Fuel cells and fuel cell manifolds

Abstract

The fuel cell of this embodiment includes a cell stack and a manifold. The cell stack is formed by stacking cells, each cell having: an electrolyte membrane; a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode, with the electrolyte membrane sandwiched between them; a fuel electrode flow path plate for providing a gas flow path towards the fuel electrode; and an oxidant electrode flow path plate for providing a gas flow path towards the oxidant electrode. The manifold is disposed on the side of the cell stack along the stacking direction of the cell stack, supplying reactant gases to the fuel electrode flow path plate or the oxidant electrode flow path plate within the cell stack. The manifold includes a gas flow path section disposed between multiple cell stacks arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and connecting the cell stacks in a manner that allows reactant gases to pass through.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to fuel cells and fuel cell manifolds. Background Technology

[0002] A fuel cell is a power generation device that directly converts the chemical energy of a fuel, such as hydrogen, into electrical energy by reacting it with an oxidant, such as air, and then extracts the electrical energy to the outside. In addition, in the external manifold type, a gas manifold for supplying fuel gas and oxidant gas is provided on the outside of the stack of individual cells (cells).

[0003] However, in the case of external manifolds, it is sometimes difficult to increase or decrease (change) the output of the fuel cell according to the application.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 3425086 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a fuel cell and a fuel cell manifold that allow for easier modification of the external manifold configuration.

[0009] Means for solving technical problems

[0010] The fuel cell of this embodiment includes a cell stack and a manifold. The cell stack comprises cells, each cell having an electrolyte membrane, a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode sandwiching the electrolyte membrane, a fuel electrode flow path plate for a gas flow path to the fuel electrode, and an oxidant electrode flow path plate for a gas flow path to the oxidant electrode. The manifold is located on the side of the cell stack along the stacking direction of the cell stack and supplies reactant gases to either the fuel electrode flow path plate or the oxidant electrode flow path plate within the cell stack. The manifold includes a gas flow path section disposed between multiple cell stacks arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, connecting the cell stacks through which reactant gases pass. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of a fuel cell after the manifold has been removed.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of a fuel cell with a manifold installed.

[0013] Figure 3This is an exploded perspective view showing an example of the structure of a fuel cell cell.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a fuel polar flow path plate.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an oxidant polar flow path plate.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the surface side of the fastener plate and the structure of the terminals.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the fuel cell according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the first manifold, the third manifold, and the fifth manifold in the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the second manifold and the fourth manifold in the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration and electrical connections of the monolithic laminate in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration and electrical connections of a modified monolithic laminate.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a modified fuel cell.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the fuel cell according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the fifth manifold in the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments do not limit the present invention. The drawings are schematic or conceptual, and the proportions of the parts may not be identical to reality. In the specification and drawings, for elements already described above, the same reference numerals are used, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0026] (First Implementation)

[0027] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of a fuel cell 1 with the manifold removed. Figure 2This is a perspective view showing an example of the structure of a fuel cell 1 with a manifold installed. (See diagram below.) Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the fuel cell 1 of the first embodiment is a structure that generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction in a fuel cell unit. Specifically, the fuel cell 1 comprises: a unit stack 10, two current collectors 20, two insulating plates 25, a fuel cell fastening structure 30, a first manifold 40, a second manifold 42, a third manifold 44, and a fourth manifold 46. The unit stack 10 is formed by stacking multiple fuel cell units 10a. The fuel cell unit 10a generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between a hydrogen-containing fuel electrode gas and an oxygen-containing oxidant electrode gas. In other words, the unit stack 10 is a structure formed by connecting multiple fuel cell units 10a in series. The detailed structure of the fuel cell unit 10a will be described later. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram shows the Z direction, which is parallel to the stacking direction of the single-unit laminate 10, and the X and Y directions, which are perpendicular to and parallel to each other. When the fuel cell 1 of this embodiment is placed on a horizontal plane, the Z direction is parallel to the direction of gravity.

[0028] Two current collectors 20 are arranged on both sides of the stacking direction of the single-unit laminate 10. The two current collectors 20 are plate-shaped conductors and are respectively disposed on the two end faces of the single-unit laminate 10. Two insulating plates 25 are plate-shaped insulators and are respectively disposed between the two current collectors 20 and the two fastening plates 100. In this way, two current collectors 20 and two insulating plates 25 are arranged sequentially on both sides of the stacking direction of the single-unit laminate 10. By fastening them together integrally from both sides of the stacking direction with two fastening plates 100, the fuel cell 1 can be obtained.

[0029] The fuel cell fastening structure 30 is a structure that applies surface pressure to the cell stack 10, and is configured to include two fastening plates 100 and multiple connectors 200. The two fastening plates 100 are components that fasten the cell stack 10 from both sides of the stacking direction of the cell stack 10, which is composed of multiple fuel cell cells. Each fastening plate 100 has a pressing portion 110 and a beam portion 120. These pressing portions 110 and beam portions 120 are integrally formed. Alternatively, the pressing portions 110 and beam portions 120 can be separately formed.

[0030] The connector 200 is a component that connects the two fastening plates 100. Specifically, in this embodiment, the connector 200 includes a tie rod 202, two washers 204, and two nuts 206. Figure 1 As shown, with the pull rod 202 passing through the opposing holes provided in the two clamping plates 100, the two clamping plates 100 are connected by tightening the nut 206 via the washer 204.

[0031] like Figure 2As shown, manifolds 40, 42, 44, and 46 are installed on the side of the monomer stack 10 along the stacking direction of the monomer stack 10 in the fuel cell 1. The manifold is a component that has a spatial area for supplying reaction gases such as fuel electrode gas and oxidant electrode gas, as well as cooling water.

[0032] The first manifold 40 has a cooling water manifold and an oxidizer manifold. The second manifold 42 is a fuel manifold. The third manifold 44 is a manifold opposite to the first manifold 40, and has a cooling water manifold and an oxidizer manifold. That is, the first manifold 40 and the third manifold 44 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monolithic laminate 10.

