Compression device

Abstract

The compression device includes a voltage applicator and at least one compression unit, the compression unit includes an electrolyte membrane, an anode arranged on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane, a cathode arranged on the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane, an anode separator stacked on the anode and a cathode separator stacked on the cathode, the voltage applicator applies voltage between the anode and the cathode, and by applying voltage by the voltage applicator, protons taken out from the anode fluid supplied to the anode are moved to the cathode via the electrolyte membrane to generate compressed hydrogen, the compression device includes an anode terminal plate arranged on the anode separator at one end in the stacking direction, a cathode terminal plate arranged on the cathode separator at the other end in the stacking direction, and a first plate and a second plate arranged between the cathode terminal plate and the cathode separator at the other end, a first space for storing cathode gas containing compressed hydrogen is formed on the first plate, and a first manifold for the cathode gas to flow and a first connecting path for guiding the cathode gas flowing in from the first manifold to the first space are provided on the second plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to compression devices. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, due to environmental issues such as global warming and energy issues such as the depletion of oil resources, hydrogen has attracted attention as a clean alternative energy source to replace fossil fuels. Even if hydrogen is burned, it basically only produces water, does not emit carbon dioxide, which is the cause of global warming, and hardly emits nitrogen oxides, etc., so it is highly anticipated as a clean energy source. In addition, as a device that efficiently uses hydrogen as a fuel, there is a fuel cell, which is being developed and popularized in terms of power sources for automobiles and home power generation.

[0003] For example, hydrogen used as fuel for fuel cell vehicles is generally stored in a hydrogen tank in the vehicle in a high pressure state compressed to several tens of MPa. Such high pressure hydrogen is generally obtained by compressing low pressure (normal pressure) hydrogen using a mechanical compressor.

[0004] However, in the upcoming hydrogen society, in addition to hydrogen production, it is also required to develop technologies that can store hydrogen at high density and transport or utilize hydrogen in small volumes and at low cost. In particular, in order to promote the popularization of fuel cells, it is necessary to improve the hydrogen supply infrastructure. In order to stably supply hydrogen, various solutions have been proposed to produce, refine, and store high-purity hydrogen at high density.

[0005] Therefore, for example, Non-Patent Document 1 proposes a differential pressure high-pressure water electrolysis device (hereinafter referred to as a water electrolysis device) that separates hydrogen and oxygen by electrolyzing water and generates high-pressure hydrogen from low-pressure hydrogen via an electrolyte membrane.

[0006] The water electrolysis device is equipped with a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, an anode catalyst layer and a cathode catalyst layer arranged on both sides of the solid polymer electrolyte membrane, and an anode power supply and a cathode power supply arranged on both sides of these catalyst layers in order to produce hydrogen and oxygen by electrolyzing water. In addition, the stack of the cathode including the cathode catalyst layer and the cathode power supply, the electrolyte membrane, and the anode including the anode catalyst layer and the anode power supply is called a membrane electrode assembly (hereinafter referred to as MEA: Membrane Electrode Assembly).

[0007] The water electrolysis unit of Non-Patent Document 1 is composed of an MEA, an anode separator and a resin frame that hold the MEA and have a normal-pressure flow path for supplying water, discharging excess water, and circulating oxygen, and a cathode separator that has a high-pressure gas flow path for discharging high-pressure hydrogen.

[0008] In addition, in the water electrolysis device, a plurality of water electrolysis units are stacked according to the amount of high-pressure hydrogen generated at the cathode, and terminals for applying voltage are provided at both ends of the stacking direction of the stack, thereby enabling current to flow through the water electrolysis unit and supplying water to the anode power supply body. Thus, on the anode side of the MEA, water generates protons by electrolysis. The protons move toward the cathode side through the electrolyte membrane and recombine with electrons at the cathode power supply body, thereby generating high-pressure hydrogen. Furthermore, hydrogen is discharged from the water electrolysis device via a high-pressure gas flow path provided on the cathode separator. On the other hand, on the anode side, the oxygen generated at the anode is discharged from the water electrolysis device together with the remaining water via a normal pressure flow path provided on the anode separator and the resin frame.

[0009] Here, in the water electrolysis device, hydrogen obtained by water electrolysis is compressed, so the hydrogen pressure on the cathode power supply side becomes high pressure. As a result, the separator and the like are deformed, which may increase the contact resistance between the components constituting the water electrolysis unit.

[0010] Therefore, non-patent document 1 proposes a structure in which a stack of a plurality of water electrolysis units is tightly fitted by end plates (two end plates) using fastening components (bolts) in a water electrolysis device. In addition, there is a closed space between the upper end plate and the partition plate at the upper end of the corresponding stack, and high-pressure hydrogen is introduced into the closed space. In addition, an elastic body (spring) is provided in the closed space.

[0011] According to the above technical structure, even if the stress causing the partition and the like to expand and deform outward due to the high-pressure gas in the water electrolysis unit acts on these components, the above deformation can be suppressed by the reaction force of the elastic body and the high-pressure hydrogen pressure in the closed space.

[0012] Patent document 1 proposes an electrochemical hydrogen pump that supplies a low-pressure hydrogen-containing gas to the anode and electrochemically allows only protons to pass through the electrolyte membrane, thereby refining high-pressure hydrogen at the cathode. In addition, the structure of the electrochemical unit of the electrochemical hydrogen pump is the same as that of the water electrolysis cell of non-patent document 1, except that the anode fluid is a hydrogen-containing gas, so the description is omitted.

[0013] In Patent Document 1, as described above, when the separator and the like are deformed due to the high pressure of hydrogen gas on the cathode power supply side, the contact resistance between the components constituting the electrochemical unit may increase. Therefore, in Patent Document 1, high-pressure hydrogen generated at the cathode is introduced into the space between the upper and lower end plates (two end plates) and the adjacent separators, thereby suppressing the above deformation.

[0014] Prior Art Literature

[0015] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-218624

[0016] Non-patent document 1: "Study on the airtight structure of a pressure differential high-pressure water electrolysis unit" Honda R&D Technical Review vol. 25 No. 2 (Oct 2013) Summary of the invention

[0017] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0018] In the present disclosure, as an example, an object is to provide a compression device capable of more appropriately guiding high-pressure cathode gas to a space between a compression unit and an end plate than in the related art.

[0019] Means for solving problems

[0020] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a technical solution (aspect) of the present disclosure relates to a compression device, which includes a voltage applicator and at least one compression unit, wherein the compression unit includes an electrolyte membrane, an anode arranged on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane, a cathode arranged on the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane, an anode separator stacked on the anode, and a cathode separator stacked on the cathode, wherein the voltage applicator applies a voltage between the anode and the cathode, and the compression device applies a voltage by the voltage applicator to move protons taken from an anode fluid supplied to the anode through the electrolyte membrane. To the cathode, compressed hydrogen is generated, and the compression device comprises: an anode end plate arranged on the anode separator located at one end in the stacking direction; a cathode end plate arranged on the cathode separator located at the other end in the stacking direction; and a first plate and a second plate arranged between the cathode end plate and the cathode separator located at the other end, wherein a first space for storing cathode gas containing the compressed hydrogen is formed on the first plate, and a first manifold for the cathode gas to flow and a first connecting path for guiding the cathode gas flowing in from the first manifold to the first space are arranged on the second plate.

[0021] Effects of the Invention

[0022] A compression device according to one aspect of the present disclosure can achieve an effect of guiding high-pressure cathode gas to the space between the compression unit and the end plate more appropriately than before. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an electrochemical hydrogen pump according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 Figure 2 is a diagram of an example of a bipolar plate and a hydrogen pump unit.

[0025] Figure 3Yes means Figure 2 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a bipolar plate.

[0026] Figure 4 Observed from above Figure 2 Diagram of the bipolar plate.

[0027] Figure 5 Yes means Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a first pressure forming member.

[0028] Figure 6 Yes means Figure 5 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the first pressure forming component.

[0029] Figure 7 Observed from above Figure 5 Figure 1 shows a first pressure forming component.

[0030] Figure 8 Yes means Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a second pressure forming member.

[0031] Fig. 9 Yes means Figure 8 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the second pressure forming component.

