Flow-type metal-air battery cell and flow-type metal-air battery stack

Abstract

Provided are a flow-type metal-air battery cell and a flow-type metal-air battery stack with which deposition of negative electrode active material particles can be suppressed. The liquid flow type metal-air battery cell includes: a negative electrode flow path layer in which an inlet, a first flow path, a negative electrode chamber, a second flow path, and an outlet are formed, the negative electrode flow path layer being capable of guiding a slurry containing active material particles and an electrolyte solution to the outlet through the first flow path, the negative electrode chamber, and the second flow path in this order from the inlet, the negative electrode chamber is provided with an inlet and an outlet, the inlet is connected with the first flow path, and the outlet is connected with the second flow path; and a negative electrode having a negative electrode surface disposed below the negative electrode chamber in the vertical direction, the negative electrode surface and a first lower surface disposed below the first flow path in the vertical direction, the negative electrode surface and a second lower surface disposed below the second flow path in the vertical direction, the negative electrode surface and the first lower surface being disposed along a first same plane at the inlet, and the negative electrode surface and the second lower surface being disposed along a second same plane at the inlet. And the outlet is arranged along a second same plane.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a liquid flow type metal-air battery cell and a liquid flow type metal-air battery stack. BACKGROUND

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2015-215948 discloses a redox flow battery. In the redox flow battery, a negative electrode chamber, an inflow flow path, and an outflow flow path are formed in a battery stack. A negative electrode electrolyte flows from the inflow flow path into the negative electrode chamber and flows from the negative electrode chamber to the outflow flow path.

[0003] The surface of the bipolar plate constitutes a wall surface of the negative electrode chamber. The wall surface of the negative electrode chamber forms a step with the wall surface of the inflow flow path. The wall surface of the negative electrode chamber forms a step with the wall surface of the outflow flow path (paragraphs 0021-0022, 0024-0027, and Figure 2 ). SUMMARY

[0004] The negative electrode liquid possessed by the liquid flow type metal-air battery contains negative electrode active material particles and an electrolyte and has a shape of a slurry.

[0005] If the liquid flow type metal-air battery adopts the same structure as the redox flow battery disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2015-215948, the negative electrode active material particles are likely to be accumulated at the step formed by the wall surface of the negative electrode chamber. This problem is particularly significant when the wall surface of the negative electrode chamber forms a step downward in the vertical direction.

[0006] One embodiment of the present disclosure is achieved in view of this problem. One embodiment of the present disclosure aims to provide, for example, a liquid flow type metal-air battery cell and a liquid flow type metal-air battery stack that can suppress accumulation of negative electrode active material particles.

[0007] The liquid flow type metal-air battery cell of the first embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a negative electrode flow path layer in which a flow inlet, a first flow path, a negative electrode chamber, a second flow path, and a flow outlet are formed, a slurry containing active material particles and an electrolyte being guided to the flow outlet from the flow inlet via the first flow path, the negative electrode chamber, and the second flow path in this order, the negative electrode chamber having an inlet connected to the first flow path and an outlet connected to the second flow path; and a negative electrode having a negative electrode surface disposed below in the vertical direction of the negative electrode chamber, the negative electrode surface and a first lower surface disposed below in the vertical direction of the first flow path being disposed along a first same plane at the inlet, the negative electrode surface and a second lower surface disposed below in the vertical direction of the second flow path being disposed along a second same plane at the outlet.

[0008] The liquid flow metal-air battery stack of the second aspect of the present disclosure includes the liquid flow metal-air battery cell of the first aspect of the present disclosure, and an adjacent liquid flow metal-air battery cell adjacent to the liquid flow metal-air battery cell, the adjacent liquid flow metal-air battery cell including a positive electrode adjacent to the negative electrode, the seal portion for blocking a flow path of the slurry extending from the negative electrode surface to the positive electrode. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating a liquid flow metal-air battery of a first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 FIG. 2 is an enlarged sectional view schematically illustrating a negative electrode liquid included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view schematically illustrating a positive electrode liquid included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 FIG. 4 is a sectional view schematically illustrating a charging stack, the positive electrode liquid, and the negative electrode liquid included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a frame member, a seal portion, a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a positive electrode included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a frame member, a seal portion, a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a positive electrode included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a negative electrode and a negative electrode flow path layer included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 FIG. 8 is an enlarged sectional view schematically illustrating a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a first seal portion included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 FIG. 9 is a sectional view schematically illustrating a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a second seal portion included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10 FIG. 10 is an enlarged sectional view schematically illustrating a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a first seal portion included in the liquid flow metal-air battery of the first modification of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 11 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the negative electrode, negative electrode flow path layer, and second sealing portion of a flow-type metal-air battery according to a first variation of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the discharge unit and negative electrode liquid of the discharge stack of the flow metal-air battery according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the charging stack, positive electrode liquid, and negative electrode liquid of the flow-type metal-air battery according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the insulating component, sealing portion, negative electrode, sealing portion, and negative electrode flow path layer of the flow-type metal-air battery according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 15 This is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating the insulating component, sealing portion, negative electrode, sealing portion, and negative electrode flow path layer of the flow-type metal-air battery according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of the discharge unit of the flow-type metal-air battery of the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same or equivalent elements will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0026] 1 First Implementation Method 1.1 Flow-type metal-air battery Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the flow-type metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0027] like Figure 1 The flow-type metal-air battery 1 shown in the first embodiment absorbs oxygen OG1 from the surrounding air during discharge. During charging, it releases oxygen OG2 into the surrounding air.

