Dividers, electrochemical cell units, cell stacks, and devices

Abstract

This invention relates to separators, electrochemical cell units, battery stacks, and devices. One embodiment of the separator has a flow path comprising a first flow path wall, a second flow path wall, and a first flow path groove disposed between the first and second flow path walls. The separator is provided with one or more first narrowing portions that narrow a portion of the rear half of the first flow path groove and / or one or more first expanding portions that expand a portion of the rear half of the first flow path groove.

Description

[0001] References to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and enjoys priority to Japanese Patent Application 2025-046100 (filed on March 19, 2025). The entire contents of that application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to separators, electrochemical cell units, battery stacks, and devices. Background Technology

[0004] In recent years, expectations for renewable energy have been rising. Examples of renewable energy sources include solar power, hydropower, wind power, and geothermal power.

[0005] Moreover, as an attempt at decarbonization, fuel cell-based power generation and electrolysis-based energy conversion have attracted much attention. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One embodiment provides a separator that allows fluid to flow easily and uniformly.

[0007] The partition in this embodiment has a flow path, which includes a first flow path wall, a second flow path wall, and a first flow path groove disposed between the first flow path wall and the second flow path wall. The partition is provided with one or more first narrowing portions that narrow a portion of the rear half of the first flow path groove and / or one or more first expanding portions that expand a portion of the rear half of the first flow path groove.

[0008] Based on the above structure, a separator is provided that allows fluid to flow easily and uniformly. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0015] Figure 7This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0027] Figure 19 This is a schematic perspective view of the partition in the implementation method.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0029] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0030] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0031] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0032] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the separator in the implementation method.

[0033] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of an electrochemical battery cell according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of the battery stack in the implementation method.

[0035] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of the apparatus used in the implementation method.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0037] 1: Flow path wall

[0038] 1A: First-class road wall

[0039] 1B: Second Flow Path Wall

[0040] 1C: Third Flow Path Wall

[0041] 1D: Fourth Flow Road Wall

[0042] 1E: Fifth Flow Road Wall

[0043] 1F: First narrowing section

[0044] 2: Flow channel

[0045] 2A: First flow channel

[0046] 2B: Second flow channel

[0047] 2C: Third flow channel

[0048] 2D: Fourth Flowpath

[0049] 3: Supply connection path

[0050] 4: Supply Manifold

[0051] 5: Drain connected paths

[0052] 6: Exhaust manifold

[0053] 7: Framework

[0054] 10: Flow path (first flow path)

[0055] 11: Second Flow Path

[0056] 21: First electrode

[0057] 22: Second electrode

[0058] 23: Partition wall

[0059] 24: First separator

[0060] 25: Second separator

[0061] 31: Fastening plate

[0062] 32: Fastening plate

[0063] 41: Anode current collector

[0064] 42: Cathode current collector

[0065] 43: Power supply (load)

[0066] 100: Separator

[0067] 101: Separator

[0068] 102: Separator

[0069] 103: Separator

[0070] 104: Separator

[0071] 105: Separator

[0072] 106: Separator

[0073] 107: Separator

[0074] 200: Electrochemical cell unit

[0075] 300: Battery stack

[0076] 400: Device

[0077] 500: Device

[0078] F: Blockage wall

[0079] G: Imaginary line

[0080] J: Narrowing section

[0081] K: Expansion section

[0082] M: Link path

[0083] P1: First Location

[0084] P2: Second location. Detailed Implementation

[0085] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0086] Furthermore, in the following description, the same reference numerals are used to mark the same components, and the description of components that have already been described once is omitted where appropriate.

[0087] The physical property values ​​in the instruction manual are values ​​under conditions of 25 °C and 1 atm. The thickness of each component is the average of the distances in the stacking direction.

[0088] (First Implementation)

[0089] The first embodiment relates to a separator 100. The separator 100 is a flow-guiding plate (a separator with a flow path) used when supplying gas to a gas diffusion layer or the like. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the separator 100 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of A-A'. Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of B-B'. The separator 100 has a flow path 10, a supply manifold 4, a discharge manifold 6, a supply connection path 3, and a discharge connection path 5. The flow path 10, supply manifold 4, discharge manifold 6, supply connection path 3, and discharge connection path 5 are disposed within the frame 7 of the separator 100. The directions in the figure are represented by X, Y, and Z.