[0032] Fig.10 Observed from above Figure 8 Figure 2 shows a second pressure forming component.

[0033] Fig.11 This is a diagram for explaining the effect of integration by surface bonding of a pair of plates of the first pressure generating member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In the conventional examples, it has been proposed to introduce high-pressure hydrogen gas into the space between the separator and the end plate.

[0035] For example, in non-patent document 1, a large cylindrical recess is formed in the center of the bottom surface of the upper end plate, and the upper end partition is entirely inserted into the recess, thereby forming a closed space for introducing high-pressure gas by the end plate and the partition. However, the specific structure of the gas flow path for introducing high-pressure gas into the above-mentioned closed space has not been fully studied.

[0036] In Patent Document 1, the specific structure of the gas flow path for introducing high-pressure hydrogen gas into the space between the upper and lower end plates and the adjacent separator plates has not been sufficiently studied.

[0037] That is, the compression device involved in the first technical solution of the present disclosure includes a voltage applicator and at least one compression unit, the compression unit includes an electrolyte membrane, an anode arranged on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane, a cathode arranged on the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane, an anode separator stacked on the anode, and a cathode separator stacked on the cathode, the voltage applicator applies a voltage between the anode and the cathode, the compression device applies a voltage by the voltage applicator, so that protons taken out from the anode fluid supplied to the anode move to the cathode via the electrolyte membrane to generate compressed hydrogen gas, the compression device includes: an anode terminal plate arranged on the anode separator located at one end in the stacking direction; a cathode terminal plate arranged on the cathode separator located at the other end in the stacking direction; and a first plate and a second plate arranged between the cathode terminal plate and the cathode separator located at the other end, a first space for storing cathode gas containing the compressed hydrogen gas is formed on the first plate, and a first manifold for the cathode gas to flow and a first connecting path for guiding the cathode gas flowing from the first manifold to the first space are provided on the second plate.

[0038] According to this technical configuration, the compression device involved in the technical solution can more appropriately guide the high-pressure cathode gas to the space between the compression unit and the end plate than before. Specifically, the compression device involved in the technical solution can appropriately supply the high-pressure cathode gas from the first manifold of the second plate to the first space of the first plate through the first connecting passage of the second plate.

[0039] A compression device according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is the compression device according to the first aspect, wherein the first plate and the second plate are integrated by surface bonding.

[0040] According to this technical structure, the compression device involved in the present technical solution integrates the first plate and the second plate by surface bonding, thereby reducing the area of ​​the first plate and the second plate exposed to the high-pressure cathode gas when viewed from above, compared with the case where the two are not integrated by surface bonding.

[0041] Specifically, assuming that the first plate and the second plate are not integrated by surface bonding, it is necessary to set an O-ring between the first plate and the second plate along the peripheral edge of the plate in a manner to surround the first connecting path and the first manifold. In this case, the cathode gas may spread throughout the entire area within the O-ring when viewed from above and invade the gap between the first plate and the second plate. Therefore, the gas pressure of the cathode gas existing in the entire area within the O-ring may be applied to the first plate and the second plate. Therefore, in order to prevent the cathode end plate disposed on the outside of the first plate and the second plate from expanding outward due to the gas pressure, it is necessary to increase the flexural rigidity of the cathode end plate. For example, it is necessary to increase the thickness of the cathode end plate, which will lead to a larger device and an increase in cost.

[0042] In contrast, the compression device involved in the present technical solution integrates the first plate and the second plate by surface bonding, so that the cathode gas does not invade the area where the surface bonding is performed, thereby reducing the above-mentioned disadvantages compared to the case where they are not integrated by surface bonding.

[0043] The compression device involved in the third technical solution of the present disclosure can be configured on the basis of the compression device involved in the first or second technical solution: it has a third plate arranged between the anode end plate and the anode separator located at the above-mentioned one end, a second space for storing cathode gas containing compressed hydrogen is formed on the third plate, and a second manifold for the flow of cathode gas and a second connecting path for guiding the cathode gas flowing in from the second manifold to the second space are arranged on the anode separator located at one end.

[0044] According to this technical configuration, the compression device according to the present technical solution can appropriately supply high-pressure cathode gas from the second manifold of the anode separator at one end to the second space of the third plate through the second communication path of the anode separator at one end.

[0045] A compression device according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression device according to the third aspect, wherein the third plate and the anode separator located at one end are integrated by surface bonding.

[0046] According to this technical configuration, the compression device involved in the technical solution integrates the third plate and the anode separator at one end by surface bonding, thereby reducing the area of ​​the third plate and the anode separator at one end exposed to the high-pressure cathode gas when viewed from above, compared with the case where the two are not integrated by surface bonding. In addition, the details of the effects of the present technical solution can be easily understood from the above description, so they are omitted.

[0047] The compression device involved in the fifth technical solution of the present disclosure can be configured on the basis of the compression device involved in the third or fourth technical solution: a third space for storing cathode gas containing compressed hydrogen is formed on the cathode partition, a third manifold for the flow of cathode gas and a third connecting path for guiding the cathode gas flowing from the third space to the third manifold are provided on the anode partition, the first space, the second space and the third space are the same shape, and the first connecting path, the second connecting path and the third connecting path are the same shape.

[0048] According to this technical configuration, the compression device involved in the technical solution can appropriately supply high-pressure cathode gas from the third space of the cathode separator to the third manifold of the anode separator through the third connecting passage of the anode separator. In addition, the compression device involved in the technical solution can form the first plate, the third plate and the cathode separator by plates of the same shape by making the first space, the second space and the third space the same shape. In addition, the compression device involved in the technical solution can form the second plate and the anode separator by plates of the same shape by making the first connecting passage, the second connecting passage and the third connecting passage the same shape. Therefore, the compression device involved in the technical solution can reduce the manufacturing cost compared with the case where the first space, the second space and the third space are set to different shapes or the case where the first connecting passage, the second connecting passage and the third connecting passage are set to different shapes.

[0049] A compression device according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression device according to the fifth aspect, wherein the anode separator and the cathode separator are integrated by surface bonding.

[0050] According to this technical configuration, the compression device involved in the technical solution integrates the anode separator and the cathode separator by surface bonding, thereby reducing the area of ​​the anode separator and the cathode separator exposed to the high-pressure cathode gas when viewed from above, compared with the case where the two are not integrated by surface bonding. In addition, the details of the effects of the technical solution can be easily understood from the above description, so they are omitted.

[0051] The compression device according to the seventh technical solution of the present disclosure can be configured as follows: the first plate, the second plate, the third plate, the anode separator and the cathode separator are all made of SUS316L based on the compression device according to the fifth or sixth technical solution.

[0052] Among various stainless steels, SUS316L has excellent properties such as acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance. Therefore, the compression device according to the present technical solution can improve the acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance of the device by forming the above-mentioned parts exposed to the cathode gas with SUS316L.

[0053] The compression device according to the eighth aspect of the present disclosure is the compression device according to any one of the third to seventh aspects, wherein at least one of the first plate, the second plate, the third plate, and the anode separator at one end also serves as a current collector.

[0054] According to this technical configuration, the compression device involved in the technical solution can reduce the number of plates by having at least one of the first plate, the second plate, the third plate, and the anode separator located at one end also serve as a current collector. Therefore, the electrochemical hydrogen pump involved in the technical solution can reduce the manufacturing cost of the device compared to the case where such a plate is not used in combination.

[0055] The compression device according to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure may be configured such that, in addition to the compression device according to the first or second aspect, an insulating elastic body or solid is provided in the first space.

[0056] According to this technical configuration, the compression device according to the present technical solution can be configured such that the central portion of the first plate is less likely to deform when an external force acts on the first plate, by virtue of the presence of the elastic body or the solid in the first space.

[0057] In addition, the compression device according to the technical solution is configured in such a way that the voltage is applied to the cathode separator located at the other end instead of applying a voltage to at least one of the first plate and the second plate from the voltage applicator, so that the elastic body or solid disposed in the first space can be constituted by an insulating member. Therefore, the compression device according to the technical solution can reduce the material cost of the elastic body or solid, compared with the case where the elastic body or solid disposed in the first space is constituted by a conductive member.

