Abstract

A method of manufacturing a solid oxide fuel cell stack, including alternately disposing a plurality of single fuel cells, and a plurality of interconnectors disposed alternately and holding the alternately disposed plurality of single fuel cells and plurality of interconnectors between a pair of end members, forming a space between a first end member and a first interconnector, disposing a junction member composed of an elastic member and an electrically conductive member in the space, and urging a portion of an electrically conductive member and another portion of the electrically member against the first end member and the first interconnector so that a total thickness of the portion of the electrically conductive member, the another portion of the electrically conductive member, and the elastic member prior to being disposed in the space between the first end member and the first interconnector is greater than a height of the space.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material
• 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
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• 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

Abstract

2 crystal structure. Also disclosed is an electrochemical reaction cell stack including a plurality of electrochemical reaction units disposed in the first direction, at least one of the electrochemical reaction units being the above-described unit. Yet further disclosed is a method for producing the electrochemical reaction unit.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0662 - Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• 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 8/124 - 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

Abstract

The purpose of the prevent invention is to prevent the unevenness in current densities due to the difference in temperatures in electrochemical reaction unit cells. An electrochemical reaction cell stack is provided with a plurality of electrochemical reaction unit cells each provided with an air electrode, a fuel electrode and an electrolyte layer. The fuel electrode contains zirconia. When a layer containing zirconia is subjected to a Raman analysis, an integrated value of intensities in a wavenumber range from 440 cm-1to 690 cm-1inclusive is defined as a first integrated value and an integrated value of intensities in a wavenumber range from 185 cm-1to 380 cm-1 inclusive is defined as a second integrated value. A first ratio, which is a ratio of the second integrated value to the first integrated value in a first fuel electrode part that is included in a higher-temperature cell part in the electrochemical reaction unit cells, is larger than a second ratio, which is a ratio of the second integrated value to the first integrated value in a second fuel electrode part that is included in a lower-temperature cell part in the electrochemical reaction unit cells.

IPC Classes  ?

• C25B 13/04 - DiaphragmsSpacing elements characterised by the material
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cellsConstructional parts of cellsAssemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assembliesProcess-related cell features
• C25B 9/10 - Cells comprising dimensionally-stable non-movable electrodes; Assemblies of constructional parts thereof with diaphragms including an ion-exchange membrane in or on which electrode material is embedded
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• 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 8/1253 - 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 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration

Abstract

A composite including an electrolyte layer containing solid oxide, and at least one electrode selected from a cathode disposed on one side of the electrolyte layer in a first direction and an anode disposed on the other side of the electrolyte layer in the first direction. Either one of two surfaces of the composite located on opposite sides in the first direction satisfies a first requirement that, as viewed in the first direction, a curvature determined on the basis of any three points juxtaposed at intervals of 5 mm is less than 0.0013 (l/mm) and that, as viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the curvature is the reciprocal of the radius of an imaginary circle passing through the any three points.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material
• H01M 4/88 - Processes of manufacture
• 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 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
• 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 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

A fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell; a reformer to generate a hydrogen-containing gas; an electric power generation raw material supply unit; a reforming material supply unit configured to supply at least one of reforming water and reforming air, to the reformer; an oxidizing gas supply unit to supply an oxidizing gas to a cathode of the fuel cell; a combustor to ignite an exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell; and a controller. In an operation stop process of the fuel cell system, the controller causes the oxidizing gas supply unit to supply the oxidizing gas, causes the electric power generation raw material supply unit and the reforming material supply unit to intermittently supply the electric power generation raw material and at least one of the water and the air to the reformer, and causes the ignitor to perform an ignition operation.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04228 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids during start-up or shut-downDepolarisation or activation, e.g. purgingMeans for short-circuiting defective fuel cells during shut-down
• H01M 8/04303 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems applied during specific periods applied during shut-down
• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/0432 - TemperatureAmbient temperature
• H01M 8/04746 - PressureFlow
• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/04537 - Electric variables
• H01M 8/0612 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants from carbon-containing material
• H01M 8/0662 - Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
• H01M 8/0438 - PressureAmbient pressureFlow
• 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

Abstract

The present invention prevents unevenness in current density occurring due to a difference in gas concentration between the upstream side and the downstream side of a fuel electrode. This electrochemical reaction cell stack is provided with multiple electrochemical reaction unit cells each including an air electrode, a fuel electrode, and an electrolyte layer. The fuel electrode contains zirconia. When an integral value indicating an intensity in a wavenumber range of 440 cm-1to 690 cm-1is defined as a first integral value and an integral value indicating an intensity in a wavenumber range of 185 cm-1to 380 cm-1 is defined as a second integral value in a Raman analysis of a zirconia-containing layer, then at the fuel electrode provided in at least one of the multiple electrochemical reaction unit cells, a first ratio, that is, the ratio of the second integral value to the first integral value at the upstream side of a flow path of gas supplied to the fuel electrode, is greater than a second ratio, that is, the ratio of the second integral value to the first integral value at the downstream side of the gas flow path in the fuel electrode.

IPC Classes  ?

• C25B 13/04 - DiaphragmsSpacing elements characterised by the material
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cellsConstructional parts of cellsAssemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assembliesProcess-related cell features
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• 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

Abstract

To prevent a reduction in the performance of a unit cell due to a gas shortage in a cathode chamber. An electrochemical reaction unit includes a unit cell, a cathode-side member, and an anode-side member. The electrochemical reaction unit satisfies the following condition on at least one of supply and discharge sides of the cathode chamber. Condition: the distance between the midpoint between opposite end points of a cathode-side opening group including an opening of a cathode-side communication channel and the midpoint (specific point) between opposite end points of an anode-side supply opening group including an opening of an anode-side supply communication channel in a direction parallel to an inner circumferential surface of a cathode chamber hole is shorter than the distance between the centroid of a cathode-side gas channel hole and the specific point in the direction parallel to the inner circumferential surface of the cathode chamber hole.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0265 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant the reactant or coolant channels having varying cross sections
• 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

An electrochemical reaction unit including a unit cell including an electrolyte layer, and a cathode and an anode that face each other in a first direction with the electrolyte layer intervening therebetween; and a felt member containing a ceramic material or a metal and a silica component. The felt member has an Si content of 0.9 mass % to 13.2 mass %. Also disclosed is an electrochemical reaction cell stack including a plurality of electrochemical reaction units, at least one of the units being the above-described electrochemical reaction unit.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/0252 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form tubular
• 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 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• 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

Abstract

The fuel cell module (1) according to the present invention has: a sealed fuel cell stack (2) formed by stacking a plurality of flat-plate fuel cells (2a) on one another; a reformer (36); a combustor (38); and conductive bus bars (B1, B2) for extracting electric power generated in the fuel cells, wherein the fuel cell module has no outer vessel member provided thereto for accommodating the fuel cell stack, and the bus bars each have the base end side thereof disposed at an end of the fuel cell stack while the distal end side thereof is configured to protrude, without penetrating an outer vessel member, so as to enable direct extraction outside the fuel cell module.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• C01B 3/38 - Production of hydrogen or of gaseous mixtures containing hydrogen by reaction of gaseous or liquid organic compounds with gasifying agents, e.g. water, carbon dioxide, air by reaction of hydrocarbons with gasifying agents using catalysts
• H01M 8/0606 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/0662 - Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
• 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 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/2475 - Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction cell stack including a plurality of unit cells and flat plate-shaped electrically conductive members arranged in a first direction. The electrically conductive members include: a first member having a first surface including a first flat portion and a protruding portion and a second member both located on the first side of the first member in the first direction, the second member having a second surface facing the first surface and including a second flat portion and a recessed portion facing the protruding portion. The thickness of the second member is larger than the thickness of the first member in the first direction. The depth of the recessed portion of the second member from the second flat portion is larger than the protruding length of the protruding portion of the first member from the first flat portion in the first direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
• C25B 9/73 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells of the filter-press type
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/0256 - Vias, i.e. connectors passing through the separator material

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit includes a unit cell including an electrolyte layer, and a cathode and an anode which face each other in a first direction with the electrolyte layer intervening therebetween, and one or a plurality of structural members. The electrochemical reaction unit further includes a glass seal member which contains glass and is in contact with two members facing each other in the first direction, the two members being selected from the unit cell and the one or the plurality of structural members. The glass seal member contains a plurality of crystal grains each having a ratio of a vertical dimension in the first direction to a horizontal dimension in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction of 1.5 or more.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/0286 - Processes for forming seals
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit including a unit cell, a cathode-side member, and an anode-side member. The sum La of the distance Lai between a virtual straight line representing a center position of the unit cell and the midpoint between opposite end points of a cathode-side supply opening group and the distance Lao between the virtual straight line and the midpoint between opposite end points of a cathode-side discharge opening group is smaller than the sum Lf of the distance Lfi between the virtual straight line and the midpoint between opposite end points of an anode-side supply opening group including an opening of an anode-side supply communication channel and the distance Lfo between the virtual straight line and the midpoint between opposite end points of an anode-side discharge opening group including an opening of an anode-side discharge communication channel.