[0033] The fourth manifold 46 is a fuel electrode manifold opposite to the second manifold 42. That is, the second manifold 42 and the fourth manifold 46 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monolithic laminate 10.

[0034] Cooling water introduced from pipe connector 40a is supplied from the side of the cell stack 10 and discharged from pipe connector 44a via the cooling water flow channel of the fuel cell cell 10a. On the other hand, oxidant electrode gas is introduced from pipe connector 40b, and the oxidant electrode gas not consumed by the electrochemical reaction within the cell stack 10 is discharged from pipe connector 40c. Additionally, fuel electrode gas is introduced from pipe connector 42a, and the fuel electrode gas not consumed by the electrochemical reaction within the cell stack 10 is discharged from pipe connector 42b.

[0035] For manifolds 40, 42, 44, and 46, gas impermeability is required. Additionally, the pressure inside the manifold is higher than the pressure outside. Therefore, manifolds 40, 42, 44, and 46 are generally constructed as rigid resin or metal molded products capable of withstanding the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the manifold.

[0036] based on Figures 3 to 5 The detailed structure of the fuel cell unit 10a of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing an example of the structure of a single fuel cell cell. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the fuel cell unit 10a is configured to include an electrolyte membrane 12, a fuel electrode flow path 14, and an oxidant electrode flow path 16. The electrolyte membrane 12 has a fuel electrode formed on one main surface 12a and an oxidant electrode formed on the other main surface 12b. That is, the fuel cell unit 10a has a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode disposed in a manner that clamps (holds) the electrolyte membrane 12. The electrolyte membrane 12 is, for example, a polymeric electrolyte membrane.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the fuel polar flow path plate 14. Figure 4 (a) is a diagram showing the shape of the main surface 14a side of the fuel polar flow path plate 14. Figure 4(b) is a diagram showing the shape of the main surface 14b side of the fuel polar flow path plate 14. Figure 4 As shown in (a), the main surface 14a of the fuel electrode flow path plate 14 is the opposite side of the fuel electrode of the electrolyte membrane 12, forming a flat surface.

[0038] like Figure 4 As shown in (b), the fuel electrode flow path plate 14 has a fuel electrode gas flow path groove 140b along the fuel electrode on the main surface 14b of the electrolyte membrane 12 on the fuel electrode side. The fuel electrode gas flow path groove 140b has a first inlet 14c, a first outlet 14d, a second inlet 14e, and a second outlet 14f. Fuel electrode gas introduced from the first inlet 14c flows along the fuel electrode gas flow path groove 140b and is discharged from the first outlet 14d. Similarly, fuel electrode gas introduced from the second inlet 14e flows along the fuel electrode gas flow path groove 140b and is discharged from the second outlet 14f.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the oxidant polar flow path plate 16. Figure 5 (a) is a diagram showing the shape of the main surface 16a of the oxidant polar flow path plate 16. Figure 5 (b) is a diagram showing the shape of the main surface 16b opposite to the main surface 16a of the oxidant polar flow path plate 16. Figure 5 As shown in (a), the oxidant electrode flow path plate 16 has an oxidant gas flow path groove 160a along the oxidant electrode on the main surface 16a of the electrolyte membrane 12 on the oxidant electrode side. The oxidant gas flow path groove 160a has a first inlet 16c, a first outlet 16d, a second inlet 16e, and a second outlet 16f. Oxidant gas introduced from the first inlet 16c flows along the oxidant gas flow path groove 160a and is discharged from the first outlet 16d. Similarly, oxidant gas introduced from the second inlet 16e flows along the oxidant gas flow path groove 160a and is discharged from the second outlet 16f.

[0040] like Figure 5As shown in (b), the oxidant electrode flow path plate 16 has a cooling water flow path 160b on its main surface 16b opposite to the oxidant electrode side. The cooling water flow path 160b has a first inlet 16h and a first outlet 16g. Cooling water introduced from the first inlet 16h flows along the cooling water flow path 160b and is discharged from the first outlet 16g. The oxidant electrode flow path plate 16 is, for example, made of a conductive porous plate with micropores. In addition, the cooling water flow path 160b allows cooling water to evaporate from its surface, humidifying the fuel cell cell 10a. Alternatively, an oxidant electrode flow path plate 16 without the cooling water flow path 160b can also be used. When using an oxidant electrode flow path plate 16 without the cooling water flow path 160b, the first manifold 40 and the third manifold 44 can also be made of only the oxidant electrode manifold.

[0041] These multiple fuel cell units 10a generate electricity through the reaction shown in Formula 1. More specifically, the fuel electrode gas is, for example, a hydrogen-containing gas. The fuel electrode gas flows along the fuel electrode gas flow channel 140b of the fuel electrode flow channel plate 14, where a fuel electrode reaction occurs. The oxidant gas is, for example, an oxygen-containing gas. The oxidant gas flows along the oxidant gas flow channel 160a of the oxidant electrode flow channel plate 16, where an oxidant electrode reaction occurs. The fuel cell 1 utilizes these electrochemical reactions to generate electricity from the current collector plate 20 (… Figure 1 Electrical energy is extracted from the electrodes.

[0042] (Chemical Formula 1)

[0043] Fuel electrode reaction: H2 → 2H + +2e -

[0044] Oxidizing agent polar reaction: 1 / 2O2 + 2H + +2e - →H2O

[0045] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the surface side of the fastening plate 100 and the structure of the terminal 300. As shown... Figure 6 As shown, a terminal 300 and a terminal cover 310 are mounted on the fastening plate 100. The terminal 300 is electrically connected to the current collector plate 20. Furthermore, not limited to the upper side in the stacking direction, a terminal 300 is also provided on the lower side in the stacking direction. The two terminals 300 located at both ends in the stacking direction are, for example, a positive terminal and a negative terminal. For further details regarding the terminal 300, please refer to... Figure 10 This will be explained later.