[0058] The compression device according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure may be the compression device according to the third or fourth aspect, wherein a conductive elastic body or solid is provided in the second space.

[0059] According to this technical configuration, the compression device according to the present technical solution can be configured so that the central portion of the third plate is not easily deformed when an external force acts on the third plate, by virtue of the presence of an elastic body or a solid in the second space.

[0060] Furthermore, by using the elastic body or solid provided in the second space as the conductive member, the third plate can also serve as a current collecting plate.

[0061] The compression device involved in the 11th technical solution of the present disclosure can be set on the basis of the compression device involved in the 3rd or 4th technical solution: an anode fluid flow path for the flow of the anode fluid is provided on the surface of the anode partition located at one end opposite to the surface on which the second connecting path is provided, and no anode fluid flow path is provided on the surface of the second plate opposite to the surface on which the first connecting path is provided.

[0062] According to this technical configuration, the compression device according to the present technical solution can appropriately supply the anode gas to the anode corresponding to the anode separator located at one end, and does not need to provide an anode fluid flow path on the second plate, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost.

[0063] The compression device involved in the 12th technical solution of the present disclosure can be set up on the basis of the compression device involved in the 3rd or 4th technical solution: a cooling flow path for the flow of cooling medium is set on the surface of the anode partition located at one end where the second connecting path is provided, and no cooling flow path is set on the surface of the second plate where the first connecting path is provided.

[0064] According to this technical configuration, the compression device according to the present technical solution can appropriately cool the MEA facing the anode separator located at the one end, and does not need to provide a cooling flow path on the second plate, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost.

[0065] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the embodiments described below all represent an example of the above-mentioned technical solutions. Therefore, the shape, material, constituent elements, and the configuration position and connection method of the constituent elements shown below are only examples, and the above-mentioned technical solutions are not limited unless they are recorded in the claims. In addition, the constituent elements among the following constituent elements that are not recorded in the independent claims representing the highest-level concepts of the above-mentioned technical solutions are described as arbitrary constituent elements. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the description of the parts with the same mark is sometimes omitted. For ease of understanding, the various constituent elements are schematically shown in the drawings, and sometimes the shape and size ratios are not accurately represented.

[0066] (Implementation Method)

[0067] The anode fluid of the above-mentioned compression device is assumed to be various gases or liquids. For example, when the compression device is an electrochemical hydrogen pump, the anode fluid can be a hydrogen-containing gas. In addition, when the compression device is a water electrolysis device, the anode fluid can be liquid water.

[0068] Therefore, in the following embodiments, when the anode fluid is a hydrogen-containing gas, the structure and operation of an electrochemical hydrogen pump including a hydrogen pump unit will be described as an example of a compression device including the above-mentioned compression unit.

[0069] [Device configuration]

[0070] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing an example of an electrochemical hydrogen pump according to an embodiment. For convenience of explanation, “upper” and “lower” are used as shown in this figure (the same applies to other figures).

[0071] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 includes at least one hydrogen pump unit 10, a first pressure forming member 44, a second pressure forming member 46, and a voltage applicator 102. In addition, a plurality of hydrogen pump units 10 are stacked in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100. For example, Figure 1 In the embodiment, five hydrogen pump units 10 are stacked, but the number of hydrogen pump units 10 is not limited thereto. That is, the number of hydrogen pump units 10 can be set to an appropriate number according to operating conditions such as the amount of hydrogen compressed by the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100.

[0072] In addition, Figure 1 In the example shown, the plate functioning as the anode separator and the plate functioning as the cathode separator are integrated. Specifically, the bipolar plate 29 includes a plate functioning as the cathode separator of one of the adjacent hydrogen pump cells 10 and a plate functioning as the anode separator of the other of the adjacent hydrogen pump cells 10.

[0073] like Figure 1 As shown, the uppermost bipolar plate 29 is configured to function only as a cathode separator. Specifically, the upper surface of the uppermost bipolar plate 29 contacts the space SC of the first pressure forming component 44, and no anode gas flow path for hydrogen-containing gas to flow is provided on its upper surface. A space SC for storing cathode gas containing compressed hydrogen generated at the cathode of the hydrogen pump unit 10 is formed in the first pressure forming component 44. In other words, the upper surface of the uppermost bipolar plate 29 functions as a cover for sealing the space SC of the first pressure forming component 44.

[0074] The hydrogen pump unit 10 at the bottom is composed of a plate that functions as a cathode separator of the bipolar plate 29 at the bottom and a plate that functions as an anode separator of the second pressure forming member 46. Specifically, an anode gas flow path (at the top of the second pressure forming member 46) for the hydrogen-containing gas to flow is provided. Figure 1 (not shown in the figure) The second pressure generating member 46 has a space SA for storing cathode gas including compressed hydrogen gas generated at the cathode of the hydrogen pump unit 10 .

[0075] Note that detailed structures of the above-mentioned bipolar plate 29 , hydrogen pump unit 10 , first pressure generating member 44 , and second pressure generating member 46 will be described later.

[0076] like Figure 1As shown, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 comprises: a cathode end plate 15 and an anode end plate 16, and a fastener 17, which are arranged at both ends of the stacking direction of each hydrogen pump unit 10 (hereinafter referred to as the stacking direction). Specifically, the anode end plate 16 is arranged on the anode separator located at one end in the stacking direction of the hydrogen pump unit 10. The cathode end plate 15 is arranged on the cathode separator located at the other end in the stacking direction of the hydrogen pump unit 10. In addition, the fastener 17 can be of any structure as long as it can fasten the various components of the stacked body constituting the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 in the stacking direction. For example, as the fastener 17, bolts and nuts with disc springs can be cited.

[0077] In addition, if Figure 1 As shown, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 has a fluid collection component 11 and an insulating plate 13 stacked in order from the top between the cathode terminal plate 15 and the first pressure forming component 44. In addition, the stacking order of the first pressure forming component 44 and the insulating plate 13 may be reversed. Between the anode terminal plate 16 and the second pressure forming component 46, the fluid collection component 14, the insulating plate 12 and the sealing plate 48 are stacked in order from the bottom.

[0078] At appropriate positions on the side of the fluid collection component 14, there are provided: an outflow port (not shown) through which the low-pressure (e.g., normal pressure to several MPa) hydrogen-containing gas discharged from the anode of the hydrogen pump unit 10 flows out, an outflow port (not shown) for controlling the hydrogen pump unit 10 to a suitable temperature with a cooling medium (e.g., water) flowing out, and an outlet 14A through which the high-pressure (e.g., several MPa to several tens of MPa) cathode gas discharged from the cathode of the hydrogen pump unit 10 passes. The outlet 14A is connected to the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35 via a gas path provided in the fluid collection component 11.

[0079] like Figure 1 As shown, the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35 is formed by connecting through holes provided on a plurality of bipolar plates 29, a first pressure forming member 44, an insulating plate 13, a second pressure forming member 46, a sealing plate 48, and an insulating plate 12. Furthermore, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is configured such that: Figure 1 The cathode gases discharged from the respective cathodes of the hydrogen pump unit 10 merge at the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35. In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is configured to: Figure 1 The cathode gas is guided from the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35 to the space SC of the first pressure forming member 44. The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is configured to: Figure 1The cathode gas is guided from the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35 to the space SA of the second pressure forming member 46. Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, the hydrogen-containing gas outlet and the cooling medium outlet in the fluid manifold 14 are respectively connected to the anode gas outlet manifold and the cooling medium outlet manifold which are formed by connecting through holes provided in the above-mentioned components.

[0080] At appropriate positions on the side of the fluid collection component 11, there are provided: an inlet (not shown) for the inflow of low-pressure (e.g., normal pressure to several MPa) hydrogen-containing gas supplied to the anode of the hydrogen pump unit 10, an inlet (not shown) for the inflow of a cooling medium (e.g., water) for controlling the hydrogen pump unit 10 to an appropriate temperature, and an outlet 11A for the high-pressure (e.g., several MPa to several tens of MPa) cathode gas discharged from the cathode of the hydrogen pump unit 10. The outlet 11A is connected to the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 via a gas path provided in the fluid collection component 11.

