Abstract

The invention provides an electrochemical cell unit (10) with the following general features according to which the cell unit comprises: a support structure (14) carrying cell chemistry layers (18, 20, 22). The cell chemistry layers comprise a fuel electrode layer (18), an oxidant electrode layer (20) and an electrolyte layer (22). The electrolyte layer (22) is located between the fuel electrode layer (18) and oxidant electrode layer (20), and the fuel electrode layer (18) is located between the support structure (14) and the electrolyte layer (22). The support structure (14) comprises a porous region (24) surrounded by a non-porous region (26). At least the electrolyte layer (22) of the cell chemistry layers extends past a perimeter of the porous region (24). An active area of the cell chemistry layers comprises at least the fuel electrode layer (18) and the oxidant electrode layer (20). Typically, the electrolyte layer is present in the active area of the cell chemistry layers and is located between the electrode layers.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0232 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/1213 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the electrode/electrolyte combination or the supporting material
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for manufacturing an electrochemical cell assembly (10), said method comprising providing a stack (12) of cell units (14), compressing the stack of cell units along a stacking direction (16) and providing the stack of cell units with a holding device (74) for holding compression to obtain an assembled electrochemical cell assembly (10), and performing a heat treatment on said assembled electrochemical cell assembly at a predetermined heating temperature for a predetermined heating time, said heating temperature being equal to or more than 500 °C, wherein no heat treatment at a temperature of equal to or more than 100 °C is performed on the stack of cell units prior to providing the stack of cell units with the holding device.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• H01M 8/0286 - Processes for forming seals
• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10), comprising a stack (16) of stacking units (17), said stacking units comprising cell units (18), wherein each cell unit extends in a first direction and in a second direction, the plurality of cell units comprises electrochemically active cell units (98) and electrochemically inactive dummy cell units (100), adjacent stacking units define a respective fluid flow path between them for fluid to flow in the first direction (26), between a dummy cell unit and an adjacent stacking unit there is provided a flow restriction device (108) comprising at least one flow restriction member (110), said flow restriction device (108) being configured to reduce or prevent fluid flow along said fluid flow path.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a component for an electrochemical cell. The method comprising, mechanically flattening a substrate comprising a porous region and a non-porous region, applying a first material on at least part of a surface of the porous region of the substrate as a precursor for, and to form, a first electrode on the substrate, and sintering the component to densify the first material and to thermally grow an oxide coating on the substrate.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• B21B 1/38 - Metal rolling methods or mills for making semi-finished products of solid or profiled cross-sectionSequence of operations in milling trainsLayout of rolling-mill plant, e.g. grouping of standsSuccession of passes or of sectional pass alternations for rolling sheets of limited length, e.g. folded sheets, superimposed sheets
• C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
• C25B 13/07 - DiaphragmsSpacing elements characterised by the material based on inorganic materials based on ceramics
• H01M 4/88 - Processes of manufacture
• H01M 8/0232 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/1213 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the electrode/electrolyte combination or the supporting material
• H01M 8/1226 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the electrode/electrolyte combination or the supporting material characterised by the supporting layer
• H01M 8/124 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the process of manufacturing or by the material of the electrolyte
• H01M 8/126 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the process of manufacturing or by the material of the electrolyte the electrolyte consisting of oxides the electrolyte containing cerium oxide
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration

Abstract

222O into first and second products such as hydrogen and oxygen. The cells are exposed to fuel in the fuel space. There is a first exhaust pathway to receive the first product produced by the electrochemical cells and transport it to the exterior of the enclosure and a second exhaust pathway to receive the second product and transport it to the exterior of the enclosure. The arrangement of each cell in an array preferably defines an active fuel volume adjacent to a fuel side of the cell. At least part of the active fuel volume is open to the fuel space defined by the enclosure. In this way, fuel such as steam may be present between multiple cell stacks and all around the cells, in equal concentration at all points in the fuel volume.

IPC Classes  ?

