Bipolar plate for electrochemical system with support element

Abstract

The invention relates to a bipolar plate for an electrochemical system, comprising a separator and a support element. The invention further relates to an arrangement for an electrochemical system having a bipolar plate. Furthermore, the invention relates to an electrochemical system comprising a plurality of stacked bipolar plates or a plurality of stacked arrangements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a bipolar plate for an electrochemical system, comprising a separator and a support element. The invention also relates to an arrangement for an electrochemical system with a bipolar plate. The invention also relates to an electrochemical system comprising a plurality of stacked bipolar plates or a plurality of stacked arrangements. Background Art

[0002] The electrochemical system may in particular be a fuel cell system, an electrochemical compressor, a redox flow battery or in particular an electrolyser.

[0003] A fuel cell system generally converts chemical reaction energy into electrical energy. In known fuel cell systems, for example, hydrogen and oxygen are converted into water and electrical energy.

[0004] In contrast to single fuel cell systems, the chemical reaction, i.e. the conversion of substances, in an electrolyzer is brought about by means of an electric current. For example, a water electrolyzer decomposes water into hydrogen and oxygen by applying an electric voltage.

[0005] In general, an electrochemical system typically includes stacks of individual electrochemical cells, each cell including a plurality of layers, the layers including at least one bipolar plate and a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), each cell separated by a bipolar plate. The stacked individual electrochemical cells may have two end plates, which press the individual electrochemical cells together and give the stack stability. In addition, the individual electrochemical cells may include a gas diffusion layer arranged between the bipolar plate and the membrane electrode arrangement. The bipolar plate may perform several functions: indirect electrical contact of the electrodes of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA); separation of a medium, such as water, oxygen or hydrogen; and electrical connection of adjacent individual electrochemical cells.

[0006] The stacked individual electrochemical cells must be sealed off from the outside space because the fluid or medium inside the individual electrochemical cells is usually at high pressure compared to the external pressure. Depending on the type of electrochemical system, the fluid may include, for example, hydrogen, air (oxygen), water, a cooling medium and / or a mixture of these. To this end, in particular in electrolyzer applications, the electrochemical system may have, for each of the individual electrochemical cells, at least one cell frame running around the outer edge of the individual electrochemical cell, thereby achieving a sealing effect. In addition, the electrochemical system may include one or more sealing layers for each of the individual electrochemical cells, thereby increasing the sealing effect.

[0007] The bipolar plate comprises at least one through-opening as an inlet or outlet for a fluid, a flow field with an electrochemically active area, and an intermediate fluid guiding structure for guiding the fluid between the through-opening and the flow field. In particular, the fluid guiding structure can provide a fluid connection between the through-opening and the flow field.

[0008] Bipolar plates usually include ports or through openings, electrochemically active surfaces, and guide and support elements for guiding the medium between the ports and the active surfaces. The guide and support elements are sometimes formed by several protrusions of the bipolar plate, so that there are corresponding passages between adjacent protrusions. The medium flows through the passages. Bipolar plates can be single-layer or multi-layer. Bipolar plates in fuel cell cells are usually double-layered, so that the cooling fluid can flow between two separate layers, while bipolar plates in electrolyzers are usually single-layered. Each layer of the bipolar plate can act as a separator because it separates the medium.

[0009] In addition to the bipolar plates and the membrane electrode arrangement, further layers may be provided. Cell frames and / or cell seals may be installed between adjacent bipolar plates to seal the cells.

[0010] However, this conventional electrochemical system has the following problems. The layer placed on the bipolar plate (i.e., the battery cell frame or battery cell seal) spans the passage of the guide and support element, and there is no support from the bipolar plate in this area. When the electrochemical battery cell is pressed, the layer in this area cannot transmit enough pressure or compression. On the other hand, in the case of a single-layer bipolar plate, this area of ​​the guide and support element must be passed through, because the anode side and cathode side of the bipolar plate, especially the electrolyzer, are made of a single sheet, that is, during stacking or assembly, they are placed uniformly on top of each other, and the force required for sealing can only be transmitted via the strength and / or stiffness of the battery cell frame and / or the battery cell seal itself. Due to the need for electrical insulation, the battery cell frame and / or the battery cell seal are usually made of plastic, but this plastic is usually not strong and / or stiff enough. At the point where the battery cell frame and / or the battery cell seal travels above the passage of the guide and support element, deformation may occur in the direction of the passage. Deformation usually causes the sealing layer to be opposite to the membrane and the battery cell frame, and / or the battery cell seal loses pressure. If a medium is introduced into the port, it then leaves at the seal. The pressure loss causes a leak.

[0011] A disadvantage here is that it is difficult to achieve a sufficiently tight connection between the multiple layers of the individual electrochemical cells. It is therefore desirable to provide an electrochemical cell which prevents or at least reduces pressure losses and / or fluid losses. Summary of the invention

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a bipolar plate, an arrangement comprising a bipolar plate, and an electrochemical system comprising a plurality of stacked bipolar plates or a plurality of stacked arrangements, which at least partially solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0013] This object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0014] Advantageous embodiments and further embodiments of the invention are given in the dependent claims.

[0015] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bipolar plate for an electrochemical system, in particular for an electrolyzer, is provided. The bipolar plate has a separator, which includes:

[0016] a through opening which serves as an inlet or outlet for a fluid,

[0017] a fluid guiding structure for guiding the fluid, the fluid guiding structure being arranged at the through opening and having a plurality of protrusions, between which at least one passage for guiding the fluid along the partition is formed,

[0018] a rim arrangement which partially surrounds the through-opening, and

[0019] a flow field with an electrochemically active region, the fluid guiding structure being arranged between the flow field and the through-opening in the direction of flow of the fluid, so that the fluid can flow from the through-opening through the fluid guiding structure to the flow field or vice versa,

[0020] The bipolar plate further comprises a support element for bridging the fluid guiding structure, wherein the support element is firmly connected to the separator.