[0028] In the first embodiment, the flow-type metal-air battery 1 is a flow-type zinc-air battery. Therefore, the negative electrode active material in the flow-type metal-air battery 1 is a zinc species. However, the flow-type metal-air battery 1 can also be a flow-type metal-air battery other than a flow-type zinc-air battery. Therefore, the negative electrode active material in the flow-type metal-air battery 1 can also be a metal species other than a zinc species. The metal species other than a zinc species is, for example, a cadmium species, a lithium species, a sodium species, a magnesium species, a lead species, a tin species, an aluminum species, or an iron species. The metal constituting the metal species can be composed of only a metal as a main component, or can be composed of an alloy of a metal as a main component and a subcomponent. The metal species can be formed of either a metal or an oxide. Which of a metal and an oxide the metal species becomes is determined depending on the degree of progress of a discharge reaction or a charge reaction.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 1, the flow-type metal-air battery 1 includes a storage portion 11, a discharge portion 12, a charge portion 13, a negative electrode liquid 14, and a positive electrode liquid 15. Figure 1

[0030] 1.2 Discharge portion The oxygen OG1 contained in the air around the discharge portion 12 flows into the discharge portion 12. The negative electrode liquid 14 from the storage portion 11 flows into the discharge portion 12. The discharge portion 12 causes the oxygen OG1 and the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing in to participate in a discharge reaction that generates a discharge power, and causes the negative electrode liquid 14 after participating in the discharge reaction to flow out to the storage portion 11. The discharge portion 12 causes the negative electrode active material particles in a reduced state contained in the oxygen OG1 and the negative electrode liquid 14 to participate in the discharge reaction, oxidizes the negative electrode active material particles in the reduced state, and generates active material ions.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the discharge portion 12 includes a pipe 21, a pump 22, a pipe 23, a discharge stack 24, and a pipe 25. Figure 1

[0032] The pipe 21 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the flow outlet 11a of the storage portion 11 to the flow inlet 22a of the pump 22. Thereby, the pipe 21 causes the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing out from the flow outlet 11a to flow into the flow inlet 22a.

[0033] The pump 22 causes the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing into the flow inlet 22a of the pump 22 to flow out from the flow outlet 22b of the pump 22. The pump 22 generates a flow of the negative electrode liquid 14 at this time. Thereby, the pump 22 transports the negative electrode liquid 14 from the storage portion 11 to the discharge stack 24.

[0034] The pipe 23 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the flow outlet 22b of the pump 22 to the flow inlet 24a of the discharge stack 24. Thereby, the pipe 23 causes the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing out from the flow outlet 22b to flow into the flow inlet 24a.

[0035] ​​The discharge stack 24 causes the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing into the inlet 24a of the discharge stack 24 to flow out from the outlet 24b of the discharge stack 24. The discharge stack 24 draws in air from the periphery of the discharge section 12 through the intake port 24c of the discharge stack 24, absorbs the oxygen OG1 contained in the drawn-in air, and discharges the air after absorbing oxygen OG1 from the exhaust port 24d of the discharge stack 24. At this time, the discharge stack 24 causes the absorbed oxygen OG1 and the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing into the inlet 24a of the discharge stack 24 to participate in the discharge reaction, and causes the negative electrode liquid 14 after participating in the discharge reaction to flow out from the outlet 24b. The discharge stack 24 outputs discharge power generated by the discharge reaction.

[0036] Piping 25 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the outlet 24b of the discharge stack 24 to the inlet 11b of the storage section 11. Thus, piping 25 allows the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing out of the outlet 24b to flow into the inlet 11b.

[0037] 1.3 Charging Unit Negative electrode liquid 14 from storage unit 11 flows into charging unit 13. Charging unit 13 causes the incoming negative electrode liquid 14 to participate in a charging reaction for regenerating the negative electrode liquid 14, and then causes the negative electrode liquid 14, after participating in the charging reaction, to flow out to storage unit 11. Charging unit 13 causes the active material ions contained in the negative electrode liquid 14 to participate in the charging reaction, reducing the active material ions to generate reduced negative electrode active material particles and producing oxygen OG2. Charging unit 13 discharges the generated oxygen OG2 into the surrounding air.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the charging unit 13 includes piping 31, pump 32, piping 33, piping 34, pump 35, piping 36, power supply 37, charging pile 38, piping 39 and piping 40.

[0039] Piping 31 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the outlet 11c of the storage section 11 to the inlet 32a of the pump 32. Thus, piping 31 allows the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing out of the outlet 11c to flow into the inlet 32a.

[0040] Pump 32 causes the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing into the inlet 32a of pump 32 to flow out from the outlet 32b of pump 32. Pump 32 generates the flow of negative electrode liquid 14 at this time. Thus, pump 32 transports negative electrode liquid 14 from storage section 11 to charging pile 38.

[0041] Piping 33 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the outlet 32b of pump 32 to the inlet 38a of charging pile 38. Thus, piping 33 allows the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing from the outlet 32b to flow into the inlet 38a.

[0042] The pipe 34 guides the positive electrolyte 15 from a positive electrolyte 15 supply source to the inflow port 35a of the pump 35. Thus, the pipe 34 causes the positive electrolyte 15 flowing out from the positive electrolyte 15 supply source to flow into the inflow port 35a.

[0043] The pump 35 causes the positive electrolyte 15 flowing into the inflow port 35a of the pump 35 to flow out from the outflow port 35b of the pump 35. The pump 35 generates the flow of the positive electrolyte 15 at this time. Thus, the pump 35 transports the positive electrolyte 15 from the positive electrolyte 15 supply source to the charge stack 38.

[0044] The pipe 36 guides the positive electrolyte 15 from the outflow port 35b of the pump 35 to the inflow port 38c of the charge stack 38. Thus, the pipe 36 causes the positive electrolyte 15 flowing out from the outflow port 35b to flow into the inflow port 38c.

[0045] The power supply 37 inputs charge power to the charge stack 38.

[0046] The charge stack 38 causes the negative electrolyte 14 flowing into the inflow port 38a of the charge stack 38 to flow out from the outflow port 38b of the charge stack 38, and causes the positive electrolyte 15 flowing into the inflow port 38c of the charge stack 38 to flow out from the outflow port 38d of the charge stack 38. At this time, the charge stack 38 causes the flowing-in negative electrolyte 14 and the flowing-in positive electrolyte 15 to participate in a charge reaction caused by the charge power, causes the negative electrolyte 14 after participating in the charge reaction to flow out from the outflow port 38b, causes the positive electrolyte 15 after participating in the charge reaction to flow out from the outflow port 38d, and discharges oxygen OG2 generated by the charge reaction from the outflow port 38d.

[0047] The pipe 39 guides the negative electrolyte 14 from the outflow port 38b of the charge stack 38 to the inflow port lid of the storage portion 11. Thus, the pipe 39 causes the negative electrolyte 14 flowing out from the outflow port 38b to flow into the inflow port lid.

[0048] The pipe 40 guides the positive electrolyte 15 from the outflow port 38d of the charge stack 38 to the positive electrolyte 15 supply source. Thus, the pipe 40 causes the positive electrolyte 15 flowing out from the outflow port 38d to flow into the positive electrolyte 15 supply source.