[0090] The separator 100 of the first embodiment is used, for example, in an electrochemical cell unit for fuel cells or electrolysis. The separator 100 supplies the fluid used in the electrode reaction and discharges the fluid containing the products of the electrode reaction. The fluid is a gas and / or a liquid. When the fluid discharged from the discharge manifold 6 contains both gas and liquid, pressure loss in the separator 100 can be effectively suppressed.

[0091] The separator 100 has a flow path 10, which includes a flow path wall 1 and a flow path groove 2 disposed between the flow path walls 1. The flow path wall 1 may also surround the supply manifold 4, the discharge manifold 6, the supply connection path 3, and the discharge connection path 5.

[0092] The area enclosed by the flow path wall 1 is the flow path groove 2. The flow path wall 1 can be, for example, a protrusion of a metal member provided in the frame 7, and the flow path groove 2 can be a recess of a metal member provided in the frame 7. Fluid flows in the flow path 10. Preferably, the flow path 10 has multiple flow path grooves 2, and fluid flows in multiple flow path grooves 2. For example, such as... Figure 1 As shown in the schematic diagram, the flow path 10 preferably has a serpentine flow path shape with alternating straight and folded sections, so that the fluid flows with less variation in the porous layer of the electrode in contact with the separator 100.

[0093] The flow path wall 1 is, for example, made of metal.

[0094] The flow path 10 has multiple flow path grooves 2. The flow path 10 has a first flow path wall 1A, a first flow path groove 2A, a second flow path wall 1B, a second flow path groove 2B, a third flow path wall 1C, a third flow path groove 2C, a fourth flow path wall 1D, a fourth flow path groove 2D, and a fifth flow path wall 1E. The numbering of the flow path walls 1 and flow path grooves 2 is for convenience, and sometimes some are not arranged in numerical order. When the arrangement order of the flow path grooves 2 is different (for example, arranged in the order of first flow path groove 2A, fourth flow path groove 2D, third flow path groove 2C, and second flow path groove 2B), the numbering of the flow path walls 1 sandwiching each flow path groove 2 will change. In the separator 100, the second flow path groove 2B is adjacent to the first flow path groove 2A, but for example, when there is a narrowing portion J in the first flow path groove 2A and when there is a narrowing portion J in other flow path grooves 2 and when there is no narrowing portion J, it is possible to separate the flow path grooves 2 and the flow path grooves 2 in the first flow path groove 2A. Figure 1 The flow path 2 in the separator 100 is designated as the first flow path 2A, and the flow path 2 is designated as the first flow path 2A having a first narrowing portion J1. In this case, for the flow path wall 1, flow path 2, and narrowing portion J existing in the same position, different numbers can be assigned to the flow path wall 1, flow path 2, and narrowing portion J than the numbers described below. The following description of the flow path 2 is not limited to a specific flow path 2.

[0095] The narrowing portion J narrows a part of the rear half of the flow path groove 2. Since the narrowing portion J does not completely block the flow path groove 2, the portion of the flow path groove 2 with the narrowing portion J remains open. The portion of the flow path groove 2 with the narrowing portion J makes the flow path narrower compared to the portion without the narrowing portion J. The concave corners and rounded corners of the bends in the flow path 10 are not narrowing portions J.

[0096] Four flow path grooves 2 are shown in the embodiment, but the number of flow path grooves 2 is not limited to four. There can be more than one. For example, a partition with three flow path grooves 2, a partition with five flow path grooves 2, or a partition with eight flow path grooves 2 are also included in the partition of the embodiment.

[0097] The first flow path groove 2A is disposed between the flow path walls. Figure 1 In the schematic diagram, the first flow path groove 2A is disposed between the first flow path wall 1A and the second flow path wall 1B.

[0098] The second flow path groove 2B is disposed between the flow path walls. Figure 1 In the schematic diagram, the second flow path groove 2B is disposed between the second flow path wall 1B and the third flow path wall 1C.

[0099] The third flow path channel 2C is positioned between the flow path walls. Figure 1 In the schematic diagram, the third flow path trough 2C is disposed between the third flow path wall 1C and the fourth flow path wall 1D.

[0100] The fourth flow path groove 2D is positioned between the flow path walls. Figure 1 In the schematic diagram, the fourth flow path groove 2D is disposed between the fourth flow path wall 1D and the fifth flow path wall 1E.

[0101] The spacing of the flow channel 2 is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 5 mm or less, more preferably 0.3 mm or more and 3 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.5 mm or more and 2.5 mm or less.

