JP3491066B2 - Fuel cell - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a fuel cell in which hydrogen and oxygen, which are reaction gases, are reacted with each other by a cell to generate water, and electricity is generated at that time.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a fuel cell system, for example, a reformer that heats an evaporator by a heater and supplies the vaporized raw material to the catalyst layer to reform the raw material to produce hydrogen. Then, the hydrogen obtained is supplied to a fuel cell to generate electricity. This fuel cell is equipped with a cell stack of cells assembled by stacking a plurality of separators. The cell has an ion exchange membrane, a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode, and the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane. Are sandwiched between separators, and hydrogen is reacted with oxygen in the reaction gas by the cell to generate water, and electricity is generated at that time.

[0003]

In such a cell stack of an ion-exchange membrane fuel cell, with time, steam for humidification, water, produced water, etc. may become clogged in the gas passage, or the ion-exchange membrane may not be formed. It was sometimes deformed by water to block the gas passage. Therefore, problems such as insufficient supply of the reaction gas and uneven supply of the reaction gas in each cell may occur.

Further, in a cell stack of an ion exchange membrane fuel cell, when the separators constituting the cells are produced by laminating a plate-shaped material in multiple layers, the adhesive may overflow into the gas passage and block the gas passage. It was In particular, the tunnel passage in the part communicating from the inlet / outlet of the gas passage of the cell stack to the power generation portion had a small cross-sectional area and was easily affected by the protrusion of the adhesive. Further, since pressure is applied along with heat treatment during bonding, the ion exchange membrane is apt to cause lateral displacement in the bonding surface direction, making it difficult to accurately determine the position. Therefore, there are problems that the supply of the reaction gas is not sufficient and the supply amount of each cell is not uniform. Further, if the gas passage width and the like are set to be large in consideration of the protrusion of the adhesive, it is difficult to reduce the size.

In addition, in the cell stack of the ion exchange membrane fuel cell, in addition to the water generated by power generation, condensed water of the humidified steam may gradually accumulate on the outlet side of the cell stack, blocking the outlet passage.

Further, in the cell stack of the ion exchange membrane fuel cell, gas is supplied to each cell due to an error in a passage area in manufacturing, passage deformation during operation due to deformation of the ion exchange membrane, water clogging and the like. There was a problem that the amount was not uniform.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and maintains the flow rate of the reaction gas in the gas passage at a predetermined flow rate.
An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell capable of smoothly supplying a reaction gas, improving cell reliability, and easily maintaining performance .

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and to achieve the object, the invention according to claim 1 uses a plurality of separators as a set to laminate a plurality of gas-shielding plates. And a cell stack of the assembled cells, wherein the cell is
An ion exchange membrane , a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode arranged on both sides of the ion exchange membrane, and the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode.
And a porous guide body disposed on the negative catalyst electrode side.
Has bets, fuel the outer periphery of the ion exchange membrane is held sandwiched between the separators, by reacting hydrogen in the reaction gas and oxygen to produce water by the cell, to generate electricity at that time In the battery, on one side of the cell stack
Has an inlet for hydrogen and an outlet for hydrogen on the other side.
Provided to surround the inlet and outlet
Gasket is provided between the separator, the entering
An inlet passage is formed in the mouth portion in the stacking direction of the cells,
From this inlet passage, a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages are connected to the gas
Through the lower part of the ket to the distribution passage of the cell,
Communicating from the distribution passage to the gas passage, said outlet portion, before
An outlet passage is formed in the stacking direction of the cells.
A plurality of outlet side tunnel passages connected to the
Through the lower part of the
The joint passage communicates with the gas passage, and the distribution passage has the passage.
The ion exchange formed between the parator and the cell
The ion exchange membrane is provided at a portion of the membrane corresponding to the distribution passage.
It is characterized in that a reinforcing member is provided to prevent the elastic member from extending and deforming . In this way, the distribution passage
Formed between the ion exchange membrane and the cell,
It is possible to prevent the ion exchange membrane from
Provide a reinforcing member to prevent deformation of the ion exchange membrane
Therefore, by maintaining the flow rate of the reaction gas in the distribution passage at a predetermined flow rate, no special device or control is required, and steam for humidification, water, generated water, etc. may be clogged in the gas passage over time, The ion exchange membrane will not be deformed by water and will not block the distribution passage, and the supply of the reaction gas will be sufficient at low cost, and the supply amount of the reaction gas for each cell will be uniform to facilitate the performance. Can be maintained.