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown, the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 is formed by connecting through holes provided on a plurality of bipolar plates 29, the first pressure forming member 44, the insulating plate 13, the second pressure forming member 46, the sealing plate 48 and the insulating plate 12. Furthermore, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is configured such that: Figure 1 The cathode gases discharged from the respective cathodes of the hydrogen pump unit 10 merge at the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36. In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is configured to: Figure 1 The cathode gas is guided from the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 to the space SC of the first pressure forming member 44. The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is configured to: Figure 1 The cathode gas is guided from the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 to the space SA of the second pressure forming member 46. Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, the hydrogen-containing gas inlet and the cooling medium inlet in the fluid manifold 11 are respectively connected to the anode gas introduction manifold and the cooling medium introduction manifold which are formed by connecting through holes provided in the above-mentioned components.

[0082] in addition, Figure 1 The detailed structure of the connecting path shown by the dotted line will be described later.

[0083] The insulating plate 13 is inserted between the first pressure forming member 44 and the fluid collecting member 11, thereby appropriately insulating the bipolar plate 29 from the fluid collecting member 11, the cathode end plate 15, and the fastener 17. As the raw material of the insulating plate 13, rubber, resin (such as PEN, PET, etc.), glass, glass epoxy material, etc. can be listed, but it is not limited to these.

[0084] The insulating plate 12 is inserted between the sealing plate 48 and the fluid collecting member 14, thereby appropriately insulating the bipolar plate 29 and the second pressure forming member 46 from the fluid distribution member 14, the anode terminal plate 16, and the fastener 17. As the raw material of the insulating plate 12, rubber, resin (such as PEN, PET, etc.), glass, glass epoxy material, etc. can be listed, but it is not limited to these.

[0085] The sealing plate 48 functions as a cover for sealing the space SA of the second pressure forming member 46, thereby sealing the high-pressure cathode gas retained in the space SA. As the raw material of the sealing plate 48, materials such as stainless steel, gold, titanium, rubber, resin (such as PEN, PET, etc.), glass, and glass epoxy materials can be cited, but are not limited to these. When stainless steel is used as the raw material of the sealing plate 48, it is preferred to use SUS316L with excellent properties such as acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance. In addition, when an insulating component such as resin is used as the raw material of the sealing plate 48, the sealing plate 48 and the insulating plate 12 can be integrated.

[0086] The voltage applying unit 102 is a device that applies a voltage between the anode and the cathode of the hydrogen pump unit 10. Specifically, the high potential of the voltage applicator 102 is applied to the anode, and the low potential of the voltage applicator 102 is applied to the cathode. The voltage applying unit 102 can be of any structure as long as it can apply a voltage between the anode and the cathode. For example, the voltage applicator 102 can be a device that adjusts the voltage applied between the anode and the cathode. At this time, the voltage applicator 102 has a DC / DC converter when connected to a DC power source such as a battery, a solar cell, or a fuel cell, and has an AC / DC converter when connected to an AC power source such as a commercial power supply.

[0087] Alternatively, the voltage applicator 102 may be, for example, an electric power source that adjusts the voltage applied between the anode and the cathode and the current flowing between the anode and the cathode so that the electric power supplied to the hydrogen pump cell 10 becomes a predetermined set value.

[0088] In addition, Figure 1In the example shown, the terminal 101 on the low potential side of the voltage applicator 102 is connected to the uppermost bipolar plate 29, and the terminal 103 on the high potential side of the voltage applicator 102 is connected to the second pressure forming member 46, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The terminal 101 on the low potential side of the voltage applicator 102 may also be connected to the first pressure forming member 44.

[0089] However, if Figure 1 As shown, by connecting the low potential side terminal 101 of the voltage applicator 102 to the uppermost bipolar plate 29, it is not necessary to perform surface treatment such as gold plating on the first pressure forming member 44 disposed above the uppermost bipolar plate 29. As a result, the manufacturing cost of the first pressure forming member 44 can be reduced.

[0090] In addition, Figure 1 In the example shown, the uppermost bipolar plate 29 and the second pressure generating member 46 also serve as current collecting plates. Thus, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this embodiment can reduce the number of plates by making the plates serve as multiple plates, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost of the device.

[0091] In addition, in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100, the fluid collection component 11, the first pressure forming component 44, the bipolar plate 29, the second pressure forming component 46 and the fluid collection component 14 are all exposed to high-pressure compressed hydrogen, so these components are made of SUS316L. This is because SUS316L has excellent properties such as acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance among various stainless steels. In contrast, the cathode end plate 15, the anode end plate 16 and the fastener 17 are not exposed to hydrogen, so these components are made of chromium-molybdenum steel (such as SCM45) which is cheaper than SUS316L.

[0092] <Structure of bipolar plate and hydrogen pump unit>

[0093] Figure 2 Yes means Figure 1 Figure 2 is a diagram of an example of a bipolar plate and a hydrogen pump unit.

[0094] Figure 3 Yes means Figure 2 Specifically, it shows the exploded perspective view of the bipolar plate. Figure 2 A diagram showing a pair of components constituting the bipolar plate 29 as viewed from the AA portion of FIG. 1 and a diagram showing the two components as one. Figure 3 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, the MEA and the O-ring are omitted.

[0095] Figure 4 Observed from above Figure 2 Specifically, it shows the bipolar plate from Figure 2 The BB portion of FIG. 1 is a diagram showing components constituting the bipolar plate 29 as viewed from above.

[0096] As described above, in each of the hydrogen pump cells 10, the bipolar plate 29 includes a plate that functions as an anode separator of one of the adjacent hydrogen pump cells 10 and a plate that functions as a cathode separator of the other of the adjacent hydrogen pump cells 10. Figure 2 In the example shown, a part of the bipolar plate 29 on the upper stage side constitutes a cathode separator, and a part of the bipolar plate 29 on the lower stage side constitutes an anode separator.

[0097] In the following description, a plate functioning as a cathode separator is referred to as a cathode separator 29A, and a plate functioning as an anode separator is referred to as an anode separator 29B.

[0098] Here, if Figure 3 As shown, the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B in each bipolar plate 29 are integrated by surface bonding. For example, the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B can be bonded by diffusion bonding of a pair of metal plates. In addition, the so-called "diffusion bonding" is defined as "a method of bonding by making the base material close to each other, pressing at a temperature below the melting point of the base material to a degree that plastic deformation is minimized, and utilizing the diffusion of atoms generated between the bonding surfaces to perform bonding" according to the JIS standard.

[0099] In addition, a cooling flow path 60 is provided on the joint surface of the anode separator 29B before the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B are joined together, through which a cooling fluid flows to adjust the temperature of the hydrogen pump unit 10 to an appropriate temperature. Both ends of the cooling flow path 60 are connected to a cooling medium introduction manifold 61 and a cooling medium outlet manifold 62, respectively.

[0100] like Figure 2 As shown, the hydrogen pump unit 10 includes an electrolyte membrane 21, an anode AN, a cathode CA, a cathode separator 29A, an anode separator 29B, a frame 28, and a surface sealing material 40. In addition, in the hydrogen pump unit 10, the electrolyte membrane 21, the anode catalyst layer 24, the cathode catalyst layer 23, the anode power supply 25, the cathode power supply 22, the cathode separator 29A, and the anode separator 29B are stacked.

[0101] The anode AN is provided on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane 21. The anode AN is an electrode including an anode catalyst layer 24 and an anode power supply 25.

[0102] The cathode CA is provided on the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane 21. The cathode CA is an electrode including a cathode catalyst layer 23 and a cathode power supply 22.

[0103] Here, in general, in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 , a catalyst-coated membrane CCM (Catalyst Coated Membrane) is often used, in which the cathode catalyst layer 23 and the anode catalyst layer 24 are integrally bonded to the electrolyte membrane 21 .

[0104] Therefore, in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment, the above-mentioned anode power supply 25 and cathode power supply 22 are provided on the anode catalyst layer 24 and cathode catalyst layer 23 of the catalyst layer-attached membrane CCM, respectively.

[0105] As described above, the electrolyte membrane 21 is sandwiched between the anode AN and the cathode CA.