[0046] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the fuel cell 1 according to the first embodiment. Additionally, Figure 7 The circular markings shown on manifolds 40, 42, 44, and 46 indicate Figure 2 The pipe fittings shown are 40a, 40b, 40c, 42a, 42b, and 44a. Additionally, in... Figure 7 The image shows the fuel electrode gas collection pipe. The fuel electrode gas collection pipe and... Figure 2 The pipe fittings 42a and 42b shown are connected. Additionally, in... Figure 7 The middle section does not show... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The fuel cell fastening structure 30 is shown. The cell stack 10 can be provided, for example, by increasing the spacing between the cell stacks 10 in such a way as by providing connectors 200.

[0047] In addition to the aforementioned manifolds 40, 42, 44, and 46, the fuel cell 1 also has a fifth manifold 48. Manifolds 40, 42, 44, 46, and 48 supply fuel electrode gas to the fuel electrode flow path 14 within the single-cell stack 10, and supply oxidant gas and cooling water to the oxidant electrode flow path 16.

[0048] Multiple single-unit laminates 10 are arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the lamination direction. Figure 7 In the example shown, the first direction is the Y direction. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the monomer stack 10 is configured to have an opposite orientation in the Z direction relative to adjacent monomer stacks 10. For example, the monomer stack 10 is configured to be rotated 180° about the Y direction relative to adjacent monomer stacks 10.

[0049] The fifth manifold 48 is disposed between the monomer laminates 10 arranged in the first direction (Y direction). For example... Figure 7 As shown, in the monomer laminate 10 at one end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the first manifold 40 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer laminate 10. In addition, in the monomer laminate 10 at the other end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the third manifold 44 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer laminate 10.

[0050] First, refer to Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 (a)~ Figure 8 (c) describes the structure of the first manifold 40, the third manifold 44 and the fifth manifold 48.

[0051] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the first manifold 40, the third manifold 44, and the fifth manifold 48 in the first embodiment. Figure 8 (a) is a schematic diagram showing the shape of the first manifold 40 as viewed horizontally from the side of the monolithic laminate 10. Figure 8 (b) is a schematic diagram showing the shape of the third manifold 44 as viewed horizontally from the side of the monolayer 10. Figure 8(c) is a schematic diagram showing the shape of the fifth manifold 48 as viewed horizontally from the side of the monolithic laminate 10 on which the first manifold 40 is located.

[0052] like Figure 8 As shown in (a), the first manifold 40 includes an oxidant manifold for supplying oxidant gas and a cooling water manifold for supplying cooling water. The oxidant manifold of the first manifold 40 includes a pipe fitting portion 40b, a pipe fitting portion 40c, a gas inlet portion 40d, and a gas outlet portion 40e. The cooling water manifold of the first manifold 40 includes a pipe fitting portion 40a and a cooling water inlet portion 40f.

[0053] Piping connector 40a is a supply connector that communicates with cooling water inlet 40f. This piping connector 40a supplies cooling water to the cooling water inlet 40f.

[0054] Piping connector 40b is a supply connector that communicates with gas inlet 40d. This piping connector 40b supplies the reaction gas (oxidant gas) to the gas inlet 40d.

[0055] Pipe fitting 40c is a discharge fitting that connects to gas discharge 40e. This pipe fitting 40c discharges unreacted gas that has not been consumed in the electrochemical reaction from gas discharge 40e.

[0056] The gas inlet 40d, gas outlet 40e, and cooling water inlet 40f are multiple spatial regions arranged along the side of the monomer stack 10 in the monomer stacking direction. Furthermore, the gas inlet 40d, gas outlet 40e, and cooling water inlet 40f are not connected (through-connected) in the Y direction.

[0057] Furthermore, the area of ​​the gas inlet 40d in contact with the side of the monomer laminate 10 is larger than the area of ​​the gas outlet 40e in contact with the side of the monomer laminate 10. In the gas outlet 40e, the oxidant gas is consumed by an electrochemical reaction compared to the gas inlet 40d. Therefore, as the amount of oxygen contained in the oxidant gas in the gas outlet 40e decreases, the area in contact with the oxidant electrode decreases, thus further homogenizing the reaction efficiency of the oxidant electrode reaction within the oxidant electrode flow path. However, this is not a limitation; the area of ​​the gas inlet 40d in contact with the side of the monomer laminate 10 can be approximately the same as the area of ​​the gas outlet 40e in contact with the side of the monomer laminate 10.

[0058] like Figure 8 As shown in (b), the third manifold 44 includes an oxidant manifold for supplying oxidant gas and a cooling water manifold for supplying cooling water. The oxidant manifold of the third manifold 44 includes a gas passage portion 44b. The cooling water manifold of the third manifold 44 includes a pipe fitting portion 44a and a cooling water discharge portion 44c.

[0059] Pipe fitting 44a is a discharge fitting that communicates with cooling water discharge 44c. This pipe fitting 44a discharges cooling water from the cooling water discharge 44c.

[0060] The gas passage section 44b and the cooling water discharge section 44c are multiple spatial regions arranged along the side of the monomer stacking direction of the monomer laminate 10. In addition, the gas passage section 44b and the cooling water discharge section 44c are not connected (through) in the Y direction.

[0061] like Figure 8 As shown in (c), the fifth manifold 48 includes an oxidant manifold for supplying oxidant gas and a cooling water manifold for supplying cooling water. The oxidant manifold of the fifth manifold 48 includes a gas flow path 48a. The cooling water manifold of the fifth manifold 48 includes a cooling water flow path 48d.

[0062] The gas flow path 48a and the cooling water flow path 48d are multiple spatial regions arranged on the side along the monomer stacking direction of the monomer laminate 10. In addition, the gas flow path 48a (first flow path 48b and second flow path 48c) and the cooling water flow path 48d are connected (through) in the Y direction.

[0063] Additionally, a fifth manifold, rotated 180° around the Y direction, is provided in the adjacent single-unit laminate 10 (see reference). Figure 7 That is, the shapes (types) of each fifth manifold 48 can be the same.

[0064] like Figure 7 As shown, the gas inlet 40d is located on the side opposite to the gas flow path 48a (fifth manifold 48) in the monomer laminate 10 at one end in the first direction. Furthermore, the gas inlet 40d introduces the reactant gas (oxidant gas) into the monomer laminate 10. More specifically, the gas inlet 40d introduces oxidant gas into the first region of the oxidant gas flow path channel 160a within the monomer laminate 10. The first region is, for example, the first inlet 16c (… Figure 5 (a) and the first export section 16d ( Figure 5 The region between (a) and the oxidant gas flow path 160a.