[0102] The supply connection path 3 is located between the supply manifold 4 and the flow path 10. The supply connection path 3 is the flow path connecting the supply manifold 4 and the flow path 10. Fluid passing through the supply connection path 3 flows in the flow path 10. The supply connection path 3 can be a concave or convex part of the frame 7, or it can be constructed from components different from the frame 7. The direction of fluid flow in the supply connection path 3 is also the direction in which the supply connection path 3 connects to the supply manifold 4.

[0103] The supply manifold 4 is the opening of the partition 100. Fluid is supplied from the supply manifold 4. Alternatively, other manifolds (not shown) may be provided in the partition 100.

[0104] In the first embodiment, the supply connection path 3 and the supply manifold 4 of the separator 100 are provided on the first location P1 side.

[0105] The discharge connection path 5 is located between the discharge manifold 6 and the flow path 10. The discharge connection path 5 is the flow path that connects the discharge manifold 6 and the flow path 10. The fluid that passes through the discharge connection path 5 via the flow path 10 is discharged from the discharge manifold 6. The discharge connection path 5 can be a protrusion or recess of the frame 7, or it can be constructed from components different from the frame 7.

[0106] The discharge manifold 6 is the opening of the divider 100. Fluid is discharged from the discharge manifold 6.

[0107] In the first embodiment, fluid flows through flow path 10 from a first location P1 toward a second location P2.

[0108] In the first embodiment, the discharge communication path 5 and discharge manifold 6 of the separator 100 are provided on the second location P2 side.

[0109] The frame 7 is preferably insulating, for example, made of resin material.

[0110] A narrowing section J is provided in a portion of the flow path channel 2. For example, as shown... Figure 2 As shown in the schematic diagram, in Figure 1 The A-A' section does not have a narrowing section J, but as Figure 3 As shown in the schematic diagram, in Figure 1A narrowing portion J is provided at the position of the B-B' section. The first flow path 2A is a flow path 2 with the first narrowing portion J1 provided. Flow path 2 other than the first flow path 2A are either flow path 2 with narrowing portions J or flow path 2 without narrowing portions J.

[0111] Preferably, the narrowing portion J of the flow channel 2 is provided in the rear half of the flow channel 2 and not in the front half. When the fluid flows from the first location P1 side to the second location P2 side of the flow channel 2, when the length of the flow channel 2 is set to L, the portion from the end of the first location P1 side to a length of L / 2 is defined as the front half of the flow channel 2, and the portion from the end of the second location P2 side to a length of L / 2 is defined as the rear half of the flow channel 2. By providing the narrowing portion J in a part of the flow channel 2, it is possible to suppress the presence of gas volume contained in the fluid including liquid and gas flowing in the separator 100 in the flow channel 2.

[0112] The front half of the first flow channel 2A, the front half of the second flow channel 2B, the front half of the third flow channel 2C, and the front half of the fourth flow channel 2D are located at the first location P1. The rear half of the first flow channel 2A, the rear half of the second flow channel 2B, the rear half of the third flow channel 2C, and the rear half of the fourth flow channel 2D are located at the second location P2.

[0113] If gas accumulates in the flow channel 2, side reactions can easily occur due to the gas generated by the electrodes in contact with the separator 100. In the case of CO2 electrolysis, if oxygen generated at the cathode and whose concentration increases on the anode discharge side reacts with hydrogen generated at the cathode discharge side due to the decrease in concentration caused by CO2 electrolysis and the reduction of water through a side reaction, hydrogen peroxide will be generated. Since hydrogen peroxide will degrade the separator wall, it is preferable to narrow a portion of the flow channel 2 in a way that prevents gas accumulation. Narrowing a portion of the flow channel 2 at all the bends in the meandering flow channel shape, or narrowing a portion of the flow channel 2 in the first half of the meandering flow channel 10, is not effective. By narrowing a portion of the flow channel 2 in the second half of the meandering flow channel 10 instead of the first half, gas accumulation can be suppressed.

[0114] By providing a narrowing section J, fluid flow in the flow channel 2 becomes difficult. In the section with the narrowing section J, fluid flows more easily towards the porous layer side of the electrode. In the first half of the flow path 10, since less gas is generated through the electrode reaction, providing a narrowing section J in the first half of the flow path 10 to change the fluid's flowability is not effective. By not providing a narrowing section J in the first half of the flow path 10, and providing a section with different fluid flowability in a portion of the flow channel 2 in the latter half of the flow path 10 where gas easily accumulates, gas accumulation can be suppressed.