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 8/1231 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• H01M 8/04746 - PressureFlow
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• 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

Abstract

3 nor cavities of an interfacial surface of the intermediate layer on the electrolyte layer side to the total length of the interfacial surface. Also disclosed is an electrochemical reaction cell stack including a plurality of electrochemical reaction single cells, at least one of which is the above described electrochemical reaction single cell.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• 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
• C25B 13/04 - DiaphragmsSpacing elements characterised by the material
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• 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
• C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
• 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

Abstract

3 integrated value calculated by a predetermined method is 600 to 10,300. Also disclosed is an electrochemical reaction cell stack including a plurality of electrochemical reaction single cells.

IPC Classes  ?

• 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 8/1253 - 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
• C25B 9/08 - Cells comprising dimensionally-stable non-movable electrodes; Assemblies of constructional parts thereof with diaphragms
• C25B 9/19 - Cells comprising dimensionally-stable non-movable electrodesAssemblies of constructional parts thereof with diaphragms
• 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

Goods & Services

Non-electric prime movers [not for land vehicles] and parts thereof; pneumatic or hydraulic machines and instruments; generators; generators with cogeneration function; AC generators [alternators]; DC generators; power installations [generators]; power generators for vehicles; chemical processing machines. Batteries; cells [electric]; solar batteries; galvanic cells; fuel cells; fuel battery cells; fuel cell stacks; fuel cell modules; fuel cell electrodes; power generators for vehicles; fuel battery generators; battery charging equipment; parts and fittings for each of the foregoing; computers for remote monitoring of fuel battery generators using communication networks; telecommunication machines and apparatus for use in the field of fuel cells and other batteries; electronic machines, apparatus and their parts for use in the field of fuel cells and other batteries; wireless transmitters for remote controls; wireless receivers for remote controls; apparatus and instruments for conducting, controlling and regulating the distribution of electricity. Chemical processing equipment; water heaters; feed water heaters for non-electric prime movers and engines with fuel cells; feed water heaters for non-electric prime movers and engines used for cogeneration systems; air conditioners with fuel cells; air conditioners; air conditioners used for cogeneration systems; feed water heaters for non-electric prime movers and engines; air conditioners for industrial purposes; household electrothermic appliances; stoves. Retail or wholesale services for apparatus and instruments for conducting, controlling or regulating the distribution of electricity; retail services or wholesale services for generators and parts and fittings therefor; retail services or wholesale services for fuel cells, batteries and parts and fittings therefor; consultancy services relating to commercial sales for generators with cogeneration function; consultancy services relating to commercial sales for fuel cells and batteries and parts and fittings therefor; retail services or wholesale services for electrical machinery and apparatuses and their parts for use in the field of fuel cells and other batteries; providing information concerning commercial sales. Repair or maintenance of apparatus and intruments for conducting, controlling or regulating the distribution of electricity; repair or maintenance of fuel cells, fuel battery cells, fuel cell stacks, fuel cell modules and other batteries and their parts; repair or maintenance of fuel battery generators; repair or maintenance of generators with cogeneration function; servicing of power generating apparatus and instruments; installation of fuel battery generators; installation of electrical and generating machinery; installation of power generating apparatus; installation of generators; installation of generators with cogeneration function; construction; repair or maintenance of batteries; replacement of batteries; vehicle battery charging; repair or maintenance of power generators; providing information relating to the repair or maintenance of power generators; advisory services relating to the installation of generators. Electricity supply and distribution with fuel cells and other batteries; heat supplying [distribution]; gas supplying [distribution]; hot water supplying [distribution]; providing information in relation to the distribution of electricity, heat, gas and water; electricity distribution; water supplying [distribution]. Custom manufacture of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; rental of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; rental of power-generating equipment; rental of generators; hire of generators; rental of generators with cogeneration function; rental of space heating apparatus; rental of space heating apparatus using cogeneration system; rental of air-conditioning apparatus; rental of electricity generators; rental of air-conditioning apparatus for household purposes; rental of air conditioners for industrial purposes; rental of fuel battery generators for household purposes; rental of fuel cells for household purposes; rental of generators with cogeneration function for household purposes; generation of power. Scientific and technological services and research and design relating thereto; industrial analysis and industrial research services; design of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; advisory services relating to design of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; technical testing; scientific and industrial research in the field of electricity; testing and research on cogeneration system; designing of machines, apparatus, instruments [including their parts] or systems composed of such machines, apparatus and instruments; testing or research on machines, apparatus and instruments; testing or research on electricity.

Goods & Services

Non-electric prime movers [not for land vehicles] and parts thereof; pneumatic or hydraulic machines and instruments; generators; generators with cogeneration function; AC generators [alternators]; DC generators; power installations [generators]; power generators for vehicles; chemical processing machines. Batteries; cells [electric]; solar batteries; galvanic cells; fuel cells; fuel battery cells; fuel cell stacks; fuel cell modules; fuel cell electrodes; power generators for vehicles; fuel battery generators; battery charging equipment; parts and fittings for each of the foregoing; computers for remote monitoring of fuel battery generators using communication networks; telecommunication machines and apparatus for use in the field of fuel cells and other batteries; electronic machines, apparatus and their parts for use in the field of fuel cells and other batteries; wireless transmitters for remote controls; wireless receivers for remote controls; apparatus and instruments for conducting, controlling and regulating the distribution of electricity. Chemical processing equipment; water heaters; feed water heaters for non-electric prime movers and engines with fuel cells; feed water heaters for non-electric prime movers and engines used for cogeneration systems; air conditioners with fuel cells; air conditioners; air conditioners used for cogeneration systems; feed water heaters for non-electric prime movers and engines; air conditioners for industrial purposes; household electrothermic appliances; stoves. Retail or wholesale services for apparatus and instruments for conducting, controlling or regulating the distribution of electricity; retail services or wholesale services for generators and parts and fittings therefor; retail services or wholesale services for fuel cells, batteries and parts and fittings therefor; consultancy services relating to commercial sales for generators with cogeneration function; consultancy services relating to commercial sales for fuel cells and batteries and parts and fittings therefor; retail services or wholesale services for electrical machinery and apparatuses and their parts for use in the field of fuel cells and other batteries; providing information concerning commercial sales. Repair or maintenance of apparatus and instruments for conducting, controlling or regulating the distribution of electricity; repair or maintenance of fuel cells, fuel battery cells, fuel cell stacks, fuel cell modules and other batteries and their parts; repair or maintenance of fuel battery generators; repair or maintenance of generators with cogeneration function; servicing of power generating apparatus and instruments; installation of fuel battery generators; installation of electrical and generating machinery; installation of power generating apparatus; installation of generators; installation of generators with cogeneration function; construction; repair or maintenance of batteries; replacement of batteries; vehicle battery charging; repair or maintenance of power generators; providing information relating to the repair or maintenance of power generators; advisory services relating to the installation of generators. Electricity supply and distribution with fuel cells and other batteries; heat supplying [distribution]; gas supplying [distribution]; hot water supplying [distribution]; providing information in relation to the distribution of electricity, heat, gas and water; electricity distribution; water supplying [distribution]. Custom manufacture of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; rental of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; rental of power-generating equipment; rental of generators; hire of generators; rental of generators with cogeneration function; rental of space heating apparatus; rental of space heating apparatus using cogeneration system; rental of air-conditioning apparatus; rental of electricity generators; rental of air-conditioning apparatus for household purposes; rental of air conditioners for industrial purposes; rental of fuel battery generators for household purposes; rental of fuel cells for household purposes; rental of generators with cogeneration function for household purposes; generation of power. Scientific and technological services and research and design relating thereto; industrial analysis and industrial research services; design of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; advisory services relating to design of fuel cells, other batteries and their parts; technical testing; scientific and industrial research in the field of electricity; testing and research on cogeneration system; designing of machines, apparatus, instruments [including their parts] or systems composed of such machines, apparatus and instruments; testing or research on machines, apparatus and instruments; testing or research on electricity.