[0065] A gas discharge section 40e is provided on at least a portion of the side on which the gas inlet section 40d is provided. Furthermore, the gas discharge section 40e discharges the reaction gas (oxidant gas) from within the monomer laminate 10. More specifically, the gas discharge section 40e discharges the oxidant gas from a second region of the oxidant gas flow path 160a within the monomer laminate 10. This second region is, for example, the second inlet section 16e (…). Figure 5 (a) and the second export section 16f ( Figure 5The region between (a) and the oxidant gas flow path 160a.

[0066] A cooling water inlet 40f is provided on the side opposite to the gas flow path 48a (fifth manifold 48) in the monomer laminate 10 at one end in the first direction. Furthermore, the cooling water inlet 40f introduces cooling water into the monomer laminate 10.

[0067] A gas passage portion 44b is provided on the side opposite to the gas flow path portion 48a (fifth manifold 48) in the monomer laminate 10 at the other end in the first direction. Furthermore, the gas passage portion 44b connects a first region within the monomer laminate 10 and a second region within the monomer laminate 10, which is different from the first region, through which a reactant gas (oxidant gas) passes. More specifically, the gas passage portion 44b connects the first region of the oxidant gas flow path channel 160a within the monomer laminate 10 with the second region of the oxidant gas flow path channel 160a within the monomer laminate 10.

[0068] The cooling water discharge section 44c is located on the side opposite to the gas flow path section 48a (fifth manifold 48) in the monomer laminate 10 at the other end of the first direction. In addition, the cooling water discharge section 44c discharges cooling water from inside the monomer laminate 10.

[0069] A gas flow path 48a is disposed between a plurality of individual stacked cells 10 arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction. More specifically, the gas flow path 48a is disposed between a first side surface S1 of an individual stacked cell 10 and a second side surface S2 of an adjacent individual stacked cell 10 opposite to the first side surface S1. Furthermore, the gas flow path 48a connects the individual stacked cells 10 in a manner through which a reactant gas (oxidant gas) passes. Therefore, the oxidant gas passes through the gas flow path 48a in a manner that penetrates the plurality of individual stacked cells 10. This allows for easier modification of the number of individual stacked cells 10 connected according to the desired output of the fuel cell 1. Consequently, the output of the external manifold type fuel cell 1 can be modified more easily.

[0070] In addition, more specifically, the gas flow path 48a has a first flow path 48b and a second flow path 48c.

[0071] The first flow path 48b connects the first region within the monomer laminate 10 with the first region within an adjacent monomer laminate 10. More specifically, the first flow path 48b connects the first region of the oxidant gas flow path 160a within the monomer laminate 10 with the first region of the oxidant gas flow path 160a within an adjacent monomer laminate 10.

[0072] In addition, such as Figure 7As shown, the flow paths of the oxidant gas are not the same between adjacent monomer stacks 10. This is because the monomer stacks 10 are configured with opposite orientations in the Z direction relative to adjacent monomer stacks 10. That is, the oxidant gas, for example, in... Figure 5 In (a), it advances along the oxidant gas flow channel 160a, which is rotated 180° around the Y direction. Therefore, in the adjacent monomer stack 10, the first region is, for example, the second outlet 16f. Figure 5 (a) and the second entrance 16e ( Figure 5 The region between (a) and the oxidant gas flow channel 160a. Similarly, in adjacent monomer stacks 10, the second region is, for example, the first outlet 16d. Figure 5 (a) and the first entrance 16c ( Figure 5 The region between (a) and the oxidant gas flow path 160a.

[0073] The second flow path 48c connects the second region within the monomer laminate 10 with the second region within an adjacent monomer laminate. More specifically, the second flow path 48c connects the second region of the oxidant gas flow path 160a within the monomer laminate 10 with the second region of the oxidant gas flow path 160a within an adjacent monomer laminate 10. Furthermore, a separator is provided between the first flow path 48b and the second flow path 48c.

[0074] Cooling water flow path 48d is provided between a plurality of individual laminates 10 arranged along a first direction. In addition, cooling water flow path 48d connects the individual laminates 10 in a manner that allows cooling water to pass through.

[0075] Next, refer to Figure 7 The flow of the reactant gas (oxidant gas) is explained.

[0076] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, the oxidant gas (air) is supplied to the gas inlet 40d via the pipe connector 40b. The oxidant gas passes through the first inlet 16c of the oxidant flow path plate 16 stacked in the monomer laminate 10, which is connected to the gas inlet 40d. Figure 5 (a) flows in the oxidant gas flow channel 160a and exits from the first outlet 16d. Figure 5(a) is discharged to the first flow path 48b of the fifth manifold 48. The oxidant gas discharged to the first flow path 48b also flows in the oxidant gas flow path groove 160a of the oxidant polar flow path plate 16 in the adjacent monomer stack 10. Afterwards, the oxidant gas is discharged to the gas passage 44b of the third manifold 44. The oxidant gas discharged to the gas passage 44b passes through the second inlet 16e of the oxidant polar flow path plate 16 stacked in the monomer stack 10, which communicates with the gas passage 44b. Figure 5 (a)) while in the oxidant gas flow path tank 160a ( Figure 5 Flowing from (a)) through the second outlet section 16f( Figure 5 (a) is discharged to the second flow path 48c of the fifth manifold 48. The oxidant gas discharged to the second flow path 48c also passes through the oxidant polar flow path plate 16 in the adjacent monomer stack 10. Afterward, the oxidant gas is discharged to the gas discharge section 40e of the first manifold 40. The oxidant gas discharged to the gas discharge section 40e is discharged from the pipe connector section 40c that communicates with the gas discharge section 40e.

[0077] In this way, the oxidant gas flows in the oxidant gas flow channel 160a of the oxidant electrode flow path plate 16 within the monomer stack 10, thereby supplying oxidant gas to the oxidant electrode of the electrolyte membrane 12. Additionally, the oxidant gas is consumed by an electrochemical reaction. Therefore, the more monomer stacks 10 through which the oxidant gas passes, the greater the flow rate of the oxidant gas.