[0021] The support element, which is firmly connected to the partition and serves to bridge the passage of the fluid-guiding structure, improves the mechanical support there, so that when the stack is under system pressure, the layer to be applied to the support element can reliably seal the fluid-guiding structure against the partition. This increases the safety against leakage. In addition, this allows higher pressure differences and larger cross-sections of the fluid-guiding structure.

[0022] The thickness of the support element is at most 70%, preferably at most 30%, of the thickness of the separator.

[0023] In addition or as an alternative to the predetermined thickness of the support element, the flange arrangement has a first reduced area, wherein the first end of the support element is arranged on the first reduced area. Additionally or alternatively, the flange arrangement has a second reduced area, wherein the second end of the support element is arranged on the second reduced area. The first reduced area and / or the second reduced area of ​​the flange arrangement is adjacent to the fluid guiding structure.

[0024] Due to the predetermined smaller thickness of the first and / or second lowered regions of the support element and lip arrangement on which the first and / or second ends of the support element are arranged, height differences can be prevented or better compensated, thereby improving the sealing effect of the upper layer.

[0025] The support element is preferably particularly rigid and / or strong. The support element can, for example, have an elastic modulus of at least 10 GPa in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the separator. This allows the support element to transmit forces to the layer to be applied to the support element without deformation or sagging. The support element can have a higher strength than the plastic used to seal the electrochemical system. This allows a lower battery cell height to be achieved. This means that less plastic is needed to achieve the same sealing effect. Thinner plastic layers can also lead to better setting behavior, for example through heat and pressure.

[0026] The separator is usually designed as a single layer, in particular as a single sheet layer.

[0027] The fact that the fluid guiding structure for guiding the fluid is arranged at the through-opening does not necessarily mean that the protrusion starts immediately from the edge of the through-opening. On the contrary, the protrusion may be at a slight distance from the edge of the through-opening.

[0028] The protrusions of the fluid guiding structure may be parallel to each other and preferably have the same length. Alternatively, the protrusions of the fluid guiding structure may have an angle opening outwards - ie in the direction of the flow field - whereby fluid may be distributed or collected from the through opening through the fluid guiding structure to the flow field.

[0029] A single passage may be formed between two adjacent protrusions of the fluid guiding structure, and the passage is used to optimize the flow of the fluid.

[0030] In one embodiment, the support element can rest on a projection of the fluid guiding structure. The support element thus rests on the projection of the fluid guiding structure and can serve particularly well as a support for a superjacent layer in the region of the fluid guiding structure.

[0031] Preferably, the support element can be designed in the form of a cover plate and at least partially, preferably completely covers the fluid guiding structure. The cover plate can be designed essentially as a flat plate. This allows the support element to convert the sealing force partially introduced by the protrusion of the fluid guiding structure into a force along the plane of the cover plate. This distribution of the pressing force can improve the sealing and effectively prevent leakage.

[0032] In a further embodiment, the support element can be connected to the partition in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or materially connected manner, preferably welded. In the case of a materially connected connection, it is possible that the support element and the partition are welded together at at least one point on the support element. In particular, a spot weld can be arranged at one end of the support element and another spot weld can be arranged at the other end of the support element. For example, the material connection can be created using the following items, i.e., spot welding, friction welding, rolling welding, ultrasonic welding, electrode welding, resistance welding or laser welding. In addition, the connection can be made by, for example, clamping, embossing, overmolding, flanging or bonding.

[0033] In some embodiments, the maximum height of the protrusions of the fluid guiding structure may be less than the maximum height of the convex edge arrangement. The height is measured perpendicular to the plane of the diaphragm.

[0034] In addition, the maximum height of the convex arrangement can be greater than the maximum height of the first reduced area of ​​the convex arrangement and / or the maximum height of the second reduced area. In addition, the maximum height of the first reduced area of ​​the convex arrangement and / or the maximum height of the second reduced area can be the same as the maximum height of the protrusion of the fluid guiding structure. Each corresponding height is also measured perpendicular to the partition plane. In addition, the thickness of the support element can be equal to the maximum height difference between the maximum height of the convex arrangement and the maximum height of the first reduced area of ​​the convex arrangement and / or the maximum height of the second reduced area. This compensates for the height difference. In particular, the convex arrangement and the support element can close the through opening flush, which can improve the sealing of the system.

[0035] It can also be provided that the support element is firmly connected to the partition in the first lowered area and / or the second lowered area of ​​the flange arrangement. On the one hand, space can be created here for the connection, in particular compared to the adjacent fluid guiding structure. On the other hand, the fluid guidance is not affected by the connection between the support element and the partition, as would be the case with a connection in the area of ​​the fluid guiding structure.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, the support element may be subjected to tensile influences at both ends of the support element due to the fixed connection to the separator when loaded perpendicularly to the separator plane, in particular in a compressed state of the electrochemical system or electrolyzer.

[0037] In one embodiment, the fluid guiding structure and / or the chime arrangement may be molded into the partition, for example by embossing, such as rolling embossing, hydroforming and / or deep drawing of the partition. In other words, the fluid guiding structure and / or the chime structure are an integral part of the partition. The chime top of the chime arrangement and the protrusion of the fluid guiding structure may be aligned in the same direction.

[0038] The fluid guiding structure may be connected to the through opening, and the through opening may be enclosed by the fluid guiding structure and the rim arrangement.Furthermore, the flow field may be at a distance from the fluid guiding structure, or directly adjacent to the fluid guiding structure.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the bipolar plate may include a first sealing element for sealing the through-opening. The first sealing element may be designed as an elastomeric seal, an elastomeric flange or a coating. The first sealing element may, for example, be partially arranged on a side of the partition facing away from the support element, opposite to the support element. Preferably, the first sealing element completely travels around the through-opening. In addition, the flange arrangement may form a receptacle for the first sealing element on the side of the partition facing away from the support element. On the side of the partition facing away from the support element, the flange arrangement may form a channel-shaped receptacle to at least partially accommodate the first sealing element. For this purpose, the size of the receptacle of the flange arrangement may substantially correspond to the size of the first sealing element.