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction cell stack includes an electrochemical reaction block including three or more electrochemical reaction units arranged in a first direction; a first heat-absorbing member which is disposed on one side of the electrochemical reaction block in the first direction and absorbs heat generated from the electrochemical reaction block; and a second heat-absorbing member which is disposed on the other side of the electrochemical reaction block in the first direction and absorbs heat generated from the electrochemical reaction block. An upstream electrochemical reaction unit is disposed between the first heat-absorbing member and the downstream electrochemical reaction unit disposed closest to the first heat-absorbing member, and an upstream electrochemical reaction unit is disposed between the second heat-absorbing member and the downstream electrochemical reaction unit disposed closest to the second heat-absorbing member.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• 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

Abstract

4 in X-ray diffractometry (XRD). Also disclosed is an electrochemical reaction unit including a structural member formed of the mica-made member and an electrochemical reaction cell stack.

IPC Classes  ?

• C01B 33/42 - Micas
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cellsConstructional parts of cellsAssemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assembliesProcess-related cell features
• C25B 9/70 - Assemblies comprising two or more cells
• 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 8/242 - 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 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit cell including an electrolyte layer containing a solid oxide; a cathode and an anode which face each other in a first direction with the electrolyte layer intervening therebetween; and an intermediate layer disposed between the electrolyte layer and the cathode and containing a first cerium oxide. In the electrochemical reaction unit cell, the cathode includes an active layer containing a strontium-containing perovskite oxide, a second cerium oxide, sulfur, and strontium sulfate and having ion conductivity and electron conductivity, and a grain of the strontium sulfate covers at least a portion of the surface of a grain of the second cerium oxide.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/88 - Processes of manufacture
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• H01M 8/0236 - GlassCeramicsCermets
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• C25B 9/00 - Cells or assemblies of cellsConstructional parts of cellsAssemblies of constructional parts, e.g. electrode-diaphragm assembliesProcess-related cell features
• 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

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit cell including an electrolyte layer containing Zr, an anode disposed on one side of the electrolyte layer in a first direction, a cathode containing Sr and disposed on another side of the electrolyte layer in the first direction, and a reaction preventing layer disposed between the electrolyte layer and the cathode. The reaction preventing layer contains Zr in an amount of 0.015 wt % to 1 wt %.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• H01M 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material
• 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 8/1253 - 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 4/88 - Processes of manufacture
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• 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

Abstract

A fuel cell electricity generation unit including a unit cell including an electrolyte layer containing a solid oxide, and a cathode and an anode which face each other with the electrolyte layer intervening therebetween; an electrically conductive current collecting member disposed on the cathode side of the unit cell; an electrically conductive coating which covers the surface of the current collecting member; and an electrically conductive bonding layer which bonds the cathode to the current collecting member covered with the coating, wherein the following relationship is satisfied: the porosity of the coating

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0245 - Composites in the form of layered or coated products
• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells

Abstract

A fuel cell array comprises a plurality of serially connected fuel cell units. A respective fuel cell unit comprises a fuel cell and a cap capped on each end of the fuel cell. The fuel cell unit further comprises an electrically conductive terminal layer forming an outermost laminate of the fuel cell at one end of the fuel cell. The terminal layer is directly laminated on a fuel electrode layer and directly laminated on a solid electrolyte layer. The fuel cell unit further comprises a glass material forming a sealing layer circumferentially around the fuel cell to fill between the inner surface of the cap and the outer surface of the fuel cell. The plurality of fuel cell units are electrically connected in series through the electrically conductive terminal layer, not through the cap.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/1007 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/241 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes
• H01M 8/021 - Alloys based on iron
• H01M 8/0284 - Organic resinsOrganic polymers
• H01M 8/0252 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form tubular
• H01M 8/243 - Grouping of unit cells of tubular or cylindrical configuration

Abstract

A fuel cell electricity generation unit including a single cell; first and second interconnectors; a separator; a metal frame member disposed between the separator and the first interconnector; and a gas sealing member having a contact portion in contact with the surfaces of the separator and the second interconnector. The unit has a contact overlap region overlapping with the contact portion in a first direction, and each of the gas sealing member, the separator, the frame member, the first interconnector, and the second interconnector is present in the contact overlap region. At least one of a first weld portion sealing between the separator and the frame member and a second weld portion sealing between the frame member and the first interconnector is formed at a position whose distance from the periphery of the single cell is greater than the distance between the periphery and the contact overlap region.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0286 - Processes for forming seals
• H01M 8/1007 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• 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 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• 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

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit including a unit cell; a separator bonded to a peripheral portion of the unit cell by means of a bonding member containing a brazing material; and a glass sealing member which is in contact with both the surface of the separator and the surface of the unit cell, thereby sealing between an air chamber and a fuel chamber. The separator has a first flat portion approximately parallel to a second direction perpendicular to a first direction; a second flat portion approximately parallel to the second direction; and a connection portion having a portion whose position in the first direction is different from that of the first flat portion and the second flat portion and connecting the first flat portion and the second flat portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0271 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• 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

Abstract

A fuel cell stack including a plurality of electricity generation units fastened by means of a plurality of fastening members. Each electricity generation unit includes a single cell, and a sealing member sandwiched between two other members thereby sealing one of the anode chamber and the cathode chamber. The surface of the sealing member included in at least one electricity generation units, the surface facing either of the two other members, has a surface roughness Ra of 3.0 μm or less.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0271 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes
• H01M 8/247 - Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
• H01M 8/0286 - Processes for forming seals
• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• 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

Abstract

b.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0612 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants from carbon-containing material
• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/249 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells comprising two or more groupings of fuel cells, e.g. modular assemblies
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/243 - Grouping of unit cells of tubular or cylindrical configuration
• H01M 8/2484 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by external manifolds
• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• 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 8/124 - 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
• F28D 21/00 - Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit containing a single cell including an electrolyte layer containing solid oxide, and a cathode and an anode which face each other in a first direction with the electrolyte layer intervening therebetween; a current collector disposed on a cathode side of the single cell and having a protrusion protruding toward the cathode; an electrically conductive coat covering a surface of the current collector; and an electrically conductive bonding layer bonding the cathode and the protrusion covered with the coat. In at least one section of the protrusion taken in parallel with the first direction, the protrusion covered with the coat has a covered portion covered with the bonding layer and an exposed portion exposed from the bonding layer and including a corner portion of the protrusion covered with the coat.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• 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

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit including a single cell including an electrolyte layer containing solid oxide, and a cathode and an anode which face each other in a first direction with the electrolyte layer intervening therebetween; a current collector disposed on a cathode side of the single cell and having a protrusion protruding toward the cathode; an electrically conductive coat covering a surface of the current collector; and an electrically conductive bonding layer bonding the cathode and the protrusion covered with the coat. In all sections of the protrusion taken in parallel with the first direction, a corner portion of the protrusion covered with the coat is covered with the bonding layer.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0245 - Composites in the form of layered or coated products
• H01M 8/0236 - GlassCeramicsCermets
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/0656 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants by electrochemical means
• H01M 8/1231 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/241 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes
• G02B 1/04 - Optical elements characterised by the material of which they are madeOptical coatings for optical elements made of organic materials, e.g. plastics
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• C25B 1/04 - Hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water
• 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

Abstract

A fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell; a reformer to generate a hydrogen-containing gas; an electric power generation raw material supply unit; a reforming material supply unit configured to supply at least one of reforming water and reforming air, to the reformer; an oxidizing gas supply unit to supply an oxidizing gas to a cathode of the fuel cell; a combustor to ignite an exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell; and a controller. In an operation stop process of the fuel cell system, the controller causes the oxidizing gas supply unit to supply the oxidizing gas, causes the electric power generation raw material supply unit and the reforming material supply unit to intermittently supply the electric power generation raw material and at least one of the water and the air to the reformer, and causes the ignitor to perform an ignition operation.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04228 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids during start-up or shut-downDepolarisation or activation, e.g. purgingMeans for short-circuiting defective fuel cells during shut-down
• H01M 8/0662 - Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
• H01M 8/04303 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems applied during specific periods applied during shut-down
• H01M 8/04537 - Electric variables
• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/0432 - TemperatureAmbient temperature
• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/0438 - PressureAmbient pressureFlow
• H01M 8/04746 - PressureFlow
• H01M 8/0612 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants from carbon-containing material
• 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

