Fuel cell

Abstract

A fuel cell includes a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), a first separator stacked on a first surface of the membrane electrode assembly, a second separator stacked on a second surface of the membrane electrode assembly, a first sealing member arranged on the first separator and configured to seal a space between the first separator and the membrane electrode assembly, a second sealing member arranged on the second separator and configured to seal a space between the second separator and the membrane electrode assembly, and a fastening portion configured to fasten the first sealing member to the second sealing member.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0053017, filed on April 23, 2021, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a fuel cell, and more specifically, to a fuel cell that can improve safety and reliability and simplify structure and manufacturing process. Background Technology

[0004] A fuel cell stack is a power generation device that generates electricity through the chemical reaction of fuel (e.g., hydrogen). A fuel cell stack can be composed of dozens or hundreds of fuel cells (cells) stacked in series.

[0005] More specifically, a fuel cell may include a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) and separators (anode separator and cathode separator) arranged on two opposing surfaces of the MEA.

[0006] The separator has: a gas flow path through which fuel (e.g., hydrogen) and reactant gas (e.g., air) are supplied to the membrane electrode assembly; and a cooling flow path through which coolant flows.

[0007] In addition, in order to configure a fuel cell stack by stacking fuel cells, it is necessary to maintain the seal between the membrane electrode assembly and the reaction surface of the separator, as well as between the cooling surface of the separator.

[0008] To this end, gaskets are placed between the membrane electrode assembly and the reaction surface of the separator, as well as between the cooling surface of the separator and the reaction surface of the separator. Specifically, the gaskets prevent gases (hydrogen and air) flowing to the reaction surface of the separator from leaking to the outside of the fuel cell stack, and prevent coolant flowing to the cooling surface of the separator from leaking to the outside of the fuel cell stack.

[0009] Through injection molding, gaskets can be integrally formed on the edge portions of two opposite surfaces of the separator, and on the edge portions of two opposite sides of each manifold to allow gas and coolant to flow in and out. The flow paths of gas and coolant can be defined by the gaskets.

[0010] Meanwhile, in order to ensure the stable performance and safety of the fuel cell, it is necessary to safely maintain the coupling and sealing of the separator.

[0011] However, in the related art, since separators (for example, an anode separator of a first fuel cell and a cathode separator of a second fuel cell disposed adjacent to the first fuel cell) constituting adjacent unit cells (fuel cells) are coupled (fastened) to each other by welding, there is a problem in that it is difficult to improve productivity and production efficiency and increase production costs.

[0012] In addition, the portion coupled by welding (the coupling portion between the separators) is vulnerable to corrosion, impact, etc., and can be easily deformed or damaged in the process of stacking and fastening the fuel cells. Deformation and damage of the coupling portion between the separators cause a problem in that the sealing performance of the separators deteriorates.

[0013] In addition, after a fuel cell stack is assembled by stacking a plurality of fuel cells, activation and defect testing of each fuel cell (unit cell) are required, and a fuel cell determined to be defective needs to be replaced with another fuel cell.

[0014] However, in the related art, since separators (for example, an anode separator of a first fuel cell and a cathode separator of a second fuel cell) constituting different unit cells (fuel cells) are coupled by welding, in order to replace a defective fuel cell determined to be defective, it is inevitable to replace all two sets of separators (a first set of separators stacked on one surface of a membrane electrode assembly and configured by welding two separators, and a second set of separators stacked on the other surface of the membrane electrode assembly and configured by welding two separators) stacked on both opposite surfaces of the membrane electrode assembly.

[0015] In other words, in the related art, since replacing a single defective fuel cell requires disassembling and separating at least four separators (two sets of separators), there is a problem in that the time and costs required to replace the fuel cell increase.

[0016] Therefore, in recent years, various types of research have been conducted in order to stably maintain the state in which the separators are coupled in the fuel cell and easily handle the fuel cell, but the research results are still insufficient. Therefore, there is a need to develop a technology for stably maintaining the state in which the separators are coupled in the fuel cell and easily handling the fuel cell. SUMMARY

[0017] This summary is provided to introduce some concepts of the present disclosure in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is neither intended nor is to be construed to identify key or essential features of the claimed disclosure or to delineate its scope.

[0018] In one general aspect, a fuel cell includes: a membrane electrode assembly (MEA); a first separator stacked on a first surface of the membrane electrode assembly; a second separator stacked on a second surface of the membrane electrode assembly; a first sealing member disposed on the first separator and configured to seal a space between the first separator and the membrane electrode assembly; a second sealing member disposed on the second separator and configured to seal a space between the second separator and the membrane electrode assembly; and a fastening portion configured to fasten the first sealing member to the second sealing member.