[0049] 1.4 Negative electrolyte Figure 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the negative electrolyte possessed by the liquid flow type metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0050] As Figure 2 shown, the negative electrolyte 14 includes negative active material particles 51 in a reduced state, negative active material particles 52 in an oxidized state, active material ions 53, and an electrolyte 54. The negative active material particles 51 in the reduced state and the negative active material particles 52 in the oxidized state are solid negative active materials.

[0051] As described above, in the first embodiment, the flow-type metal-air battery 1 is a flow-type zinc-air battery. Therefore, the negative electrode active material particle 51 in the reduced state, the negative electrode active material particle 52 in the oxidized state, and the active material ion 53 are all zinc species. The negative electrode active material particle 51 in the reduced state is a metal zinc (Zn) particle. The negative electrode active material particle 52 in the oxidized state is a zinc oxide (ZnO) particle. The negative electrode active material particle 51 in the reduced state and the negative electrode active material particle 52 in the oxidized state are dispersed in the electrolyte 54. Therefore, the negative electrode liquid 14 is a slurry. The particle diameter of the negative electrode active material particle 51 in the reduced state is, for example, several μm. The particle diameter of the negative electrode active material particle 52 in the oxidized state is, for example, several tens to several hundreds of nm. The active material ion 53 is a zincate ion (Zn(OH)42 2- ). The active material ion 53 is dissolved in the electrolyte 54.

[0052] The electrolyte 54 is an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution. The electrolyte 54 can be an aqueous solution other than an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution, or an electrolyte other than an aqueous solution, but an aqueous solution having a high ionic conductivity is preferably used, and an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution is particularly preferable.

[0053] The active material ion 53 is a reactant of the charging reaction that occurs in the charging stack 38, and is a product of the discharging reaction that occurs in the discharging module. The negative electrode active material particle 51 in the reduced state is a product of the charging reaction that occurs in the charging stack 38, and is a reactant of the discharging reaction that occurs in the discharging module.

[0054] 1.5 Positive electrode liquid Figure 3 is an enlarged sectional view schematically illustrating a positive electrode liquid provided in the flow-type metal-air battery of the first embodiment.

[0055] As shown in Figure 3 , the positive electrode liquid 15 includes an electrolyte 61.

[0056] The electrolyte 61 is an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution. The electrolyte 61 can be an aqueous solution other than an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution, or an electrolyte other than an aqueous solution.

[0057] 1.6 Discharging reaction The negative electrode reaction represented by Formula (1) and Formula (2) occurs in the negative electrode of the discharging stack 24.

[0058] Zn + 4OH - → Zn(OH)42 2- + 2e - (1) Zn(OH)42 2- → ZnO + H2O + 2OH - (2) The positive electrode reaction represented by formula (3) occurs in the positive electrode of the discharge stack 24.

[0059] O 2 + 2H2O + 4e - → 4OH - (3) By the negative electrode reaction represented by formula (1) and formula (2) and the positive electrode reaction represented by formula (3), the discharge reaction represented by formula (4) occurs in the discharge stack 24.

[0060] 2Zn + O 2 → 2ZnO (4) 1.7 Discharge reaction The negative electrode reaction represented by formula (5) and formula (6) occurs in the negative electrode of the charge stack 38.

[0061] ZnO + H2O + 2OH - → Zn(OH)4 2- (5) Zn(OH)4 2- + 2e - → Zn + 4OH - (6) The positive electrode reaction represented by formula (7) occurs in the positive electrode of the charge stack 38.

[0062] 4OH - → O2+ 2H2O + 4e - (7) By the negative electrode reaction represented by formula (5) and formula (6) and the positive electrode reaction represented by formula (7), the charge reaction represented by formula (8) occurs in the charge stack 38.

[0063] 2ZnO → 2Zn + O 2 (8) 1.8 Charge stack Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a charge stack, a positive electrode liquid, and a negative electrode liquid that the liquid flow type metal-air battery of the first embodiment is provided with.

[0064] As Figure 4 illustrated, the charge stack 38 is provided with charge cells 71 and 72. The number of charge cells that the charge stack 38 is provided with can be increased or decreased from two.

[0065] 1.9 Charge cell Figure 5 and Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a frame member, a seal portion, a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a positive electrode that the liquid flow type metal-air battery of the first embodiment is provided with.

[0066] As Figures 4 to 6As shown, each charging unit 81 included in the charging units 71 and 72 is provided with a frame member 91, a sealing portion 92, a negative electrode 93, a negative electrode flow path layer 94, a sealing portion 95, a separator 101, a sealing portion 111, a positive electrode flow path layer 112, a sealing portion 113, and a positive electrode 114.

[0067] The frame member 91, the sealing portion 92, the negative electrode 93, the negative electrode flow path layer 94, the sealing portion 95, the separator 101, the sealing portion 111, the positive electrode flow path layer 112, the sealing portion 113, and the positive electrode 114 are stacked in the order described above from the lower side in the vertical direction to the upper side in the vertical direction.

[0068] The frame member 91 has a frame shape. An opening 91a is formed in the frame member 91. The opening 91a penetrates the frame member 91 in the thickness direction of the frame member 91. The opening 91a has a planar shape smaller than the planar shape of the negative electrode 93 and has a planar shape larger than the planar shape of the positive electrode 114. The negative electrode 93 cannot enter the opening 91a, and the positive electrode 114 can enter the opening 91a.

[0069] Holes 91p and 91q are formed in the frame member 91. The holes 91p and 91q penetrate the frame member 91 in the thickness direction of the frame member 91.

[0070] The frame member 91 is composed of an insulator.

[0071] The sealing portion 92 has a frame shape. An opening 92a is formed in the sealing portion 92. The opening 92a penetrates the sealing portion 92 in the thickness direction of the sealing portion 92. The opening 92a has a planar shape smaller than the planar shape of the negative electrode 93 and has a planar shape larger than the planar shape of the positive electrode 114. The negative electrode 93 can enter the opening 92a, and the positive electrode 114 can enter the opening 92a.

[0072] Holes 92p and 92q are formed in the sealing portion 92. The holes 92p and 92q penetrate the sealing portion 92 in the thickness direction of the sealing portion 92.

[0073] The planar shape of the sealing portion 92 is the same as the planar shape of the frame member 91.

[0074] The sealing portion 92 is sandwiched between the frame member 91 and the complex of the negative electrode 93 and the negative electrode flow path layer 94. The sealing portion 92 has a sheet shape. The sealing portion 92 is composed of an elastomer such as rubber. The sealing portion 92 seals between the frame member 91 and the complex of the negative electrode 93 and the negative electrode flow path layer 94.