[0078] Next, refer to Figure 7 The flow of cooling water is explained.

[0079] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, cooling water is stored in cooling water inlet 40f via piping connector 40a. The cooling water flows through the first inlet 16h of the oxidant flow path plate 16, which is connected to the cooling water inlet 40f. Figure 5 (b) flows in the cooling water flow channel 160b and exits from the first outlet 16g. Figure 5 (b) The cooling water is discharged to the cooling water flow path 48d of the fifth manifold 48. The cooling water discharged to the cooling water flow path 48d also flows in the cooling water flow path groove 160b of the oxidant polar flow path plate 16 in the adjacent monomer laminate 10. After that, the cooling water is discharged to the cooling water discharge section 44c of the third manifold 44. The cooling water stored in the cooling water discharge section 44c is discharged from the pipe joint section 44a connected to the cooling water discharge section 44c. In this way, the monomer laminate 10 is cooled by causing the cooling water to flow in the cooling water flow path groove 160b of the oxidant polar flow path plate 16 within the monomer laminate 10.

[0080] Next, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 9 (a)~ Figure 9 (b) describes the structure of the second manifold 42 and the fourth manifold 46.

[0081] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the second manifold 42 and the fourth manifold 46 in the first embodiment. Figure 9 (a) is a schematic diagram showing the shape of the second manifold 42 as viewed horizontally from the side of the monolithic laminate 10. Figure 9 (b) is a schematic diagram showing the shape of the fourth manifold 46 as viewed horizontally from the side of the monolayer 10.

[0082] like Figure 9 As shown in (a), the second manifold 42 includes a fuel electrode manifold for supplying fuel electrode gas. The fuel electrode manifold of the second manifold 42 includes a pipe fitting portion 42a, a pipe fitting portion 42b, a gas inlet portion 42c, and a gas outlet portion 42d.

[0083] Piping connector 42a is a supply connector that communicates with gas inlet 42c. This piping connector 42a supplies reaction gas to the gas inlet 42c.

[0084] Pipe fitting 42b is a discharge fitting that connects to gas discharge section 42d. This pipe fitting 42b discharges unreacted gas that has not been consumed in the electrochemical reaction from gas discharge section 42d.

[0085] The gas inlet 42c and the gas outlet 42d are multiple spatial regions arranged along the side of the monomer stack 10 in the monomer stacking direction.

[0086] like Figure 9 As shown in (b), the fourth manifold 46 has a fuel electrode manifold for supplying fuel electrode gas. The fuel electrode manifold of the fourth manifold 46 has a gas passage 46a.

[0087] The gas passage section 46a is a spatial region section arranged on the side along the monomer stacking direction of the monomer stack 10.

[0088] like Figure 7 As shown, the gas inlet 42c is located on the side opposite to the gas passage 46a (fourth manifold 46) in the monomer laminate 10. Furthermore, the gas inlet 42c introduces oxidant gas into the monomer laminate 10. More specifically, the gas inlet 42c introduces fuel electrode gas into the third region of the fuel electrode gas flow path channel 140b within the monomer laminate 10. The third region is, for example, the first inlet 14c (… Figure 4 (b) and the first export section 14d Figure 4The region between (b) and the fuel polar gas flow path 140b.

[0089] A gas discharge section 42d is provided on at least a portion of the side on which the gas inlet section 42c is provided. Furthermore, the gas discharge section 42d discharges fuel electrode gas from the monomer laminate 10. More specifically, the gas discharge section 42d discharges fuel electrode gas from a fourth region of the fuel electrode gas flow path channel 140b within the monomer laminate 10. This fourth region is, for example, the second inlet section 14e. Figure 4 (b) and the second export section 14f ( Figure 4 The region between (b) and the fuel polar gas flow path 140b.

[0090] A gas passage section 46a is provided on the side opposite to the gas inlet section 42c (second manifold 42) in the monomer laminate 10. Furthermore, the gas passage section 46a connects a third region within the monomer laminate 10 and a fourth region within the monomer laminate 10, which is different from the third region, through which fuel electrode gas passes. More specifically, the gas passage section 46a connects the third region of the fuel electrode gas flow path channel 140b within the monomer laminate 10 with the fourth region of the fuel electrode gas flow path channel 140b within the monomer laminate 10.

[0091] Next, refer to Figure 7 The flow of the reaction gas (fuel electrode gas) is explained.

[0092] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, fuel electrode gas (fuel) is supplied to gas inlet 42c via piping connector 42a. The fuel electrode gas flows through the first inlet 14c of the fuel electrode flow path plate 14 stacked in the single-unit laminate 10, which communicates with the gas inlet 42c, into the fuel electrode gas flow path trough 140b. Figure 4 (b) flows through and exits from the first outlet section 14d. Figure 4 (b)) The gas passing section 46a of the fourth manifold 46 is discharged. The fuel electrode gas discharged into the gas passing section 46a is discharged through the second inlet 14e of the fuel electrode flow path plate 14 stacked in the single-unit laminate 10, which is connected to the gas passing section 46a. Figure 4 (b) of the fuel polar gas flow path trough 140b Figure 4 (b) flows through and exits from the second outlet section 14f. Figure 4 (b) is discharged to the gas discharge section 42d of the second manifold 42. The fuel gas discharged to the gas discharge section 42d is discharged from the pipe fitting section 42b, which is connected to the gas discharge section 42d.

[0093] In this way, fuel electrode gas is supplied to the fuel electrode of the electrolyte membrane 12 by causing the fuel electrode gas to flow in the fuel electrode gas flow channel 140b of the fuel electrode flow channel plate 14 within the monomer laminate 10.

[0094] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration and electrical connections of the monolithic laminate 10 according to the first embodiment. Additionally, in Figure 10 References are omitted in the text. Figure 6 The terminals 300 are described, namely the positive terminal and the negative terminal. The fastening plate 100 shown is the fastening plate 100 on the positive terminal side. The fastening plate 100 shown is the fastening plate 100 on the negative terminal side.