[0019] The fastening portion can include a first fastening clip disposed on the first sealing member and configured to be fastened to the second sealing member.

[0020] The first fastening clip can include a first clip body connected to the first sealing member; and a first clip protrusion connected to the first clip body and defining a first receiving portion configured to accommodate the second sealing member in cooperation with the first clip body.

[0021] The second sealing member can have a through portion disposed in a thickness direction thereof, and the first fastening clip can be configured to pass through the through portion.

[0022] The fuel cell can include an elastic protrusion disposed on a circumferential surface of an inner wall surface of the first clip body facing the through portion, and the elastic protrusion can be elastically compressed between the inner wall surface of the through portion and the circumferential surface of the first clip body.

[0023] The first fastening clip can be integrally disposed with the first sealing member.

[0024] The first fastening clip and the first sealing member can be integrally injection-molded on the first separator.

[0025] The fastening portion can include a second fastening clip disposed on the second sealing member and configured to be fastened to the first sealing member.

[0026] The second fastening clip can include a second clip body connected to the second sealing member; and a second clip protrusion connected to the second clip body and defining a second receiving portion configured to accommodate the first sealing member in cooperation with the second clip body.

[0027] The second fastening clip can be integrally disposed with the second sealing member.

[0028] The second fastening clip and the second sealing member can be integrally injection-molded on the second separator.

[0029] The fuel cell can include a first extension portion extending from an end portion of the first sealing member, and a second extension portion extending from an end portion of the second sealing member to correspond to the first extension portion, the first fastening clip can be disposed on the first extension portion, and the second fastening clip can be disposed on the second extension portion.

[0030] The fuel cell can include a guide protrusion protruding from a surface of the first sealing member facing the second sealing member, and a guide hole defined in the second sealing member to correspond to the guide protrusion and configured to accommodate the guide protrusion.

[0031] The membrane electrode assembly can have an alignment hole, and the guide protrusion can be configured to pass through the alignment hole to be accommodated in the guide hole.

[0032] The fuel cell can include a through hole defined in the second separator to correspond to the guide protrusion and configured to accommodate the guide protrusion.

[0033] Other features and aspects will be apparent from the following detailed description, the drawings, and the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 is a view for explaining a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0035] Figure 2 is a view for explaining a first separator and a second separator of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] Figure 3 is a view for explaining a fastening portion of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] Figure 4 is a view for explaining a first fastening clip of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0038] Figure 5 is a view for explaining a second fastening clip of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] Figure 6 is a view for explaining a state in which the first fastening clip of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure is fastened.

[0040] Figure 7 is a view for explaining a state in which the second fastening clip of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure is fastened.

[0041] Figure 8 is a view for explaining an elastic protrusion of a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] Figure 9is a view for explaining a fuel cell stack to which a fuel cell according to an embodiment of the disclosure is applied. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Hereinafter, embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] However, the technical spirit of the disclosure is not limited to some embodiments described herein, but can be implemented in various different forms. One or more constituent elements in the embodiments can be selectively combined and replaced within the scope of the technical spirit of the disclosure.

[0045] In addition, unless otherwise specifically and explicitly defined and stated, the terms used in the embodiments of the disclosure, including technical and scientific terms, can be interpreted as meanings that can be commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure pertains. The meanings of the commonly used terms, such as the terms defined in the dictionary, can be interpreted in the context of the relevant art.

[0046] In addition, the terms used in the embodiments of the disclosure are used to explain the embodiments, not to limit the disclosure.

[0047] In this specification, unless otherwise specifically stated, the singular form can also include the plural form. The expression "at least one of A, B, and C" can include one or more of all combinations of A, B, and C that can be formed by combining A, B, and C.

[0048] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) can be used to describe the constituent elements of the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0049] These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from another constituent element, and the nature, order, or sequence of the constituent elements are not limited by these terms.

[0050] In addition, when one constituent element is described as being "connected", "coupled", or "attached" to another constituent element, the one constituent element can be directly connected, coupled, or attached to the other constituent element, or connected, coupled, or attached to the other constituent element through another constituent element interposed therebetween.