The invention according to claim 2 is a plurality of separators.
Assembled by assembling by stacking multiple gas barrier plates
A cell stack of different cells, the cells being ion exchanged
The membrane and the positive catalytic charge located on either side of this ion exchange membrane.
A pole and a negative catalyst electrode, the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode
And a porous guide body arranged on the side of the catalyst electrode,
The outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators.
And the reaction gas hydrogen and oxygen are retained by the cell.
Fuel that reacts to produce water and generates electricity at that time
In a battery, one side of the cell stack is filled with hydrogen.
A mouth is provided, and a hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side,
The separator is provided so as to surround the inlet and the outlet.
A gasket is provided between the vibrators, and at the inlet,
An inlet passage is formed in the stacking direction of the cells.
Multiple entrance side tunnel passages under the gasket
Communicating with the distribution passage of the cell through
From communicating with the gas passage, the outlet section is the product of the cell
An outlet passage is formed in the layer direction and communicates with this outlet passage.
A plurality of exit side tunnel passages are provided below the gasket.
Through to the collecting passage of the cell,
Communicating with the gas passage, the distribution passage and the separator
Formed between the cells and the ions in the distribution passage
The ion exchange membrane is distributed to the portion corresponding to the exchange membrane.
It is characterized in that a spacer for restricting entry into the passage is provided . In this way, the distribution passage and the separator
Formed between the cell and the ion exchange membrane of the distribution passage
The part where the ion exchange membrane enters the distribution passage
By providing a spacer to control and preventing the deformation of the ion exchange membrane, the flow of the reaction gas distribution passage is maintained at a predetermined flow rate, so that no special device or control is required, and the reaction gas can be supplied at low cost. This is sufficient, and the amount of reaction gas supplied to each cell can be made uniform to easily maintain the performance.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cell stack of cells in which a plurality of separators are assembled and laminated by interposing a gas blocking plate, and the cell stack includes an ion exchange membrane and the ion exchange membrane. A positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode arranged on both sides of, and a porous guide body arranged on the side of the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode, the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is The fuel cell is sandwiched between the separators, and hydrogen is generated by reacting hydrogen and oxygen of the reaction gas by the cells, and electricity is generated at that time. An inlet portion is provided, an outlet portion for hydrogen is provided on the other side, and a gasket is provided between the separators so as to surround the inlet portion and the outlet portion. Stacking method An inlet passage is formed in the direction from which a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages pass under the gasket and communicate with the distribution passages of the cells, the distribution passages communicate with the gas passages, and the outlet portion has An outlet passage is formed in the stacking direction of the cells, and a plurality of outlet-side tunnel passages communicating with the outlet passages pass under the gasket and communicate with the collecting passages of the cells. The distribution passage is formed between the separator and the cell in communication with the separator, and in the distribution passage facing the ion exchange membrane, the hydrogen flow contact portion of the separator or the porous guide forming the cell.
At least one corner of the hydrogen flow contact portion of the body is cut to provide a cut portion. In this way, the distribution passage is formed between the separator and the cell, and in the distribution passage where the ion exchange membrane faces, the hydrogen flow of the porous guide body forming the hydrogen flow contact portion of the separator or the cell. By cutting at least one corner of the contact part to provide a cut part, the cut part allows the ion exchange membrane to be deformed and maintains the flow of the reaction gas in the distribution passage at a predetermined flow rate. Is unnecessary, the supply of the reaction gas is sufficient at a low cost, and the supply amount of the reaction gas for each cell can be made uniform to easily maintain the performance.

The invention according to claim 4 is a plurality of separators.
Assembled by assembling by stacking multiple gas barrier plates
A cell stack of different cells, the cells being ion exchanged
The membrane and the positive catalytic charge located on either side of this ion exchange membrane.
A pole and a negative catalyst electrode, the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode
And a porous guide body arranged on the side of the catalyst electrode,
The outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators.
And the reaction gas hydrogen and oxygen are retained by the cell.
Fuel that reacts to produce water and generates electricity at that time
In a battery, one side of the cell stack is filled with hydrogen.
A mouth is provided, and a hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side,
The separator is provided so as to surround the inlet and the outlet.
A gasket is provided between the vibrators, and at the inlet,
An inlet passage is formed in the stacking direction of the cells.
Multiple entrance side tunnel passages under the gasket
Communicating with the distribution passage of the cell through
From communicating with the gas passage, the outlet section is the product of the cell
An outlet passage is formed in the layer direction and communicates with this outlet passage.
A plurality of exit side tunnel passages are provided below the gasket.
Through to the collecting passage of the cell,
Communicating with the gas passage, the distribution passage and the separator
Formed between the cell and the portion of the ion exchange membrane.
The feature is that the portion facing the distribution passage is subjected to a water repellent treatment . In this way, the distribution passages are
Formed between the ion exchange membrane and the
The ion-exchange membrane can be
It extends and deforms, and the ion exchange membrane extends and blocks the distribution passage.
And the reaction gas smoothly flows through the distribution passage
It is possible to maintain the flow rate of the gas distribution passage at a predetermined flow rate.
The ion exchange membrane is treated to be water repellent at the part corresponding to the distribution passage.
It has a reasonable structure and a simple structure.

The invention according to claim 5 is a plurality of separators.
Assembled by assembling by stacking multiple gas barrier plates
A cell stack of different cells, the cells being ion exchanged
The membrane and the positive catalytic charge located on either side of this ion exchange membrane.
A pole and a negative catalyst electrode, the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode
And a porous guide body arranged on the side of the catalyst electrode,
The outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators.
And the reaction gas hydrogen and oxygen are retained by the cell.
Fuel that reacts to produce water and generates electricity at that time
In a battery, one side of the cell stack is filled with hydrogen.
A mouth is provided, and a hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side,
The separator is provided so as to surround the inlet and the outlet.
A gasket is provided between the vibrators, and at the inlet,
An inlet passage is formed in the stacking direction of the cells.
Multiple entrance side tunnel passages under the gasket
Communicating with the distribution passage of the cell through
From communicating with the gas passage, the outlet section is the product of the cell
An outlet passage is formed in the layer direction and communicates with this outlet passage.
A plurality of exit side tunnel passages are provided below the gasket.
Through to the collecting passage of the cell,
Communicating with the gas passage, the distribution passage and the separator
Formed between the cell and the separator and the cell
Is attached to the gas barrier plate with an adhesive,
At least one of the pallet, the cell, and the gas blocking plate
Restrict the protrusion of the adhesive on the side of the distribution passage.
It is characterized by the provision of a space . Like this, min
A passage is formed between the separator and the cell,
The cell and cell are assembled with a gas barrier plate and adhesive,
At least one of the palletizer, cell, and gas barrier plate
A space for restricting protrusion of the adhesive provided on the distribution passage side, the case of producing by multilayer bonding the plate-like material separator of the cell, a distribution passage <br/> adhesive protrudes the distribution passage side The blocking is prevented, the flow rate of the reaction gas can be secured even if the adhesive is extruded, the reliability of the cell is improved, and the performance is easily maintained.