• C25B 1/042 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water by electrolysis of steam
• C25B 9/05 - Pressure cells
• C25B 9/77 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type having diaphragms
• C25B 15/08 - Supplying or removing reactants or electrolytesRegeneration of electrolytes

Abstract

An electrochemical cell is disclosed having a first electrolyte layer comprising a material having a composition Ce(1-x-y) PrxLnyO(2-δ), wherein Ln is selected from at least one rare earth metal, 0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.7. 0 ≤ y ≤ 0.2, and δ is the degree of oxygen deficiency. Methods of 5 producing such electrochemical cells are also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• H01M 4/88 - Processes of manufacture
• H01M 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material
• H01M 8/1253 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the process of manufacturing or by the material of the electrolyte the electrolyte consisting of oxides the electrolyte containing zirconium oxide
• H01M 8/126 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the process of manufacturing or by the material of the electrolyte the electrolyte consisting of oxides the electrolyte containing cerium oxide
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

An electrolyser cell unit, a method of producing an electrolyser cell unit, and a method of operating an electrolyser cell unit. The electrolyser cell unit comprising a support plate having a porous region and an electrochemically active area on the porous region. The electrochemically active area comprising an oxygen electrode, an electrolyte, an interlayer, and a fuel electrode. The oxygen electrode is disposed between the support plate and the electrolyte.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/1226 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the electrode/electrolyte combination or the supporting material characterised by the supporting layer
• C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
• C25B 1/042 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water by electrolysis of steam
• C25B 9/23 - Cells comprising dimensionally-stable non-movable electrodesAssemblies of constructional parts thereof with diaphragms comprising ion-exchange membranes in or on which electrode material is embedded
• C25B 11/054 - Electrodes comprising electrocatalysts supported on a carrier
• C25B 11/077 - Electrodes formed of electrocatalysts on a substrate or carrier characterised by the electrocatalysts material consisting of a single catalytic element or catalytic compound the compound being a non-noble metal oxide

Abstract

An electrolyser system comprising at least one electrolyser cell comprising a first outlet for exhaust of off-gas from the first fluid volume at a relatively low pressure, a steam supply configured to supply steam at a relatively high pressure, means for mixing two fluids, a first heat exchanger; and a fuel supply. The means for mixing is configured to exhaust, at an intermediate pressure, an intermediate fluid comprising a mixture of steam from the supply and off-gas from the first fluid volume, and the system is configured to route said intermediate fluid to a first path of the first heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat from the first path for the intermediate fluid to a second path for fuel from the fuel supply to separate water from the first product of the electrolyser reaction by condensing liquid water out of the intermediate fluid. The system is configured to route the first product of the electrolyser reaction out of the system at the intermediate pressure, and to route fuel from the second path of the first heat exchanger to a first inlet of the at least one electrolyser cell.

IPC Classes  ?

• C25B 1/042 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water by electrolysis of steam
• C25B 15/021 - Process control or regulation of heating or cooling
• C25B 15/08 - Supplying or removing reactants or electrolytesRegeneration of electrolytes

Abstract

An apparatus comprising an electrolyser subsystem (20), a Haber Bosch subsystem (22), and an Ostwald subsystem (24), and a method for producing nitric acid. Fluid passageways are configured to: route hydrogen produced by the electrolyser subsystem (20) to the Haber Bosch subsystem (22) via a first path (26) for use in a Haber process at the Haber Bosch subsystem (22) to produce ammonia; route at least a portion of the ammonia produced by the Haber Bosch subsystem (22) to the Ostwald subsystem (24) via a second path (28) for use in an Ostwald process at the Ostwald subsystem (24) to produce nitric acid; and route at least a portion of steam produced using heat from the Ostwald subsystem (24) to the electrolyser subsystem (20) via a third path (30) for use as at least a part of an infeed gas for the electrolyser subsystem (20).

IPC Classes  ?

• C01B 21/26 - Preparation by catalytic oxidation of ammonia
• C01B 21/38 - Nitric acid
• C01B 21/28 - Apparatus
• C01B 3/02 - Production of hydrogen or of gaseous mixtures containing hydrogen
• C01C 1/04 - Preparation of ammonia by synthesis
• C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water

Abstract

An electrochemical cell unit comprising a cell layer comprising an electrochemically active area and a spacer assembly. The spacer assembly is formed by a spacer plate and a flow distribution element. The cell layer and the spacer plate are overlaid in a spaced relationship to enclose a first fluid volume therebetween, wherein a first face of the cell layer faces the spacer plate. The flow distribution element is disposed within the first fluid volume. The first fluid volume comprises a first sub-volume and a second sub-volume with the flow distribution element disposed between the first sub-volume and the second sub-volume. The flow distribution element is configured to allow fluidic communication between the first sub-volume and the second sub-volume at a plurality of locations along the length of the flow distribution element to direct flow in three-dimensions in the first fluid volume.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form

Abstract

The present invention provides a heat exchanger and a method of making a heat exchanger, the heat exchanger being formed of at least one pair of single repeat units, each single repeat unit comprising a support layer and an interconnect layer, and in a first pair of the single repeat units, a first single repeat unit and a second single repeat unit is configured with their interconnect layers facing each other to define a first fluid passageway between those interconnect layers; and a second fluid passageway is provided on an opposite side of at least one of those interconnect layers so that the at least one interconnect layer is adapted to exchange heat between fluids within the first and second fluid passageways.