[0115] By setting the narrowing section J, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path is locally reduced. Therefore, it can be assumed that the flow velocity of the fluid flowing in the flow path groove 2 with the narrowing section J is increased, and the gas contained in the fluid flows more easily.

[0116] When the separator 100 is a single unit and the supply and discharge sides are not clearly defined, it is preferable to designate one end of the flow path 10 as the first location P1 and the other end of the flow path 10 as the second location P2. The first and second halves of the flow path 10 and the first and second halves of each flow channel 2 are determined according to the connection path and manifold configuration, and a narrowing section J, as described below, is provided in the flow channel 2. That is, it is preferable to provide a narrowing section J only in either the first or second half of the flow channel 2 in the same direction of fluid flow, so that the supply and discharge sides of the fluid can be determined in accordance with the position of the narrowing section J. When the flow path includes a flow channel 2 in which fluid flows from the first location P1 to the second location P2 and a flow channel 2 in which fluid flows from the second location P2 to the first location P1, it is preferable to provide a narrowing section J in which fluid flows from the second location P2 to the first location P1 in the first half of the flow channel 2 in which fluid flows from the first location P1 to the second location P2.

[0117] The narrowing section J can be made of the same material as the flow path wall 1 or a different material. The narrowing section J preferably contains metal or resin.

[0118] The narrowing section J is not a fine concave-convex shape like the flow path wall 1 and frame 7, but a locally set shape or component.

[0119] The narrowing portion J of the flow path 2 is preferably located at the bend in the flow path 10, which has a meandering flow path shape. The flow path 10 includes a straight portion and a bend. The straight portion is the part that connects to the bend and is mainly a straight flow path. The bend is the part that changes the flow direction of the fluid by 180° (or approximately 180°). Figure 1 The flow path 10 contains four loop sections. Figure 1The flow path 10 includes a first turnaround section T1, a second turnaround section T2, a third turnaround section T3, and a fourth turnaround section T4.

[0120] For the portion where the flow path 10 is bent by 90° at the connection between the flow path 10 and the supply connection path 3, since the flow path 10 can be connected to the supply connection path 3 without bending the flow path 2, this portion is not included in the bent portion.

[0121] For the portion where the flow path 10 is bent by 90° at the connection between the flow path 10 and the discharge connection path 5, since the flow path 10 can be connected to the discharge connection path 5 without bending the flow path 2, this portion is not included in the bent portion.

[0122] The first reversal section T1 and the second reversal section T2 are included in the front half of the flow path channel 2. The third reversal section T3 and the fourth reversal section T4 are included in the rear half of the flow path channel 2.

[0123] The boundary between the front and rear halves of flow channel 2 is formed by... Figure 1 The imaginary line G (thick line) is shown. Because the flow path 10 has a meandering shape, the boundary between the front and rear halves of the flow path groove 2 is stepped. The boundary between the front and rear halves of the flow path 10 is shown as the imaginary line G.

[0124] The boundary between the front and rear halves of flow path 2 can also exist in the folded-back section. In this case, a folded-back section includes both the front and rear halves of flow path 2.

[0125] Next, taking the first narrowing portion J1 as an example, the narrowing portion J in the embodiment will be described. The narrowing portion J is preferably provided in one or more of the flow path grooves 2. For example, when the flow path 10 has a first flow path groove 2A, a second flow path groove 2B, a third flow path groove 2C, and a fourth flow path groove 2D, the narrowing portion J is provided in any one or more flow path grooves 2. Hereinafter, an example in which the first narrowing portion J1 is provided in the first flow path groove 2A will be described, but the same applies to cases where the narrowing portion J is provided in other flow path grooves 2.

[0126] One or more first narrowing portions J1 are provided in the first flow path channel 2A. Alternatively, two or more first narrowing portions J1 may be provided in the first flow path channel 2A. The first narrowing portion J1 is provided in the rear half of the first flow path channel 2A, causing a portion of the first flow path channel 2A to narrow. The first narrowing portion J1 is provided in the fourth foldback portion T4 of the first flow path channel 2A.

[0127] exist Figure 1The schematic diagram shows the length L1 of the first flow path groove 2A of the fourth return section T4, the length L2 of the second flow path groove 2B of the fourth return section T4, the length L3 of the third flow path groove 2C of the fourth return section T4, and the length L4 of the fourth flow path groove 2D of the fourth return section T4.

[0128] exist Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows the width W1 of the first flow path 2A, the width W2 of the second flow path 2B, the width W3 of the third flow path 2C, and the width W4 of the fourth flow path 2D.