[0075] The sealing portion 92 is composed of an insulator.

[0076] The negative electrode 93 has a plate shape. The negative electrode 93 has a negative electrode face 93i and a back face 93j. The negative electrode face 93i and the back face 93j are main faces located on opposite sides.

[0077] The negative electrode 93 is composed of a conductor, for example, a magnesium alloy or carbon.

[0078] The negative electrode flow path layer 94 is in a perforated plate shape. The negative electrode flow path layer 94 has a first main face 94i and a second main face 94j. The first main face 94i and the second main face 94j are located on opposite sides from each other.

[0079] The negative electrode flow path layer 94 has a recess 94a, a first flow path 94b, a negative electrode chamber 94c, and a second flow path 94d. The recess 94a is formed on the side of the first main face 94i of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. The first flow path 94b, the negative electrode chamber 94c, and the second flow path 94d are formed on the side of the second main face 94j of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. The negative electrode chamber 94c is located between the negative electrode 93 and the separator 101. The recess 94a and the negative electrode chamber 94c are connected to each other between the first main face 94i and the second main face 94j. The first flow path 94b and the second flow path 94d do not penetrate the negative electrode flow path layer 94 in the thickness direction of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. The negative electrode flow path layer 94 has a first lower face 121a and a second lower face 122a, which are located below the first flow path 94b and the second flow path 94d, respectively, in the vertical direction. The negative electrode flow path layer 94 has a first insulating portion 121 and a second insulating portion 122, which have the first lower face 121a and the second lower face 122a, respectively. The shape of the recess 94a is adapted to the shape of the negative electrode 93. The negative electrode 93 is fitted in the recess 94a. The negative electrode face 93i of the negative electrode 93 is located below the negative electrode chamber 94c in the vertical direction. The first lower face 121a, the second lower face 122a, and the negative electrode face 93i face the first flow path 94b, the second flow path 94d, and the negative electrode chamber 94c, respectively. The first insulating portion 121, the negative electrode 93, and the second insulating portion 122 are in contact with the negative electrode liquid 14 that flows through the first flow path 94b, the second flow path 94d, and the negative electrode chamber 94c, respectively.

[0080] The first main face 94i of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 and the back face 93j of the negative electrode 93 constitute the same plane. The sealing portion 92 abuts against the edges of the first main face 94i and the back face 93j. Since the sealing portion 92 seals the complex of the frame member 91 and the negative electrode 93 and the negative electrode flow path layer 94, it is possible to prevent the components of the negative electrode liquid 14 that flows through the negative electrode flow path layer 94 from leaking to the positive electrode 114 on the back face 93j side of the negative electrode 93.

[0081] The negative electrode flow path layer 94 has a flow inlet 94p and a flow outlet 94q. The flow inlet 94p and the flow outlet 94q penetrate the negative electrode flow path layer 94 in the thickness direction of the negative electrode flow path layer 94.

[0082] The negative electrode chamber 94c of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 has an inlet 94k and an outlet 94m. One end of the first flow path 94b of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 is connected to the flow inlet 94p of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. The other end of the first flow path 94b is connected to the inlet 94k. One end of the second flow path 94d of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 is connected to the outlet 94m. The other end of the second flow path 94d is connected to the flow outlet 94q of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. The flow inlet 94p, the first flow path 94b, the negative electrode chamber 94c, the second flow path 94d, and the flow outlet 94q communicate with each other. The negative electrode flow path layer 94 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the flow inlet 94p to the flow outlet 94q in sequence via the first flow path 94b, the negative electrode chamber 94c, and the second flow path 94d.

[0083] The negative electrode active material particles (hereinafter referred to as "negative electrode active material particles") composed of the negative electrode active material particles 51 in the reduced state and the negative electrode active material particles 52 in the oxidized state settle downward in the vertical direction under the action of gravity. Therefore, the flow of the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing through the first flow path 94b is a sliding flow in which the negative electrode active material particles creep along the first lower surface 121a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. The flow of the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing through the negative electrode chamber 94c is a sliding flow in which the negative electrode active material particles creep along the negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93. Thus, the contact efficiency of the negative electrode active material particles with the negative electrode 93 can be improved. The flow of the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing through the second flow path 94d is a sliding flow in which the negative electrode active material particles creep along the second lower surface 122a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94.

[0084] The negative electrode flow path layer 94 is composed of an insulator. The first insulating portion 121 and the second insulating portion 122 are composed of an insulator.

[0085] The sealing portion 95 is sandwiched between the negative electrode flow path layer 94 and the separator 101. The sealing portion 95 has a sheet-like shape. The sealing portion 95 is composed of an elastomer such as rubber. The sealing portion 95 seals between the negative electrode flow path layer 94 and the separator 101.

[0086] The sealing portion 95 is composed of an insulator.

[0087] The separator 101 has a sheet-like shape. The separator 101 is sandwiched between the sealing portion 95 and the sealing portion 111, and is located between the negative electrode flow path layer 94 and the positive electrode flow path layer 112. The separator 101 separates the negative electrode chamber 94c of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 and the positive electrode chamber 112c of the positive electrode flow path layer 112 from each other. The separator 101 faces the negative electrode 93 with the negative electrode chamber 94c interposed therebetween, and faces the positive electrode 114 with the positive electrode chamber 112c interposed therebetween.

[0088] The separator 101 suppresses the permeation of the negative electrode active material particle 51 in the reduced state, the negative electrode active material particle 52 in the oxidized state, and the active material ion 53. Thus, the separator 101 suppresses the movement of the negative electrode active material particle 51 in the reduced state, the negative electrode active material particle 52 in the oxidized state, and the active material ion 53 from the negative electrode liquid 14 to the positive electrode liquid 15.

[0089] The separator 101 allows the hydroxyl ion OH - to permeate. Thus, the separator 101 allows the hydroxyl ion OH - to move from the negative electrode liquid 14 to the positive electrode liquid 15.

[0090] The sealing portion 111 is sandwiched between the separator 101 and the positive electrode flow path layer 112. The sealing portion 111 has a sheet-like shape. The sealing portion 111 is composed of an elastic body such as rubber. The sealing portion 111 seals between the separator 101 and the negative electrode flow path layer 94.

[0091] The sealing portion 111 is composed of an insulator.

