purity cathode gas (hydrogen gas) to a desired target pressure and fills the high pressure hydrogen tank.

  In the cathode gas pressure increasing operation described above, the cathode gas pressure P2 becomes high, and the electrolyte membrane 14, the anode catalyst layer 16, and the anode gas diffusion layer 24 are pressed. Then, the electrolyte membrane 14, the anode catalyst layer 16, and the anode gas diffusion layer 24 are compressed by this pressing. At this time, if the adhesion between the cathode gas diffusion layer 31 </ b> A and the electrolyte membrane 14 (cathode catalyst layer 15) is low, a gap is easily generated between the two. If there is a gap between the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A and the electrolyte membrane 14 (cathode catalyst layer 15), the contact resistance between the two increases. As a result, the voltage E applied by the voltage applicator 19 increases, which may reduce the operation efficiency of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100.

  Therefore, the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A is configured to protrude from the recess 35 of the cathode separator 31B in the thickness direction by an amount of protrusion cd before the laminate 100B is fastened by the fastener 27, as shown in FIG. Has been. In addition, the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A is compressed by the amount of protrusion Εcd by the fastener 27 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 when the stacked body 100B is fastened. Therefore, even when each of the anode gas diffusion layer 24, the anode catalyst layer 16, and the electrolyte membrane 14 is compressed and deformed, the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A is elastic in a direction to return from the thickness after compression by the fastener 27 to the thickness before compression. By deforming, the contact between the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A and the electrolyte membrane 14 (cathode catalyst layer 15) can be appropriately maintained.

  Further, when the second metal sheet 22A constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 is easily compressed and deformed, the adhesion between the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A and the electrolyte membrane 14 (cathode catalyst layer 15) is lowered, and the two A gap is likely to occur. However, in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment, the through hole located below the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6 is replaced with the through hole 23 located below the predetermined line 300 along the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6. Since the second metal sheet 22A is configured to be less likely to bend downward due to the pressure, an increase in contact resistance between the cathode gas diffusion layer 31A and the electrolyte membrane 14 (cathode catalyst layer 15) is suppressed. it can.

  As described above, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 according to the present embodiment can suppress an increase in the voltage applied by the voltage applicator 19 and, consequently, a decrease in operating efficiency of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100.

(First modification)
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the first modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the anode gas diffusion device 9 in a region 200 (see FIG. 4) where the anode gas channel 6 is formed. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the second metal sheet 22 constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 (anode gas diffusion layer 24) in the BB part of FIG. 6A together with the first metal sheet 21. FIG. FIG. In FIG. 6, only the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A adjacent to the first metal sheet 21 among the second metal sheets 22 is shown.

  The anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present modification is the same as the anode gas flow of the first metal sheet 21 in the second metal sheet 22A adjacent to the first metal sheet 21 in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the first embodiment. The first distance Lb between the through hole 23 located below the passage 6 and the first metal sheet 21 outside the anode gas flow path 6 and adjacent to the through hole 23 is It is longer than the second distance La between the plurality of through holes 23 located below the gas flow path 6.

  In the example shown in FIG. 6, the plurality of through holes 23 of the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A are formed from the ends (that is, the edges 38) of the ribs 37 that define the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. At a position separated by a predetermined horizontal distance on the anode gas flow path 6 side, they are arranged at equal intervals along a pair of lines 300 substantially parallel to the edge line of the anode gas flow path 6. At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, the through holes 23 adjacent in the horizontal direction orthogonal to the line 300 are separated from each other by the second distance La. These through holes 23 are configured as openings through which the anode gas of the anode gas flow path 6 passes. Therefore, the through hole 23 contributes to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6.

  Further, the plurality of through holes 23H of the second metal sheet 22A are predetermined on the rib 37 side from the end portions (that is, the edges 38) of the ribs 37 that define the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. Are arranged at equal pitches larger than the pitch of the through holes 23 along a pair of lines 400 substantially parallel to the edge line of the anode gas flow path 6 at positions separated by a horizontal distance of. At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, the through hole 23 and the through hole 23H adjacent in the horizontal direction orthogonal to the line 400 are separated by a first distance Lb longer than the second distance La. Since these through holes 23H are covered with the ribs 37, they do not contribute to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6.

  As described above, in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present modification, the first distance Lb is longer than the second distance La. For example, the through holes are arranged at a uniform interval in the surface of the second metal sheet 22A. Compared to the above, the possibility that the through hole of the second metal sheet 22A is located below the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21 is reduced. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the second metal sheet 22A bends downward due to pressing and the possibility that damage such as cracks occurs in the through hole.

  Further, since the number of the through holes 23H of the second metal sheet 22A that does not contribute to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6 can be reduced as the first distance Lb is increased, the penetration of the second metal sheet 22A is reduced. The increase in the total number of holes is suppressed, and the strength of the second metal sheet 22A can be appropriately secured. Furthermore, by setting the second distance La to a desired length, the through hole 23 of the second metal sheet 22A that contributes to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6 is made to pass through the second metal sheet 22A. A necessary number can be provided while suppressing an increase in the total number of through holes.

  The anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present modification may be the same as the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the first embodiment except for the above features.