The invention according to claim 6 is a plurality of separators.
Assembled by assembling by stacking multiple gas barrier plates
A cell stack of different cells, the cells being ion exchanged
The membrane and the positive catalytic charge located on either side of this ion exchange membrane.
A pole and a negative catalyst electrode, the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode
And a porous guide body arranged on the side of the catalyst electrode,
The outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators.
And the reaction gas hydrogen and oxygen are retained by the cell.
Fuel that reacts to produce water and generates electricity at that time
In a battery, one side of the cell stack is filled with hydrogen.
A mouth is provided, and a hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side,
The separator is provided so as to surround the inlet and the outlet.
A gasket is provided between the vibrators, and at the inlet,
An inlet passage is formed in the stacking direction of the cells.
Multiple entrance side tunnel passages under the gasket
Communicating with the distribution passage of the cell through
From communicating with the gas passage, the outlet section is the product of the cell
An outlet passage is formed in the layer direction and communicates with this outlet passage.
A plurality of exit side tunnel passages are provided below the gasket.
Through to the collecting passage of the cell,
Communicating with the gas passage, the distribution passage and the separator
Formed between the cell and the separator and the cell
Is assembled by the gas barrier plate via adhesive.
The portion of the gas blocking plate facing the distribution passage,
A recess is formed wider than the distribution passage, and a space is formed in this recess.
The spacers are fitted and adhesive is applied to both sides of the spacer.
It is characterized by the provision of a concave space for restricting protrusion.
ing. In this way, the distribution passages between the separator and the cells
Formed between them, the separator and cells are
Is installed by the gas blocking plate, and is installed in the distribution passage of the gas blocking plate.
A recess is formed wider in the facing part than the distribution passage, and
The recess spacer are fitted, on both sides of the spacer
Providing a space for the recess that controls the protrusion of the adhesive
In this way, the separators that compose the cells are laminated in multiple layers with plate-shaped materials.
In the case of making the
Prevents blockage of the passage, even if the adhesive sticks out,
The flow rate of the reaction gas can be secured, the reliability of the cell is improved, and
Noh maintenance is easy.

[0014]

[0015]

[0016]

[0017]

[0018]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the fuel cell of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

First, FIGS. 1 to 4 show an embodiment of a fuel cell, FIG. 1 is a front view of the fuel cell, FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is XX of FIG. 4 and FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the gas passage portion of the fuel cell.

The fuel cell 1 has a cell stack 3 assembled by an assembly shaft 2. The cell stack 3 is configured by stacking a plurality of separators 4a and 4b and assembling them, and a gas blocking plate 4d is provided between the separators 4a and 4b. A tunnel passage 15b is formed between the separator 4b and the gas blocking plate 4d, and hydrogen as a reaction gas is supplied to the cell 6 through the tunnel passage 15b. The cell 6 includes separators 4a and 4b.
It is equipped between. The electrode base material of the cell 6 is composed of an ion exchange membrane 7, a positive catalyst electrode 8 and a negative catalyst electrode 9. The outer peripheral portion 7a of the ion exchange membrane 7 is sandwiched and held between the gaskets 40 and 41, and has a positive catalyst electrode 8 on one surface of the ion exchange membrane 7 and a negative catalyst electrode 9 on the other surface. Therefore, the cell 6 reacts hydrogen and oxygen of the reaction gas to generate water, and at that time, generates electricity.

A porous guide body 10 is arranged in contact with the outside of the positive catalyst electrode 8 of the cell 6, and a porous guide body 11 is arranged in contact with the outside of the negative catalyst electrode 9 as well. The porous guide bodies 10 and 11 are formed of a porous porous member, and grooves 10a and 11a are formed on one surface side at equal intervals. The porous guide body 10 contacts the positive catalyst electrode 8 on the side where the groove 10a is formed, and the porous guide body 11 is arranged with the groove 11a oriented in a direction orthogonal to the groove 10a of the porous guide body 10. A gas passage 12 communicating between the groove 10a of the porous guide body 10 and the positive catalyst electrode 8 is provided, and a gas passage 13 communicating between the groove 11a of the porous guide body 11 and the negative catalyst electrode 9 is provided. Has been.