[0092] The positive electrode flow path layer 112 has a porous plate shape.

[0093] The positive electrode chamber 112c is formed in the positive electrode flow path layer 112. The positive electrode chamber 112c is located between the positive electrode 114 and the separator 101.

[0094] The positive electrode flow path layer 112 is composed of an insulator.

[0095] The sealing portion 113 is sandwiched between the positive electrode flow path layer 112 and the positive electrode 114. The sealing portion 113 has a sheet-like shape. The sealing portion 113 is composed of an elastic body such as rubber. The sealing portion 113 seals between the positive electrode flow path layer 112 and the positive electrode 114.

[0096] The sealing portion 113 is composed of an insulator.

[0097] The positive electrode 114 has a plate-like shape.

[0098] The positive electrode 114 is composed of a conductor, for example, carbon or nickel.

[0099] The positive electrode 114 included in the charging unit 71 is disposed across a space constituted by the opening 91a of the frame member 91 included in the adjacent charging unit 72 and the opening 92a of the sealing portion 92 included in the adjacent charging unit 72.

[0100] The positive electrode 114 included in the charging unit 71 and the negative electrode 93 included in the adjacent charging unit 72 are in contact with and electrically connected to each other. The charging units 71 and 72 are electrically connected in series. If the positive electrode 114 and the negative electrode 93 that are electrically connected to each other are composed of the same material, the positive electrode 114 and the negative electrode 93 that are electrically connected to each other can be a single piece.

[0101] 1.10 Manifold of charge stack The hole 91p, the hole 92p, and the inlet port 94p extend along the same line, have the same hole shape, and constitute a first manifold for the flow of the negative electrode liquid 14.

[0102] The hole 91q, the hole 92q, and the outlet port 94q extend along the same line, have the same hole shape, and constitute a second manifold for the flow of the negative electrode liquid 14.

[0103] The charge stack 38 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the first manifold to the second manifold via the first flow path 94b, the negative electrode chamber 94c, and the second flow path 94d.

[0104] 1.11 Step of negative electrode chamber Figure 7 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a negative electrode and a negative electrode flow path layer that the liquid flow type metal-air battery of the first embodiment is provided with. Figure 8 is an enlarged sectional view schematically illustrating a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a first sealing portion that the liquid flow type metal-air battery of the first embodiment is provided with. Figure 9 is a sectional view schematically illustrating a negative electrode, a negative electrode flow path layer, and a second sealing portion that the liquid flow type metal-air battery of the first embodiment is provided with.

[0105] As shown in Figures 7 to 9 , the negative electrode face 93i of the negative electrode 93 and the first lower surface 121a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 are arranged along the first identical plane 141 at the inlet 94k of the negative electrode chamber 94c of the negative electrode flow path layer 94, and preferably are arranged along the first identical plane 141 at the inlet 94k and at other positions. The negative electrode face 93i of the negative electrode 93 and the second lower surface 122a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 are arranged along the second identical plane 142 at the outlet 94m of the negative electrode chamber 94c of the negative electrode flow path layer 94, and preferably are arranged along the second identical plane 142 at the outlet 94m and at other positions. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the formation of a step at the inlet 94k and the outlet 94m. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the negative electrode active material particles that flow along the first lower surface 121a, the negative electrode face 93i, and the second lower surface 122a from being blocked by the formed step and from being accumulated. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the first flow path 94b, the negative electrode chamber 94c, and the second flow path 94d of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 from being clogged by the accumulated negative electrode active material particles. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the performance of the liquid flow type metal-air battery 1 from being degraded. In addition, it is possible to suppress the long-time operation of the liquid flow type metal-air battery 1 from being hindered.

[0106] Preferably, the entire negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93 and the entire first lower surface 121a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 are arranged along a first coplanar plane 141. The entire negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93 and the entire second lower surface 122a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 are arranged along a second coplanar plane 142. The first coplanar plane 141 and the second coplanar plane 142 coincide. Thus, the negative electrode surface 93i, the first lower surface 121a, and the second lower surface 122a are arranged along the same plane.

[0107] The negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93 and the first lower surface 121a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 are arranged along a first coplanar plane 141, meaning that the vertical positional difference between the negative electrode surface 93i and the first lower surface 121a is small enough not to impede the movement of negative electrode active material particles from the first lower surface 121a to the negative electrode surface 93i. The negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93 and the second lower surface 122a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 are arranged along a second coplanar plane 142, meaning that the vertical positional difference between the negative electrode surface 93i and the second lower surface 122a is small enough not to impede the movement of negative electrode active material particles from the negative electrode surface 93i to the second lower surface 122a.

[0108] The vertical position difference between the negative electrode surface 93i and the first lower surface 121a at the inlet 94k of the negative electrode chamber 94c of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 is less than or equal to the average particle size of the negative electrode active material particles, preferably less than half the average particle size of the negative electrode active material particles. The vertical position difference between the negative electrode surface 93i and the second lower surface 122a at the outlet 94m of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 is less than or equal to the average particle size of the negative electrode active material particles, preferably less than half the average particle size of the negative electrode active material particles. The average particle size can be measured by a particle size distribution measuring device. The particle size distribution measuring device measures the particle size distribution, for example, by laser diffraction or dynamic light scattering, and calculates the median diameter D50 as the average particle size based on the measured particle size distribution. Since the average particle size of the negative electrode active material particles is approximately 100 μm, the vertical position difference between the negative electrode surface 93i and the first lower surface 121a at the inlet 94k is less than 100 μm, preferably less than 50 μm. The vertical position difference between the negative electrode surface 93i and the second lower surface 122a at the outlet 94m of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 is less than 100 μm, preferably less than 50 μm. This allows negative electrode active material particles to overcome the steps formed by these positional differences under the flow of the negative electrode liquid 14. Consequently, the accumulation of negative electrode active material particles due to obstruction by these steps can be suppressed.

[0109] like Figures 7 to 9 As shown, each charging unit 81 may further include a first sealing portion 151 and a second sealing portion 152.

[0110] The first sealing portion 151 is provided between the negative electrode 93 and the first insulating portion 121, and seals between the negative electrode 93 and the first insulating portion 121. The second sealing portion 152 is provided between the negative electrode 93 and the second insulating portion 122, and seals between the negative electrode 93 and the second insulating portion 122.