[0040] In addition to the first sealing element, the bipolar plate may also include a second sealing element. The second sealing element may also be designed as an elastomeric seal, an elastomeric flange or a coating. Typically, the second sealing element is designed to seal at least some areas of the flow field and / or fluid guiding structure and / or the through opening. Preferably, the second sealing element is partially parallel to the flange arrangement on the side of the separator facing the support element and travels along the flange arrangement. The second sealing element is also preferably at a greater distance from the through opening than the flange arrangement.

[0041] In some embodiments, the partition may have a recess. The first sealing element may engage in the recess, so that the first sealing element is connected to the support element and the partition. The recess particularly means that the partition has an opening or a discontinuity. Advantageously, the recess in the partition is arranged at one of the two ends of the support element, thereby facilitating the connection of the first sealing element to the support element. Furthermore, the first sealing element may at least partially fill or may completely fill the recess in the partition.

[0042] The support element and the partition can be made of different materials. The support element and the partition usually differ from each other in at least one material property. The support element and the partition can also be made of the same material.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, the support element may be formed separately from the partition and made from a different material blank than the partition. Independent manufacturing options increase the design freedom of both components.

[0044] In some embodiments, the support element can be made of metal, such as titanium or stainless steel. Since the strength of metal is significantly higher than the plastic used to seal the electrolyzer, a higher pressure can be applied to the sealing element. The separator can be at least mainly or completely made of metal, such as titanium or stainless steel. Other materials, such as alloys, are also possible, and the present invention is not limited to a specific separator material.

[0045] According to a second aspect of the invention, an arrangement of an electrochemical system is proposed. The arrangement comprises a bipolar plate of the above-described type, a first plastic cell frame and / or a membrane electrode assembly and / or a second plastic cell frame. The support element according to the invention is arranged between the first plastic cell frame and the separator and / or between the membrane electrode assembly and the separator and / or between the second plastic cell frame and the separator.

[0046] Preferably, the individual elements of the arrangement are layered in the following order: bipolar plate, first plastic cell frame, membrane electrode assembly and second plastic cell frame.

[0047] In one embodiment, the support element can be designed to support the first plastic cell frame and / or the membrane electrode assembly and / or the second plastic cell frame, in particular in the region of the fluid guiding structure.

[0048] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an electrochemical system is provided, which comprises a plurality of stacked bipolar plates of the above type and / or a plurality of stacked arrangements of the above type.

[0049] For example, the electrochemical system may be an electrolyzer. However, the present invention is not limited to an electrolyzer. Alternatively, the electrochemical system may also be a fuel cell monomer system.

[0050] In one embodiment where the electrochemical system is an electrolyzer, water is the reaction medium and hydrogen and oxygen are the production medium. In a fuel cell monomer system, hydrogen and oxygen are typically the reaction medium and water is the production medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Examples of embodiments of bipolar plates, arrangements and electrochemical systems are shown in the accompanying drawings and explained in more detail in the description below. In the drawings:

[0052] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a portion of a bipolar plate according to the prior art;

[0053] Figure 2 Shown with Figure 1 A perspective view of the electrochemical arrangement of the bipolar plates and the battery cell frame shown in FIG.

[0054] Figure 3The electrochemical system is shown in the uncompressed state with Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical system of a bipolar plate;

[0055] Figure 4 shows the compressed state of the electrochemical system according to Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical system;

[0056] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a bipolar plate according to one embodiment;

[0057] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a method for producing a rotatable vehicle according to the invention is shown with a supporting element. Figure 5 A three-dimensional diagram of a bipolar plate;

[0058] Figure 7 Shown with Figure 6 A perspective view of the electrochemical arrangement of the bipolar plates and the battery cell frame;

[0059] Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of an electrochemical cell according to one embodiment;

[0060] Figure 9-Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of an electrochemical cell according to another embodiment;

[0061] Here and hereinafter, features which occur repeatedly in different figures are in each case denoted by the same or similar reference symbols. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of a bipolar plate 1 according to the prior art is shown, which may be part of an electrochemical system. Figure 1-Figure 14 In particular, it relates to the use of a bipolar plate 1 in an electrolyzer. For example, an electrolyzer produces hydrogen and oxygen from water by applying an electric potential, and at least one of the produced gases can be compressed simultaneously. However, the present invention is not limited to use in an electrolyzer. Instead, the electrochemical system can be a fuel cell monomer system, an electrochemical compressor, a redox flow battery or an electrolyzer. The bipolar plate 1 includes a separator 2. The separator 2 is generally designed as a single layer, in particular a single sheet metal layer, and includes a through opening 3 as an inlet or outlet for a fluid and a fluid guiding structure 4 for guiding the fluid. The fluid guiding structure 4 is arranged at the through opening 3, not closely adjacent here but at a certain distance from the through opening, and the fluid guiding structure 4 has several protrusions 5. In the example shown, a single passage 6 is formed between two adjacent protrusions 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4. The fluid guiding structure 4 is used to guide the flow of a fluid. In the case of an electrolyzer, the fluid can be water, hydrogen and / or oxygen in particular.

[0063] Furthermore, the partition wall 2 comprises a flange arrangement 10 which partially surrounds the through-opening 3, whereby the flange arrangement 10 can also at least partially surround further through-openings, such as Figure 1 The separator 2 also includes a flow field 20 with an electrochemically active area. The fluid guiding structure 4 is arranged between the flow field 20 and the through opening 3 in the flow direction of the fluid, so that the fluid can flow from the through opening 3 to the flow field 20 through the fluid guiding structure 4, or vice versa.

[0064] In the example shown, the protrusions 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 are parallel to each other and have the same length. The flow field 20 adjoins the fluid guiding structure 4, whereby a region of the diaphragm 2 without convex pressure generally extends between the flow field 20 and the fluid guiding structure 4. This region without convex pressure generally has a length measured in the direction of flow of the fluid that is significantly shorter than the length of the passage 6 or the protrusion 5 measured in the direction of flow of the fluid.

[0065] The flow field 20 has a channel structure for guiding the reaction medium or product medium along the partition 2. The channel structure of the flow field 20 is usually, but not necessarily, designed as parallel protrusions, and the length of these protrusions in the flow direction of the fluid is usually greater than the length of the protrusions 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4.