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell unit including a solid oxide fuel cell and a mixer, the solid oxide fuel cell including an anode gas passage and a cathode gas passage, the mixer mixing an anode off gas discharged from the anode gas passage and a cathode off gas discharged from the cathode gas passage; a power-generating raw material supply device operative to supply a power-generating raw material to the fuel cell unit; a combustible gas passage, which extends from the power-generating raw material supply device to a downstream end of the anode gas passage; an oxidizing gas supply device operative to supply an oxidizing gas to the cathode gas passage; and a controller operative to, after electric power generation by the fuel cell unit is stopped, control the power-generating raw material supply device to supply the power-generating raw material in a volume more than or equal to a volume of the combustible gas passage to the combustible gas passage, and concurrently control the oxidizing gas supply device to supply the oxidizing gas to the cathode gas passage.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/06 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues
• H01M 8/04303 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems applied during specific periods applied during shut-down
• C01B 3/38 - Production of hydrogen or of gaseous mixtures containing hydrogen by reaction of gaseous or liquid organic compounds with gasifying agents, e.g. water, carbon dioxide, air by reaction of hydrocarbons with gasifying agents using catalysts
• B01J 7/00 - Apparatus for generating gases
• H01M 8/04223 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids during start-up or shut-downDepolarisation or activation, e.g. purgingMeans for short-circuiting defective fuel cells
• H01M 8/04746 - PressureFlow
• H01M 8/0612 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants from carbon-containing material
• H01M 8/0662 - Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
• 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 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants

Abstract

A solid-oxide fuel cell system includes: a fuel cell unit including a solid-oxide fuel cell including an anode gas channel and a cathode gas channel and a mixer; an electric power generation raw material supplier; a combustible gas channel extending from the electric power generation raw material supplier to a downstream end of the anode gas channel; an oxidizing gas supplier; and a controller operative to, after electric power generation of the fuel cell unit is stopped, control the electric power generation raw material supplier to supply to the combustible gas channel the electric power generation raw material, the amount of which compensates for contraction of gas in the combustible gas channel due to temperature decrease of the fuel cell unit and also control the oxidizing gas supplier to supply the oxidizing gas to the cathode gas channel in accordance with the supply of the electric power generation raw material.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04228 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids during start-up or shut-downDepolarisation or activation, e.g. purgingMeans for short-circuiting defective fuel cells during shut-down
• H01M 8/1231 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/04746 - PressureFlow
• H01M 8/0662 - Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
• H01M 8/04303 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems applied during specific periods applied during shut-down
• 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

Abstract

An electrochemical reaction unit which includes a unit cell including an electrolyte layer, a cathode, and an anode facing each other in a first direction; a current collector disposed on a cathode side of the unit cell; and an electrically conductive porous bonding layer. A bonding region contains a block portion and an electrical conductivity securing portion. The block portion has a pore having a diameter that is 20% or more than the thickness of the bonding region in the first direction. The block portion extends inward from one of opposite ends in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction of the bonding region, and reaches and contains the pore satisfying the pore requirement. The electrical conductivity securing portion is located toward the other end of the bonding region and has a smaller average diameter of pores than the block portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/0656 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants by electrochemical means
• H01M 8/1231 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• 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 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 16/00 - Structural combinations of different types of electrochemical generators
• C25B 1/12 - Electrolytic production of inorganic compounds or non-metals of hydrogen or oxygen by electrolysis of water in pressure cells
• C25B 9/08 - Cells comprising dimensionally-stable non-movable electrodes; Assemblies of constructional parts thereof with diaphragms
• H01M 8/0228 - Composites in the form of layered or coated products
• H01M 8/0236 - GlassCeramicsCermets
• 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 8/021 - Alloys based on iron

Abstract

A metal plate-bonded single fuel cell unit according to one aspect of the present invention includes a single cell element having a solid electrolyte and fuel and air electrodes disposed on opposite sides of the solid electrolyte and a metal plate bonded by a brazing material to the single cell element. The metal plate contains Ti and Al and has an Al—Ti-containing oxide layer present on a surface of the metal plate, an Al oxide film present on a surface of the Al—Ti-containing oxide layer and a Ti-containing phase apart from a part of a surface of the Al oxide film in contact with the brazing material while being present on a remaining part of the surface of the Al oxide film. The metal plate-bonded single fuel cell unit has a Ti reaction phase formed at an interface between the solid electrolyte and the brazing material.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/64 - Carriers or collectors
• H01M 4/66 - Selection of materials
• H01M 2/38 - Arrangements for moving electrolytes
• H01M 2/40 - Arrangements for moving electrolytes with external circulating path
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/241 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/1213 - 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 8/0228 - Composites in the form of layered or coated products
• H01M 8/0297 - Arrangements for joining electrodes, reservoir layers, heat exchange units or bipolar separators to each other
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• 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

Abstract

Provided is a fuel cell cassette capable of assuredly suppressing separator deformation and maintaining good battery characteristics. A fuel cell cassette (2) includes a flat plate-shaped single cell (11), a separator (12), a fuel electrode frame, an interconnector and an air electrode insulating frame (15) stacked together. In the fuel cell cassette (2), the separator (12) and the fuel electrode frame (13) are joined by welding. The air electrode insulating frame (15) has gas channels (75, 76) defined therein for flow of oxidant gas. The fuel cell cassette has a welding mark (77) formed on an exposed region of the separator (12) inside the gas channel (75, 76) such that the exposed region of the separator (12) is fixed to the fuel electrode frame by the welding mark (77).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/0297 - Arrangements for joining electrodes, reservoir layers, heat exchange units or bipolar separators to each other
• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• 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

Abstract

A fuel cell system includes: a reformer generating a reformed gas using a raw material; a fuel cell generating electric power; a raw material supply passage; a hydro-desulfurizer operative to remove sulfur component in the raw material; a recycle passage through which the reformed gas is supplied to the raw material supply passage provided upstream of the hydro-desulfurizer; a temperature detector detecting a temperature of the hydro-desulfurizer; and a controller, wherein: when the temperature of the hydro-desulfurizer reaches a predetermined temperature, the controller increases a flow rate of the raw material from a predetermined flow rate by a flow rate corresponding to a flow rate of the recycled gas, and then, the controller starts supplying the recycled gas to the recycle passage; and after the recycled gas reaches an upstream end of the recycle passage, the controller returns the flow rate of the raw material to the predetermined flow rate.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/0432 - TemperatureAmbient temperature
• H01M 8/0612 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants from carbon-containing material
• H01M 8/04537 - Electric variables
• H01M 8/04701 - Temperature
• H01M 8/04746 - PressureFlow
• C01B 3/38 - Production of hydrogen or of gaseous mixtures containing hydrogen by reaction of gaseous or liquid organic compounds with gasifying agents, e.g. water, carbon dioxide, air by reaction of hydrocarbons with gasifying agents using catalysts
• H01M 8/0662 - Treatment of gaseous reactants or gaseous residues, e.g. cleaning
• H01M 8/04225 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids during start-up or shut-downDepolarisation or activation, e.g. purgingMeans for short-circuiting defective fuel cells during start-up
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/04858 - Electric variables

Abstract

A fuel cell stack according to one aspect of the present invention has a plurality of fuel cells stacked together and a plurality of manifolds passing through the fuel cells in a stacking direction thereof so as to allow at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas to flow therethrough. The manifolds include cold gas manifolds adapted to introduce the fuel gas or oxidant gas from the outside into the fuel cell stack, hot gas manifolds adapted to discharge the fuel gas or oxidant gas from the fuel cells, and a heat-exchanged gas manifold adapted to feed the fuel gas or oxidant gas that has been heat-exchanged in a heat exchange part. Every one of the cold gas manifolds is adjacent to any of the hot gas manifolds. One of the hot gas manifolds is non-adjacent to any other one of the hot gas manifolds.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• 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 8/124 - 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