(Second modification)
FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the second modification of the first embodiment. FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the anode gas diffusion device 9 in a region 200 (see FIG. 4) where the anode gas flow path 6 is formed. FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the second metal sheet 22 constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 (anode gas diffusion layer 24) in the BB part of FIG. 7A together with the first metal sheet 21. FIG. In FIG. 7, only the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A adjacent to the first metal sheet 21 among the second metal sheets 22 is shown.

  The anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present modification is the same as the anode gas flow of the first metal sheet 21 in the second metal sheet 22A adjacent to the first metal sheet 21 in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the first embodiment. The number per unit area of the plurality of through holes 23 located under the path 6 is more than the number per unit area of the plurality of through holes 23H located under the region of the first metal sheet 21 outside the anode gas flow path 6. There are many.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7, the plurality of through holes 23 of the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A are formed from the end portions (that is, the edges 38) of the ribs 37 that define the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. At a position separated by a predetermined horizontal distance on the anode gas flow path 6 side, they are arranged at equal intervals along a pair of lines 300 substantially parallel to the edge line of the anode gas flow path 6. At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, when the unit area Na is taken, the four through holes 23 arranged along the line 300 are arranged in two rows. As a result, the unit area Na per unit area Na of the through holes 23 The number is eight. These through holes 23 are configured as openings through which the anode gas of the anode gas flow path 6 passes. Therefore, the through hole 23 contributes to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6.

  Further, the plurality of through holes 23H of the second metal sheet 22A are predetermined on the rib 37 side from the end portions (that is, the edges 38) of the ribs 37 that define the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. Are arranged at equal pitches larger than the pitch of the through holes 23 along a pair of lines 500 substantially parallel to the edge line of the anode gas flow path 6 at positions separated by a horizontal distance of. At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, when the unit area Nb is taken so as to be the same area as the unit area Na, the three through holes 23H arranged along the line 500 are arranged in two rows. As a result, the number of the through holes 23H per unit area Nb is six, which is smaller than the number of the through holes 23 per unit area Na. Since these through holes 23H are covered with the ribs 37, they do not contribute to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6.

  As described above, in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present modification, the number of the through holes 23 per unit area Na is larger than the number of the through holes 23H per unit area Nb. The possibility that the through holes of the second metal sheet 22 </ b> A are located below the edge 38 of the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21 is lower than in the case where the through holes are evenly arranged in the plane. . Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the second metal sheet 22A bends downward due to pressing and the possibility that damage such as cracks occurs in the through hole.

  Further, since the number of through holes 23H of the second metal sheet 22A that does not contribute to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6 can be reduced, an increase in the total number of through holes of the second metal sheet 22A is suppressed, and the second The strength of the second metal sheet 22A can be appropriately secured. Furthermore, the necessary number of through holes 23 of the second metal sheet 22A contributing to the passage of the anode gas from the anode gas flow path 6 are provided while suppressing an increase in the total number of through holes of the second metal sheet 22A. Can do.

  The anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present modification may be the same as the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the first embodiment except for the above features.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a metal sheet constituting the anode gas diffusion device of the second embodiment.

  FIG. 8A is a plan view of the second metal sheet 22A of the first layer constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 (anode gas diffusion layer 24). FIG. 8B is a plan view of the second metal sheet 22B of the second layer constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 (anode gas diffusion layer 24). FIG. 8C is a plan view of the third metal sheet 22C of the third layer constituting the anode gas diffusion device 9 (anode gas diffusion layer 24).

  In FIG. 8A, the second metal sheet 22A of the first embodiment (FIG. 5) is illustrated as the second metal sheet 22A of the first layer, but the present invention is not limited to this. The second metal sheet 22A of the first layer in FIG. 8A may be the second metal sheet 22A of the first modification (FIG. 6) of the first embodiment, or the second modification of the first embodiment. The second metal sheet 22A of the example (FIG. 7) may be used.

  FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional view of the anode gas diffusion device 9. That is, FIG. 8D shows a cross-section of the DD portion of the anode gas diffusion device 9 shown in plan view in FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C. .

  The anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment is the same as the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the first embodiment, in which the plurality of second metal sheets 22 are arranged from the first layer to the third layer in the order closer to the first metal sheet 21. At least, the second metal sheet 22B of the second layer has a through hole 23D positioned below the anode gas flow path 6 in the second metal sheet 22A of the first layer, and a second layer of the third layer. The metal sheet 22 </ b> C includes a communication path 25 that communicates with a through-hole 23 </ b> U located below the region of the first metal sheet 21 outside the anode gas flow path 6.

  In the example shown in FIG. 8, the communication path 25 includes a through hole 23 </ b> U of the second metal sheet 22 </ b> C of the third layer above the second metal sheet 22 </ b> B of the second layer provided with the communication path 25, and It communicates with the through hole 23D of the second metal sheet 22A of the first layer. In this case, the through hole 23 </ b> U and the through hole 23 </ b> D are biased in a direction parallel to the main surface of the second metal sheet 22 by the length of the communication path 25.