[0051] In addition, the expression "one constituent element is formed or disposed on (above) or under (below) another constituent element" includes not only the case where the two constituent elements are in direct contact with each other, but also the case where one or more other constituent elements are formed or disposed between the two constituent elements. In addition, the expressions "above (upper)" or "below (lower)" can include the meanings based on the downward direction and the upward direction of one constituent element.

[0052] Reference Figures 1 to 9According to embodiments of the disclosure, a fuel cell 100 includes a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 110; a first separator 210 stacked on one surface of the membrane electrode assembly 110; a second separator 220 stacked on the other surface of the membrane electrode assembly 110; a first sealing member 310 provided on the first separator 210 and configured to seal a portion between the first separator 210 and the membrane electrode assembly 110; a second sealing member 320 provided on the second separator 220 and configured to seal a portion between the second separator 220 and the membrane electrode assembly 110; and a fastening portion 330 configured to fasten the first sealing member 310 and the second sealing member 320.

[0053] For reference, the fuel cell 100 including the membrane electrode assembly 110, the first separator 210, and the second separator 220 constitutes an independent modularized single unit cell. In this case, the fuel cell 100 being independently modularized can mean that the fuel cell 100 constitutes an independent unit cell so that adjacent fuel cells 100 can be individually separated.

[0054] Referring to Figure 9 The fuel cell stack 10 can be configured by stacking a plurality of fuel cells 100 in a reference direction and then assembling end plates 12 to both opposite ends of the plurality of fuel cells 100.

[0055] The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 110 is provided to generate electricity by means of an oxidation-reduction reaction between a first reactant gas (e.g., hydrogen) and a second reactant gas (e.g., air).

[0056] The structure and material of the membrane electrode assembly 110 can be variously changed according to required conditions and design specifications, and the disclosure is not limited or restricted by the structure and material of the membrane electrode assembly 110.

[0057] For example, the membrane electrode assembly 110 includes an electrolyte membrane through which hydrogen ions move, and catalyst electrode layers attached to both opposite surfaces of the electrolyte membrane, and an electrochemical reaction occurs in the catalyst electrode layers. In addition, gas diffusion layers (GDLs) (not shown) can be provided on both opposite sides of the membrane electrode assembly 110, and the gas diffusion layers serve to uniformly distribute reactant gases and to transfer generated electric energy.

[0058] The separator 200 is provided to supply the first reactant gas (e.g., hydrogen) and the second reactant gas (e.g., air) to the membrane electrode assembly 110, and is arranged in close contact with one surface and the other surface of the membrane electrode assembly 110 in a direction in which the fuel cell 100 is stacked.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first separator 210 can be one of an anode separator and a cathode separator, and the second separator 220 can be the other of the anode separator and the cathode separator. The anode separator defines a flow path of a fuel (e.g., hydrogen) as a first reactant gas, and the cathode separator defines a flow path of an oxidant (e.g., air) as a second reactant gas.

[0060] For example, referring to Figure 1 , the first separator 210 (anode separator) for supplying hydrogen can be disposed on a lower surface of the membrane-electrode assembly 110, and the second separator 220 (cathode separator) for supplying air can be disposed on an upper surface of the membrane-electrode assembly 110.

[0061] More specifically, the first separator 210 can be in close contact with a lower surface of the membrane-electde assembly 110, a first passage (not shown) along which a first reactant gas (e.g., hydrogen) flows can be provided on one surface (based on a lower surface) of the first separator 210 facing the membrane-electrode assembly 110, and a cooling passage (not shown) along which a coolant flows can be provided on the other surface (based on an upper surface) of the first separator 210. Figure 1 Figure 1

[0062] The second separator 220 can be in close contact with an upper surface of the membrane-electrode assembly 110, a second passage (not shown) along which a second reactant gas (e.g., air) flows can be provided on one surface (based on a lower surface) of the second separator 220 facing the membrane-electrode assembly 110, and a cooling passage (not shown) along which a coolant flows can be provided on the other surface (based on an upper surface) of the second separator 220. Figure 1 Figure 1

[0063] The first separator 210 and the second separator 220 not only serve to block hydrogen and air as reactant gases, but also serve to secure flow paths of the reactant gases and air and to transmit electric current to an external circuit.

[0064] In addition, the separators can also serve to distribute heat generated in the fuel cell 100 to the entire fuel cell 100, and excess generated heat can be discharged to the outside through a coolant flowing along a cooling flow path (not shown) between the separators.