[0129] The boundary between the front and rear halves of the first flow path 2A lies between the second and third bend sections T2 and T3. The rear half of the first flow path 2A comprises the third bend section T3 and the fourth bend section T4. Preferably, a first narrowing section J1 is provided in the third bend section T3 and / or the fourth bend section T4. More preferably, the first narrowing section J1 is provided in the fourth bend section T4 (the bend section closest to the side of the discharged fluid) that is closest to the discharge connecting path 5.

[0130] Preferably, a first narrowing portion J1 is provided in the third bend portion T3, the fourth bend portion T4 closest to the discharge connecting path 5 (the bend portion on the side closest to the discharge fluid), between the third bend portion T3 and the fourth bend portion T4, and between the bend portion closest to the discharge connecting path 5 and the discharge connecting path 5.

[0131] When the first narrowing section J1 is provided in the first flow path channel 2A, the length of the first narrowing section J1 is preferably 1% to 100% of the length L5 of the folded-back portion of the first flow path channel 2A in which the first narrowing section J1 is provided, more preferably 10% to 67%, and even more preferably 17% to 33%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0132] When the narrowing section J (second narrowing section J2) is provided in the second flow path channel 2B, the length of the narrowing section J is preferably 1% to 100% of the length L4 of the folded-back portion of the second flow path channel 2B in which the narrowing section J is provided, more preferably 4% to 29%, and even more preferably 3% to 18%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0133] When the narrowing section J (third narrowing section J3) is provided in the third flow channel 2C, the length of the narrowing section J is preferably 1% to 100% of the length L3 of the folded-back portion of the third flow channel 2C in which the narrowing section J is provided, more preferably 4% to 29%, and even more preferably 7% to 14%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0134] When the narrowing section J (fourth narrowing section J4) is provided in the fourth flow path channel 2D, the length of the narrowing section J is preferably 3% to 100% of the length L2 of the folded-back portion of the fourth flow path channel 2D in which the narrowing section J is provided, more preferably 10% to 67%, and even more preferably 17% to 33%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0135] The length of the first narrowing section J1 is preferably 0.1 times to 3 times the width W1 of the first flow channel 2A, more preferably 0.3 times to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 times to 1 time. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0136] The length of the second narrowing section J2 is preferably 0.1 times to 3 times the width W2 of the second flow channel 2B, more preferably 0.3 times to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 times to 1 time. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0137] The length of the third narrowing section J3 is preferably 0.1 times to 3 times the width W3 of the third flow channel 2C, more preferably 0.3 times to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 times to 1 time. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0138] The length of the fourth narrowing section J4 is preferably 0.1 times to 3 times the width W4 of the fourth flow channel 2D, more preferably 0.3 times to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 times to 1 time. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0139] The length of the first narrowing section J1 is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the first flow channel 2A (the overall length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0140] The length of the second narrowing section J2 is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the second flow channel 2B (the overall length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0141] The length of the third narrowing section J3 is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the third flow channel 2C (the overall length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0142] The length of the fourth narrowing section J4 is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the fourth flow channel 2D (the overall length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the narrowing section J is too long, the flow rate may decrease, which is not preferred.

[0143] When the flow path 10 includes multiple flow path slots 2, it is preferable that the multiple flow path slots 2 are parallel.

[0144] The total length of the narrowing portion J provided in the flow path groove 2 is preferably 0.2% or more and 6.7% or less of the length of one flow path groove 2, more preferably 0.7% or more and 4.5% or less, and even more preferably 1.1% or more and 2.2% or less. If the length of the narrowing portion J is too long, it will not contribute to the function of the flow path 10, which is not preferred.

[0145] The following are schematic or partial schematic diagrams of multiple separators 100, which will be used to further explain the narrowing portion J. The description related to the first narrowing portion 1F corresponds to the description related to the other narrowing portions J.

[0146] exist Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 100 is shown. Figure 4 The schematic diagram shown is a perspective view of the portion where the first narrowing section J1 is provided. Figure 4 In the schematic diagram, a component with a first narrowing portion J1 provided on the frame 7 side of the first flow path wall 1A, the second flow path wall 1B, and the first flow path groove 2A between the first flow path wall 1A and the second flow path wall 1B is shown. The plate-shaped first narrowing portion J1 is configured to contact the frame 7 and directly contact both the first flow path wall 1A and the second flow path wall 1B. The upper side of the first narrowing portion J1 (the opposite side of the frame 7 side) is open, allowing fluid to pass through the opening. Figure 4 The length D1 of the first narrowing section J1 is shown in the figure. Figure 4 The dashed lines are imaginary lines.