[0095] The fuel cell 1 also includes a positive terminal, a negative terminal, and an electrode connection 401.

[0096] The monomer stack 10 is arranged in a manner in which the orientation of the positive and negative terminals is opposite to that of the adjacent monomer stack 10.

[0097] The positive and negative terminals are located at both ends of the stacking direction of the single-cell stack 10 and are electrically connected to the single-cell stack 10 (current collector 20).

[0098] The electrode connection portion 401 electrically connects the positive and negative terminals of adjacent single-cell stacks 10 in a manner that connects multiple single-cell stacks 10 in series. The electrode connection portion 401 is, for example, a conductor such as a busbar. By connecting multiple single-cell stacks 10 in series, a high voltage can be obtained. This suppresses current rise and reduces power loss. As a result, the efficiency of the electrical system can be improved. In addition, the orientation of the positive and negative terminals is opposite to that of the adjacent single-cell stacks 10, thus shortening the electrode connection portion 401 as wiring. As a result, power loss generated by the electrode connection portion 401 can be suppressed, and the volume of the fuel cell 1 can be reduced. Furthermore, the shape of the electrode connection portion 401 can be uniform, reducing the variety of components.

[0099] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the fifth manifold 48 includes a gas flow path 48a, which is disposed between the individual stacks 10 arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and connects the individual stacks 10 in a manner that allows the reactant gas (oxidant gas) to pass through. The fifth manifold is used for connecting the individual stacks 10 and functions as a piping for allowing the reactant gas (oxidant gas) to flow through multiple individual stacks 10. Therefore, the number of individual stacks 10 connected can be more easily changed according to the desired output of the fuel cell 1. Thus, in the first embodiment, the output of the fuel cell 1 in the external manifold configuration can be more easily changed.

[0100] One method for increasing or decreasing the output of an external manifold-type fuel cell is to increase or decrease the number of fuel cell cells stacked. In this case, a separate, dedicated manifold design is required for each operation, which presents problems such as high production costs and time consumption when using molds for forming. For example, assuming an output of 1kW, 2kW, and 3kW, it is considered to fabricate cell stacks with 25, 50, and 75 fuel cell cells respectively. In this case, to achieve a length corresponding to the number of fuel cell cells stacked (e.g., ... Figure 1 The length in the Z direction), requires manifolds to be made for each output (e.g., Figure 1 (Manifolds 40, 42, 44, and 46). Therefore, a total of 3 × 4 = 12 manifolds need to be specially designed, which will take time and cost.

[0101] In contrast, in the first embodiment, the output of the fuel cell 1 can be changed by altering the number of the fifth manifold and the number of individual cell stacks 10. For example, to obtain outputs of 2kW and 3kW as assumed above, two and three individual cell stacks 10, which stack 25 fuel cell cells 10a to obtain 1kW, can be connected respectively. In this case, the manifolds 40, 42, 44, and 46 can be shared. Furthermore, there can be only one type of fifth manifold. Therefore, the number (types) of specially designed manifolds is five for each of the manifolds 40, 42, 44, 46, and 48. Therefore, the number of molds required for mass production can be reduced, and fuel cells 1 with various outputs can be manufactured in a shorter time. In addition, in the first embodiment, the output of the fuel cell 1 can be increased without high-level stacking of the fuel cell cells 10a. Therefore, for example, temperature distribution and performance deviations between fuel cell cells 10a can be suppressed, and a longer lifespan can be achieved. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, it is also possible to replace individual cell stacks 10 whose characteristics have deteriorated. Therefore, it is easier to maintain fuel cell 1.

[0102] Another method to increase or decrease the output of an external manifold fuel cell is to connect the manifolds of multiple cell stacks containing 25 fuel cell cells to piping (manifolds) for oxidant gas, fuel gas, and cooling water. However, this approach results in a large installation space due to the piping connections, as well as a large number of components and high costs. Furthermore, when using manifolds, the longer the distance between the cell stacks in the first direction, the more likely the flow rates of oxidant gas and cooling water in each cell stack will deviate (distribution deviation). This distribution deviation of oxidant gas and cooling water will cause deviations in the unit voltage of each cell stack.

[0103] In contrast, in the first embodiment, the oxidant gas and cooling water pass through the monomer laminate 10 via the fifth manifold 48. Therefore, as... Figure 7 As shown, no manifold for oxidant gas and cooling water is required. This reduces the need for a larger installation space, and also reduces the increase in the number of components and cost. Furthermore, by suppressing the distribution deviation of oxidant gas and cooling water, the uniformity of the cell voltage in each cell stack 10 can be improved, and the lifespan of the fuel cell 1 can be extended. Moreover, in the first embodiment, compared to the case using a manifold, the performance of the fuel cell 1 can be further improved by enhancing the diffuserability of the reactant gas (oxidant gas). Additionally, by improving the diffuserability of the reactant gas (oxidant gas), the oxidation (corrosion) of carbon used in the fuel electrode and oxidant electrode can be suppressed, further extending the lifespan of the fuel cell 1.

[0104] Furthermore, it is preferable that the electrolyte membrane 12 within the cell stack 10 with the gas inlet 40d is thicker than the electrolyte membrane 12 within other cell stacks 10. In the internal humidification method, as described above, cooling water evaporates from the surface of the cooling water flow channel 160b to humidify the fuel cell cell 10a. However, the electrolyte membrane 12 near the inlets of the oxidant gas and fuel electrode gas is prone to drying and deterioration. That is, the electrolyte membrane 12 within the cell stack 10 with the gas inlet 40d is prone to deterioration. If the electrolyte membrane 12 deteriorates, cross-leakage may occur. Cross-leakage occurs when the oxidant gas or fuel electrode gas passes through the electrolyte membrane 12 due to membrane deterioration. If the oxidant gas and fuel electrode gas mix and react due to cross-leakage, the power generation performance of the fuel cell 1 decreases. Therefore, by thickening the electrolyte membrane 12 of the cell stack 10 with the gas inlet 40d, cross-leakage can be suppressed, extending the lifespan of the fuel cell 1.