[0106] The electrolyte membrane 21 is a polymer membrane having proton conductivity. The electrolyte membrane 21 may have any structure as long as it has proton conductivity. For example, as the electrolyte membrane 21, fluorine-based polymer electrolyte membranes and hydrocarbon-based polymer electrolyte membranes may be cited, but are not limited thereto. Specifically, for example, as the electrolyte membrane 21, Nafion (registered trademark, manufactured by DuPont), Aciplex (registered trademark, manufactured by Asahi Kasei Corporation), etc. may be used.

[0107] The anode catalyst layer 24 is provided in contact with one main surface of the electrolyte membrane 21. The anode catalyst layer 24 contains platinum as a catalyst metal, for example, but is not limited thereto.

[0108] The cathode catalyst layer 23 is provided so as to be in contact with the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane 21. The cathode catalyst layer 23 contains platinum as a catalyst metal, for example, but is not limited thereto.

[0109] Examples of catalyst supports for the cathode catalyst layer 23 and the anode catalyst layer 24 include carbon particles such as carbon black and graphite, and conductive oxide particles, but are not limited thereto.

[0110] Furthermore, fine particles of the catalyst metal are highly dispersed and supported on the catalyst carrier in the cathode catalyst layer 23 and the anode catalyst layer 24. In addition, in order to increase the electrode reaction field, a proton conductive ionomer component is usually added to these cathode catalyst layer 23 and the anode catalyst layer 24.

[0111] The cathode power supply 22 is arranged on the cathode catalyst layer 23. In addition, the cathode power supply 22 is composed of a porous material and has electrical conductivity and gas diffusion. In addition, the cathode power supply 22 preferably has elasticity that appropriately follows the displacement and deformation of the components caused by the pressure difference between the cathode CA and the anode AN when the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is working. Furthermore, in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment, as the cathode power supply 22, a component composed of carbon fiber is used. For example, it can also be a porous carbon fiber sheet such as carbon paper, carbon cloth, and carbon felt. In addition, as the substrate of the cathode power supply 22, a carbon fiber sheet may not be used. For example, as the substrate of the cathode power supply 22, a sintered body of metal fibers using titanium, titanium alloy, stainless steel, etc. as raw materials, a sintered body of metal particles using these as raw materials, etc. may also be used.

[0112] The anode power supply 25 is disposed on the anode catalyst layer 24. In addition, the anode power supply 25 is made of a porous material and has electrical conductivity and gas diffusivity. In addition, the anode power supply 25 is preferably a high rigidity capable of suppressing displacement and deformation of the components caused by the pressure difference between the cathode CA and the anode AN when the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 is working.

[0113] Specifically, as the base material of the anode current supply body 25, for example, a fiber sintered body, a powder sintered body, an expanded metal, a metal mesh, a punched metal, etc. made of titanium, titanium alloy, stainless steel, carbon, etc. can be used.

[0114] The anode separator 29B is a member stacked on the anode AN. The cathode separator 29A is a member stacked on the cathode CA.

[0115] The center of the surface of the anode separator 29B on the anode AN side facing the anode AN contacts the anode power supply 25. Figure 4 As shown, a serpentine anode gas flow path 30 is provided in a plan view. Both ends of the anode gas flow path 30 are connected to an anode gas inlet manifold 31 and an anode gas outlet manifold 32, respectively.

[0116] A recess is provided in the center of the surface of the cathode CA side of the cathode separator 29A facing the cathode CA, and the cathode power supply body 22 is accommodated in the recess. That is, the recess corresponds to a space S (see FIG. 1 ) for storing cathode gas including compressed hydrogen generated by the cathode CA of the hydrogen pump unit 10. Figure 3 ).

[0117] Here, if Figure 3As shown, the anode separator 29B is provided with a first cathode gas outlet manifold 35A for the flow of cathode gas, a second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 for the flow of cathode gas, and a connecting passage 37 and a connecting passage 38 for guiding the cathode gas flowing from the recess (space S) of the cathode separator 29A to the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35A and the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 of the anode separator 29B, respectively.

[0118] Specifically, the connecting path 37 is composed of a flow path groove on the joint surface of the anode separator 29B before the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B are joined. The flow path groove extends linearly in a manner that spans the O-ring groove 50 and the O-ring groove 51 provided on the main surface of the anode AN side of the cathode separator 29A when viewed from above. Moreover, one end of the flow path groove is connected to the inside of the recess (space S) of the cathode separator 29A via a connecting hole 70 extending up and down near the edge of the bottom surface of the recess (space S). The other end of the flow path groove is connected to the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35A. By integrating the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B by joining the surfaces, the connecting path 37 is properly gas-sealed.

[0119] During the hydrogen compression operation of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100, the high-pressure cathode gas generated at the cathode CA is stored in the concave portion (space S) of the cathode separator 29A. Figure 3 As shown by the dotted arrow, the gas flows from the space S through the communication hole 70 and the communication path 37 in sequence, and is supplied to the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35A.

[0120] The connecting path 38 is composed of a flow path groove on the joint surface of the anode separator 29B before the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B are joined together. The flow path groove extends linearly in a manner spanning the O-ring groove 50 and the O-ring groove 52 provided on the cathode separator 29A when viewed from above. Moreover, one end of the flow path groove is connected to the inside of the recess (space S) of the cathode separator 29A via a connecting hole 71 extending up and down near the edge of the bottom surface of the recess (space S). The other end of the flow path groove is connected to the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36. By integrating the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B by joining the surfaces, the connecting path 38 is properly gas-sealed.

[0121] During the hydrogen compression operation of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100, the high-pressure cathode gas generated at the cathode CA is stored in the concave portion (space S) of the cathode separator 29A. Figure 3 As shown by the dotted arrow, the gas flows from the space S through the communication hole 71 and the communication path 38 in sequence, and is supplied to the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 .

[0122] In this example, the communication paths 37 and 38 and the communication holes 70 and 71 are respectively arranged on a straight line connecting the center of the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35 and the center of the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 in a plan view, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As long as the cathode gas flowing from the recess (space S) of the cathode separator 29A can be introduced into the cathode gas outlet manifold, the arrangement position and shape of the communication paths and the communication holes may be any position and shape. In addition, the number of the communication paths and the communication holes may be one or more than three.

[0123] The cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B described above can be made of metal sheets such as titanium, stainless steel, gold, etc., but are not limited thereto. For example, the base material of the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B can be made of carbon or a resin with a metal film formed on the surface. In addition, when the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B are made of stainless steel, SUS316L is preferably used as the raw material of the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B. This is because SUS316L has excellent properties such as acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance among various stainless steels.

[0124] In this way, the above-mentioned MEA is sandwiched between the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B, thereby forming the hydrogen pump unit 10 .

[0125] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the cathode separator 29A has an O-ring groove 50 on the main surface on the cathode CA side, which surrounds a region of the main surface facing the cathode CA, and the O-ring 45 is held in the O-ring groove 50 .

[0126] The O-ring groove 50 faces a region of the main surface of the electrolyte membrane 21 on the cathode CA side where the cathode CA is not provided. Figure 2 In the example shown, the electrolyte membrane 21 is provided with a wide width so as to straddle the side wall of the recess in which the cathode CA is housed, and the O-ring 45 is provided so as to abut against the wide width portion of the electrolyte membrane 21. As the O-ring 45 (the same applies to other O-rings), for example, a fluororubber-based O-ring can be used from the viewpoint of acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance, but the invention is not limited thereto.

[0127] The frame 28 is a member provided so as to surround the outer periphery of the electrolyte membrane 21. As a base material of the frame 28, for example, fluororubber etc. can be cited from the viewpoint of acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance, but it is not limited thereto. In addition, the insulating frame 28 can appropriately make it difficult for the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B in the hydrogen pump unit 10 to short-circuit.

[0128] The surface sealing material 40 is provided on the periphery of the region of the main surface on the anode AN side of the anode separator 29B that faces the anode AN. In addition, the surface sealing material 40 faces the region of the main surface on the anode AN side of the electrolyte membrane 21 where the anode AN is not provided, and the main surface on the anode AN side of the frame 28. Figure 2 In the example shown, the electrolyte membrane 21 is arranged in a wide manner so as to cross the outer peripheral end of the anode AN, and the main surface of the surface sealing material 40 contacts the wide portion of the electrolyte membrane 21 and the main surface of the frame 28. As the base material of the surface sealing material 40, for example, from the viewpoint of acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance, fluororubber, fluororesin, etc. can be cited, but it is not limited to this. In addition, by the insulating surface sealing material 40, it is possible to appropriately make it difficult for the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B in the hydrogen pump unit 10 to short-circuit.