[0065] ​​​​For example, each of the first separator 210 and the second separator 220 can be provided in the form of a thin metal film. The first separator 210 and the second separator 220 together with the membrane-electrode assembly 110 can constitute a single fuel cell 100 (unit cell), and independently define flow paths of hydrogen, air, and coolant. According to another embodiment of the disclosure, the separators can be made of another material, such as graphite or carbon composite material.

[0066] For reference, hydrogen as a fuel and air as an oxidizer are supplied to an anode (not shown) and a cathode (not shown) of the membrane-electrode assembly 110 through passages (not shown) in the first separator 210 and the second separator 220, respectively. Hydrogen can be supplied to the anode, and air can be supplied to the cathode.

[0067] The hydrogen supplied to the anode is separated into hydrogen ions (protons) and electrons by a catalyst provided in the electrode layers on opposite sides of the electrolyte membrane. Only the hydrogen ions are selectively transported to the cathode through the electrolyte membrane as a positive ion exchange membrane, while the electrons are transported to the cathode through the gas diffusion layer as a conductor and the separator.

[0068] In the cathode, the hydrogen ions supplied through the electrolyte membrane and the electrons transported through the separator meet oxygen in the air supplied to the cathode by the air supply device, thereby generating a water generation reaction. Due to the movement of the hydrogen ions, electrons flow through an external lead wire, and an electric current is generated due to the flow of the electrons.

[0069] Referring to Figure 4 The first sealing member 310 is provided on one surface of the first separator 210 facing the membrane-electrode assembly 110, for sealing a portion between the first separator 210 and the membrane-electrode assembly 110.

[0070] The first sealing member 310 can have various structures capable of sealing a portion between the first separator 210 and the membrane-electrode assembly 110, and the disclosure is not limited or restricted by the structure and shape of the first sealing member 310.

[0071] The first sealing member 310 can be made of an elastic material, such as rubber (e.g., EPDM), silicone (or liquid silicone), or polyurethane, and the disclosure is not limited or restricted by the material and properties of the first sealing member 310.

[0072] For example, the first sealing member 310 can include a first-1 sealing portion (not shown) provided along an edge of the first separator 210, and a first-2 sealing portion (not shown) connected to the first-1 sealing portion and configured to surround a first manifold portion (not shown) provided in the first separator 210.

[0073] For example, the first-1 sealing portion can be provided on the first separator 210 by injection molding so as to have a ring shape of approximately a quadrilateral along an edge of the first separator 210. The first-1 sealing portion provides sealing to prevent leakage of a reaction gas or a coolant to the outside.

[0074] The first-2 sealing portion can be provided on the first separator 210 by injection molding to surround the first manifold portion. In this case, the configuration of the first-2 sealing portion around the first manifold portion can mean that a hydrogen inlet manifold (not shown), a coolant inlet manifold (not shown), an air outlet manifold (not shown), a hydrogen outlet manifold (not shown), a coolant outlet manifold (not shown), and an air inlet manifold (not shown) are individually sealed by the first-2 sealing portion.

[0075] Specifically, a sealing pattern (e.g., a sealing protrusion) can be provided on a contact surface (a close contact surface) of the first sealing member 310, and the present disclosure is not limited or restricted by the structure and shape of the sealing pattern.

[0076] Referring to Figure 5 The second sealing member 320 is provided on one surface of the second separator 220 facing the membrane-electrode assembly 110 and is configured to seal a portion between the second separator 220 and the membrane-electrode assembly 110.

[0077] The second sealing member 320 can have various structures capable of sealing a portion between the second separator 220 and the membrane-electrode assembly 110, and the present disclosure is not limited or restricted by the structure and shape of the second sealing member 320.

[0078] The second sealing member 320 can be made of an elastic material, such as rubber (e.g., EPDM), silicone (or liquid silicone), or polyurethane, and the present disclosure is not limited or restricted by the material and properties of the second sealing member 320.

[0079] For example, the second sealing member 320 can include a second-1 sealing portion (not shown) provided along an edge of the second separator 220, and a second-2 sealing portion (not shown) connected to the second-1 sealing portion and configured to surround a second manifold portion (not shown) provided in the second separator 220.

[0080] For example, the second-1 sealing portion can be provided on the second separator 220 by injection molding so as to have a ring shape of approximately a quadrilateral along an edge of the second separator 220. The second-1 sealing portion provides sealing to prevent leakage of a reaction gas or a coolant to the outside.