[0066] The ridge top of the ridge arrangement 10, the protrusion 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 and the channel structure of the flow field 20 can be aligned in the same direction, preferably perpendicular to the partition plane E, and formed into the partition 2, for example by embossing of the partition 2, such as by rolling embossing, hydraulic forming and / or deep drawing. In this document, unless otherwise specified, the term "embossing" is intended to cover all these production methods. The ridge top of the ridge structure 10, the protrusion 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 and the channel structure of the flow field 20 are an integral part of the partition 2 formed by embossing. The partition plane E is an extended surface without embossing.

[0067] The fluid guiding structure 4 adjoins the edge surrounding the through-opening 3. The through-opening 3 can usually be completely enclosed by the fluid guiding structure 4 and the rim arrangement 10.

[0068] As Figure 1 As an alternative to the shape of the protrusions 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 shown in , the protrusions 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 may have an angle opening outwards—ie in the direction of the flow field 20 —allowing the fluid to be distributed or collected from the through-opening 3 through the fluid guiding structure 4 to the flow field 20 .

[0069] On the side of the partition 2 opposite to the fluid guiding structure 4, as Figure 1The bipolar plate 1 shown in the figure comprises a first sealing element 40 for sealing the through-opening 3. The first sealing element 40 can be designed as an elastomeric seal, an elastomeric bead or a coating. Preferably, the first sealing element 40 can completely run around the through-opening 3. The bead arrangement 10 forms a seat for the first sealing element 40 on the side of the separator 2 facing away from the fluid guiding structure 4. In particular, the seat can be designed as a channel-shaped seat, thereby at least partially accommodating the first sealing element 40. In this case, the size of the seat of the bead arrangement 10 can basically correspond to the size of the first sealing element 40.

[0070] In addition to the first sealing element 40, the bipolar plate 1 typically includes a second sealing element 42, which is arranged on the side of the separator 2 facing away from the first sealing element 40. The second sealing element 42 can also be configured as an elastomeric seal, an elastomeric flange or a coating. Typically, the second sealing element 42 is designed to seal at least some areas of the flow field 20 and / or the through opening 3. In the example shown, the second sealing element 42 is parallel to the flange arrangement 10 and runs along the flange arrangement 10, and the distance from the through opening 3 is greater than the distance from the flange arrangement 10. The second sealing element 42 is preferably placed against the flange wall of the flange arrangement 10.

[0071] Figure 2 Shown with Figure 1 1 and a cell frame 45 , wherein the cell frame 45 rests in particular on the projection 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 , the lip arrangement 10 and the sealing element 42 .

[0072] The top of the flange of the flange arrangement 10 thus forms a contact surface for the battery cell frame 45. In order to improve its sealing function, the flange arrangement 10 can also have a coating on its flange top. The battery cell frame 45 serves on the one hand to seal the bipolar plate 1 and on the other hand for electrical insulation. For this reason, the battery cell frame 45 is usually made of electrically insulating plastic and can therefore be called a plastic battery cell frame. In the example shown, the battery cell frame 45 spans the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4.

[0073] Figure 3 The electrochemical system 100 is shown in an uncompressed state with a Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical system 100 having a bipolar plate 1 and two stacked arrangements 60 , Figure 3 The two arrangements 60 of each typically have identical components.

[0074] according to Figure 3 The arrangement of 60 and according to Figure 2 The arrangement 60 of FIG. 5 only differs in that it additionally includes a membrane electrode assembly 50 and a second cell frame 55 . Figure 3 The positions of the cross sections given in correspond to Figure 2 The cross section is indicated by the arrow.

[0075] and Figure 2 4 , the second cell frame 55 can be used for sealing and electrical insulation and is therefore usually made of the same material as the first cell frame 45. The two cell frames 45, 55 can extend along the outer edge of the bipolar plate 1. The first cell frame 45 and / or the second cell frame 55 can have recesses in the region of the through openings 3 and the flow fields 20, so that the fluid or medium can flow through these recesses.

[0076] The actual electrochemical reaction takes place in the electrochemically active region of the flow field 20 at the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 50. In the region of the flow field 20, a porous transport layer (PTL) and / or a gas diffusion layer (GDL) may be arranged between the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 50 and the flow field 20, which facilitates the transport of the fluid / medium toward or away from the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 50. The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) 50 is generally of flexible design and is clamped between two battery cell frames 45 and 55.

[0077] In the example shown, the membrane electrode assembly 50 rests directly on the first cell frame 45, and the second cell frame 55 rests directly on the membrane electrode assembly 50. However, the second cell frame 55 on the other side of the MEA 50 may also face the sealing element 40.

[0078] according to Figure 3 The bipolar plates 1 and the arrangement 60 form a stacked electrochemical cell of the electrochemical system 100 , wherein the arrangement 60 forms a stacked repeating unit and can be defined by the sequence of elements 40 , 2 , 45 , 50 , 55 . An electrochemical cell is defined by two adjacent bipolar plates 1 .

[0079] exist Figure 3 The electrochemical system 100 is shown in the uncompressed state. Before the electrochemical system 100 is put into operation, the individual layers 2, 45, 50, 55 are pressed together as tightly as possible.

[0080] In an electrolyzer, the pressure difference between the surrounding environment and the interior of the electrochemical cell may exceed 20 bar. For example, the pressure on the production side, such as the H2 side, may be up to 40 bar, while the pressure on the reactant side, such as the H2O side, may be only up to 2 bar. Therefore, it is important to seal the flow field 20 from the environment and the interior of the electrochemical system 100. However, if Figure 3 Such an electrochemical system 100 shown in FIG. 1 typically has sealing problems.

[0081] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical system 100, whereby Figure 4 The electrochemical system in has been pressed in the stacking direction, ie perpendicularly to the individual layers 2, 45, 50, 55. The pressing direction is determined by Figure 4 As indicated by the arrow in .