IPC Classes  ?

• C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cellsConstructional parts of cellsAssemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assembliesProcess-related cell features
• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• H01M 8/008 - Disposal or recycling of fuel cells
• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly including a first end plate assembly, a stack of cell repeat units, and a second end plate assembly. The stack is held in a compressed state between the first end plate assembly and the second end plate assembly. The first end plate assembly and/or the second end plate assembly each include an end plate. The electrochemical cell assembly includes an insulation plate located between the end plate and the stack. At least one through-hole is provided in the insulation plate and a sealing insert is provided in the at least one through-hole of the insulation plate, the sealing insert defining a fluid pathway along the stacking direction. The invention also relates to an end plate assembly and a method of manufacturing an electrochemical cell assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2485 - Arrangements for sealing external manifoldsArrangements for mounting external manifolds around a stack
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising a stack (16) of cell units (18), wherein in said stack there is provided a fluid inlet manifold (28) and a fluid outlet manifold (30), each cell unit has a fluid inlet port (38) being in communication with the fluid inlet manifold and a fluid outlet port (40) being in communication with the fluid outlet manifold, each cell unit defines an inner fluid flow path (36) for fluid to flow from the fluid inlet port to the fluid outlet port, each cell unit has a fluid permeability along its fluid flow path, an average fluid permeability of the cell units in an upper half (52) of the stack is higher than an average fluid permeability of the cell units in a lower half (54) of the stack.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• C25B 9/75 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type having bipolar electrodes
• H01M 8/0232 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/026 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant characterised by grooves, e.g. their pitch or depth
• H01M 8/1286 - Fuel cells applied on a support, e.g. miniature fuel cells deposited on silica supports
• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration

Abstract

The invention relates to a compression device (10) for exerting a compressive force on an electrochemical cell stack (12), comprising a first compression plate (24) and a second compression plate (26), said first and second compression plates being displaceable towards each other along a compression axis (30) for compressing an electrochemical cell stack received between them, further comprising a spring device (36), comprising at least one spring member (38), for exerting a spring force on the first compression plate, said spring force acting along the compression axis, wherein the spring device has a non-linear force-deflection behaviour. The invention also relates to a cell assembly comprising such a compression device and an electrochemical cell stack, and to methods of manufacturing a compressed electrochemical cell stack.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10, comprising a stack (16) of cell units (18), said stack comprising a plurality of cell units stacked upon one another along a stacking direction and a plurality of gaskets (40) interposed between said cell units, said gaskets being aligned such that they overlie along the stacking direction forming a column of gaskets, and a spring device (54) being configured to exert a spring force on the column of gaskets along the stacking direction (20). The invention also relates to methods of manufacturing an electrochemical cell assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds

Abstract

The invention relates to a cell unit (12) comprising a cell layer (18) and an interconnector plate (28), wherein a periphery (22) of the cell layer (18) is attached to a periphery (30) of the interconnector plate, wherein a central portion (24) of the cell layer and a central portion (32) of the interconnector plate define a fluid volume (34) therebetween, and wherein a fluid guidance insert (52) is disposed in the fluid volumes, said fluid guidance insert defining a fluid channel system for conveying fluid between at least one fluid port of the cell unit and the fluid volume.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0254 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form corrugated or undulated
• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• H01M 8/0297 - Arrangements for joining electrodes, reservoir layers, heat exchange units or bipolar separators to each other
• H01M 8/1213 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the electrode/electrolyte combination or the supporting material
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds

Abstract

The invention pertains to an electrochemical cell assembly (10), comprising a stack (12) of cell units (14) that are stacked upon one another along a stacking direction (16), and a current transmission device (54) for electrically contacting the stack of cell units, said current transmission device spanning the stack along the stacking direction and being electrically connected to a first end of the stack, wherein the current transmission device comprises at least one spring member (56) that is configured to be elastically deformable along the stacking direction in order to compensate for relative thermal expansion of the stack and the current transmission device during operation of the electrochemical cell assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• C25B 9/70 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising an end plate (14, 18), a stack (20) comprising a plurality of cell units (22) that are stacked upon one another along a stacking direction (24), and an insulating plate (32) that is interposed between the end plate and the stack, wherein the cell units each comprise a periphery (52) and a central portion (54), wherein at least one cut-out (76) is provided in the insulating plate, said cut-out extending through the insulating plate along the stacking direction, and wherein at least one inset (78) is positioned in said cut-out such that, seen along the stacking direction, the inset and the central portion overlap each other, said inset being formed from a ceramic material.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell stack, comprising a plurality of electrochemical cell units (12) that are stacked upon one another along a stacking direction (14), wherein each cell unit comprises a cell layer having at least one electrochemically active cell chemistry region, and an interconnector plate (18), said cell layer and said interconnector plate overlie one another and are attached to each other to enclose a fluid volume therebetween, adjacent cell units cooperate with each other such that movement of the cell units relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction is limited or blocked. The invention also relates to electrochemical cell units and a method of manufacturing an electrochemical cell stack.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• C25B 9/70 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells

Abstract

The invention relates to a method of preparing a cell repeat unit (18) for use in an electrochemical cell stack (10), the method comprising providing an electrochemical cell unit (28), said cell unit (28) having an inner fluid volume (44) and a cell opening (60) for transporting fluid between said inner fluid volume (44) and the exterior of the cell unit, providing a gasket being configured to surround the cell opening, and attaching said gasket to said cell unit by a hot melt adhesive dose (80). The invention also relates to a cell repeat unit and an electrochemical cell stack.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• C25B 9/70 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells
• H01M 8/0286 - Processes for forming seals
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/0284 - Organic resinsOrganic polymers
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• B32B 37/00 - Methods or apparatus for laminating, e.g. by curing or by ultrasonic bonding

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10), the cell assembly comprising a base plate (24), a stack (12) having a plurality of cell units (14) that are stacked upon one another along a stacking direction (16), said stack being arranged upon the base plate, a housing (34) surrounding the stack of cell units and being movable relative to the base plate along the stacking direction, and a sealing device (74) that acts between the housing and the base plate, wherein the housing is connected to the base plate by at least one fastening device (50) that is configured to restrict movement of the housing relative to the base plate along the stacking direction in a first direction (52) away from the base plate.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2475 - Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks

Abstract

The invention relates to a cell unit (14) comprising: a cell layer (52) comprising electrochemically active layers (54), and an interconnector plate (62), wherein a periphery (56) of the cell layer (52) is attached to a periphery (64) of the interconnector plate (62), wherein a central portion (58) of the cell layer (52) and a central portion (66) of the interconnector plate (62) define a cell volume (50) therebetween, and wherein the interconnector plate (62) has a rounded shape in the central portion (66) forming a bulge (70) that protrudes away from the cell layer (52), said bulge (70) having a peak portion (74) that is arranged to initiate a touch-contact with a cell layer (52) of an adjacent cell unit (14).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/021 - Alloys based on iron
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/1226 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte characterised by the electrode/electrolyte combination or the supporting material characterised by the supporting layer
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly device (10) for assisting stacking of electrochemical cell units (102) to form a stack (100) of cell units, the assembly device comprising a support (14) having a support surface (18), an alignment device (24) for aligning the cell units relative to each other parallel to the support surface, the alignment device defines a receiving space for receiving cell units therein, the alignment device comprises at least one positioning pillar (26) that extends in a stacking direction perpendicular to the support surface, the at least one positioning pillar is configured to block a translational and/or a rotational movement of cell units positioned within the receiving space in a plane parallel to the support surface. The invention also relates to a system comprising such an assembly device and at least one cell unit as well as to a method of manufacturing an electrochemical cell stack.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• C25B 9/63 - Holders for electrodesPositioning of the electrodes
• C25B 9/70 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/247 - Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell unit (22), the cell unit comprising a cell housing (44) that defines a fluid volume (46), wherein a housing portion (48) of the cell housing has a structured area (50), wherein a coating (94) is provided on a surface of the structured area that is facing towards the fluid volume, and wherein the structured area comprises one or more first sections in which the coating has a nominal thickness, and one or more second sections that are devoid of the coating or in which the thickness of the coating is lower than the nominal thickness. The invention also relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising such a cell unit and to a method for preparing electrochemical cell units.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0228 - Composites in the form of layered or coated products
• C25B 9/01 - Electrolytic cells characterised by shape or form
• C25B 13/02 - DiaphragmsSpacing elements characterised by shape or form
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/026 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant characterised by grooves, e.g. their pitch or depth
• H01M 8/0258 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for preconditioning a laminate (10) to be used in electrochemical cell assemblies (30), said method comprising providing a laminate comprising a plurality of sheets (12) that are bonded together by a binder (14), and heating the laminate at a prebaking temperature (Tpb) for a predetermined prebaking time (Δt), said prebaking temperature being equal to or more than 650 °C. The invention also relates to the use of such a laminate in an electrochemical cell assembly as well as to an electrochemical cell assembly comprising at least one component having a laminate that is preconditioning by means of such a method.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• B32B 19/00 - Layered products essentially comprising natural mineral fibres or particles, e.g. asbestos, mica
• H01M 8/0286 - Processes for forming seals
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10), comprising an end plate assembly (12) and a stack (16) of cell units (18) comprising a plurality of cell units stacked upon one another along a stacking direction (20), wherein an internal fluid channel (22) is provided in the cell assembly for supplying fluid to each of the cell units, said fluid channel has a manifold section (36) extending through or along the stack of cell units in stacking direction and a supply section (38) adjoining said manifold section and being upstream of the manifold section, a cross-sectional area (42) of the supply section is at least locally smaller than a cross-sectional area (46) at an upstream end (44) of the manifold section (36).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising a stack of cell units (18), wherein each cell unit extends in a first direction (22) and in a second direction (24) perpendicular to the first direction and defines an external perimeter (26), a housing (42) surrounding the stack to define or enclose a fluid volume (48), a fluid inlet port (50) and a fluid outlet port (52), wherein the housing and the external perimeters of the cell units are separated by a gap (60) forming a fluid bypass (62) for fluid to bypass the stack, an electrically insulating board (64) located in said gap, and a sealing device (100) interacting with the electrically insulating board to reduce or prevent fluid flow along the fluid bypass provided by said gap.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0271 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes
• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• H01M 8/028 - Sealing means characterised by their material
• C25B 9/60 - Constructional parts of cells
• C25B 9/70 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2475 - Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/2485 - Arrangements for sealing external manifoldsArrangements for mounting external manifolds around a stack