[0081] The second-2 sealing portion can be provided on the second separator 220 by injection molding to enclose the second manifold portion. In this case, the configuration of the second-2 sealing portion around the second manifold portion can mean that a hydrogen inlet manifold (not shown), a coolant inlet manifold (not shown), an air outlet manifold (not shown), a hydrogen outlet manifold (not shown), a coolant outlet manifold (not shown), and an air inlet manifold (not shown) are individually sealed by the second-2 sealing portion.

[0082] Specifically, a sealing pattern (e.g., a sealing protrusion) can be provided on a contact surface (a close contact surface) of the second sealing member 320, and the present disclosure is not limited or defined by the structure and shape of the sealing pattern.

[0083] Referring to Figures 1 to 7 The fastening portion 330 is provided to fasten the first sealing member 310 and the second sealing member 320, and the first separator 210 and the second separator 220 can be modularized integrally by means of the fastening portion 330.

[0084] In this case, the configuration in which the first sealing member 310 and the second sealing member 320 are fastened to each other can be defined as a concept including both a case in which the second sealing member 320 is constrained on the first sealing member 310 so that the second sealing member 320 is not spaced apart from the first sealing member 310 and a case in which the first sealing member 310 is constrained on the second sealing member 320 so that the first sealing member 310 is not spaced apart from the second sealing member 320.

[0085] The fastening portion 330 can have various structures capable of fastening the first sealing member 310 and the second sealing member 320.

[0086] For example, the fastening portion 330 can include a first fastening clip 340 provided on the first sealing member 310 and configured to be fastened to the second sealing member 320.

[0087] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first fastening clip 340 can be provided integrally with the first sealing member 310.

[0088] Specifically, the first fastening clip 340 can be made of the same material or a similar material as the first sealing member 310.

[0089] More specifically, the first fastening clip 340 and the first sealing member 310 can be integrally provided on the first separator 210 by injection molding (e.g., double injection molding). As described above, since the first fastening clip 340 and the first sealing member 310 are integrally provided on the first separator 210 by injection molding, the first sealing member 310 and the first fastening clip 340 can be provided together by means of a single injection molding process. As a result, advantageous effects of simplifying the manufacturing process and improving productivity and production efficiency can be obtained.

[0090] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first fastening clip can be separately manufactured from the first sealing member and then attached or coupled to the first sealing member.

[0091] The first fastening clip 340 can have various structures capable of being fastened to (constrained on) the second sealing member 320.

[0092] Hereinafter, an example in which the fastening portion 330 includes a plurality of first fastening clips 340 disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the first sealing member 310 will be described. In this case, the number of the first fastening clips 340 and the spacing between the first fastening clips 340 can be variously changed according to the desired conditions and design specifications.

[0093] For example, the first fastening clip 340 can include a first clip body 342 connected to the first sealing member 310, and a first clip protrusion 344 connected to the first clip body 342 to have elastic flexibility and configured to define a first receiving portion 346 that accommodates the second sealing member 320 in cooperation with the first clip body 342.

[0094] The first clip body 342 and the first clip protrusion 344 can be provided at the outer circumferential end of the first sealing member 310 to define the first receiving portion 346 having an approximate "U" shape. In a state in which the first separator 210 is in close contact with one surface of the membrane-electrode assembly 110 and the second separator 220 is in close contact with the other surface of the membrane-electrode assembly 110, a portion of the end of the second sealing member 320 can be accommodated in the first receiving portion 346, thereby being disposed between the first clip body 342 and the first clip protrusion 344.

[0095] In a state in which the portion of the end of the second sealing member 320 is accommodated in the first receiving portion 346, the first clip protrusion 344 can be disposed to cover the outer surface of the first sealing member 310, and the arrangement state of the first separator 210 and the second separator 220 can be limited by the interference of the first clip protrusion 344.

[0096] Specifically, the first extension portion 312 can be provided at an end of the first sealing member 310 and can protrude from an outer circumference of the first sealing member 310 (to the outside of the membrane-electrode assembly 110). The first fastening clip 340 can be provided on the first extension portion 312.

[0097] As described above, since the first fastening clip 340 is provided on the first extension portion 312 extending from the end of the first sealing member 310, an advantageous effect of minimizing an increase in the thickness of the fuel cell 100 caused by the first fastening clip 340 provided on the first sealing member 310 can be obtained.

[0098] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first fastening clip can be directly provided on the first sealing member without the first extension portion. However, in the case where the first fastening clip is directly provided on the first sealing member, the thickness of the first sealing member inevitably increases due to the first fastening clip, which causes a problem of an increase in the total thickness of the fuel cell. Therefore, the first extension portion 312 can extend from the end of the first sealing member 310, and the first fastening clip 340 can be provided on the first extension portion 312.