[0105] In addition, Figure 7 In the example shown, the oxidant gas returns to the first manifold 40 after passing through the third manifold 44 from the first manifold 40. However, this is not a limitation; the oxidant gas may also be discharged to the outside through the third manifold 44 instead of returning to the first manifold 40. In this case, the second flow path 48c and the gas passage 44b may not be provided. Furthermore, a gas discharge 40e is provided at the location of the gas passage 44b. Therefore, the first flow path 48b connects substantially the entire oxidant gas flow path channel 160a within the monomer laminate 10 with substantially the entire oxidant gas flow path channel 160a within the adjacent monomer laminate 10. The gas discharge 40e is provided on the side opposite to the gas flow path 48a in the monomer laminate 10 at the other end in the first direction.

[0106] Alternatively, the fuel gas may be discharged to the outside through the fourth manifold 46 instead of returning to the second manifold 42.

[0107] Furthermore, the reactant gas is either a fuel electrode gas or an oxidant gas. More specifically, the reactant gas is either a hydrogen-containing gas or an oxygen-containing gas.

[0108] Alternatively, the cooling water flow channel 160b can also be installed on the fuel flow channel plate 14.

[0109] (Modified Example)

[0110] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration and electrical connections of the monolayer 10 in a modified example. The modified example of the first embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the monolayer 10 are connected in parallel.

[0111] The fuel cell 1 also has a positive electrode connection 402 and a negative electrode connection 403.

[0112] The monomer stack 10 is arranged in such a way that the orientation of the positive and negative terminals is the same as that of the adjacent monomer stack 10.

[0113] The positive terminal connection 402 electrically connects the positive terminals of adjacent single-cell laminates 10 in a manner that connects multiple single-cell laminates 10 in parallel. The positive terminal connection 402 is, for example, a conductor such as a busbar.

[0114] The negative electrode connection 403 electrically connects the negative terminals of adjacent single-cell stacks 10 in a manner that connects multiple single-cell stacks 10 in parallel. The negative electrode connection 403 is, for example, a conductor such as a busbar. By connecting multiple single-cell stacks 10 in parallel, a large current can be obtained. In addition, compared with the case of series connection, the voltage of fuel cell 1 can be reduced. As a result, voltage withstand design (insulation design) becomes easier. Therefore, for example, either the series connection or the parallel connection described in the first embodiment can be selected according to the desired electrical design and the output of a single-cell stack 10.

[0115] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a modified fuel cell 1. While it is described as cooling water flowing in a straight line, in reality, the cooling water flow channel 160b is provided on the main surface 16b almost entirely. Additionally, the oxidant gas flow channel 160a is also provided on the main surface 16a almost entirely.

[0116] In a modified example, the water inlet and outlet of each monomer stack 10 are positioned approximately the same in the X direction. This is because, for example, the orientation of the positive and negative electrodes of the monomer stack 10 is the same as that of the positive and negative electrodes of the adjacent monomer stack 10. In this case, the same type of oxidant flow path plate 16 can be used for multiple monomer stacks 10.

[0117] The other structures of the modified fuel cell 1 are the same as the corresponding structures of the fuel cell 1 in the first embodiment, so detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0118] The modified fuel cell 1 can achieve the same effect as the first embodiment.

[0119] (Second Implementation)

[0120] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the fuel cell 1 according to the second embodiment. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that, instead of oxidant gas, fuel electrode gas passes through the multiple cell stacks 10. Therefore, the fuel electrode gas passes through the fifth manifold 48. Furthermore, in Figure 13 In the example shown, cooling water is supplied not through the fifth manifold 48 but per unit stack 10. Figure 13 In the example shown, the cooling water manifold is omitted. However, the cooling water inlet manifold is connected, for example, to the piping connector 40a of each individual laminate 10. The cooling water outlet manifold is connected, for example, to the piping connector 44a of each individual laminate 10.

[0121] exist Figure 13 In the example shown, multiple monomeric laminates 10 are arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the lamination direction. In the second embodiment, the first direction is... Figure 13 The example shown is in the X direction. Additionally, the monolayers 10 are configured to have the same orientation in the Z direction relative to adjacent monolayers 10. In this case, multiple monolayers 10 are as follows... Figure 12 They are electrically connected in parallel as shown. However, this is not a limitation; the monomer stacks 10 may also be configured to have opposite orientations in the Z direction relative to adjacent monomer stacks 10. In this case, the monomer stacks 10 may, for example, be configured to rotate 180° about the Y direction relative to adjacent monomer stacks 10. Furthermore, in this case, multiple monomer stacks 10 are arranged as follows... Figure 11 They are connected in series as shown.

[0122] The fifth manifold 48 is disposed between the monolithic laminates 10 arranged in the first direction (X direction). For example... Figure 13As shown, in the monomer laminate 10 at one end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the second manifold 42 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer laminate 10. In addition, in the monomer laminate 10 at the other end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the fourth manifold 46 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer laminate 10.

[0123] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the fifth manifold 48 in the second embodiment. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the shape of the fifth manifold 48 as viewed horizontally from the side of the monolithic laminate 10 where the second manifold 42 is located.

[0124] The fifth manifold 48 includes a fuel terminal manifold. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, no cooling water manifold is provided on the fifth manifold 48. The fuel terminal manifold of the fifth manifold 48 includes a gas flow path 48e.

[0125] The shape of the gas flow path 48e can be the same as that of the first embodiment. Figure 8 The gas flow path 48a in (c) has the same shape.

[0126] like Figure 13 As shown, the gas flow path 48e includes a first flow path 48f and a second flow path 48g.

[0127] The first flow path 48f connects the third region within the single-unit laminate 10 with the third region within an adjacent single-unit laminate 10. More specifically, the first flow path 48f connects the third region of the fuel electrode gas flow path channel 140b within the single-unit laminate 10 with the third region of the fuel electrode gas flow path channel 140b within an adjacent single-unit laminate 10.