[0111] As described above, the negative electrode 93 is made of a conductor. As described above, the first insulating portion 121 and the second insulating portion 122 are made of an insulator. Since the first insulating portion 121 and the second insulating portion 122 facing the first flow path 94b and the second flow path 94d of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 are made of an insulator, it is possible to suppress an electrical short between the adjacent charge units 71 and 72. If the negative electrode 93 is made of a conductor and the first insulating portion 121 and the second insulating portion 122 are made of an insulator, the material constituting the negative electrode 93 is different from the material constituting the first insulating portion 121 and the second insulating portion 122. Therefore, an interface or a gap is formed between the negative electrode 93 and the first insulating portion 121, and an interface or a gap is formed between the negative electrode 93 and the second insulating portion 122. If the first sealing portion 151 and the second sealing portion 152 are not provided, the components of the negative electrode liquid 14 can leak through the formed interface or gap. In contrast, if the first sealing portion 151 and the second sealing portion 152 are provided, it is possible to suppress the components of the negative electrode liquid 14 from leaking through the formed interface or gap.

[0112] The vertical direction position of the upper end of the first sealing portion 151 is the same as or lower than the vertical direction position of the negative electrode face 93i of the negative electrode 93, and is the same as or lower than the vertical direction position of the first lower surface 121a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the first sealing portion 151 from protruding above the negative electrode face 93i or the first lower surface 121a to form a protruding portion in the vertical direction. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the negative electrode active material from accumulating near the formed protruding portion. The vertical direction position of the upper end of the second sealing portion 152 is the same as or lower than the vertical direction position of the negative electrode face 93i, and is the same as or lower than the vertical direction position of the second lower surface 122a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the second insulating portion 122 from protruding above the negative electrode face 93i or the second lower surface 122a to form a protruding portion in the vertical direction. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the negative electrode active material from accumulating near the formed protruding portion.

[0113] Preferably, the vertical position of the upper end of the first sealing portion 151 is the same as the vertical position of the negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93, and also the same as the vertical position of the first lower surface 121a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. This prevents the first sealing portion 151 from forming a recess in the vertical direction into the negative electrode surface 93i or the first lower surface 121a. This also prevents the accumulation of negative electrode active material in the formed recess. Preferably, the vertical position of the upper end of the second sealing portion 152 is the same as the vertical position of the negative electrode surface 93i, and also the same as the vertical position of the second lower surface 122a. This also prevents the second sealing portion 152 from forming a recess in the vertical direction into the negative electrode surface 93i or the second lower surface 122a. This also prevents the accumulation of negative electrode active material in the formed recess.

[0114] The first sealing portion 151 is formed by dissolving, melting, or bonding the negative electrode 93 and the first insulating portion 121 together. Similarly, the second sealing portion 152 is formed by dissolving, melting, or bonding the negative electrode 93 and the second insulating portion 122 together.

[0115] Figure 10 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the negative electrode, negative electrode flow path layer, and first sealing portion of a flow-type metal-air battery according to a first variation of the first embodiment. Figure 11 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the negative electrode, negative electrode flow path layer, and second sealing portion of a flow-type metal-air battery according to a first variation of the first embodiment.

[0116] In a first variation of the first embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the vertical position of the negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93 is lower than the vertical position of the first lower surface 121a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94. Additionally, as... Figure 11 As shown, the vertical position of the second lower surface 122a of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 is lower than the vertical position of the negative electrode surface 93i of the negative electrode 93. Therefore, the vertical position of the surface on which the negative electrode active material particles creep along decreases as they advance downstream towards the negative electrode liquid 14. This suppresses the accumulation of negative electrode active material particles.

[0117] 1.12 Discharge Reactor Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the discharge units and negative electrode liquid of the discharge stack of the flow metal-air battery according to the first embodiment.

[0118] The discharge stack 24 has multiple discharge units.

[0119] like Figure 12As shown, each of the plurality of discharge units 161 has a structure in which the sealing portion 111, the positive electrode flow path layer 112, the sealing portion 113, and the positive electrode 114 provided in each of the charging units 81 are replaced with a positive electrode 181, a sealing portion 182, and a positive electrode flow path layer 183. The positive electrode flow path layer 112 can also be disposed in the opening 91a of the frame member 91 provided in the adjacent discharge unit 161.

[0120] The negative electrode 93 provided in each of the discharge units 161 is composed of a conductor, for example, carbon, titanium, or nickel.

[0121] The positive electrode 181 has a plate-like shape.

[0122] The positive electrode 181 faces the negative electrode chamber 94c of the negative electrode flow path layer 94 through the separator 101.

[0123] The positive electrode 181 contains a catalyst material (e.g., manganese dioxide) for promoting an oxygen reduction reaction and a conductive material (e.g., carbon).

[0124] The sealing portion 182 is sandwiched between the complex of the separator 101 and the positive electrode 114 and the positive electrode flow path layer 112. The sealing portion 111 has a sheet-like shape. The sealing portion 182 is composed of an elastomer such as rubber. The sealing portion 182 seals between the complex of the separator 101 and the positive electrode 114 and the positive electrode flow path layer 112.

[0125] The sealing portion 182 is composed of an insulator.

[0126] The positive electrode flow path layer 183 has a plate-like shape.

[0127] The positive electrode chamber 183c is formed in the positive electrode flow path layer 183.

[0128] The positive electrode flow path layer 183 is composed of a conductor.

[0129] 2 Second Embodiment Hereinafter, aspects of the second embodiment that are different from the first embodiment will be described. As for aspects that are not described, the same configuration as that employed in the first embodiment is employed in the second embodiment.

[0130] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a charging stack, a positive electrode liquid, and a negative electrode liquid provided in the liquid flow-type metal-air battery of the second embodiment. Figure 14 and Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating an insulating member, a sealing portion, a negative electrode, a sealing portion, and a negative electrode flow path layer provided in the liquid flow-type metal-air battery of the second embodiment.

[0131] In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, Figures 13 to 15As shown, each of the charging units 81 is provided with the insulating member 201, the sealing portion 202, the negative electrode 203, the sealing portion 204, and the negative electrode flow path layer 205 in place of the frame member 91, the sealing portion 92, the negative electrode 93, and the negative electrode flow path layer 94 of the first embodiment.