[0082] It can be seen that the layers 45, 50 and 55 are not uniformly compressed or deformed in the area of ​​the fluid guiding structure 4, which can lead to sealing problems. This is because the first cell frame 45, the membrane electrode assembly 50 and the second cell frame 55 span the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4 and are not supported by the bipolar plate 1 in this area. Due to the lack of strength and / or rigidity, the first cell frame 45 cannot transmit sufficient pressure or compression to the membrane electrode assembly 50 and the second cell frame 55 in this area. On the other hand, in the case of a single-layer bipolar plate 1, the area of ​​the fluid guiding structure 4 must be crossed, because the anode side and the cathode side of the bipolar plate 1 are made of one sheet, that is, they are placed uniformly on top of each other during "stacking" or assembly. At the point where the first cell frame 45, the membrane electrode assembly 50 and the second cell frame 55 travel above the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4, deformation in the direction of the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4 therefore occurs. The deformation causes the first sealing element 40 to lose pressure. If a medium is introduced into the through opening 3 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ), the medium can then leave at the first cell frame 45. Pressure loss may lead to leakage, which may disrupt the operation of the electrochemical system 100 or even cause electrochemical system failure. Even if the sealing is not impaired by local sagging of the layer, the flow cross section of the passage 6 is reduced, which has a negative impact on the flow behavior of the fluid.

[0083] Therefore, the present invention is designed to at least partially reduce or eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art. Figures 5 to 14 Shown in.

[0084] Figure 5 and Figure 6 A perspective view of a separator 2 of a bipolar plate 1 according to an embodiment is shown, which prevents or at least reduces the pressure loss or fluid loss.

[0085] Figure 6 Shown with Figure 5 The partition 2 is the same partition as above, with an additional supporting element 30.

[0086] By means of the support element 30, in the region of the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4, pressure can be transferred to the layers 45, 50, 55 to be applied to the support element 30 without deformation or sagging of the layers 45, 50, 55. Thus, a stronger mechanical support is achieved for the layers 45, 50, 55 in the region of the fluid guiding structure 4.

[0087] The support element 30 is arranged on the fluid guiding structure 4 as a counterpart and abutment to the opposing layers 45, 50, 55. In the embodiment shown, the support element 30 rests on and is supported on the protrusions 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4, which all have the same height. Furthermore, the support element 30 is substantially plate-shaped and flat, so that the fluid guiding structure 4 is completely covered by the support element 30. The through-opening 3 is completely enclosed by the support element 30 and the rim arrangement 10.

[0088] In order to keep the bipolar plate 1 as thin as possible, the thickness of the support element 30 is at most 70%, preferably at most 30%, of the thickness of the separator 2. This allows for a smaller cell height. For this purpose, the support element 30 is preferably designed as a separate component from the separator 2.

[0089] Preferably, the support element 30 consists of a layer of rigid metal sheet material, for example titanium or stainless steel or a metal alloy. Metals are generally harder and / or stronger than the plastics of the layers 45, 50, 55 used to seal the electrolyser. For example, the support element 30 may have an elastic modulus of at least 10 GPa in a direction perpendicular to the diaphragm plane E. The diaphragm 2 or its plate body may be formed at least predominantly or completely of the same or different material as the support element 30.

[0090] The support element 30 is firmly connected to the partition 2. The connection can be a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or material-jointed connection. A material-jointed connection particularly means that the support element 30 and the partition 2 are welded together at at least one point on the support element 30, for example by means of spot welding, friction welding, rolling welding, ultrasonic welding, electrode welding, resistance welding or laser welding. Furthermore, the connection can be realized by clamping, embossing, overmolding, flanging or gluing. Exemplary types of connections of the support element 30 to the partition 2 are described later in Figures 8 to 14 Shown and discussed in.

[0091] according to Figure 5 The bipolar plate 1 is based on Figure 1 The bipolar plate 1 is further different in that, according to Figure 5 The lip arrangement 10 has a lowered area 11 , and the lowered area 11 of the lip arrangement 10 is adjacent to the fluid guiding structure 4 .

[0092] The lowered area 11 of the lip arrangement 10 means in particular that the maximum height of the lowered area 11 of the lip arrangement 10 is less than the maximum height of the lip arrangement 10 outside the lowered area 11. At the same time, in the region of the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4, the lowered area is higher than the partition 2. Here, the lowered area 11 has the same height as the protrusion 5.

[0093] It should be noted that although all Figures 5 to 14 A lowered area 11 is shown, but the chime arrangement 10 need not have a lowered area 11 as long as the thickness of the support element 30 is at most 70%, preferably at most 30%, of the thickness of the diaphragm 2. Figures 5 to 14 A smaller thickness of the support element 30 compared to the diaphragm 2 is shown, but the support element 30 does not necessarily have to have a smaller thickness than that required for the diaphragm 2 , as long as the lowered region 11 can compensate for the thickness of the support element 30 .

[0094] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the first end 31 of the support element 30 is arranged on the lowered region 11 of the flange arrangement 10 (see Figure 5 ). The support element 30 generally has a thickness corresponding to the height difference between the ridge arrangement 10 and the protrusion 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4. In other words, the thickness of the support element 30 is height H2-height H1 (see Figure 8 ). This prevents or better compensates for height differences.

[0095] In some embodiments, the maximum height H1 of the protrusions 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 may be smaller than the maximum height H2 of the ridge arrangement 10 (see Figure 8 Additionally or alternatively, the maximum height H2 of the lip arrangement 10 may be greater than the maximum height H3 of the lowered region 11 of the lip arrangement 10 (see Figure 8 Furthermore, the maximum height H3 of the lowered area 11 of the lip arrangement 10 may be substantially the same as the maximum height H1 of the protrusion 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 (see Figure 8 ). The corresponding height is measured perpendicular to the partition plane E.

[0096] In addition to the shown lowered area 11, the chime arrangement 10 may also include a second lowered area 12, which may have the same or similar properties as the first lowered area 11 of the chime arrangement 10. Figures 8 to 14 Such a second lowered region 12 of a lip arrangement 10 is shown as an example in FIG.

[0097] Preferably, the support element 30 is firmly connected to the partition 2 in the first lowered area 11 and / or the second lowered area 12 of the lip arrangement 10. On the one hand, there is sufficient space for the connection, in particular compared to the adjacent fluid guiding structure 4. On the other hand, the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4 is not impaired by such a connection.