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10), comprising a first end plate (12), a second end plate and a stack (16) of cell units (18), wherein each cell unit defines an external perimeter, a housing (42) surrounding the stack to define or enclose a fluid volume (48), at least one electrically insulating member (98) being located between the housing and the external perimeters of the cell units and a positioning device (100) for the at least one electrically insulating member, comprising at least one positioning member (106) protruding from either the housing or one of the end plates into the fluid volume, wherein the at least one positioning member has a positioning surface interacting with the electrically insulating member for positioning the electrically insulating member relative to the housing and/or the end plates. The invention also relates to methods of manufacturing an electrochemical cell assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0271 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes
• C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
• C25B 9/60 - Constructional parts of cells
• C25B 9/70 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells
• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2475 - Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/2485 - Arrangements for sealing external manifoldsArrangements for mounting external manifolds around a stack
• H01M 8/028 - Sealing means characterised by their material

Abstract

The invention relates to methods for preparing a material to be used as gasket (30) in electrochemical cell assemblies, said methods comprising providing a vermiculite material (300) and performing a preconditioning treatment (102) on said vermiculite material (300), said preconditioning treatment (102) comprising a pressing process and either or both of a humidity control process and a prebaking process. The invention also relates to the use of such a gasket in an electrochemical cell assembly as well as to a method for preparing an electrochemical cell assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• C04B 35/16 - Shaped ceramic products characterised by their compositionCeramic compositionsProcessing powders of inorganic compounds preparatory to the manufacturing of ceramic products based on oxides based on silicates other than clay
• F16J 15/02 - Sealings between relatively-stationary surfaces
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10), comprising a base plate, an end plate (26), a stack (12) comprising a plurality of cell units (14) stacked upon one another, said stack (12) being arranged between said base plate and said end plate, and an electrically conductive power transmission device (38) comprising a connector (40) that is located on a side of the end plate that is facing away from the stack, the power transmission device spanning the end plate and being electrically connected to the stack, wherein the power transmission device is attached to the end plate by a fastening device (42) at a portion of the power transmission device that is located between an electrical connection to the stack and the connector.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly, comprising a stack of cell units, wherein each cell unit has a periphery and a central portion surrounded by the periphery, the periphery has a first flange portion (90-1) and an opposite second flange portion (90-2), the flange portions of adjacent cell units overlie one another and are separated by a gap (88-1, 88-2), wherein between two adjacent cell units, there is provided a fluid flow path comprising an inner flow path between the central portions of adjacent cell units and an outer flow through said gaps, and a flow restriction device (112) comprising at least one flow restriction member (114-1, 114-2), said flow restriction device being configured to reduce or prevent fluid flow along the outer flow path.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0258 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/242 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes comprising framed electrodes or intermediary frame-like gaskets
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/2485 - Arrangements for sealing external manifoldsArrangements for mounting external manifolds around a stack