[0129] In the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment, the electrolyte membrane 21 and the frame 28 are separately formed, but the two may be integrated. In addition, such a frame 28 may not be provided. For example, between the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B in the hydrogen pump unit 10, even if the frame 28 is not provided, a surface sealing material 40 may be used to form a structure that is difficult to short-circuit.

[0130] like Figure 2 As shown, the cathode separator 29A is provided with an O-ring groove 51 surrounding the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35. The O-ring 41 is retained in the O-ring groove 51. The cathode separator 29A is provided with an O-ring groove 52 surrounding the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36. The O-ring 42 is retained in the O-ring groove 52.

[0131] Here, in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment, the O-ring 41 and the O-ring 42 are respectively in contact with the main surface of the anode AN side of the anode separator 29B. That is, the O-ring 41 and the O-ring 42 are respectively in contact with the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B corresponding to the bipolar plates 29 adjacent on both sides. Moreover, the surface sealing material 40 is not provided on the area of ​​the main surface of the anode AN side of the anode separator 29B that contacts the O-ring 41 and the O-ring 42. In addition, the frame 28 is not provided in the area where the O-ring 41 and the O-ring 42 are provided.

[0132] Specifically, through holes are formed on the frame 28 in such a manner that the outer shape of each pair of through holes (circular openings) is the same as the outer shape of each O-ring groove 51 and the outer shape of each O-ring groove 51. In addition, through holes are formed on the surface sealing material 40 in such a manner that the outer shape of each pair of through holes (circular openings) is the same as the outer shape of each O-ring groove 51 and the outer shape of each O-ring groove 51. Moreover, the cylindrical space formed by the through holes provided on the frame 28 and the surface sealing material 40 accommodates the O-ring 41, and the interior of the O-ring 41 provided in the cylindrical space constitutes a part of the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35. In addition, the cylindrical space formed by the through holes provided on the frame 28 and the sealing material 40 accommodates the O-ring 42, and the interior of the O-ring 42 provided in the cylindrical space constitutes a part of the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36.

[0133] <Structure of the first pressure generating member>

[0134] Figure 5 Yes means Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a first pressure forming member.

[0135] Figure 6 Yes means Figure 5 Specifically, it shows the exploded perspective view of the first pressure forming member. Figure 5 A diagram showing a pair of components constituting the first pressure forming component 44 as viewed from the AA portion of FIG. 4 and a diagram showing the integration of the two components. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, the O-ring is omitted.

[0136] Figure 7 Observed from above Figure 5 Specifically, it shows the first pressure forming part. Figure 5 FIG. 8 is a diagram showing components constituting the first pressure forming component 44 as viewed from above, as viewed from the BB portion of FIG.

[0137] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, a space SC for storing cathode gas is formed on the plate 44A, and a first cathode gas outlet manifold 135 and a second cathode gas outlet manifold 136 for the cathode gas to flow are provided on the plate 44B, and a connecting path 138 for guiding the cathode gas flowing in from the second cathode gas outlet manifold 136 to the space SC. The cathode gas overflowing from the space SC is guided to the first cathode gas outlet manifold 135 through the connecting path 137.

[0138] Here, the structure of the plate 44A is the same as that of the cathode separator 29A. Specifically, for example, the space S of the cathode separator 29A and the space SC of the plate 44A have the same shape. In addition, the connecting hole 70 of the cathode separator 29A and the connecting hole 170 of the plate 44A have the same shape, and the connecting hole 71 of the cathode separator 29A and the connecting hole 171 of the plate 44A have the same shape. Therefore, the detailed description of the structure of the plate 44A is omitted.

[0139] The structure of the plate 44B is the same as that of the anode separator 29B, except that no cooling flow path is provided on the surface of the plate 44B on which the communication paths 137 and 138 are provided, and no anode fluid flow path is provided on the surface of the plate 44B opposite to the surface on which the communication paths 137 and 138 are provided. Specifically, for example, the shapes of the communication paths 37 of the anode separator 29B and the communication paths 137 of the plate 44B are the same, and the shapes of the communication paths 38 of the anode separator 29B and the communication paths 138 of the plate 44B are the same. Therefore, a detailed description of the structure of the plate 44B is omitted.

[0140] At an appropriate time after the hydrogen compression operation of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 starts, when the cathode gas generated by the cathode CA passes through the second cathode gas outlet manifold 136, the cathode gas branched from the second cathode gas outlet manifold 136 is discharged. Figure 6 As shown by the dotted arrows, the cathode gas flows through the connecting passage 138 and the connecting hole 171 in sequence and is supplied to the concave portion (space SC) of the plate 44A. In addition, when the space SC is filled with cathode gas, the cathode gas overflowing from the space SC is as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown by the dotted arrow, the gas sequentially flows through the communication hole 170 and the communication path 137 and is guided to the first cathode gas outlet manifold 135 .

[0141] In this way, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can appropriately supply high-pressure cathode gas from the second cathode gas outlet manifold 136 of the plate 44B to the space SC of the plate 44A through the communication path 138 of the plate 44B.

[0142] <Structure of the second pressure generating member>

[0143] Figure 8 Yes means Figure 1 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a second pressure forming member.

[0144] Fig. 9 Yes means Figure 8 Specifically, it shows the exploded perspective view of the second pressure forming member. Figure 8 A diagram showing a pair of components constituting the second pressure forming component 46 as viewed from the AA portion of FIG. 4 and a diagram showing the two components as one. Figure 8 and Fig. 9In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, the O-ring is omitted.

[0145] Fig.10 Observed from above Figure 8 Specifically, it shows the second pressure forming part. Figure 8 A diagram showing the components constituting the second pressure generating member 46 as viewed from above at the BB portion.

[0146] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, a space SA for storing cathode gas is formed on the plate 46A, and a first cathode gas outlet manifold 235 and a second cathode gas outlet manifold 236 for the cathode gas to flow are provided on the plate 46B, and a connecting path 237 for guiding the cathode gas flowing from the first cathode gas outlet manifold 235 to the space SA. The cathode gas overflowing from the space SA is guided to the second cathode gas outlet manifold 236 through the connecting path 238.

[0147] Here, the structure of the plate 46A is the same as that of the cathode separator 29A. Specifically, for example, the space S of the cathode separator 29A and the space SA of the plate 46A have the same shape. In addition, the connecting hole 70 of the cathode separator 29A and the connecting hole 270 of the plate 46A have the same shape, and the connecting hole 71 of the cathode separator 29A and the connecting hole 271 of the plate 46A have the same shape. Therefore, the detailed description of the structure of the plate 46A is omitted.

[0148] The structure of the plate 46B is the same as that of the anode separator 29B. Specifically, for example, the shapes of the connecting passage 37 of the anode separator 29B and the connecting passage 237 of the plate 46B are the same, and the shapes of the connecting passage 38 of the anode separator 29B and the connecting passage 238 of the plate 46B are the same. In addition, in the plate 46B, similarly to the anode separator 29B, a cooling flow passage 260 is provided on the surface of the plate 46B where the connecting passage 237 and the connecting passage 238 are provided (see FIG. Fig. 9 ), an anode gas flow path 230 is provided on the surface of the plate 46B on the opposite side to the communication path 237 and the communication path 238 (see Fig.10 ). That is, the plate 46B corresponds to the "anode separator located at one end" of the present disclosure. Therefore, a detailed description of the structure of the plate 46B is omitted.

[0149] At an appropriate time after the hydrogen compression operation of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 starts, when the cathode gas generated by the cathode CA passes through the first cathode gas outlet manifold 235, the cathode gas branched from the first cathode gas outlet manifold 235 is discharged. Fig. 9 As shown by the dotted arrows, the cathode gas flows through the connecting passage 237 and the connecting hole 270 in sequence and is supplied to the concave portion (space SA) of the plate 46A. In addition, when the space SA is filled with cathode gas, the cathode gas overflowing from the space SA is as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown by the dotted arrow, the gas sequentially flows through the communication hole 271 and the communication path 238 and is guided to the second cathode gas outlet manifold 236 .