[0098] Figure 7 Shows that according to Figure 6 1 and a perspective view of an electrochemical arrangement 60 of a bipolar plate 1 and a battery cell frame 45 .

[0099] Figure 7 The battery cell frame 45 shown in FIG. 4 can be connected to the battery cell frame 45 in itself. Figure 2 The battery cell frame 45 shown in FIG. is the same. The difference is that according to Figure 7 The battery cell frame 45 is placed on the support element 30, and according to Figure 2 The cell frame 45 rests directly on the fluid guiding structure 4. Due to the support elements 30 for bridging the passages 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4, the cell frame 45 no longer exhibits any deformation in the region of the passages 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4 in the pressed state.

[0100] Due to the fixed connection to the separator 2 , the support element 30 can be subjected to tensile loads at both ends of the support element 30 when loaded perpendicularly to the separator plane E, in particular in a compressed state of the electrochemical system 100 or the electrolyzer.

[0101] Figures 8 to 14 Each shows a cross-sectional view of an electrochemical system 100 according to different exemplary embodiments, wherein the connection between the support element 30 and the separator 2 is designed differently. Figure 8-Figure 14 Only one electrochemical cell of the electrochemical system 100 is shown. Of course, the electrochemical system 100 may have a large number of such cells. Figures 8 to 14 Each electrochemical cell 100 includes two bipolar plates 1 separated by a first cell frame 45, a membrane electrode assembly 50, and a second cell frame 55. Figures 8 to 14 The electrochemical arrangement 60 comprises a corresponding bipolar plate 1, a first cell frame 45 arranged directly on the support element 30 of the bipolar plate 1, a membrane electrode assembly 50 arranged directly on the first cell frame 45, and a second cell frame 55 arranged directly on the membrane electrode assembly 50. Figures 8 to 14 The support element 30 is configured to support the first cell frame 45 and / or the membrane electrode assembly 50 and / or the second cell frame 55 .

[0102] Similar to Figure 5-Figure 7 ,according to Figure 8The chime arrangement 10 of the bipolar plate 1 has a first lowered area 11 and a second lowered area 12. The first lowered area 11 and / or the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10 can be produced in the same embossing step as the channel structure of the flow region 20, the protrusion 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4 and the rest of the chime arrangement 10. The first end 31 of the support element 30 is arranged on the first lowered area 11 of the chime arrangement 10, and the second end 32 of the support element 30 is arranged on the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10, wherein the first lowered area 11 and the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10 are adjacent to the fluid guiding structure 4.

[0103] and Figure 5-Figure 7 Similarly, in particular the first lowered area 11 shown there, Figure 8 , the maximum height H2 of the chime arrangement 10 is greater than the maximum height H4 of the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10. Furthermore, the maximum height H4 of the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10 is substantially the same as the maximum height H1 of the protrusion 5 of the fluid guiding structure 4. The respective heights are measured perpendicular to the partition plane E. Furthermore, the thickness of the support element 30 may be equal to the height difference between the maximum height H2 of the chime arrangement 10 and the maximum height H4 of the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10.

[0104] The support element 30 may be securely connected to the diaphragm 2 in the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10. For example, a welding point 39 or welding line may be arranged at the first end 31 of the support element 30, and another welding point 39 or welding line may be arranged at the second end 32 of the support element 30. Alternatively, the support element 30 and the first lowered area 11 and the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10 may be securely connected to the diaphragm 2 by means of an adhesive.

[0105] according to Fig. 9 The electrochemical cell 100 is provided with Figure 8 The electrochemical cell 100 is similar to and is similar to the electrochemical cell 100 according to Figure 8 The electrochemical cell 100 is different in that, according to Fig. 9 The supporting element 30 is connected to the partition plate 2 in a frictionally engaging and / or form-fitting manner.

[0106] To this end, the first lowered area 11 and the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10 may each have a textured surface, such as a sawtooth surface, while the first end 31 and the second end 32 of the support element 30 each have a corresponding textured surface, such as a sawtooth surface. The two belt structure surfaces are typically formed in such a way that, for example, the shapes are complementary to each other so that they can interlock to form a connection.

[0107] Fig.10A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical cell 100 according to a further exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0108] like Fig.10 The separator 2 shown in FIG. 1 has two recesses 15. A first of the recesses 15 is arranged in the first lowered area 11 of the chime arrangement 10, and a second of the recesses 15 is arranged in the second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10. The recesses 15 can be created, for example, by punching or cutting the separator 2.

[0109] The sealing element 40, in particular the protrusion or projection 41 formed integrally with the sealing element 40, engages with the recess 15, whereby the sealing element 40 is connected to the support element 30 and the partition 2. In the embodiment shown, the sealing element 40 completely fills the recess 15 of the partition 2.

[0110] When manufacturing the bipolar plate 1 , first the support element 30 and the separator 2 are placed on top of each other. Then, the edges 33 , 34 of the support element 30 are bent around the edges of the recess 15 .

[0111] Alternatively, the edges 33 , 34 of the support element 30 may also be previously angled away from the rest of the support element 30 , for example at an angle perpendicular to the partition plane E. When the support element 30 is mounted, the edges 33 , 34 are subsequently inserted into the recess 15 .

[0112] The liquid or pasty elastomeric compound is then injected into the back of the diaphragm 2. The elastomeric compound enters the recess 15 and bonds with the support element 30, in particular with its corresponding edges 33, 34. Once the elastomeric compound has hardened, the sealing element 40 is formed, which is bonded to the support element 30.

[0113] Fig.11 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical cell 100 according to a further exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0114] Fig.11 The electrochemical cell 100 shown in Fig.10 The electrochemical cell 100 shown in FIG. Fig.11 In the embodiment shown, the rim arrangement 10 and the support element 30 each have two recesses 15 .

[0115] The sealing element 40, or more precisely a bulge or protrusion 41 formed integrally with the sealing element 40, engages with the recess 15, whereby the sealing element 40 is connected to the support element 30 and the partition 2. The sealing element 40 fills the ridge arrangement 10 and the recess 15 of the support element 30 completely.