Abstract

A fuel battery and a fuel cell stack, the fuel battery including: a fuel cell that generates electric power through a power generating reaction of reactant gases and includes a solid electrolyte layer having a first main surface and a second main surface, a first electrode disposed on the first main surface and serving as one of a cathode and an anode, and a second electrode disposed on the second main surface and serving as the other one of the cathode and the anode; an interconnector disposed so as to face the first electrode; and a current collecting member that electrically connects the first electrode to the interconnector. The first electrode includes: an inner portion connected to the current collecting member; and an outer portion disposed outward of the current collecting member and having a height larger than the height of the inner portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/243 - Grouping of unit cells of tubular or cylindrical configuration
• H01M 8/0252 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form tubular
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/2475 - Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks
• 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

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell stack includes a support, a plurality of power generation elements provided on a surface of the support, the plurality of power generation elements connected in series, each including at least a fuel electrode, a solid electrolyte, and an air electrode stacked in that order, and an interconnector that electrically connects an air electrode in one of adjacent power generation elements to a fuel electrode in the other power generation element. A solid electrolyte in adjacent one power generation element is provided between a fuel electrode in the adjacent one power generation element and the fuel electrode in the adjacent other power generation element, and an insulating member is provided at a position that is on the solid electrolyte in the adjacent one power generation element and between the air electrode in the adjacent one power generation element and the solid electrolyte therein.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/243 - Grouping of unit cells of tubular or cylindrical configuration
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material
• H01M 8/0217 - Complex oxides, optionally doped, of the type AMO3, A being an alkaline earth metal or rare earth metal and M being a metal, e.g. perovskites
• 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

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell stack includes a support, a plurality of power generation elements connected in series, each including a fuel electrode, a solid electrolyte, and an air electrode stacked in that order on the support, and an interconnector electrically connecting an air electrode in one of the two adjacent power generation elements to a fuel electrode in the other power generation element. A solid electrolyte for one of the power generation elements is provided on the downside of the interconnector provided on the downside of the air electrode in the one power generation element so that the solid electrolyte is joined to the interconnector, and a solid electrolyte for the other power generation element is provided on the upper side of the interconnector provided on the upper side of the fuel electrode for the other power generation element so that the solid electrolyte is joined to the interconnector.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• 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 8/124 - 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

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell apparatus 1 has: multiple fuel cell units 16; a module case 8 housing multiple fuel cell units; a heat insulating material 7 disposed to cover the area around the module case 8; a reformer 20 for reforming raw fuel gas using steam, thereby producing fuel gas; a combustion chamber 18 for combusting residual fuel gas and heating the reformer 20; a heat exchanger 23 for exchanging heat between oxidant gas and exhaust gas; and a steam generator 25, disposed within the heat insulating material 7 and on the outside of the module case 8, for exchanging heat between exhaust gas and water immediately after heat is exchanged in the heat exchanger 23, thereby producing steam.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/06 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/0612 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants from carbon-containing material
• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2475 - Enclosures, casings or containers of fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• 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

Abstract

A fuel gas supply path in a fuel cell stack includes in series a first path, a second path, and a third path. In the second path, two inlets of the fuel gas in each of power generating cells included in the second path are located at a first position PA and a second position PB, and the position of one outlet of the fuel gas in each power generating cell is located at a third position PC. In the third path, an inlet of the fuel gas in each of power generating cells included in the third path is located at a position coinciding with the third position PC when the power generating cells are viewed in the stacking direction, and an outlet of the fuel gas in each power generating cell is located at a position between the first position PA and the second position PB.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/241 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes
• H01M 8/247 - Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
• 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 8/0267 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors having heating or cooling means, e.g. heaters or coolant flow channels
• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• 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 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/2432 - Grouping of unit cells of planar configuration

Abstract

A fuel cell according to one mode includes a plate-like interconnector having a front surface and a back surface; a single cell having a power generation function; a gas chamber provided between the interconnector and the single cell; and one or more gas inlet ports for causing a fuel gas to flow into the gas chamber, the fuel cell further including a buffer chamber provided between the gas inlet ports and the gas chamber; a flow direction changing portion provided between the buffer chamber and the gas chamber so as to be located corresponding to the gas inlet ports, the flow direction changing portion having at least one of a front surface and a back surface, and a side surface; and a fuel gas path provided on at least one of the front surface side and the back surface side of the flow direction changing portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/241 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/0297 - Arrangements for joining electrodes, reservoir layers, heat exchange units or bipolar separators to each other
• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• 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 8/124 - 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

Abstract

c).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• 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 8/1004 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes characterised by membrane-electrode assemblies [MEA]
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks

Abstract

A fuel cell according to one mode includes a plurality of stacked cell units, each cell unit including at least an electrically conductive interconnector having a front surface and a back surface; a pair of connection members which are electrically connected to the interconnector; a single cell which includes an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte therebetween and which is electrically connected to the connection members; and a separator having an opening which is connected to an outer peripheral portion of the single cell, the cell units being clamped together in a stacking direction, wherein the connection member on an anode side or a cathode side of the single cell of at least one cell unit of the cell units has a thickness different from that of the connection member on the anode side or the cathode side of the single cell of another cell unit.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• 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 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/0289 - Means for holding the electrolyte

Abstract

c).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• 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 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/1004 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes characterised by membrane-electrode assemblies [MEA]

Abstract

A fuel cell with separator includes a fuel cell body having a cathode, an anode, and a solid electrolyte layer disposed between the cathode and the anode; a plate-like metal separator having first and second main surfaces and an opening which opens at the first and second main surfaces; a joint formed of an Ag-containing brazing filler metal and adapted to join the fuel cell body and the first main surface of the metal separator; and a seal formed of a glass-containing sealing material and disposed closer to the opening than is the joint, the seal being located between the first main surface and the fuel cell body and extending along the entire perimeter of the opening.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/1246 - 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
• H01M 8/1004 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes characterised by membrane-electrode assemblies [MEA]
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/0282 - Inorganic material
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/124 - 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

Abstract

a are not displaced relative to the electrodes on fuel cells 16.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/2404 - Processes or apparatus for grouping fuel cells
• H01M 8/0286 - Processes for forming seals
• H01M 8/0271 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes
• H01M 8/0256 - Vias, i.e. connectors passing through the separator material
• H01M 8/243 - Grouping of unit cells of tubular or cylindrical configuration
• H01M 4/70 - Carriers or collectors characterised by shape or form
• H01M 4/64 - Carriers or collectors
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/0297 - Arrangements for joining electrodes, reservoir layers, heat exchange units or bipolar separators to each other
• 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 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/0232 - Metals or alloys

Abstract

A fuel cell stack according to one aspect of the present invention has a plurality of fuel cells stacked together and a plurality of manifolds passing through the fuel cells in a stacking direction thereof so as to allow at least one of the fuel gas and the oxidant gas to flow therethrough. The manifolds include cold gas manifolds adapted to introduce the fuel gas or oxidant gas from the outside into the fuel cell stack, hot gas manifolds adapted to discharge the fuel gas or oxidant gas from the fuel cells, and a heat-exchanged gas manifold adapted to feed the fuel gas or oxidant gas that has been heat-exchanged in a heat exchange part. Every one of the cold gas manifolds is adjacent to any of the hot gas manifolds. One of the hot gas manifolds is non-adjacent to any other one of the hot gas manifolds.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells

Abstract

A fuel cell includes a main body which is formed by stacking a cathode layer, an electrolyte layer, and an anode layer, in which the surface of one of the cathode and anode layers serves as a first main surface, and the surface of the other layer serves as a second main surface; a first current collector in contact with the first main surface; and a second current collector in contact with the second main surface. As viewed in a thickness direction, at least a portion of the boundary of a second region of the second current collector corresponding to the second main surface is located within a first region of the first current collector corresponding to the first main surface, and the remaining portion is located within the first region or on the boundary of the first region.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/021 - Alloys based on iron
• H01M 8/0232 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• 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

Abstract

The fuel cell includes a fuel cell stack in which a plurality of planar power generation cells are stacked in a thickness direction thereof. The fuel cell also includes a heat exchanger provided between the two adjacent power generation cells in the stacking direction and in contact with the power generation cells, and including an internal first flow path that passes the oxidant gas or fuel gas supplied from outside. The fuel cell also includes a second flow path connected to an outlet side of the first flow path of the heat exchanger and to the cathode side or the anode side of each of the power generation cells, and supplying the oxidant gas or fuel gas that has passed through the first flow path to the cathode side or anode side of each of the power generation cells on both sides in the stacking direction of the heat exchanger.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• 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 8/241 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/0267 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors having heating or cooling means, e.g. heaters or coolant flow channels
• F28F 3/08 - Elements constructed for building-up into stacks, e.g. capable of being taken apart for cleaning
• F28D 9/00 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary plate-like or laminated conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• F28F 3/04 - Elements or assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with recesses, with corrugations the means being integral with the element
• F28F 9/02 - Header boxesEnd plates
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• 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
• F28D 21/00 - Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups

Abstract

Provided is a solid oxide fuel cell unit comprising an insulating support, and a power generation element comprising, at least, a fuel electrode, an electrolyte and an air electrode, which are sequentially laminated one another, the power generation element being provided on the insulating support, wherein an exposed insulating support portion, an exposed fuel electrode portion, and an exposed electrolyte portion are provided in an fuel electrode cell end portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details

Abstract

A fuel cell stack has a first block having a first number of cells, a first fuel supply channel for supplying fuel gas to the first block, a collecting channel for collecting fuel gas which has passed through the first block, a second block having a second number of cells, the second number being smaller than the first number, a second fuel supply channel for supplying the second block with fuel gas which has been collected into the collecting channel, and a discharge channel for discharging fuel gas which has passed through the second block. A throttling section smaller in channel diameter than first and second fuel gas trunk channels, first and second branch channels, the collecting channel, and the discharge channel is provided downstream of the collecting channel and upstream of the second fuel supply channel.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

A fuel cell stack (1) includes a plurality of stacked power generation cells (3), a heat exchange unit (7) provided between adjacent two of the power generation cells, a fuel gas supply path arranged to supply the power generation cells with a fuel gas, and an oxidant gas supply path (3, 7, 33, 34, 38) arranged to supply the power generation cells with an oxidant gas, wherein the fuel gas supply path includes in series a first path (7, 31) passing through the heat exchange unit (7), a second path (3, 32, 35, 37) passing through some of the plurality of power generation cells (3) in parallel, and a third path (3, 32, 36) passing through the other power generation cells in parallel.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• H01M 8/247 - Arrangements for tightening a stack, for accommodation of a stack in a tank or for assembling different tanks
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• 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

Abstract

A fuel gas supply path in a fuel cell stack includes in series a first path, a second path, and a third path. In the second path, two inlets of the fuel gas in each of power generating cells included in the second path are located at a first position PA and a second position PB arranged along one side of each power generating cell when the power generating cells are viewed in their stacking direction, and the position of one outlet of the fuel gas in each power generating cell is located at a third position PC along another side of each power generating cell opposite the one side. In the third path, an inlet of the fuel gas in each of power generating cells included in the third path is located at a position coinciding with the third position PC when the power generating cells are viewed in the stacking direction, and an outlet of the fuel gas in each power generating cell is located at a position between the first position PA and the second position PB.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04007 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids related to heat exchange
• 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

Abstract

A fuel cell stack (1) includes a plurality of stacked power generation cells (3), a heat exchange unit (7) provided between adjacent two of the power generation cells, a fuel gas supply path arranged to supply the power generation cells with a fuel gas, and an oxidant gas supply path (3, 7, 33, 34, 38) arranged to supply the power generation cells with an oxidant gas, wherein the fuel gas supply path includes in series a first path (7, 31) passing through the heat exchange unit (7), a second path (3, 32, 35, 37) passing through some of the plurality of power generation cells (3) in parallel, and a third path (3, 32, 36) passing through the other power generation cells in parallel.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04014 - Heat exchange using gaseous fluidsHeat exchange by combustion of reactants
• H01M 8/2484 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by external manifolds

Abstract

a of the seal material 96. As such, the fuel cell unit 16 includes the seal material 96 constituting as an Ag seal portion that separates a fuel gas from an oxidant gas, and a glass coating 30 at least partially formed to over at least either the fuel gas side surface of the seal material 96 or an the oxidant gas side surface of the seal material 96.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof

Abstract

A fuel cell according to one mode includes a plate-like interconnector having a front surface and a back surface; a single cell having a power generation function; a gas chamber provided between the interconnector and the single cell; and one or more gas inlet ports for causing a fuel gas to flow into the gas chamber, the fuel cell further including a buffer chamber provided between the gas inlet ports and the gas chamber; a flow direction changing portion provided between the buffer chamber and the gas chamber so as to be located corresponding to the gas inlet ports, the flow direction changing portion having at least one of a front surface and a back surface, and a side surface; and a fuel gas path provided on at least one of the front surface side and the back surface side of the flow direction changing portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell includes a fuel cell body and an inter-connector. The inter-connector has a base portion and a plurality of projecting portions projecting from the base portion toward the fuel cell body and electrically connected to the fuel cell body, and is integrally formed from a metallic material. Each of the projecting portions has a contour composed of a pair of linear portions which are disposed parallel to each other and each of which includes a straight line, and a pair of curved portions which connect opposite ends of the linear portions.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/0206 - Metals or alloys
• H01M 8/0254 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form corrugated or undulated
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

A fuel cell includes a pair of interconnectors (ICs); a cell main body provided between the ICs and including an electrolyte, a cathode and an anode formed on respective surfaces of the electrolyte; and a current collection member provided between at least one of the cathode and the anode and the IC for electrically connecting the cathode and/or the anode and the IC. The current collection member has a connector abutment portion which abuts the IC, a cell main body abutment portion abutting the cell main body, and a connection portion connecting the connector abutment portion and the cell main body abutment portion, the portions being continuously formed. Between the cell main body and the IC, a spacer is provided so as to separate the connector abutment portion and the cell main body abutment portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/2483 - Details of groupings of fuel cells characterised by internal manifolds
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• 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 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/0297 - Arrangements for joining electrodes, reservoir layers, heat exchange units or bipolar separators to each other
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form

Abstract

Disclosed is a durable solid oxide fuel cell that is less likely to have a problem of a conventional solid oxide fuel cell that an air electrode containing a peroviskite oxide, when exposed to a reducing atmosphere, is separated at the stop of operation, especially shutdown. The solid oxide fuel cell includes an air electrode that is obtained by firing a compact containing a perovskite oxide and sulfur element. The content of the sulfur element in the air electrode as fresh after firing or before the start of power generation is in the range of 50 ppm to 3,000 ppm. The separation of the air electrode is effectively suppressed at the shutdown operation.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/88 - Processes of manufacture
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell scatters MgO over a grain boundary of an LSGM which is a solid electrolyte layer. Ni components that diffuse from a fuel electrode formed on the other side of an LDC from the LSGM are trapped by the scattered MgO particles and are suppressed from diffusing towards an air electrode in the electrolyte layer.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 4/90 - Selection of catalytic material
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01B 1/08 - Conductors or conductive bodies characterised by the conductive materialsSelection of materials as conductors mainly consisting of other non-metallic substances oxides

Abstract

An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell preventing formation of a diffusion layer containing Ca and other elements, and having an excellent power generation performance at low temperature by preventing breakdown of a crystal structure of an electrolyte by firing. Disclosed is a solid oxide fuel cell which includes an inner electrode, a solid electrolyte, and an outer electrode, each sequentially laminated on the surface of a porous support. The porous support contains forsterite, and has a Ca element content of 0.2 mass % or less in terms of CaO in a surface region at the inner electrode side.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• 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

An object of the present invention is to provide a fuel cell preventing formation of a diffusion layer containing Ca and other elements, and having an excellent power generation performance at low temperature by preventing breakdown of a crystal structure of an electrolyte by firing. Disclosed is a solid oxide fuel cell which includes a fuel electrode, a solid electrolyte, and an air electrode, each being sequentially laminated on the surface of a porous support. The porous support contains forsterite, and further has a calcium element (Ca) content of more than 0.2 mass % but not more than 2 mass % in terms of CaO.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof

Abstract

A fuel cell and a fuel cell stack. A cathode (41) of a fuel cell (3) assumes the form of a square plate and is composed of a lower layer (61) on a side toward a solid oxide body (37), and an upper layer (63) which covers the outer surface of the lower layer (61). The lower layer (61) is square in planar shape, and its four side surfaces stand upright in its thickness direction. The upper layer (63) is square in planar shape and has a square main surface (outer surface) (65) which faces outward in its thickness direction, and side surfaces at its four sides. Opposite side surfaces (67) and (69) residing in a flow path extending between an oxidizing gas inlet side and an oxidizing gas outlet side are flat and inclined toward the center of the outer surface (65).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• 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 8/2425 - High-temperature cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell includes a fuel cell main body which includes a cathode layer, a solid electrolyte layer, and an anode layer and which has a power generation function; a connector disposed to face one electrode layer of the cathode layer and the anode layer; a current collector which is disposed between the one electrode layer and the connector and which is in contact with a surface of the one electrode layer and a surface of the connector, the surfaces facing each other, to thereby electrically connect the one electrode layer and the connector; and a groove provided in a portion of a surface of the one electrode layer, which surface is located on the side where the one electrode layer is in contact with the current collector, the portion of the surface being not in contact with the current collector.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
• 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 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• 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 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
• 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 8/2465 - Details of groupings of fuel cells
• H01M 8/2485 - Arrangements for sealing external manifoldsArrangements for mounting external manifolds around a stack
• 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 8/124 - 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