[0150] In this way, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can appropriately supply high-pressure cathode gas from the first cathode gas outlet manifold 235 of the plate 46B to the space SA of the plate 46A through the communication path 237 of the plate 46B.

[0151] As described above, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can more appropriately guide the high-pressure cathode gas to the space between the hydrogen pump cell 10 and the end plate than conventional ones.

[0152] Specifically, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can achieve the following various effects due to the above-described configuration.

[0153] First, as described above, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can appropriately supply the high-pressure cathode gas to the space SC of the plate 44A and the space SA of the plate 46A.

[0154] In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment integrates the plate 44A and the plate 44B in the first pressure forming component 44 by surface bonding (e.g., diffusion bonding), thereby reducing the area of ​​the plate 44A and the plate 44B exposed to the high-pressure cathode gas when viewed from above, compared to a case where the two are not integrated by surface bonding.

[0155] Specifically, assuming that the plate 44A and the plate 44B are not integrated by surface bonding, it is necessary to provide an O-ring along the plate periphery so as to surround the communication paths 137 and 138 and the first cathode gas outlet manifold 135 and the second cathode gas outlet manifold 136 between the plate 44A and the plate 44B. Fig.11 As shown in (a), the cathode gas may spread over the entire area (hatched area) within the O-ring when viewed from above and intrude into the gap between the plates 44A and 44B. Therefore, the gas pressure of the cathode gas present in the entire area within the O-ring may be applied to the plates 44A and 44B. Therefore, in order to prevent the cathode end plate 15 disposed outside the plates 44A and 44B from expanding outward due to the gas pressure, it is necessary to increase the flexural rigidity of the cathode end plate 15. For example, it is necessary to increase the thickness of the cathode end plate 15, which will lead to an increase in the size of the device and an increase in cost.

[0156] In contrast, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment integrates the plate 44A and the plate 44B by surface bonding, thereby Fig.11As shown in (b), the cathode gas does not intrude into the area (blank portion) where the surface bonding is performed, so the above-mentioned disadvantage can be reduced compared to the case where they are not integrated by surface bonding.

[0157] In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment integrates the plate 46A and the plate 46B in the second pressure forming member 46 by surface bonding, thereby reducing the area of ​​the plate 46A and the plate 46B exposed to the high-pressure cathode gas in a plan view compared to a case where the two are not integrated by surface bonding. In addition, the details of the effects exerted by the present technical configuration can be easily understood from the above description, and are therefore omitted.

[0158] In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this embodiment can appropriately supply high-pressure cathode gas from the space S of the cathode separator 29A to the first cathode gas outlet manifold 35 and the second cathode gas outlet manifold 36 of the anode separator 29B through each of the connecting passages 37 and 38 of the anode separator 29B.

[0159] In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can form the cathode separator 29A, the plate 44A, and the plate 46A by plates of the same shape by setting the space S, the space SC, and the space SA to the same shape. In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can form the anode separator 29B, the plate 44B, and the plate 46B by plates of the same shape by setting the communication paths 37 and 38, the communication paths 137 and 138, and the communication paths 237 and 238 to the same shape. Therefore, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment can reduce the manufacturing cost compared with the case where the space S, the space SC, and the space SA are set to different shapes or the case where the communication paths 37 and 38, the communication paths 137 and 138, and the communication paths 237 and 238 are set to different shapes.

[0160] In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment integrates the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B in the bipolar plate 29 by surface bonding, and compared with the case where the two are not integrated by surface bonding, the area of ​​the cathode separator 29A and the anode separator 29B exposed to the high-pressure cathode gas in a top view can be reduced. In addition, the details of the effects exerted by the present technical configuration can be easily understood through the above description, so they are omitted.

[0161] In the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present embodiment, SUS316L is used as the material of the cathode separator 29A, the anode separator 29B, the plates 44A, 44B, 46A, and 46B. This is because SUS316L has excellent properties such as acid resistance and hydrogen embrittlement resistance among various stainless steels.

[0162] In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this embodiment can reduce the number of plates by using at least one of the plates 44A, 44B, 46A, and 46B as a current collector plate. Thus, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this embodiment can reduce the manufacturing cost of the device compared to a case where such a plate is not used in combination.

[0163] In addition, if Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, an anode gas flow path 230 is provided on the surface of the plate 46B opposite to the side where the communication paths 237 and 238 are provided. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the anode fluid flow path is not provided on the surface of the plate 44B opposite to the surface provided with the communication path 137 and the communication path 138. Thus, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this embodiment can appropriately supply the anode gas to the anode AN corresponding to the plate 46B, and it is not necessary to provide the anode fluid flow path on the plate 44A, which can reduce the manufacturing cost.

[0164] In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown, a cooling flow path 260 for the flow of cooling medium is provided on the surface of the plate 46B provided with the communication path 237 and the communication path 238, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, no cooling channel is provided on the surface of the plate 44B provided with the communication channels 137 and 138. Thus, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this embodiment can appropriately cool the MEA facing the plate 46B, and does not need to provide a cooling channel on the plate 44A, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost.

[0165] (First Modification)

[0166] The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present modification is the same as the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the embodiment, except that an insulating elastic body or solid is provided in the space SC of the plate 44A of the first pressure generating member 44 .

[0167] Here, as the insulating elastic body, for example, rubber and foam can be cited, but it is not limited to these. In addition, as the insulating solid, for example, a resin plate processed with an opening, groove, cutout, etc. through which the cathode gas can pass can be cited, but it is not limited to this.

[0168] As described above, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this modification example can be configured so that the central portion of the plate 44A is less likely to deform when an external force acts on the plate 44A, by virtue of the presence of an elastic body or a solid in the space SC of the plate 44A.

[0169] In addition, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this modified example is Figure 1As shown, by configuring the voltage not to be applied from the voltage applying unit 102 to at least one of the plate 44A and the plate 44B, but to be applied from the voltage applying unit 102 to the bipolar plate 29 adjacent thereto, the elastic body or solid disposed in the space SC can be constituted by an insulating member. Thus, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this modification can reduce the material cost of the elastic body or solid, compared with the case where the elastic body or solid disposed in the space SC is constituted by a conductive member.

[0170] The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present modification example may be the same as the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the embodiment except for the above-described features.

[0171] (Second Modification)

[0172] The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present modification is the same as the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the embodiment, except that a conductive elastic body or solid is provided in the space SA of the plate 46A of the second pressure generating member 46 .

[0173] Here, as the conductive elastic body, for example, carbon nonwoven fabric can be cited, but it is not limited to this. In addition, as the conductive solid, for example, metal plates such as gold, silver, titanium, stainless steel, etc. processed with openings, grooves, cuts, etc. through which cathode gas can pass can be cited, but it is not limited to this.

[0174] As described above, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this modification example can be configured so that the central portion of the plate 46A is less likely to deform when an external force acts on the plate 46A, by virtue of the presence of an elastic body or a solid in the space SA of the plate 46A.

[0175] Furthermore, by using an elastic body or a solid body provided in the space SA as a conductive member, the plate 46A can also be used as a current collecting plate.

[0176] The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present modification example may be the same as the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the embodiment or the first modification example of the embodiment except for the above-described features.

[0177] (Third Modification)

[0178] The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this modified example is the same as the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the embodiment, except that the size relationship between the area of ​​the space S in the hydrogen pump unit 10 when viewed from above and the areas of the space SC and the space SA of the first pressure forming component 44 and the second pressure forming component 46 when viewed from above are set as follows.

[0179] In the space S provided in the cathode CA of each hydrogen pump unit 10, as described above, during the hydrogen compression operation of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100, there is a high-pressure cathode gas, and the pressure of the cathode gas acts on the cathode end plate 15 and the anode end plate 16 of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 to expand them outward. Here, if the area of ​​the space S when viewed from above is set to A1 and the pressure of the cathode gas is set to P1, the above-mentioned force F1 is represented by the product of P1 and A1 (F1=P1×A1).