In the cell stack 3, the cells 6 are arranged with an inclination of an angle α, and a gasket 14 surrounding the cells 6 is provided. The gaskets 14 seal the cells 6. A hydrogen inlet 15 is provided on the upper left side of the cell stack 3, and a hydrogen outlet 16 is provided on the lower right side of the cell stack 3.
Gaskets 17 and 18 are provided between the separators 4a and 4b so as to surround the inlet 15 and the outlet 16 to seal the inlet 15 and the outlet 16. An inlet passage 15a is formed in the inlet portion 15 in the stacking direction of the cells 6, and four tunnel passages 15a are formed from the inlet passage 15a.
b passes under the gasket 14 and the distribution passage 1 of the cell 6
5c, and the distribution passage 15c communicates with the gas passage 13. An outlet passage 16a is formed in the outlet portion 16 in the stacking direction of the cells 6, and the four tunnel passages 16b communicating with the outlet passage 16a communicate with the collecting passage 16c of the cell 6 through the lower portion of the gasket 14. , Collecting passage 16c
Communicate with the gas passage 13.

An oxygen inlet 19 is provided on the upper right side of the cell stack 3, and an oxygen outlet 20 is provided on the lower left side of the cell stack 3. The separators 4a, 4b surround the inlet 19 and the outlet 20. Gaskets 21 and 22 are provided between them to seal the inlet portion 19 and the outlet portion 20.
An inlet passage 19a is formed in the inlet portion 19 in the stacking direction of the cells 6, and from this inlet passage 19a, four tunnel passages 19b communicate with the distribution passages 19c of the cells 6 through the lower portion of the gasket 14 to form the distribution passages. 19c communicates with the gas passage 12. An outlet passage 20a is formed in the outlet portion 20 in the stacking direction of the cells 6, and the four tunnel passages 20b communicating with the outlet passage 20a communicate with the collecting passages 20c of the cells 6 passing under the gasket 14. , Meeting passage 2
0c communicates with the gas passage 12.

A water passage 23 is formed at the contact portion of the gas blocking plate 4d, which is the lower surface in FIG. 2, with the porous guide body 10. One side 23a of the water passage 23 is communicated with a discharge portion 24 provided on the upper side in the vicinity of the hydrogen inlet portion 15 via a tunnel passage 24a passing below the gasket 14, and the other 23b is a tunnel passing below the gasket 14. It is connected to a supply unit 25 provided on the lower side in the vicinity of the hydrogen outlet 16 via a passage 25a. Gaskets 26a and 27a are provided between the separators 4a and 4b so as to surround the discharge unit 24 and the supply unit 25, respectively.
And the supply part 25 is sealed.

A water passage 28 is formed in the contact portion of the separator 4b, which is the upper surface in FIG. 2, with the porous guide body 10. One side 28a of the water passage 28 is communicated with a discharge portion 29 provided on the right side in the vicinity of the oxygen inlet portion 19 through a tunnel passage 29a passing below the gasket 14, and the other 28b is a tunnel passage passing below the gasket 14. It is connected to a supply unit 30 provided on the left side in the vicinity of the oxygen outlet unit 20 via 30a. Gaskets 26b and 27b are provided between the separators 4a and 4b so as to surround the discharge unit 29 and the supply unit 30, respectively.
Also, the supply unit 30 is sealed.

Therefore, the hydrogen inlet portion 1 of the cell stack 3
When heated and humidified hydrogen is supplied from 5, hydrogen containing water is introduced from the inlet passage 15a to the distribution passage 15c of the cell 6 through the tunnel passage 15b, and flows from the distribution passage 15c to the gas passage 13. On the other hand, when heated and humidified oxygen is supplied from the oxygen inlet portion 19, the oxygen containing water communicates with the distribution passage 19c of the cell 6 through the inlet passage 19a, the tunnel passage 19b, and the distribution passage 19c. Flowing through 12.

At this time, water is generated by the cell 6 by the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen in the reaction gas, and the change in free energy at that time is taken out as electric energy to generate electricity. The cell 6 is connected in series with the adjacent cell 6 via the separator 4b, and the generated electric power is taken out from a current collector (not shown) provided at both ends of the cell stack 3.

Mainly hydrogen and water are used for the collecting passage 16 of the cell 6.
c, exit passage 1 through tunnel passage 16b
6a to be discharged from the outlet portion 16. Mainly oxygen and water are collected in the collecting passage 20c of the cell 6, are guided to the outlet passage 20a through the tunnel passage 20b, and are guided to the outlet portion 2
Emitted from 0.

On the other hand, in the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen by the cell 6, oxygen and water are supplied to the surface of the ion exchange membrane 7 through the porous guide body 10 and the positive catalyst electrode 8.
On the other hand, hydrogen and water are supplied to the surface of the ion exchange membrane 7 through the porous guide body 11 and the negative catalyst electrode 9, and the interface between the positive catalyst electrode 8 and the ion exchange membrane 7 and the negative catalyst electrode 9 and the ions are supplied. It is performed at the interface of the exchange membrane 7. Ion exchange membrane 7
Since the elongation greatly changes depending on the water content, the ion exchange membrane 7 should always be kept at a proper humidification level.
It is necessary to keep the elongation at constant and keep the interface stable.