  The communication path 25 may have any configuration as long as the through-hole 23U and the through-hole 23D can communicate with each other. For example, when the through hole 23U and the through hole 23D are round holes having a diameter of about several tens of μm, the communication path 25 may be an elliptical slit hole having a width of about several tens of μm. The shapes and dimensions of these through-holes 23U, through-holes 23D, and communication paths 25 are merely examples, and are not limited to this example.

  As described above, the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment can diffuse the anode gas more uniformly than in the past. In other words, since the second metal sheet 22B of the second layer includes the communication path 25, the anode gas passing through the plurality of second metal sheets 22 from the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21 is reduced. It can be sent in any direction, not just the direction. Then, the direction of the anode gas flow in the anode gas diffusion device 9 can be arbitrarily set by laminating the second metal sheets 22 having different arrangement patterns of the communication paths 25. Thereby, the gas diffusibility of the anode gas diffusion device 9 is improved.

  Further, since the gas is allowed to flow into the through hole 23D of the second metal sheet 22A of the first layer through the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21, the second metal sheet of the second layer When 22B is not provided with a connecting path, the anode is not provided in the through hole 23U of the second metal sheet 22C of the third layer located on the vertical line of the region of the rib 37 outside the anode gas flow path 6 of the first metal sheet 21. Gas does not flow. Then, the gas diffusion of the anode gas diffusion device 9 may be nonuniform. However, in the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment, the anode gas can be caused to flow also into the through hole 23U of the second metal sheet 22C of the third layer through the communication path 25. It is possible to suppress the gas diffusion of the anode gas diffusion device 9 from becoming non-uniform.

  The anode gas diffusion device 9 of the present embodiment may be the same as the anode gas diffusion device 9 of the first embodiment except for the above features.

  Note that the first embodiment, the first modification of the first embodiment, the second modification of the first embodiment, and the second embodiment may be combined with each other as long as they do not exclude each other.

  In addition, many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure are apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Accordingly, the foregoing description is to be construed as illustrative only and is provided for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode of carrying out the disclosure. Details of the structure and / or function may be substantially changed without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

  One aspect of the present disclosure can be used for a gas diffusion device in which a through-hole through which a gas from a gas flow path passes is provided at an appropriate position of a metal sheet, as compared with the related art.

1: Anode body 3: Manifold hole 4: Manifold hole 5: Anode gas flow path plate 6: Anode gas flow path 7: Manifold hole 8: Manifold hole 9: Anode gas diffusion device 10: Anode end plate 11: Manifold hole 12: Manifold hole 14: electrolyte membrane 15: cathode catalyst layer 16: anode catalyst layer 19: voltage applicator 21: first metal sheet 22: second metal sheet 22A: second metal sheet 22B: second metal sheet 22C : 2nd metal sheet 23: Through hole 23D: Through hole 23H: Through hole 23U: Through hole 24: Anode gas diffusion layer 25: Connection path 26D: End plate 26U: End plate 27: Fastener 28: Anode gas introduction pipe 28A: Anode gas introduction manifold 29: Anode gas outlet piping 29A: Anode gas outlet manifold 30: F Sword gas outlet piping 31: cathode gas diffusion device 31A: cathode gas diffusion layer 31B: cathode separator 32A: manifold hole 32B: cathode gas communication path 32C: manifold hole 35: recess 36: slit hole 37: rib 38: edge 40: seal member 41: Seal member 42: Seal member 100: Electrochemical hydrogen pump 100A: Single cell 100B: Laminate

Claims (5)

  A first metal sheet having a gas flow path, and one or more second metal sheets having a plurality of through holes through which gas supplied from the gas flow path passes, the first metal sheet In the second metal sheet adjacent to the gas diffusion, the through hole located below the edge of the gas flow path is less than the through hole located below a predetermined line along the edge of the gas flow path. device.   In the second metal sheet adjacent to the first metal sheet, the through-hole located under the gas flow path and the region of the first metal sheet outside the gas flow path, and the The gas diffusion device according to claim 1, wherein a distance from a through hole adjacent to the through hole is longer than a distance between the plurality of through holes located under the gas flow path.   In the second metal sheet adjacent to the first metal sheet, the number per unit area of the plurality of through holes located below the gas flow path is the area of the first metal sheet outside the gas flow path. The gas diffusion device according to claim 1, wherein the number of the plurality of through-holes located below is larger than the number per unit area.   A plurality of second metal sheets are laminated at least from the first layer to the third layer in the order close to the first metal sheet, and the second metal sheet of the second layer includes the first layer. A through hole located under the gas flow path in the second metal sheet, and a region of the first metal sheet outside the gas flow path in the second metal sheet of the third layer. The gas diffusion device according to claim 1, further comprising a communication path that communicates with the through hole. An electrolyte membrane comprising a pair of main surfaces;
A cathode catalyst layer provided on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane;
An anode catalyst layer provided on the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane;
A cathode gas diffusion device provided in the cathode catalyst layer;
An anode gas diffusion device provided in the anode catalyst layer;
A voltage applicator for applying a voltage between the cathode catalyst layer and the anode catalyst layer;
With
The said anode gas diffusion device is an electrochemical hydrogen pump containing the gas diffusion device of any one of Claims 1-4.

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