[0180] In the space SC and the space SA respectively provided in the first pressure forming member 44 and the second pressure forming member 46, as described above, during the hydrogen compression operation of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100, there is a high-pressure cathode gas, and the deformation of each component constituting the hydrogen pump unit 10 is suppressed by the pressure of the cathode gas, and a force F2 in a direction of making them close together acts. Here, when the area of ​​each of the space SC and the space SA when viewed from above is set to A2, and the pressure of the cathode gas is set to P2, the above-mentioned force F2 is represented by the product of P2 and A2 (F2=P2×A2).

[0181] Therefore, in the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present modification, the area A2 is set larger than the area A1 (A2>A1). Thus, since the pressure P1 and the pressure P2 are substantially the same, the force F2 is larger than the force F1 (F2>F1).

[0182] Therefore, the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this modified example can more appropriately suppress the increase in contact resistance between the components constituting the hydrogen pump unit 10 by configuring each hydrogen pump unit 10 and each first pressure forming component 44 and second pressure forming component 46 in such a manner that the space S is covered by the space SA and the space SC when viewed from above.

[0183] The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the present modification example may be the same as the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of any one of the embodiment, the first modification example of the embodiment, and the second modification example of the embodiment, except for the above-described features.

[0184] (Fourth Modification)

[0185] In the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of the embodiment, the first pressure forming member 44 and the second pressure forming member 46 are respectively arranged in the upper and lower directions of the stacked body on which the hydrogen pump units 10 are stacked, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The pressure forming member may also be arranged only on one side of the upper and lower directions of the stacked body. In this case, the flexural rigidity of the end plate on the side where the pressure forming member is not arranged is made higher than the flexural rigidity of the end plate on the side where the pressure forming member is arranged, so that the two end plates can be arranged opposite to each other.

[0186] The electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of this modification example may be the same as the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 of any one of the embodiment, the first modification example of the embodiment, the second modification example of the embodiment, and the third modification example of the embodiment, except for the above-described features.

[0187] The embodiment, the first modification of the embodiment, the second modification of the embodiment, the third modification of the embodiment, and the fourth modification of the embodiment may be combined with each other unless they exclude each other.

[0188] In addition, based on the above description, many improvements and other embodiments of the present disclosure are obvious to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the above description should only be interpreted as an example, and is provided to teach those skilled in the art the best way to perform the present disclosure. Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the details of its structure and / or function can be substantially changed.

[0189] For example, the flow path structure of the electrochemical hydrogen pump 100 may also be applied to other compression devices such as a water electrolysis device.

[0190] Industrial Availability

[0191] A technical solution of the present disclosure can be utilized in a compression device that can more appropriately guide high-pressure cathode gas to a space between a compression unit and an end plate than before.

[0192] Description of Reference Numerals

[0193] 10: Hydrogen pump unit

[0194] 11: Fluid assembly parts

[0195] 11A: Exhaust port

[0196] 12: Insulation board

[0197] 13: Insulation board

[0198] 14: Fluid assembly parts

[0199] 14A: Exhaust port

[0200] 15: Cathode terminal plate

[0201] 16: Anode terminal plate

[0202] 17: Fastener

[0203] 21: Electrolyte membrane

[0204] 22: Cathode power supply

[0205] 23: Cathode catalyst layer

[0206] 24: Anode catalyst layer

[0207] 25: Anode power supply

[0208] 28: Frame

[0209] 29: Bipolar Plate

[0210] 29A: Cathode separator

[0211] 29B: Anode separator

[0212] 30: Anode gas flow path

[0213] 31: Anode gas inlet manifold

[0214] 32: Anode gas outlet manifold

[0215] 35: 1st cathode gas outlet manifold

[0216] 36: Second cathode gas outlet manifold

[0217] 37: Connecting Road

[0218] 38: Connecting Road

[0219] 40: Face seal material

[0220] 41: O-ring

[0221] 42: O-ring

[0222] 44: First pressure forming member

[0223] 44A: Plate

[0224] 44B: Plate

[0225] 45: O-ring

[0226] 46: Second pressure forming member

[0227] 46A: Plate

[0228] 46B: Plate

[0229] 48: Sealing plate

[0230] 50: O-ring groove

[0231] 51: O-ring groove

[0232] 52: O-ring groove

[0233] 60: Cooling flow path

[0234] 61: Cooling medium introduction manifold

[0235] 62: Cooling medium outlet manifold

[0236] 70: Connecting hole

[0237] 71: Connecting hole

[0238] 100: Electrochemical hydrogen pump

[0239] 101: Terminal

[0240] 102: Voltage applicator

[0241] 103: Terminal

[0242] 135: 1st cathode gas outlet manifold

[0243] 136: Second cathode gas outlet manifold

[0244] 137: Connecting Road

[0245] 138: Connecting Road

[0246] 170: Connecting hole

[0247] 171: Connecting hole

[0248] 230: Anode gas flow path

[0249] 235: 1st cathode gas outlet manifold

[0250] 236: Second cathode gas outlet manifold

[0251] 237: Connecting Road

[0252] 238: Connecting Road

[0253] 260: Cooling flow path

[0254] 270: Connecting hole

[0255] 271: Connecting hole

[0256] AN: Anode

[0257] CA: cathode

[0258] CCM: Catalyst layer membrane

[0259] S: Space

[0260] SA: Space

[0261] SC: Space

Claims

1. A compression device comprising a voltage applicator and at least one compression unit, The compression unit includes an electrolyte membrane, an anode disposed on one main surface of the electrolyte membrane, a cathode disposed on the other main surface of the electrolyte membrane, an anode separator stacked on the anode, and a cathode separator stacked on the cathode. The voltage applicator applies a voltage between the anode and the cathode, The compressing device generates compressed hydrogen gas by applying voltage through the voltage applicator to move protons extracted from the anode fluid supplied to the anode to the cathode via the electrolyte membrane. The compression device comprises: an anode terminal plate provided on the anode separator at one end in the stacking direction; a cathode terminal plate provided on the cathode separator at the other end in the stacking direction; an insulating plate disposed between the cathode end plate and the cathode separator located at the other end; as well as a first plate and a second plate disposed between the insulating plate and the cathode separator located at the other end; A first space for storing cathode gas containing the compressed hydrogen gas is formed on the first plate. The second plate is provided with a first manifold through which the cathode gas flows and a first communication path for guiding the cathode gas flowing from the first manifold to the first space. The first space and the first communication path are provided so as not to be in contact with the main surface of the insulating plate.

2. The compression device according to claim 1, The first plate and the second plate are integrated by surface bonding.

3. The compression device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a third plate provided between the anode end plate and the anode separator located at the one end, A second space for storing cathode gas containing the compressed hydrogen gas is formed on the third plate. The anode separator located at the one end is provided with a second manifold through which the cathode gas flows and a second communication passage for guiding the cathode gas flowing in from the second manifold to the second space.

4. The compression device according to claim 3, The third plate is integrated with the anode separator located at the one end by surface bonding.

5. The compression device according to claim 3, The cathode separator is formed with a third space for storing cathode gas containing the compressed hydrogen gas. The anode separator is provided with a third manifold through which the cathode gas flows and a third communication passage for guiding the cathode gas flowing from the third space to the third manifold. The first space, the second space, and the third space have the same shape, and the first communication path, the second communication path, and the third communication path have the same shape.

6. The compression device according to claim 5, The anode separator and the cathode separator are integrated by surface bonding.

7. The compression device according to claim 5 or 6, The first plate, the second plate, the third plate, the anode separator, and the cathode separator are all made of SUS316L.

8. The compression device according to claim 3, At least one of the first plate, the second plate, the third plate, and the anode separator located at the one end also serves as a current collecting plate.

9. The compression device according to claim 1 or 2, An insulating elastic body or solid is provided in the first space.

10. The compression device according to claim 3, A conductive elastic body or solid is provided in the second space.

11. The compression device according to claim 3, An anode fluid flow path for flowing an anode fluid is provided on the surface of the anode separator located at the one end opposite to the surface provided with the second communication path, and the anode fluid flow path is not provided on the surface of the second plate opposite to the surface provided with the first communication path.

12. The compression device according to claim 3, A cooling flow path through which a cooling medium flows is provided on the surface of the anode separator located at the one end where the second communication path is provided, and no cooling flow path is provided on the surface of the second plate where the first communication path is provided.

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