Electricity is generated by the electrochemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen in the reaction gas by the cell 6, and water is generated at that time, but not only the expansion due to the relative humidity inside the cell 6 When excess water such as generated condensed water, generated water, and excess supply water comes into direct contact with the ion exchange membrane 7, the water further extends and the performance of the cell 6 deteriorates. However, the porous guide is provided to the catalyst electrodes 8 and 9 on both sides of the cell 6. The bodies 10 and 11 are disposed in contact with each other, and excess water such as condensed water, generated water, and excess supply water generated inside the cell 6 can be absorbed and removed by the porous guide bodies 10 and 11.

Therefore, the elongation of the ion exchange membrane 7 can be prevented, the performance of the cell 6 can be maintained at a high efficiency for a long time,
It also prevents the diffusivity of the reaction gas from decreasing. Thus, excess water can be removed without using a special device, and the device can be simple, low-priced, compact and lightweight. By forming the gas passages 12 and 13 by the porous guide bodies 10 and 11, when water is supplied, they are absorbed by the porous guide bodies 10 and 11, partly diffuses into the gas passages 12 and 13, and partly directly catalyze. Humidification is effectively performed by moving to the electrodes 8 and 9, and when excessive water is generated, it has a damper effect of absorbing the excessive water and supplying it when insufficient, so that an appropriate amount of humidification is possible.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the fuel cell 1 is provided with means A for maintaining the flow rate of the oxygen reaction gas in the gas passage at a predetermined flow rate. Shows a deformed state. Since the gas passage of the hydrogen reaction gas is similarly configured, the gas passage of the oxygen reaction gas will be described.

The means A for maintaining the predetermined flow rate has a structure that allows the ion exchange membrane 7 to be deformed, and the separator 4
b reaction gas flow contact part 4b1 and porous guide body 1
Even if the corner of the contact portion 11e of No. 1 is cut and the ion exchange membrane 7 extends and enters the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage as shown in FIG. 4, the reaction gas flows through the cut portions 90 and 91. Therefore, the flow of the reaction gas in the distribution passage 15c can be maintained at a predetermined flow rate. In this way, by maintaining the flow rate of the reaction gas in the distribution passage 15c at a predetermined flow rate, with time, steam for humidification, water, generated water, or the like is clogged in the gas passage, or the ion exchange membrane 7 is blocked by water. Do not deform and block the gas passage,
The supply of the reaction gas is sufficient, and the amount of the reaction gas supplied to each cell 6 can be made uniform to easily maintain the performance. In addition, the reaction gas flow contact portion 4 of the separator 4b
It has a simple structure that cuts the corners of b1 and 11e, does not require a special device or control, is low cost, lightweight, and compact, and is suitable for transportation to a fuel cell or the like mounted in a vehicle.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing a reference example of a fuel cell. In this reference example, the means A for maintaining the predetermined flow rate has a structure that allows the ion exchange membrane 7 to be deformed, and the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage of the separator 4b in which the ion exchange membrane 7 comes into contact with the reaction gas is Distribution passage 15
The width L of c is set smaller than the depth W. As described above, since the width L of the gas distribution passage 15c of the separator 4b is set to be smaller than the depth W, even if the ion exchange membrane 7 extends, it can be prevented from extending to the bottom of the distribution passage 15c. . Therefore, the reaction gas can smoothly flow through the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage, and the flow of the reaction gas through the gas passage can be maintained at a predetermined flow rate. Further, the width L of the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage of the separator 4b can be reduced to the depth W. It is a simple structure that can be set smaller.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing still another embodiment of the fuel cell. Also in this embodiment, the means A for maintaining the predetermined flow rate has a structure for preventing the deformation of the ion exchange membrane 7, and the reinforcing member 43 is provided at the portion 7b of the ion exchange membrane 7 corresponding to the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage. Is provided. The reinforcing member 43 has a structure in which, for example, a Teflon resin sheet is fixed with an adhesive, and prevents the ion exchange membrane 7 from extending and deforming. Therefore, the ion exchange membrane 7 is prevented from extending to block the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage, the reaction gas smoothly flows in the gas passage, and the flow of the reaction gas in the gas passage can be maintained at a predetermined flow rate. Moreover, the ion exchange membrane 7 has a simple structure as long as the portion 7b of the gas passage corresponding to the distribution passage 15c is reinforced by the reinforcing member 43.

7 and 8 show another embodiment of the fuel cell, FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the gas passage portion of the fuel cell, and FIG. 8 is a view showing another embodiment of the spacer. Also in this embodiment, the means A for maintaining the predetermined flow rate has a structure that prevents the ion exchange membrane 7 from being deformed. The spacer 44 is provided in the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage to close the ion exchange membrane, and the spacer 44 is used to close the ion exchange membrane. 7 is restricted from entering the distribution passage 15c. The spacer 44 is formed of, for example, a Teflon resin plate, a wire mesh, a porous sheet, or the like. The Teflon resin plate blocks the ion exchange membrane 7 and the reaction gas. However, when the wire mesh, the porous sheet, or the like is used, the ion exchange membrane 7 is used. Can be humidified.

When a wire net or a porous member is used for the spacer 44, the spacer 44 has a cross-sectional gate shape as shown in FIG.
It can be formed to have a rectangular cross section as shown in FIG. 8B and a spring cross section as shown in FIG. 8C.