[0099] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second sealing member 320 has a through portion 324 passing through in a thickness direction thereof, and the first fastening clip 340 can be arranged to pass through each through portion 324.

[0100] As described above, since the first fastening clip 340 is fastened to the second sealing member 320 by passing through the through portion 324, an advantageous effect of stably maintaining the arrangement state of the first fastening clip 340 with respect to the second sealing member 320 can be obtained.

[0101] Further, in the case where the posture and position of the first fastening clip 340 are misaligned with the through portion 324, the first fastening clip 340 cannot pass through the through portion 324, and the first separator 210 is spaced apart from the membrane-electrode assembly 110. As a result, an operator can easily recognize whether the first separator 210 is assembled with an error.

[0102] Specifically, the through portion 324 can be spaced apart from an end of the second sealing member 320 (e.g., an end of the first extension portion). As described above, since the through portion 324 is spaced apart from the end of the second sealing member 320, outward exposure of the first fastening clip 340 arranged to pass through the through portion 324 can be minimized. As a result, an advantageous effect of suppressing the fastening state formed by the first fastening clip 340 from being released due to external interference or the like can be obtained.

[0103] Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 8According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fuel cell 100 can include elastic protrusions 342a each disposed on a circumferential surface of the first clamp body 342 facing the inner wall surface of the through portion 324. The elastic protrusions 342a can be elastically compressed between the inner wall surface of the through portion 324 and the circumferential surface of the first clamp body 342.

[0104] The elastic protrusions 342a can have various structures according to required conditions and design specifications, and the present disclosure is not limited or restricted by the structure and shape of the elastic protrusions 342a.

[0105] For example, a plurality of elastic protrusions 342a each having an approximate semi-spherical shape can be disposed on the circumferential surface of the first clamp body 342 to be spaced apart from each other. According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastic protrusions can have a continuous shape (e.g., a "U" shape) along the circumferential surface of the first clamp body.

[0106] As described above, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the elastic protrusions 342a are disposed on the circumferential surface of the first clamp body 342, and when the first clamp body 342 is disposed in the through portion 324, the elastic protrusions 342a are elastically compressed between the inner wall surface of the through portion 324 and the circumferential surface of the first clamp body 342. As a result, an advantageous effect of more safely and stably maintaining a fastened state formed by the first fastening clamp 340 can be obtained.

[0107] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fastening portion 330 can include a second fastening clamp 350 disposed on the second sealing member 320 and configured to be fastened to the first sealing member 310.

[0108] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second fastening clamp 350 can be integrally disposed with the second sealing member 320.

[0109] Specifically, the second fastening clamp 350 can be made of the same material or a similar material as the second sealing member 320.

[0110] More specifically, the second fastening clamp 350 and the second sealing member 320 can be integrally disposed on the second separator 220 by injection molding (e.g., double injection molding). As described above, since the second fastening clamp 350 and the second sealing member 320 are integrally disposed on the second separator 220 by injection molding, the second sealing member 320 and the second fastening clamp 350 can be disposed together by means of a single injection molding process. As a result, an advantageous effect of simplifying the manufacturing process and improving productivity and production efficiency can be obtained.

[0111] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second fastening clamp can be manufactured separately from the second sealing member and then attached or coupled to the second sealing member.

[0112] The second fastening clip 350 can have various structures capable of being fastened to (constrained to) the first sealing member 310.

[0113] Hereinafter, an example in which the fastening portion 330 includes a plurality of second fastening clips 350 disposed to be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the second sealing member 320 will be described. In this case, the number of the second fastening clips 350 and the interval between the second fastening clips 350 can be variously changed according to the required conditions and design specifications.

[0114] For example, the second fastening clip 350 can include a second clip body 352 connected to the second sealing member 320, and a second clip protrusion 354 connected to the second clip body 352 to have elastic flexibility and configured to define a second receiving portion that accommodates the second sealing member 320 in cooperation with the second clip body 352.

[0115] The second clip body 352 and the second clip protrusion 354 can be provided at the outer circumferential end of the second sealing member 320 to define a second receiving portion having an approximate "U" shape. In a state in which the first separator 210 is in close contact with one surface of the membrane-electrode assembly 110 and the second separator 220 is in close contact with the other surface of the membrane-electrode assembly 110, a portion of the end of the first sealing member 310 can be accommodated in the second receiving portion, thereby being disposed between the second clip body 352 and the second clip protrusion 354.