[0128] The second flow path 48g connects the fourth region within the monomer stack 10 with the fourth region in an adjacent monomer stack. More specifically, the second flow path 48g connects the fourth region of the fuel electrode gas flow path 140b within the monomer stack 10 with the fourth region of the fuel electrode gas flow path 140b in an adjacent monomer stack 10. Furthermore, a separator is provided between the first flow path 48f and the second flow path 48g.

[0129] Therefore, in the second embodiment, the relationship between the oxidant gas and the fuel electrode gas in the first embodiment is roughly the opposite. Furthermore, the third and fourth regions of the second embodiment correspond to the first and second regions of the first embodiment, respectively.

[0130] In addition, Figure 13In the example shown, the opening area of ​​the first flow path 48f is larger than the opening area of ​​the second flow path 48g. This further homogenizes the reaction efficiency of the fuel electrode reaction within the fuel electrode flow path. However, this is not a limitation; the opening area of ​​the first flow path 48f can also be approximately the same as the opening area of ​​the second flow path 48g.

[0131] The other structures of the fuel cell 1 in the second embodiment are the same as the corresponding structures of the fuel cell 1 in the first embodiment, so detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0132] The fuel cell 1 of the second embodiment can achieve the same effect as the first embodiment.

[0133] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are given by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope or spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A fuel cell, comprising: A monomeric laminate, formed by stacking monomers, wherein each monomer comprises: an electrolyte membrane; a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode, with the electrolyte membrane sandwiched between them; a fuel electrode flow path plate for providing a gas flow path toward the fuel electrode; and an oxidant electrode flow path plate for providing a gas flow path toward the oxidant electrode; and A manifold, disposed on the side of the monomer stack along the stacking direction of the monomer stack, supplies reactant gas to the fuel polar flow path plate or the oxidant polar flow path plate within the monomer stack. The manifold includes a first manifold, a second manifold, a third manifold, a fourth manifold, and a fifth manifold. The fifth manifold includes a gas flow path, which is disposed between a plurality of monomer stacks arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and connects the monomer stacks in a manner that allows the reactant gas to pass through. In the monomer laminate at one end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the first manifold are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer laminate at one end of the first direction. In the monomer stack at the other end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the third manifold are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer stack at the other end of the first direction.

2. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein, The manifold also includes a gas inlet, which is disposed on the side opposite to the gas flow path in the monomer stack at one end of the first direction, and introduces the reactant gas into the monomer stack.

3. The fuel cell according to claim 2, wherein, The electrolyte membrane in the monomer stack in which the gas inlet is located is thicker than the electrolyte membrane in the other monomer stacks.

4. The fuel cell according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The manifold also features: A gas passage portion is provided on the side of the monomer stack opposite to the gas flow path portion at the other end of the first direction, so as to connect a first region within the monomer stack and a second region within the monomer stack different from the first region by allowing the reactant gas to pass through; and A gas discharge section is provided on at least a portion of the side on which the gas inlet section is provided, and discharges the reactive gas from the monomer stack.

5. The fuel cell according to claim 4, wherein, The gas flow path section has: A first flow path connects the first region within the monomer stack to the first region within an adjacent monomer stack; and The second flow path connects the second region within the monomer stack with the second region within an adjacent monomer stack.

6. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein, The fuel polar flow path plate or the oxidant polar flow path plate is also disposed in the cooling water flow path. The manifold also includes a cooling water flow path, which is disposed between a plurality of the individual stacks arranged along the first direction and connects the individual stacks in such a way that cooling water can pass through.

7. The fuel cell according to claim 6, wherein, The manifold also features: A cooling water inlet is provided on the side of the monomer stack opposite to the gas flow path at one end in the first direction, for introducing cooling water into the monomer stack; and A cooling water discharge section is provided on the side opposite to the gas flow path section of the monomer stack at the other end of the first direction, and cool water is discharged from the monomer stack.

8. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein, It also has: Positive and negative terminals are disposed at both ends of the monomer laminate in the stacking direction and electrically connected to the monomer laminate; and The electrode connection portion electrically connects the positive terminal and the negative terminal of adjacent monomer stacks in a manner that connects multiple monomer stacks in series.

9. The fuel cell according to claim 8, wherein, The monomer stacks are arranged in a configuration where the orientation of the positive and negative terminals is opposite to that of the adjacent monomer stacks.

10. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein, It also has: Positive and negative terminals are disposed at both ends of the monomer laminate in the stacking direction and are electrically connected to the monomer laminate. The positive terminal connection is used to electrically connect the positive terminals of adjacent monomer stacks in a manner that connects multiple monomer stacks in parallel. as well as The negative electrode connection portion electrically connects the negative terminals of adjacent monomer stacks in a manner that connects multiple monomer stacks in parallel.

11. The fuel cell according to claim 10, wherein, The monomer stacks are arranged in such a manner that the orientation of the positive and negative terminals is the same as that of the adjacent monomer stacks.

12. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein, The gas flow path is disposed between the first side of the monomer laminate and the second side of the adjacent monomer laminate opposite to the first side.

13. The fuel cell according to claim 1, wherein, The reacting gas is either a hydrogen-containing gas or an oxygen-containing gas.

14. A manifold for a fuel cell, disposed on the side of a monomer stack along the stacking direction of the monomer stack, the monomer stack being formed by stacking monomers, each monomer having: an electrolyte membrane; a fuel electrode and an oxidant electrode, the electrolyte membrane sandwiched between them; a fuel electrode flow path plate for providing a gas flow path facing the fuel electrode; and an oxidant electrode flow path plate for providing a gas flow path facing the oxidant electrode, the manifold supplying reactant gas to the fuel electrode flow path plate or the oxidant electrode flow path plate within the monomer stack, the manifold comprising a first manifold, a second manifold, a third manifold, a fourth manifold, and a fifth manifold. The fifth manifold includes a gas flow path, which is disposed between a plurality of monomer stacks arranged in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction, and connects the monomer stacks in a manner that allows the reactant gas to pass through. In the monomer laminate at one end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the first manifold are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer laminate at one end of the first direction. In the monomer stack at the other end of the first direction, the fifth manifold and the third manifold are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the monomer stack at the other end of the first direction.

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