[0116] When manufacturing the bipolar plate 1, the support element 30 can be applied to the separator 2, thereby aligning the recess 15 of the separator 2 with the corresponding recess 16 of the support element 30. The liquid or pasty elastomer compound is then injected into the recess 15 from the rear of the separator 2. The elastomer compound completely fills the recess 15 and then dries. Once the elastomer compound has hardened, the sealing element 40 is formed, which is bonded to the support element 30.

[0117] Alternatively, the recesses 15 , 16 of the separator 2 and the supporting element 30 can be produced after the supporting element 30 has been applied to the separator 2 by simultaneously punching or cutting the separator 2 and the supporting element 30 placed thereon in a punching or cutting step.

[0118] Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical cell 100 according to a further exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0119] In this exemplary embodiment, in the region of connection to the support element 30 , the partition wall 2 has two embossments 35 , 36 which protrude from the surface of the first lowered region 11 and from the surface of the second lowered region 12 of the lip arrangement 10 .

[0120] In this embodiment, the support element 30 has two openings 37, 38, which are arranged adjacent to the two ends of the support element 30. The openings 37, 38 can be previously produced by punching or cutting the support element 30. The embossings 35, 36 are inserted into the openings 37, 38 and each form a positive connection, preferably also a force-fit connection.

[0121] Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical cell 100 according to a further exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0122] Fig.13 The electrochemical cell 100 shown in Fig.12 . In this embodiment, the first lowered area 11 of the chime arrangement 10 is divided into two parts. The first part is provided with a variable thickness, whereby the variable thickness gradually decreases towards the fluid guiding structure 4. The second part is provided with a constant thickness, and the second part is adjacent to the fluid guiding structure 4, and the constant thickness is equal to the thickness of the chime arrangement 10 outside the first lowered area 11 of the chime arrangement 10 compared to the first part. The support element 30 can now be mounted in a form-fitting manner on the edge created at the transition from the first part to the second part of the lowered area.

[0123] The second lowered area 12 of the chime arrangement 10 is also divided into two parts. The first part of the second lowered area 12 is provided with a variable thickness, which gradually decreases towards the fluid guiding structure 4. The second part of the second lowered area 12 has a constant thickness, and the second part is adjacent to the fluid guiding structure 4 compared to the first part of the second lowered area 12, and the constant thickness is equal to the thickness of the chime arrangement 10 outside the second lowered area 12 and the thickness of the first lowered area 11 of the chime arrangement 10.

[0124] When manufacturing according to Fig.13 When the bipolar plate 1 is formed, the first end 31 and the second end 32 of the support element 30 are pressed into the first part of the first lowered area 11 and the first part of the second lowered area 12 of the flange arrangement 10 in the direction of the passage 6 of the fluid guiding structure 4, respectively, so that the connection between the support element 30 and the separator 2 is formed respectively. After pressing, the first end 31 and the second end 32 of the support element 30 rest on the first part of the first lowered area 11 and the first part of the second lowered area 12 of the flange arrangement 10. In addition, the support element 30 and the separator 2 can be welded together at the position where the first part is adjacent to the second part.

[0125] Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of an electrochemical cell 100 according to a further exemplary embodiment is shown.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 14 , the separator 2 has two recesses 15 , which are produced, for example, by punching or cutting the separator 2 .

[0127] When manufacturing Fig.14 When the bipolar plate 1 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 2 , the support element 30 may first be applied to the separator 2. Then, the first end 31 of the support element 30 may be inserted into the first recess 15 along the separator 2, so that a portion of the support element 30 rests under the separator 2. Similarly, the second end 32 of the support element 30 may be inserted into the second recess 15 along the separator 2, so that another portion of the support element 30 rests under the separator 2.

[0128] exist Fig.14 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the sealing element 40 also engages with the recess 15 , so that the sealing element 40 is connected to the support element 30 and the partition 2 . However, here, the sealing element 40 only partially fills the recess 15 of the partition 2 .

[0129] After the recesses 15 have been cut, for example, the free end of the support element 30 can be inserted through these recesses so that the free end is placed under the collar 10. In the joint forming step, the region of the diaphragm 2 adjacent to the fluid guiding structure 4 and the region of the support element 30 resting on this region can be embossed so that the embossed region of the diaphragm 2 extends in a plane parallel to the plane E of the diaphragm, which plane is lower than the plane of the collar 10 opposite the corresponding recess 15.

[0130] Alternatively, the web 2 can be embossed underneath it before the support element 30 is passed through, so that the first and second lowered areas 11 , 12 arranged in a convex manner are created before the free end of the support element 30 is inserted.

[0131] Individual features of the bipolar plates and arrangements described above and shown in the figures may be claimed individually or in combination with one another, as long as the combinations of features do not contradict one another.

[0132] List of reference numerals:

[0133] 1 Bipolar Plate

[0134] 2 Partitions

[0135] 3 Through opening

[0136] 4 Fluid guiding structure

[0137] 5. Protrusion

[0138] 6 channels

[0139] 10. Convex edge arrangement

[0140] 11 First lowered area of ​​the flange arrangement 10

[0141] 12 Second lowered area of ​​the flange arrangement 10

[0142] 15 concavity

[0143] 16 recess

[0144] 20 Flow Field

[0145] 30 Support element

[0146] 31 First end of the support element 30

[0147] 32 Second end of the support element 30

[0148] 33,34 Edges of the support element 30

[0149] 35,36 Convex part of the partition

[0150] 37 First opening of the support element 30

[0151] 38 Second opening of the support element 30

[0152] 39 Spot welding

[0153] H1 Maximum height of protrusion 5

[0154] H2 Maximum height of convex edge arrangement 10

[0155] H3 Maximum height of the first lowering area 11

[0156] H4 Maximum height of the second lowered area 12

[0157] E Bulkhead plane

[0158] 40 First sealing element

[0159] 41 The projection or protrusion of the first sealing element 40

[0160] 42 Second sealing element

[0161] 45 The first plastic battery cell frame

[0162] 50 membrane electrode assembly

[0163] 55 Second plastic battery cell frame

[0164] 60 Electrochemical Arrangement

[0165] 100 Electrochemical Systems

Claims

1. A bipolar plate (1) for an electrochemical system (100), in particular for an electrolyzer, comprising a separator (2), wherein the separator (2) comprises: a through opening (3) which serves as an inlet or outlet for a fluid, a fluid guiding structure (4) for guiding the fluid, the fluid guiding structure (4) being arranged at the through opening (3) and having a plurality of protrusions (5), at least one passage (6) for guiding the fluid along the partition (2) being formed between the plurality of protrusions (5), a flange arrangement (10) which partially surrounds the through-opening (3), and A flow field (20) with an electrochemically active area, the fluid guiding structure (4) being arranged between the flow field (20) and the through opening (3) in the direction of flow of the fluid, so that the fluid can flow from the through opening (3) through the fluid guiding structure (4) to the flow field (20), or vice versa, The bipolar plate (1) further comprises a support element (30) for bridging the fluid guiding structure (4), wherein the support element (30) is firmly connected to the separator (2), The thickness of the support element (30) is at most 70%, preferably at most 30%, of the thickness of the partition (2).

2. A bipolar plate (1) for an electrochemical system (100), in particular for an electrolyzer, comprising a separator (2), wherein the separator (2) comprises: a through opening (3) which serves as an inlet or outlet for a fluid, a fluid guiding structure (4) for guiding the fluid, the fluid guiding structure (4) being arranged at the through opening (3) and having a plurality of protrusions (5), at least one passage (6) for guiding the fluid along the partition (2) being formed between the plurality of protrusions (5), a flange arrangement (10) which partially surrounds the through-opening (3), and A flow field (20) with an electrochemically active area, the fluid guiding structure (4) being arranged between the flow field (20) and the through opening (3) in the direction of flow of the fluid, so that the fluid can flow from the through opening (3) through the fluid guiding structure (4) to the flow field (20), or vice versa, The bipolar plate (1) further comprises a support element (30) for bridging the fluid guiding structure (4), wherein the support element (30) is firmly connected to the separator (2), The flange arrangement (10) comprises a first lowered area (11), and the first end (31) of the supporting element (30) is arranged on the first lowered area (11), and / or the flange arrangement (10) comprises a second lowered area (12), and the second end (32) of the supporting element (30) is arranged on the second lowered area (12), wherein the first lowered area (11) and / or the second lowered area (12) are adjacent to the fluid guiding structure (4).

3. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The support element (30) rests on a projection (5) of the fluid guiding structure (4).

4. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The support element (30) is designed in the form of a cover plate and at least partially, preferably completely, covers the fluid-conducting structure (4).

5. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The support element (30) is connected to the partition (2) in a form-fitting, force-fitting, and / or materially bonded manner, preferably welded.

6. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The maximum height (H1) of the protrusion (5) of the fluid guiding structure (4) is smaller than the maximum height (H2) of the lip arrangement (10), wherein the heights (H1, H2) are measured perpendicularly to the partition plane (E).

7. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The maximum height (H2) of the flange arrangement (10) is greater than the maximum height (H3) of the first lowered area (11) and / or the maximum height (H4) of the second lowered area (12), wherein the maximum height (H3) of the first lowered area (11) and / or the maximum height (H4) of the second lowered area (12) of the flange arrangement (10) is equal to the maximum height (H1) of the protrusion (5), and wherein the respective heights (H1, H2, H3, H4) are measured perpendicular to the partition plane (E).

8. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that In the first lowered region (11) and / or the second lowered region (12) of the lip arrangement (10), the support element (30) is firmly connected to the partition (2).

9. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that When loaded perpendicularly to the diaphragm plane (E), the support element (30) is loaded in tension at its two ends (31, 32) by virtue of the firm connection to the diaphragm (2).

10. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The fluid guiding structure (4) and / or the lip arrangement (10) are molded into the partition (2).

11. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The fluid guiding structure (4) is adjacent to the through-opening (3), and the through-opening (3) is enclosed by the fluid guiding structure (4) and the lip arrangement (10), and / or wherein the flow field (20) is spaced apart from the fluid guiding structure (4).

12. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The bipolar plate (1) comprises a sealing element (40) for sealing the through opening (3), wherein the sealing element (40) is formed as an elastomeric seal and is arranged opposite to the support element (30) on a side of the partition (2) facing away from the support element (30), and wherein the flange arrangement (10) forms a seat for the sealing element (40) on a side of the partition (2) facing away from the support element (30).

13. The bipolar plate (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The partition (2) has a recess (15), and the sealing element (40) engages in the recess (15), so that the sealing element (40) is connected to the support element (30) and the partition (2).

14. The bipolar plate (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The sealing element (40) at least partially or completely fills the recess (15) of the partition (2).

15. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The supporting element (30) and the partition (2) are made of different materials and / or the supporting element (30) is formed separately from the partition (2).

16. The bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The support element (30) has an elastic modulus of at least 10 GPa in a direction perpendicular to the partition plane (E).

17. The bipolar plate (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The support element (30) is made of metal, such as titanium or stainless steel, and / or the partition (2) is at least predominantly or completely made of metal, such as titanium or stainless steel.

18. An arrangement (60) for an electrochemical system (100), the arrangement (60) comprising a bipolar plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arrangement (60) comprises a first battery cell frame (45) and / or a membrane electrode unit (50) and / or a second battery cell frame (55), and wherein the supporting element (30) is arranged between the first battery cell frame (45) and the separator (2) and / or between the membrane electrode unit (50) and the separator (2) and / or between the second battery cell frame (55) and the separator (2).

19. Arrangement (60) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The supporting element (30) is configured to support the first plastic battery cell frame (45) and / or the membrane electrode unit (50) and / or the second plastic battery cell frame (55).

20. An electrochemical system (100) comprising a plurality of stacked bipolar plates (1) according to any one of claims 1-17 and / or a plurality of stacked arrangements (60) according to any one of claims 18-19.

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