[0116] In a state in which a portion of the end of the first sealing member 310 is accommodated in the second receiving portion, the second clip protrusion 354 can be disposed to cover the outer surface of the first sealing member 310, and the disposed state of the first separator 210 and the second separator 220 can be limited by the interference of the second clip protrusion 354.

[0117] Specifically, the second extension portion 322 can be provided at the end of the second sealing member 320 so as to correspond to the first extension portion 312, and the second fastening clip 350 can be provided on the second extension portion 322.

[0118] For example, the second extension portion 322 can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first extension portion 312. The second fastening clip 350 can be provided on the second extension portion 322 protruding from the outer circumference of the second sealing member 320 (protruding to the outside of the membrane-electrode assembly 110).

[0119] As described above, since the second fastening clip 350 is disposed on the second extension portion 322 extending from the end of the second sealing member 320, an advantageous effect of minimizing an increase in the thickness of the fuel cell 100 caused by the second fastening clip 350 disposed on the second sealing member 320 can be obtained.

[0120] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second fastening clip can be directly disposed on the second sealing member without the second extension portion. However, in the case where the second fastening clip is directly disposed on the second sealing member, the thickness of the second sealing member inevitably increases due to the second fastening clip, which causes a problem of an increase in the total thickness of the fuel cell. Therefore, the second extension portion 322 can extend from the end of the second sealing member 320, and the second fastening clip 350 can be disposed on the second extension portion 322.

[0121] Specifically, a pair of second fastening clips 350 can be arranged on the second extension portion 322 so as to be spaced apart from each other such that the pair of second fastening clips 350 are disposed at both opposite sides of the first fastening clip 340 interposed therebetween.

[0122] As described above, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, the first sealing member 310 and the second sealing member 320 can be fastened to each other by the double fastening structure including the first fastening clip 340 and the second fastening clip 350. As a result, an advantageous effect of more stably constraining the arrangement state of the first separator 210 and the second separator 220 and stably ensuring the sealing performance achieved by the first separator 210 and the second separator 220 can be obtained.

[0123] In the embodiment of the present disclosure shown and described as above, an example in which the fastening portion 330 includes both the first fastening clip 340 and the second fastening clip 350 is described. However, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the fastening portion can include only the second fastening clip without the first fastening clip.

[0124] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the fuel cell 100 can include a guide protrusion 314 protruding from one surface of the first sealing member 310 facing the second sealing member 320, and a guide hole 326 disposed in the second sealing member 320 to correspond to the guide protrusion 314 and configured to accommodate the guide protrusion 314.

[0125] For example, the guide protrusion 314 can be provided in the form of a quadrangular prism having a quadrangular cross section, and the guide hole 326 can be provided in the form of a quadrangular hole corresponding to the guide protrusion 314. According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the guide protrusion can have a circular cross-sectional shape or another cross-sectional shape.

[0126] Specifically, the alignment hole 112 can be provided penetratingly in the membrane electrode assembly 110, and the guide protrusion 314 can penetrate the alignment hole 112 and be accommodated in the guide hole 326.

[0127] More specifically, the fuel cell 100 can include a through hole 222 provided in the second separator 220 to correspond to the guide protrusion 314 and configured to accommodate the guide protrusion 314. The guide protrusion 314 can be arranged to sequentially pass through the guide hole 326, the alignment hole 112, and the through hole 222.

[0128] As described above, in the embodiment of the disclosure, since the guide protrusion 314 is provided on the first sealing member 310 and the guide protrusion 314 sequentially passes through the guide hole 326, the alignment hole 112, and the through hole 222, it is possible to suppress the second sealing member 320 from moving and departing from the first sealing member 310. As a result, an advantageous effect of more stably maintaining a fastened state formed by the first fastening clip 340 and the second fastening clip 350 can be obtained.

[0129] Further, in a case where the posture and position of the second sealing member 320 are misaligned with the first sealing member 310, the guide protrusion 314 cannot pass through the guide hole 326, and the first separator 210 (or the second separator) is spaced apart from the membrane electrode assembly 110. As a result, an operator can easily recognize whether the first separator 210 and the second separator 220 are assembled with an error.

[0130] For reference, in the embodiment of the disclosure, an example in which only a single guide protrusion 314 is provided is described. However, according to another embodiment of the disclosure, a plurality of guide protrusions can be provided to be spaced apart from each other.