Abstract

Provided is a solid oxide fuel cell having a service life of approximately 90,000 hours, a level required to encourage the widespread use of SOFC. The solid oxide fuel cell is provided with a solid electrolyte layer, an oxygen electrode layer provided on one side of the solid electrolyte layer, and a fuel electrode layer provided on the other side of the solid electrolyte layer. The oxygen electrode layer is made from a material containing iron or manganese, and the solid electrolyte layer contains an yttria-stabilized zirconia solid electrolyte material having a lanthanoid oxide dissolved therein.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/1016 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes characterised by the electrolyte material
• 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
• H01B 1/12 - Conductors or conductive bodies characterised by the conductive materialsSelection of materials as conductors mainly consisting of other non-metallic substances organic substances
• B32B 18/00 - Layered products essentially comprising ceramics, e.g. refractory products
• C04B 35/486 - Fine ceramics
• C04B 35/626 - Preparing or treating the powders individually or as batches

Abstract

The present invention provides a solid oxide fuel cell system capable of preventing excess temperature rises while increasing overall energy efficiency. The present invention is a solid oxide fuel cell system, including: a fuel cell module, a fuel supply device, a heat storing material, and a controller which, based on power demand, increases the fuel utilization rate when output power is high and to lower it when output power is low, and changes the electrical power actually output at a delay after changing the fuel supply amount. The controller has a stored heat estimating circuit for estimating the surplus heat based on fuel supply and on power output at a delay relative thereto. When a utilizable amount of surplus heat is accumulated in the heat storage material, the fuel supply is reduced so that the fuel utilization rate increases relative to the same electrical power.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/06 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells

Abstract

A fuel cell includes a flat-plate-like fuel cell main body which is formed by stacking a cathode layer, an electrolyte layer, and an anode layer, in which the surface of one of the cathode layer and the anode layer serves as a first main surface, and the surface of the other layer serves as a second main surface; a first current collector which is in contact with the first main surface; and a second current collector which is in contact with the second main surface, wherein the second current collector is designed such that it is more susceptible to compressive deformation than the first current collector, and such that, as viewed in a thickness direction of the fuel cell main body, at least a portion of the boundary of a second region of the second current collector corresponding to the second main surface is located within a first region of the first current collector corresponding to the first main surface, and the remaining portion of the boundary of the second region is located within the first region or on the boundary of the first region.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
• H01M 8/1004 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes characterised by membrane-electrode assemblies [MEA]

Abstract

The present invention is to provide a solid oxide fuel cell capable of improving the overall energy efficiency. The present invention is directed to a solid oxide fuel cell and comprising: a fuel cell module; a fuel supply device; a combustion chamber for burning excess fuel and heating; a heat storing material, a power demand detecting sensor; a temperature detection device, and a control device for controlling so that the fuel utilization rate is high when generated power is large, and also for changing output power at a delay to the fuel supply rate; whereby the control device comprises a stored heat amount estimating circuit, and when it is estimated that a utilizable heat amount has accumulated in the heat storing material, the fuel supply rate is reduced so that the fuel utilization rate increases vs. the same generated power.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/06 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells

Abstract

A fuel cell stack is configured to have a first block having a first number of cells, a first fuel supply channel for supplying fuel gas to the first block, a collecting channel for collecting fuel gas which has passed through the first block, a second block having a second number of cells, the second number being smaller than the first number, a second fuel supply channel for supplying the second block with fuel gas which has been collected into the collecting channel, and a discharge channel for discharging fuel gas which has passed through the second block, and configured such that the first fuel supply channel, the first block, the collecting channel, the second fuel supply channel, the second block, and the discharge channel are arranged sequentially along the direction of flow of fuel gas, wherein a throttling section capable of throttling fuel gas and smaller in channel diameter than first and second fuel gas trunk channels, first and second branch channels, the collecting channel, and the discharge channel is provided downstream of the collecting channel and upstream of the second fuel supply channel.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/04089 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants
• H01M 8/2457 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with both reactants being gaseous or vaporised
• H01M 8/249 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells comprising two or more groupings of fuel cells, e.g. modular assemblies

Abstract

An object is to provide a solid oxide fuel cell which has an increased gas utilization factor at a cathode layer or an anode layer. A solid oxide fuel cell includes a fuel cell main body which includes a cathode layer, a solid electrolyte layer, and an anode layer and which has a power generation function; a connector disposed to face one electrode layer of the cathode layer and the anode layer; a current collector which is disposed between the one electrode layer and the connector and which is in contact with a surface of the one electrode layer and a surface of the connector, the surfaces facing each other, to thereby electrically connect the one electrode layer and the connector; and a groove provided in a portion of a surface of the one electrode layer, which surface is located on the side where the one electrode layer is in contact with the current collector, the portion of the surface being not in contact with the current collector.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/1246 - 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

Abstract

An object is to provide a solid oxide fuel cell which has an increased gas utilization factor at a cathode layer or an anode layer. A solid oxide fuel cell includes a fuel cell main body which includes a cathode layer, a solid electrolyte layer, and an anode layer and which has a power generation function; a connector disposed to face one electrode layer of the cathode layer and the anode layer; a current collector which is disposed between the one electrode layer and the connector and which is in contact with a surface of the one electrode layer and a surface of the connector, the surfaces facing each other, to thereby electrically connect the one electrode layer and the connector; and a groove provided in a portion of a surface of the one electrode layer, which surface is located on the side where the one electrode layer is in contact with the current collector, the portion of the surface being not in contact with the current collector.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
• H01M 8/1246 - 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

Abstract

b) of the fuel cell (6). The fuel cell (6) has an inner electrode peripheral surface (21) electrically communicating with the inner electrode layer (16) and an outer electrode peripheral surface (22) electrically communicating with the outer electrode layer (20). The inner and outer electrode terminals are respectively disposed so that they cover over the inner and outer electrode peripheral surfaces (21, 22) and they are electrically connected thereto. The inner and outer electrode terminals have respective connecting passages which are communicated with the through passage (15).

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells

Abstract

The fuel cell assembly of the present invention comprises a first fuel cell, a second fuel cell disposed adjacent to the first fuel cell, and a current collector for electrically connecting the first fuel cell and the second fuel cell. The first fuel cell and the second fuel cell are respectively furnished with an electrical generating portion for generating electricity, each of the electrical generation portion having a first electrode through the interior of which a first gas flows, a second electrode of a polarity different from the first electrode, on the exterior of which a second gas flows, and an electrolyte disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The current collector distributes and sources the current generated in the first fuel cell generating portion from two different locations on the first electrode on the first fuel cell to the second electrode of the second fuel cell.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/64 - Carriers or collectors
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells

Abstract

[Means for Solution] A solid oxide fuel cell apparatus including a fuel cell having a plate-shaped first solid electrolyte, an anode provided on one side of the first solid electrolyte and coming in contact with fuel gas, and a cathode provided on the other side of the first solid electrolyte and coming in contact with oxidizer gas. The solid oxide fuel cell apparatus further includes a cell-follow-up deformation member located on at least one of opposite sides of the fuel cell with respect to a first stacking direction along which the anode, the first solid electrolyte, and the cathode are stacked together. The cell-follow-up deformation member deforms according to a deformation of the fuel cell on the basis of at least one of physical quantities including differential thermal expansion coefficient and differential pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof

Abstract

A fuel cell includes plural single cells and first sidewalls disposed on the outer side of a cell stack including the plural single cells. In the first sidewalls, holes for supplying the reactive gas to the cell stack are formed. The single cells are disposed in a row shape along a jetting direction (lateral direction) of the reactive gas jetted from the holes. The holes are formed such that a part of the reactive gas jetted from the holes brushes against at least the single cells disposed in positions closest to the first sidewalls and the remaining part of the reactive gas does not brush against the single cells disposed in the closest positions.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 2/38 - Arrangements for moving electrolytes
• H01M 2/40 - Arrangements for moving electrolytes with external circulating path
• H01M 8/04 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids
• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells

Abstract

An assembling method of a solid oxide fuel cell, having a stack structure in which sheet bodies and separators are stacked in alternating layers, includes a stacking step, a sealing step, and a reduction process step. In the sealing step, a laminate in which a crystallized glass material is interposed between the perimetric portions adjacent to each other is heated, so that the crystallization rate of the crystallized glass is increased to 0 to 50%. Accordingly, the perimetric portions adjacent to each other are integrated and sealed, and a room for glass softening is left. In the reduction process step, the laminate is heated, and a reduction gas is supplied into a fuel channel, whereby the reduction process is performed to the fuel electrode layer, and the crystallization rate is increased to 70 to 100%. Thus, the assembly of the fuel cell is completed.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 2/08 - Sealing materials

Abstract

−1 on the sheet body with respect to the area of the orthogonal projection can be achieved at room temperature after the reduction process.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 4/88 - Processes of manufacture

Abstract

A solid electrolyte fuel cell comprises a solid electrolyte body having a fuel electrode contacting a fuel gas and an air electrode contacting air. A plurality of the solid electrolyte fuel cells are stacked to form a solid electrolyte fuel cell stack, in which the stacked body of the solid electrolyte fuel cells is pressed in the stacked direction and fixed by a fixing member inserted into a through-hole passing through the stacked body in the stacked direction. Inside the through-hole, there is equipped an inner gas channel for supplying the gas to the solid electrolyte fuel cell side or evacuating the gas from the solid electrolyte fuel cell side.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes

Abstract

A sheet body includes an electrolyte layer, a fuel electrode layer formed on the upper surface of the electrolyte layer, and an air electrode layer formed on the lower surface of the electrolyte layer, wherein these layers are stacked and fired in such a manner that the electrolyte layer is sandwiched between the fuel electrode layer and the air electrode layer. The fuel electrode layer is a porous layer including a first layer on a side close to the electrolyte layer made of fine particles of Ni and YSZ, and a second layer on a side apart from the electrolyte layer made of fine particles of Ni, YSZ, and ZrSiO4. The zircon particles are uniformly distributed in the second layer in the plane direction and in the stacking direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell has a stack structure in which sheet bodies and separators for separating air and fuel gas are stacked in alternating layers. Each of the sheet bodies includes an electrolyte layer, a fuel electrode layer formed on the upper surface of the electrolyte layer, and an air electrode layer formed on the lower surface of the electrolyte layer, wherein these layers are stacked and fired in such a manner that the electrolyte layer is sandwiched between the fuel electrode layer and the air electrode layer. The thickness of the electrolyte layer is 0.3 μm or more and 5 μm or less, and the electrolyte layer is composed of a single particle of YSZ in the thickness direction. Thus, the electrolyte layer is extremely thin, and further, the grain boundary in the thickness direction is small. Accordingly, the IR loss (electric resistance) of the electrolyte layer can remarkably be reduced.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details

Abstract

In a fuel cell, perimetric portions of each sheet body, an upper support member, and a lower support member are sealed against one another by a seal that includes first and second seal portions. The first seal portion is of glass having a softening point lower than a working temperature of the reactor and seals against the upper surface of the perimetric portion of the sheet body and the lower surface of the perimetric portion of the upper support member as well as against the lower surface of the perimetric portion of the sheet body and the upper surface of the perimetric portion of the lower support member. The second seal portion is of glass having a softening point higher than the working temperature and seals against the lower side end and upper side end of the perimetric portions of the upper and lower support members, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell has a stack structure in which sheet bodies and support members are stacked in alternating layers. A space through which a fuel gas or air flows is formed between the adjacent sheet body and support member. Partitions are provided on the support member in such a manner as to stand in the space, thereby forming a “first flow F1” of gas according to the flow control effected by the partitions. Gaps are formed at the projecting ends of the partitions, thereby forming a “second flow F2” of gas which flows over the partitions and through the gaps. The ratio “gap/space height” is set to 2% to 50% inclusive.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof
• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 2/00 - Constructional details, or processes of manufacture, of the non-active parts
• H01M 2/02 - Cases, jackets or wrappings
• H01M 2/14 - Separators; Membranes; Diaphragms; Spacing elements

Abstract

A fuel cell has a stack structure in which fired sheet bodies (laminates each including a fuel electrode layer, a solid electrolyte layer, and an air electrode layer) and support members for supporting the sheet bodies are stacked in alternating layers. Each of the sheet bodies is warped downward (toward an air-electrode-layer side). Because of a magnitude relationship of thermal expansion coefficient among the layers in the sheet body and that between the support member and the sheet body, a warp height gradually lessens in the course of temperature rise at start-up. However, even when a working temperature (800° C. or the like) is reached, the sheet bodies are still warped downward. By virtue of presence of the warp, the sheet bodies become unlikely to be deformed at the working temperature.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes

Abstract

A device includes a ceramic thin plate member including a fired ceramic sheet; and a metal thin plate member having an outer shape larger than that of the ceramic thin plate member. An outer circumferential portion of the ceramic thin plate member is joined to the metal thin plate member. The ceramic thin plate member has through holes and a plurality of crease portions. Each crease portion has a ridge portion whose crest continuously extends from a joint portion between the ceramic thin plate member and the metal thin plate member toward an outer circumferential portion of the metal thin plate member. Since thermal stress due to a difference in thermal expansion between the metal thin plate member and the ceramic thin plate member can be relaxed through expansion of the crease portions, the ceramic thin plate member does not deform.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/10 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes
• H01M 8/14 - Fuel cells with fused electrolytes
• H01M 8/24 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells
• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details
• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

A solid oxide fuel cell which has high output capacity especially at an operating temperature of 600° C.-800° C. and effectively prevents influence of reaction between respective layers. The solid oxide fuel cell includes a solid electrolyte layer between a fuel electrode and an air electrode, a support comprised of either the fuel electrode or the air electrode, and at least first and second layers provided in turn from the side of the support. The first layer is comprised of a cerium-containing oxide and the second layer is comprised of a lanthanum-gallate oxide containing at least lanthanum and gallate. A sintering assistant for improving sintering property of the cerium-containing oxide is contained in the first layer. When the thickness of the second layer is T μm, the value of T is 2

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/12 - Fuel cells with solid electrolytes operating at high temperature, e.g. with stabilised ZrO2 electrolyte

Abstract

A solid electrolyte fuel cell comprises a solid electrolyte body having a fuel electrode contacting a fuel gas and an air electrode contacting air. A plurality of the solid electrolyte fuel cells are stacked to form a solid electrolyte fuel cell stack, in which the stacked body of the solid electrolyte fuel cells is pressed in the stacked direction and fixed by a fixing member inserted into a through-hole passing through the stacked body in the stacked direction. Inside the through-hole, there is equipped an inner gas channel for supplying the gas to the solid electrolyte fuel cell side or evacuating the gas from the solid electrolyte fuel cell side.

Abstract

A conductive connecting member 1 is contacted with an electrochemical cell for electrical conduction. The cell has a solid electrolyte film, a first electrode provided on a first face of the solid electrolyte film and contacting a first gas and the first gas, and a second electrode provided on a second face of the solid electrolyte film and contacting a second gas. The conductive connecting member 1 has a plate-like main part 2 and a tongue piece 3 protruding from the main part 2. One end of the tongue piece 3 is connected with the main part 2.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/02 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof Details

Abstract

The present invention provides an electrolyte membrane of a solid oxide fuel cell that excels in output performance. There is provided a solid oxide fuel cell comprising a single cell having an air electrode disposed on a surface of an electrolyte membrane and a fuel electrode disposed on the other surface of the electrolyte membrane, and an interconnector having a role of electrical connection; wherein the electrolyte membrane is provided with a first layer composed of a material having an oxygen-ionic conductivity of S1 on the air-electrode side, and a second layer composed of a material containing at least zirconia and having an oxygen-ionic conductivity of S2 on the fuel-electrode side; and wherein the oxygen-ionic conductivity of S1 on the air-electrode side and the oxygen-ionic conductivity of S2 on the fuel electrode side have a relationship of S1>S2.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 8/00 - Fuel cellsManufacture thereof