Abstract

The invention relates to methods of assembly of an electrochemical cell unit as well as to electrochemical cell units. The invention also relates to a stack of cell units.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/0271 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes
• H01M 8/0297 - Arrangements for joining electrodes, reservoir layers, heat exchange units or bipolar separators to each other
• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising a housing (32) and an end plate (14) and a spatter trap (52) provided between them.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/247 - Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
• H01M 50/112 - Monobloc comprising multiple compartments
• H01M 50/169 - Lids or covers characterised by the methods of assembling casings with lids by welding, brazing or soldering
• H01M 50/264 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders with fastening means, e.g. locks for cells or batteries, e.g. straps, tie rods or peripheral frames

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising a first end plate assembly (12) having a first end plate (14), a second end plate assembly having a second end plate, and a stack (20) of cell units (22) arranged between said first and second end plates and comprising a plurality of cell units stacked upon one another along a stacking direction (24), wherein at least one fluid manifold (40) is provided in said stack for supplying fluid to the cell units (22), a plurality of gaskets (36) provided around said fluid manifold, wherein the first end plate assembly comprises further a sealing device (46) located between the first end plate and the stack, said sealing device defining a fluid channel (62), a current collector plate (64) located between the first end plate and the stack, wherein the sealing device extends through the current collector plate without contacting it.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising a housing (32) and an end plate (14), wherein the housing (32) has a proud standing segment (48) that extends beyond the end plate (14).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/247 - Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
• H01M 50/112 - Monobloc comprising multiple compartments
• H01M 50/169 - Lids or covers characterised by the methods of assembling casings with lids by welding, brazing or soldering
• H01M 50/264 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders with fastening means, e.g. locks for cells or batteries, e.g. straps, tie rods or peripheral frames

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly comprising an end plate assembly having an end plate (14), and a stack of cell repeat units, said end plate (14) comprising at least one through-hole (26) formed therein to form a fluid port (28) for supplying fluid from the outside of the electrochemical cell assembly to the stack of cell repeat units, said through-hole being associated with a sealing device (42), said sealing device comprising a sleeve (44), and a first gasket (56), said first gasket (56) being provided on a first face (50) of the sleeve (44), wherein the sleeve (44) is positioned at least partially in a recess (62) formed in a surface (64) of the end plate, said surface facing the stack of cell units.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• C25B 9/75 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type having bipolar electrodes
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising first and second end plates (14) and a stack of cell units (22) being arranged between said first and second end plates, wherein at least one fluid channel (78) is provided for supplying fluid to the cell units, wherein a plurality of gaskets (26, 28) is provided around said fluid channel, said plurality of gaskets (26, 28) comprising first gaskets (26) interposed between the cell units and one or more second gaskets (28), each second gasket being interposed between one of the end plates and the stack, wherein at least one of the one or more second gaskets is a surface-reduced gasket (80), said surface-reduced gasket being characterized in that a total surface area of its sealing surfaces is smaller than a total surface area of the sealing surfaces of a first gasket (26).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0276 - Sealing means characterised by their form
• C25B 1/00 - Electrolytic production of inorganic compounds or non-metals
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrochemical cell assembly (10) comprising a first end plate assembly (12) having a first end plate (14), a second end plate assembly (16) having a second end plate (18), and a stack (20) of cell units (22) arranged between said first end plate and said second end plate, said first end plate and/or said second end plate comprising at least one through-hole (26) formed therein, said through-hole being associated with a sealing device ( 42 ), said sealing device comprising a sleeve (44) formed from a ceramic material, and a gasket (52, 54) disposed on an end face (48, 50) of said sleeve, said end face being provided with a coating (56) that has an outer layer (58), said outer layer being in contact with the gasket and comprising a cobalt oxide material. The invention also relates to a method for preparing an electrochemical cell assembly.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/2485 - Arrangements for sealing external manifoldsArrangements for mounting external manifolds around a stack