[0131] As described above, according to the embodiment of the disclosure, an advantageous effect of improving safety and reliability of a fuel cell and simplifying a structure and a manufacturing process can be obtained.

[0132] Specifically, according to the embodiment of the disclosure, an advantageous effect of firmly fastening separators without a welding process can be obtained.

[0133] Further, according to the embodiment of the disclosure, an advantageous effect of minimizing deformation and damage of a fastening portion between separators and reliably maintaining a coupled and sealed state of the separators can be obtained.

[0134] Further, according to the embodiment of the disclosure, an advantageous effect of simplifying a structure and a manufacturing process of a fuel cell, reducing manufacturing costs can be obtained.

[0135] Further, according to the embodiment of the disclosure, an advantageous effect of easily handling a fuel cell, simplifying a test and replacement process of a fuel cell, reducing time and costs required to replace a fuel cell can be obtained.

[0136] Furthermore, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, advantageous effects of improving design freedom and space utilization can be obtained.

[0137] Although the embodiments have been described above, the embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and applications not described above can be made to the embodiments without departing from the inherent characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each of the constituent elements specifically described in the embodiments can be modified and then executed. Furthermore, it should be interpreted that the differences related to the modifications and applications are included in the scope of the present disclosure defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fuel cell comprising: a membrane electrode assembly; a first separator stacked on a first surface of the membrane electrode assembly; a second separator stacked on a second surface of the membrane electrode assembly; a first sealing member disposed on the first separator, and the first sealing member is configured to seal a space between the first separator and the membrane electrode assembly; a second sealing member disposed on the second separator, and the second sealing member is configured to seal a space between the second separator and the membrane electrode assembly; a fastening portion configured to fasten the first sealing member to the second sealing member; and a first extension portion extending from an end portion of the first sealing member, and wherein the fastening portion includes a first fastening clip disposed on the first extension portion, and the first fastening clip is configured to be fastened to the second sealing member, wherein the first fastening clip includes: a first clip body connected to the first sealing member; and a first clip protrusion connected to the first clip body and defining a first receiving portion configured to accommodate the second sealing member cooperatively with the first clip body, wherein, in a state that a portion of an end portion of the second sealing member is accommodated in the first receiving portion, an arrangement state of the first separator and the second separator is restricted by interference of the first clip protrusion; wherein the fastening portion includes a second fastening clip disposed on the second sealing member and configured to be fastened to the first sealing member, the second fastening clip includes a second clip body connected to the second sealing member, and a second clip protrusion connected to the second clip body and defining a second receiving portion configured to accommodate the first sealing member cooperatively with the second clip body, wherein, in a state that a portion of an end portion of the first sealing member is accommodated in the second receiving portion, the second clip protrusion is disposed to cover an outer surface of the first sealing member, and an arrangement state of the first separator and the second separator is restricted by interference of the second clip protrusion. The second sealing member has a through portion disposed in a thickness direction of the second sealing member, and the first fastening clip is configured to pass through the through portion.

2. The fuel cell of claim 1, wherein, 3.The fuel cell of claim 2, comprising: an elastic protrusion disposed on a circumferential surface of the first clip body facing an inner wall surface of the through portion, wherein the elastic protrusion is elastically compressed between the inner wall surface of the through portion and the circumferential surface of the first clip body. The first fastening clip is integrally disposed with the first sealing member.

4. The fuel cell of claim 1, wherein, The first fastening clip and the first sealing member are integrally injection-molded on the first separator.

5. The fuel cell of claim 4, wherein, The second fastening clip is integrally disposed with the second sealing member.

6. The fuel cell of claim 1, wherein, The second fastening clip and the second sealing member are integrally injection-molded on the second separator.

7. The fuel cell of claim 6, wherein, 8.The fuel cell of claim 1, comprising: ​ a second extension portion extending from an end of the second sealing member to correspond to the first extension portion, wherein the second fastening clip is arranged on the second extension portion. 9.The fuel cell according to claim 1, comprising: a guide protrusion protruding from a surface of the first sealing member facing the second sealing member; and a guide hole defined in the second sealing member to correspond to the guide protrusion, and configured to accommodate the guide protrusion.

10. The fuel cell of claim 9, wherein, The membrane electrode assembly has an alignment hole, and the guide protrusion is configured to pass through the alignment hole to be accommodated in the guide hole. 11.The fuel cell according to claim 9, comprising: a through hole defined in the second separator to correspond to the guide protrusion, and configured to accommodate the guide protrusion.

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