In this way, the spacer 44 prevents the ion exchange membrane 7 from being deformed and entering the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage, so that the reaction gas smoothly flows through the gas passage,
The flow of the reaction gas in the gas passage can be maintained at a predetermined flow rate, and further, the distribution passage 15 of the gas passage of the separator 4b can be maintained.
It is a simple structure that only closes c.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing still another embodiment of the fuel cell. In this embodiment, the means A for maintaining the predetermined flow rate is the water repellent treatment 4 in the portion 7b of the ion exchange membrane 7 corresponding to the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage.
5 is given. This water-repellent treatment 45 is, for example, a Teflon resin liquid which is sprayed, applied, and dried to prevent the ion exchange membrane 7 from extending and deforming. Therefore, the ion exchange membrane 7 is prevented from extending to block the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage, the reaction gas smoothly flows in the gas passage, and the flow of the reaction gas in the gas passage can be maintained at a predetermined flow rate. Moreover, the ion-exchange membrane 7 is provided on the portion 7b of the gas passage corresponding to the distribution passage 15c with the water-repellent treatment 4.
5 is sufficient, which is a simple structure.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show another embodiment of the fuel cell, and FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the gas passage portion of the fuel cell, FIG.
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing another embodiment of the lateral displacement prevention structure. The means A for maintaining the predetermined flow rate in this embodiment is provided with a space 47 for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive 46 at the corner of the gas passage of the reaction gas of the separator 4b and the porous guide body 11 on the side of the distribution passage 15c. It is a structure. As described above, in the structure in which the space 47 for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive 46 is provided on the side of the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage of the reaction gas, when the gas blocking plate 4d and the separators 4a and 4b are laminated and produced, Even if the adhesive 46 protrudes, the adhesive 46 does not protrude from the space 47 into the distribution passage 15c, and the adhesive 46 may protrude into the distribution passage 15c of the gas passage to block the gas passage.
The processing for providing the space 47 is prevented by a simple structure, the flow rate of the reaction gas can be secured, the reliability of the cell 6 is improved, and the performance is easily maintained. It does not require any special device or control, is low cost, lightweight and compact, and is suitable for transportation to a fuel cell or the like mounted in a vehicle.

The distribution passage 15 for the reaction gas is also provided.
FIG. 11 shows another embodiment in which a space 47 for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive 46 is provided on the c side.

FIG. 11A shows a concave space 47 for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive 46 on the distribution passage 15c side of the gas passage of the reaction gas between the separator 4b and the porous guide body 11. Processing is simple as in the embodiment.

In FIG. 11B, a recess 4d1 wider than the distribution passage 15c is formed on the gas blocking plate 4d side, and the separator 4 is formed.
A wide passage area is ensured by providing a concave space 47 for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive 46 on the distribution passage 15c side of the gas passage of the reaction gas of b and the porous guide body 11.

In FIG. 11 (c), a space 47, which is a concave portion for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive 46, is provided near the distribution passage 15c on the gas blocking plate 4d side, and no special processing is performed on the distribution passage 15c side. It is easy to manage the passage area.

In FIG. 11D, a convex portion 4d2 is provided in a portion of the gas blocking plate 4d facing the distribution passage 15c.
Spaces 47 are provided on both sides of d2 to control the protrusion of the adhesive 46. Since no special processing is performed on the distribution passage 15c side, the passage area can be easily managed. Further, the convex portion 4d2 enters the distribution passage 15c side, and the means A for maintaining the predetermined flow rate has a structure that restricts the lateral displacement of the separator 4b and the porous guide body 11. In this way, by regulating the lateral displacement of the separator 4b and the porous guide body 11, the position of the ion exchange membrane 7 is accurately determined, no special device or control is required, and the supply of the reaction gas is sufficient at a low cost. Therefore, the supply amount of the reaction gas for each cell can be made uniform to easily maintain the performance.

In FIG. 11 (e), a recess 4d3 having a width wider than that of the distribution passage 15c is formed in a portion of the gas blocking plate 4d facing the distribution passage 15c, and a spacer 48 is fitted in the recess 4d3. Since the concave spaces 47 for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive 46 are provided on both sides of the above, the passage area can be easily managed because no special processing is performed on the distribution passage 15c side. Further, the spacer 48 has entered the distribution passage 15c side, and means A for maintaining a predetermined flow rate is provided.
Is a structure that regulates the lateral displacement of the separator 4b and the porous guide body 11.

[0047]

[0048]

[0049]

[0050]

[0051]

[0052]

[0053]

[0054]

[0055]

[0056]

[0057]

[0058]

As described above, according to the invention of claim 1, the distribution passage is formed between the separator and the cell.
The ion exchange membrane is located at the part corresponding to the distribution passage of the on-exchange membrane.
A reinforcing member is provided to prevent the
By preventing deformation of the ion exchange membrane, the flow of the reaction gas in the distribution passage is maintained at a predetermined flow rate, so that special equipment or control can be performed.
No need for water vapor for humidification, water,
It prevents the generated water from clogging the gas passages and prevents the ion exchange membrane from being deformed by water to block the distribution passages, and the supply of the reaction gas is sufficient at a low cost. The supply amount can be made uniform and the performance can be easily maintained.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the distribution passage is separated.
Formed between the cell and the cell, the ion exchange membrane of the distribution passage
The ion exchange membrane enters the distribution passage in the area corresponding to
A spacer that regulates this is provided to prevent the ion exchange membrane from being deformed, so that the flow of the reaction gas in the distribution passage is maintained at a predetermined flow rate. The supply is sufficient, and the amount of the reaction gas supplied to each cell can be made uniform to easily maintain the performance.