[0132] The insulating member 201 is in a frame shape. Therefore, the opening 201a is formed in the insulating member 201. The opening 201a is formed in the center of the insulating member 201. The opening 201a has the first recessed portion 201b, the second recessed portion 201c, and the third recessed portion 201d. The insulating member 201 has the first main face 201i and the second main face 201j. The first main face 201i and the second main face 201j are located on opposite sides from each other. The first recessed portion 201b is formed on one side of the first main face 201i. The second recessed portion 201c is formed on one side of the second main face 201j. The first recessed portion 201b and the second recessed portion 201c are connected to each other between the first main face 201i and the second main face 201j. The planar shape of the first recessed portion 201b is smaller than the planar shape of the second recessed portion 201c. The insulating member 201 has the opposite face 201k on the outer edge of the first recessed portion 201b. The opposite face 201k opposes the edge of the back face 203j of the negative electrode 203. The third recessed portion 201d is formed on the opposite face 201k. The shape of the first recessed portion 201b is adapted to the shape of the positive electrode 114. The shape of the second recessed portion 201c is adapted to the shape of the negative electrode 203. The shape of the third recessed portion 201d is adapted to the shape of the sealing portion 202. The third recessed portion 201d is a groove in a ring shape. The first flow path 205b and the second flow path 205d of the negative electrode flow path layer 205 penetrate the negative electrode flow path layer 205 in the thickness direction of the negative electrode flow path layer 205. The insulating member 201 has the first lower face 121a and the second lower face 122a, which are located below the first flow path 205b and the second flow path 205d in the vertical direction, respectively.

[0133] The hole 201p and the hole 201q are formed in the insulating member 201. The hole 201p and the hole 201q penetrate the insulating member 201 in the thickness direction of the insulating member 201.

[0134] The seal portion 202 has a ring shape. The seal portion 202 is fitted in the third recess portion 201d. The seal portion 202 is disposed on the back surface 203j and the opposite surface 201k by being fitted in the third recess portion 201d formed in the opposite surface 201k of the insulating member 201 opposite the edge of the back surface 203j of the negative electrode 203, and is sandwiched between the back surface 203j and the opposite surface 201k. The seal portion 202 can be an elastic body such as rubber, or can be a portion formed by fusion bonding, thermal fusion bonding, or adhesion of the insulating member 201 and the negative electrode 203 to each other. From the viewpoint of maintainability, since it is desirable to be able to disassemble after assembly, the seal portion 202 is preferably an elastic body such as rubber. The seal portion 202 seals between the negative electrode 203 and the insulating member 201. Thus, the seal portion 202 provided in the charging cell 72 blocks a flow path of the negative electrode liquid 14 from the negative electrode surface 203i of the negative electrode 203 provided in the charging cell 72 to the positive electrode 114 provided in the charging cell 71 adjacent to the charging cell 72. By disposing the seal portion 202 on the back surface 203j, it is possible to suppress formation of a step on the negative electrode surface 203i side of the negative electrode 203 for the purpose of sealing.

[0135] The negative electrode 203 is fitted in the second recess portion 201c of the insulating member 201. The negative electrode 203 is disposed in the opening 201a of the insulating member 201. The second main surface 201j of the insulating member 201 and the negative electrode surface 203i of the negative electrode 203 constitute the same plane.

[0136] The positive electrode 114 provided in the charging cell 71 is disposed in the first recess portion 201b of the insulating member 201 provided in the charging cell 72 adjacent to the charging cell 71. The positive electrode 114 provided in the charging cell 71 is disposed in the opening 201a of the insulating member 201 provided in the charging cell 72 adjacent to the charging cell 71. By disposing the positive electrode 114 provided in the charging cell 71 and the negative electrode 203 provided in the adjacent charging cell 72 in the first recess portion 201b and the second recess portion 201c connected to each other, respectively, it is possible to bring the positive electrode 114 provided in the charging cell 71 and the negative electrode 203 provided in the adjacent charging cell 72 into contact with each other. Thus, it is possible to electrically connect the positive electrode 114 provided in the charging cell 71 and the negative electrode 203 provided in the adjacent charging cell 72 to each other.

[0137] The shape of the negative electrode 203 is smaller than the planar shape of the positive electrode 114. The back surface 203j of the negative electrode 203 included in the charging unit 72 includes a first region 203m and a second region 203n. The first region 203m opposes the positive electrode 114 included in the adjacent charging unit 71. The second region 203n does not oppose the positive electrode 114 included in the adjacent charging unit 71. The sealing portion 202 included in the charging unit 72 is disposed on the second region 203n. Thus, the negative electrode 203 included in the charging unit 72 and the positive electrode 114 included in the adjacent charging unit 71 can be electrically connected to each other, and the flow path of the negative electrode liquid 14 from the negative electrode surface 203i of the negative electrode 203 included in the charging unit 72 to the positive electrode 114 included in the adjacent charging unit 71 can be blocked.

[0138] The planar shape of the sealing portion 204 is the same as the planar shape of the negative electrode flow path layer 205.

[0139] The sealing portion 204 is interposed between the complex of the insulating member 201, the sealing portion 202, and the negative electrode 203 and the negative electrode flow path layer 205. The sealing portion 204 has a sheet-like shape. The sealing portion 204 is composed of an elastic body such as rubber. The sealing portion 204 seals between the complex of the insulating member 201, the sealing portion 202, and the negative electrode 203 and the negative electrode flow path layer 205.

[0140] The negative electrode chamber 205c of the negative electrode flow path layer 205 is a flow path having a meandering planar shape. Thus, the negative electrode chamber 205c has a plurality of parallel sections 205x and a plurality of corner sections 205y. In addition, the negative electrode flow path layer 205 includes a partition wall 211 that separates the plurality of parallel sections 205x from each other. The plurality of parallel sections 205x are parallel to each other. Each of the plurality of corner sections 205y connects one end of two adjacent parallel sections 205x to each other. Thus, the negative electrode flow path layer 205 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from a parallel section 205x to a parallel section 205x on the downstream side of the parallel section 205x via a corner section 205y.

[0141] A partition wall-negative electrode inter-sealing portion 221 that seals between the partition wall 211 and the negative electrode 203 is provided between the partition wall 211 and the negative electrode 203. The partition wall-negative electrode inter-sealing portion 221 is part of the sealing portion 204. Thus, a portion of the negative electrode liquid 14 that is guided from a parallel section 205x to a parallel section 205x on the downstream side of the parallel section 205x via a corner section 205y can be inhibited from flowing between the partition wall 211 and the negative electrode 203. Thus, a portion of the negative electrode liquid 14 can be inhibited from flowing around a part of the negative electrode chamber 205c. Thus, the flow rate of the negative electrode liquid 14 flowing through the negative electrode chamber 205c can be inhibited from decreasing. Thus, the accumulation of negative electrode active material particles in the negative electrode chamber 205c can be inhibited.

[0142] The flow inlet 205p and the flow outlet 205q are formed in the negative electrode flow path layer 205. The flow inlet 205p and the flow outlet 205q penetrate the negative electrode flow path layer 205 in the thickness direction of the negative electrode flow path layer 205.

[0143] The hole 201p and the flow inlet 205p extend along the same straight line, have the same hole shape, and constitute a first manifold for the flow of the negative electrode liquid 14.

[0144] The hole 201q and the flow outlet 205q extend along the same straight line, have the same hole shape, and constitute a second manifold for the flow of the negative electrode liquid 14.

[0145] The charge stack 38 guides the negative electrode liquid 14 from the first manifold to the second manifold via the first flow path 205b, the negative electrode chamber 205c, and the second flow path 205d.

[0146] In the second embodiment, the discharge unit 161 has a structure in which the sealing portion 111, the positive electrode flow path layer 112, the sealing portion 113, and the positive electrode 114 provided in each of the charge units 81 are replaced with Figure 12 the positive electrode 181, the sealing portion 182, and the positive electrode flow path layer 183 as shown. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating another example of the discharge unit provided in the liquid flow type metal-air battery of the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 16 the discharge unit 161 has a structure in which the sealing portion 111, the positive electrode flow path layer 112, the sealing portion 113, and the positive electrode 114 provided in each of the charge units 81 are replaced with the positive electrode 181, the sealing portion 182, and the positive electrode flow path layer 183. In Figure 13 the charge unit 71 shown in Figure 16 the charge unit 71 shown in

[0147] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be replaced with a configuration having substantially the same configuration as that shown in the above-described embodiments, a configuration achieving the same effect, or a configuration achieving the same purpose.

Claims

1. A flow-type metal-air battery cell, characterized in that, include: A negative electrode flow path layer is formed having an inlet, a first flow path, a negative electrode chamber, a second flow path, and an outlet. It guides a slurry containing active material particles and electrolyte from the inlet sequentially through the first flow path, the negative electrode chamber, and the second flow path to the outlet. The negative electrode chamber has an inlet and an outlet; the inlet is connected to the first flow path, and the outlet is connected to the second flow path. The negative electrode has a negative electrode surface disposed vertically below the negative electrode chamber. The negative electrode surface and the first lower surface disposed vertically below the first flow path are arranged along the same first plane at the inlet. The negative electrode surface and the second lower surface disposed vertically below the second flow path are disposed along the same second plane at the outlet.

2. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The difference between the vertical position of the negative electrode surface and the vertical position of the first lower surface is below the average particle size of the active material particles at the inlet. The difference between the vertical position of the negative electrode surface and the vertical position of the second lower surface is below the average particle size at the outlet.

3. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The difference between the vertical position of the negative electrode surface and the vertical position of the first lower surface is less than 100 μm at the inlet. The difference between the vertical position of the negative electrode surface and the vertical position of the second lower surface is less than 100 μm at the outlet.

4. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The difference between the vertical position of the negative electrode surface and the vertical position of the first lower surface is less than 50 μm at the inlet. The difference between the vertical position of the negative electrode surface and the vertical position of the second lower surface is less than 50 μm at the outlet.

5. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The vertical position of the negative electrode surface is lower than the vertical position of the first lower surface. The vertical position of the second lower surface is lower than the vertical position of the negative electrode surface.

6. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The negative electrode surface, the first lower surface, and the second lower surface are arranged along the same plane.

7. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The first insulating part is made of an insulator and has the first lower surface; The second insulating part is made of an insulator and has the second lower surface; A first sealing portion, used to seal the space between the negative electrode and the first insulating portion; and The second sealing part is used to seal the space between the negative electrode and the second insulating part. The vertical position of the upper end of the first insulating part is the same as or lower than the vertical position of the negative electrode surface, and is the same as or lower than the vertical position of the first lower surface. The vertical position of the upper end of the second insulating part is the same as or lower than the vertical position of the negative electrode surface, and is the same as or lower than the vertical position of the second lower surface.

8. The flow-type metal-air battery cell according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first sealing portion is formed by fusing, thermally fusing, or bonding the negative electrode to the first insulating portion. The second sealing part is formed by dissolving, melting, or bonding the negative electrode and the second insulating part together.

9. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1, characterized in that, The negative electrode has a back side located on the side opposite to the side where the negative electrode surface is located. The flow-type metal-air battery unit further includes: An insulating component having a first lower surface and a second lower surface; and A sealing portion, disposed on the back side, is used to seal between the negative electrode and the insulating component.

10. The flow-type metal-air battery cell according to claim 9, characterized in that, The insulating component has a facing surface opposite to the back surface. The sealing portion is disposed on the opposing surface.

11. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 9, characterized in that, The sealing part has an annular shape.

12. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that, The insulating component has a recess for the negative electrode to be fitted into.

13. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The negative electrode chamber has multiple sections. The negative electrode flow path layer includes partition walls that separate the multiple sections from each other. The flow-type metal-air battery cell also includes a separator-negative electrode seal for sealing the spacer wall and the negative electrode.

14. The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The negative electrode flow path layer has a recessed portion for the negative electrode to fit into. The negative electrode flow path layer has a first lower surface and a second lower surface.

15. The flow-type metal-air battery cell according to claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: A frame component having an opening, the planar shape of which is smaller than the planar shape of the negative electrode; as well as A sealing portion having a planar shape identical to that of the frame component, for sealing the space between the frame component and the composite of the negative electrode flow path layer and the negative electrode.

16. A fluid-flow metal-air battery stack, characterized in that, include: The liquid flow metal-air battery cell according to claim 9; as well as An adjacent flow-type metal-air battery cell, which is adjacent to the flow-type metal-air battery cell. The adjacent flow-type metal-air battery cell includes a positive electrode adjacent to the negative electrode. The sealing part is used to block the flow path of the slurry extending from the negative electrode surface to the positive electrode.

17. The liquid flow metal-air battery stack according to claim 16, characterized in that, The insulating component has openings for the arrangement of the negative electrode and the positive electrode.

18. The fluidized bed metal-air battery stack according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The back side has a first region opposite to the positive electrode and a second region that is not opposite to the positive electrode and surrounds the first region. The sealing portion is disposed on the second region.

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