In the invention according to claim 3, a distribution passage is formed between the separator and the cell, and in the distribution passage where the ion exchange membrane faces each other, the porous guide body constituting the hydrogen flow contact portion of the separator or the cell. A cut portion is provided by cutting at least one corner of the hydrogen flow contact portion of, and the cut portion allows deformation of the ion exchange membrane,
By maintaining the flow rate of the reaction gas distribution passage at a predetermined flow rate, no special equipment or control is required, the supply of the reaction gas is sufficient at low cost, and the supply amount of the reaction gas in each cell is made uniform. Performance can be easily maintained.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the distribution passage is separated.
Formed between the cell and the cell, the distribution passage of the ion exchange membrane
By applying water repellent treatment to the part facing the
The exchange membrane extends and deforms, and the ion exchange membrane extends and distributes
Is blocked, and the reaction gas smoothly flows through the distribution passage.
To maintain the flow rate of the reaction gas in the distribution passage at a specified flow rate.
And the ion exchange membrane is repelled at the part corresponding to the distribution passage.
It has a simple structure as long as it is hydrated.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, the distribution passage is separated.
Formed between the separator and the cell
Assembled with the blocking plate and adhesive, separator and cell
And at least one of the gas barrier plates are attached to the distribution passage side.
Provided a space for restricting protrusion of the agent, when prepared by multi-layer bonding the plate-like material separator of the cell, the adhesive is prevented from blocking the dispensing passage protrudes distribution passage side, adhesive Even if it protrudes, the flow rate of the reaction gas can be secured, the reliability of the cell is improved, and the performance can be easily maintained.

In the invention according to claim 6, the distribution passage is separated.
Formed between the separator and the cell, and the separator and the cell
Assembled by a gas blocking plate via adhesive, gas blocking
Wider than the distribution passage in the part of the plate facing the distribution passage.
Part is formed, and a spacer is fitted in this recess.
Recessed space on both sides of the pacer to prevent the adhesive from protruding
By providing the
When making a multi-layered adhesive, the adhesive should be
Prevents the adhesive from sticking out and blocking the distribution passage
Even if it protrudes, the flow rate of the reaction gas can be secured, and the reliability of the cell is high.
Is improved and performance is easily maintained.

[0064]

[0065]

[0066]

[0067]

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a fuel cell.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG.

3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX and YY of FIG.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion of a fuel cell.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing a reference example of a fuel cell.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing still another embodiment of the fuel cell.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing another embodiment of the fuel cell.

FIG. 8 is a view showing another embodiment of the spacer.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing still another embodiment of the fuel cell.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a gas passage portion showing another embodiment of the fuel cell.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another embodiment of the lateral displacement prevention structure.

Front page continued (58) Fields surveyed (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) H01M 8/02 H01M 8/06 H01M 8/10 H01M 8/24

Claims (6)

(57) [Claims] 1. A cell stack comprising a plurality of separators assembled together by laminating a plurality of separators via gas blocking plates, wherein the cells are arranged on an ion exchange membrane and on both sides of the ion exchange membrane. It has a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode, and a porous guide body arranged on the side of the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode, and the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators. In a fuel cell in which hydrogen is generated by reacting hydrogen and oxygen of a reaction gas by the cell, and water is generated at that time, an inlet part of hydrogen is provided on one side of the cell stack, A hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side, and a gasket is provided between the separators so as to surround the inlet and the outlet, and the inlet has an inlet passage in the stacking direction of the cells. Formation From this inlet passage, a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages communicate with the distribution passages of the cells through the lower part of the gasket, and from the distribution passages to the gas passages, the outlet portion has a stacking direction of the cells. An outlet passage is formed in the outlet passage, and a plurality of outlet-side tunnel passages communicated with the outlet passage communicate with the collecting passage of the cell through the lower portion of the gasket, and the collecting passage communicates with the gas passage, A passage is formed between the separator and the cell, and a reinforcing member is provided at a portion of the ion exchange membrane corresponding to the distribution passage to prevent the ion exchange membrane from extending and deforming. Fuel cell to do. 2. A cell stack comprising a plurality of separators assembled by laminating a plurality of separators via gas blocking plates, wherein the cells are arranged on an ion exchange membrane and on both sides of the ion exchange membrane. It has a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode, and a porous guide body arranged on the side of the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode, and the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators. In a fuel cell in which hydrogen is generated by reacting hydrogen and oxygen of a reaction gas by the cell, and water is generated at that time, an inlet part of hydrogen is provided on one side of the cell stack, A hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side, and a gasket is provided between the separators so as to surround the inlet and the outlet, and the inlet has an inlet passage in the stacking direction of the cells. Formation From this inlet passage, a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages communicate with the distribution passages of the cells through the lower part of the gasket, and from the distribution passages to the gas passages, the outlet portion has a stacking direction of the cells. An outlet passage is formed in the outlet passage, and a plurality of outlet-side tunnel passages communicated with the outlet passage communicate with the collecting passage of the cell through the lower portion of the gasket, and the collecting passage communicates with the gas passage, A passage is formed between the separator and the cell, and a spacer for restricting the ion exchange membrane from entering the distribution passage is provided in a portion of the distribution passage corresponding to the ion exchange membrane. Fuel cell to do. 3. A cell stack comprising a plurality of separators assembled by laminating a plurality of separators via gas blocking plates, wherein the cells are disposed on an ion exchange membrane and on both sides of the ion exchange membrane. It has a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode, and a porous guide body arranged on the side of the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode, and the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators. In a fuel cell in which hydrogen is generated by reacting hydrogen and oxygen of a reaction gas by the cell, and water is generated at that time, an inlet part of hydrogen is provided on one side of the cell stack, A hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side, and a gasket is provided between the separators so as to surround the inlet and the outlet, and the inlet has an inlet passage in the stacking direction of the cells. Formation From this inlet passage, a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages communicate with the distribution passages of the cells through the lower part of the gasket, and from the distribution passages to the gas passages, the outlet portion has a stacking direction of the cells. An outlet passage is formed in the outlet passage, and a plurality of outlet-side tunnel passages communicated with the outlet passage communicate with the collecting passage of the cell through the lower portion of the gasket, and the collecting passage communicates with the gas passage, A passage is formed between the separator and the cell, and constitutes a hydrogen flow contact portion of the separator or the cell in the distribution passage where the ion exchange membrane faces each other .
A fuel cell characterized in that at least one corner of the hydrogen flow contact portion of the porous guide body is cut to provide a cut portion. 4. A cell stack comprising a plurality of separators assembled by laminating a plurality of separators via gas blocking plates, the cells being arranged on both sides of the ion exchange membrane. It has a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode, and a porous guide body arranged on the side of the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode, and the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators. In a fuel cell in which hydrogen is generated by reacting hydrogen and oxygen of a reaction gas by the cell, and water is generated at that time, an inlet part of hydrogen is provided on one side of the cell stack, A hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side, and a gasket is provided between the separators so as to surround the inlet and the outlet, and the inlet has an inlet passage in the stacking direction of the cells. Formation From this inlet passage, a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages communicate with the distribution passages of the cells through the lower part of the gasket, and from the distribution passages to the gas passages, the outlet portion has a stacking direction of the cells. An outlet passage is formed in the outlet passage, and a plurality of outlet-side tunnel passages communicated with the outlet passage communicate with the collecting passage of the cell through the lower portion of the gasket, and the collecting passage communicates with the gas passage, A fuel cell is characterized in that a passage is formed between the separator and the cell, and a portion of the ion exchange membrane facing the distribution passage is subjected to a water repellent treatment. 5. A cell stack comprising a plurality of separators assembled together by laminating a plurality of separators via gas blocking plates, wherein the cells are arranged on an ion exchange membrane and on both sides of the ion exchange membrane. It has a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode, and a porous guide body arranged on the side of the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode, and the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators. In a fuel cell in which hydrogen is generated by reacting hydrogen and oxygen of a reaction gas by the cell, and water is generated at that time, an inlet part of hydrogen is provided on one side of the cell stack, A hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side, and a gasket is provided between the separators so as to surround the inlet and the outlet, and the inlet has an inlet passage in the stacking direction of the cells. Formation From this inlet passage, a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages communicate with the distribution passages of the cells through the lower part of the gasket, and from the distribution passages to the gas passages, the outlet portion has a stacking direction of the cells. An outlet passage is formed in the outlet passage, and a plurality of outlet-side tunnel passages communicated with the outlet passage communicate with the collecting passage of the cell through the lower portion of the gasket, and the collecting passage communicates with the gas passage, A passage is formed between the separator and the cell, the separator and the cell are assembled with the gas blocking plate and an adhesive, and the separator, the cell, and at least one of the gas blocking plate have a distribution passage side. A fuel cell characterized in that a space for restricting the protrusion of the adhesive is provided in the fuel cell. 6. A cell stack comprising a plurality of separators assembled by laminating a plurality of separators via a gas blocking plate, the cell stack being provided with an ion exchange membrane and both sides of the ion exchange membrane. It has a positive catalyst electrode and a negative catalyst electrode, and a porous guide body arranged on the side of the positive catalyst electrode and the negative catalyst electrode, and the outer peripheral portion of the ion exchange membrane is sandwiched between the separators. In a fuel cell in which hydrogen is generated by reacting hydrogen and oxygen of a reaction gas by the cell, and water is generated at that time, an inlet part of hydrogen is provided on one side of the cell stack, A hydrogen outlet is provided on the other side, and a gasket is provided between the separators so as to surround the inlet and the outlet, and the inlet has an inlet passage in the stacking direction of the cells. Formation From this inlet passage, a plurality of inlet side tunnel passages communicate with the distribution passages of the cells through the lower part of the gasket, and from the distribution passages to the gas passages, the outlet portion has a stacking direction of the cells. An outlet passage is formed in the outlet passage, and a plurality of outlet-side tunnel passages communicated with the outlet passage communicate with the collecting passage of the cell through the lower portion of the gasket, and the collecting passage communicates with the gas passage, A passage is formed between the separator and the cell, the separator and the cell are assembled by the gas barrier plate via an adhesive, and the gas barrier plate is provided at a portion of the gas barrier plate that faces the distribution passage. A recess is formed to be wider than the passage, a spacer is fitted in the recess, and a space for the recess is provided on both sides of the spacer to restrict the protrusion of the adhesive. Fuel cell.