[0147] Figure 5 The schematic diagram illustrates the area narrowed by the first narrowing section J1. Figure 5 In the schematic diagram, the first narrowing section J1 is located between the first flow path 2A and the second flow path 2B. Figure 5 The area enclosed by the thick line in the schematic diagram is the average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow channel 2A. Figure 5 The area enclosed by the thick dashed line in the schematic diagram represents the cross-sectional area S2 of the portion where the first flow path groove 2A opens due to the presence of the first narrowing portion J1 (the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path groove 2A in the portion where the first narrowing portion J1 exists). Figure 4 The area narrowed by the first narrowing portion J1 is evaluated at the position of the rectangle enclosed by the double-dotted line. The position of the rectangle enclosed by the double-dotted line is the position where the flow path area of ​​the first flow path groove 2A is minimized due to the first narrowing portion J1 (the position with the smallest area S2). The average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow path groove 2A is compared and evaluated with the cross-sectional area S2 of the open portion of the first flow path groove 2A where the first narrowing portion J1 is provided. Since the first narrowing portion J1 does not block the first flow path groove 2A, the first flow path groove 2A is open in the area where the first narrowing portion J1 is provided. Therefore, the cross-sectional area S2 of the open portion of the first flow path groove 2A where the first narrowing portion J1 is provided is greater than 0.

[0148] The cross-sectional area S2 of the opening portion of the first flow path 2A, where the first narrowing portion J1 is provided, is preferably 1% or more and 90% or less of the average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow path 2A, more preferably 20% or more and 75% or less, and even more preferably 40% or more and 60% or less. The average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path 2A can also be the cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow path 2A where the first narrowing portion J1 is not provided. If the first flow path 2A is locally narrowed using the first narrowing portion J1, the flow of fluid through the narrowed portion will change, and gas that easily accumulates in the latter half of the flow path 10 will be easily discharged.

[0149] exist Figure 6 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 100 is shown. Figure 6 The schematic diagram shown is a schematic perspective view of the portion where the first narrowing section J1 is provided, and is... Figure 4 A variation of the schematic 3D diagram. Figure 6 The schematic diagram shows that the first narrowing section J1 has an inclined surface with a height increase on the opposite side of the frame 7 (the porous layer side not shown). The cross-sectional area S2 of the portion where the first narrowing section J1 opens the first flow channel 2A is... Figure 4Similarly, the area of ​​the rectangle enclosed by a double-dotted line is used. The same applies to other variations.

[0150] exist Figure 7 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 100 is shown. Figure 7 The schematic diagram shown is a schematic perspective view of the portion where the first narrowing section J1 is provided, and is... Figure 4 A variation of the schematic three-dimensional diagram. Figure 7 The first narrowing section J1 shown in the schematic diagram is provided in a manner separate from the surface of the frame 7. The structure of the embodiment also includes the structure in which the fluid flowing in the first flow channel 2A can pass through both the upper and lower sides of the first narrowing section J1.

[0151] exist Figure 8 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 100 is shown. Figure 8 The schematic diagram shown is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the first narrowing section J1 with steps disposed between the first flow path wall 1A and the second flow path wall 1B, and is... Figure 4 A variation of the schematic 3D diagram. For example... Figure 8 The structure of the first narrowing portion J1 in the schematic diagram, which has a stepped shape, is also included in the structure of the embodiment.

[0152] exist Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the separator 101 is shown in the figure. Figure 9 The separator 101 shown is Figure 1 A modified example of the separator 100. The separator 101 has a first narrowed portion J1 after being divided. Figure 1 The portion of the separator 100 shown in the schematic diagram, which has a first narrowing section J1, constitutes a first flow channel 2A in which fluid flows within the region surrounded by the first flow channel wall 1A, the second flow channel wall 1B, and the first narrowing section J1. Figure 9 In the schematic diagram shown, the separator 101 is configured such that fluid flows between the first narrowed portions J1 after the separation.

[0153] exist Figure 10 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 101 is shown. Figure 10 The schematic diagram shown is a perspective view of the portion with the dividing member J1 after being divided. The first narrowing F1 after being divided becomes the protruding part of the first flow path wall 1A and the second flow path wall 1B, which can change the flow of fluid. The flow path width narrows, and the flow velocity of the fluid passing between the first narrowing J1 after being divided increases, which can suppress gas retention.

[0154] exist Figure 11A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 101 is shown. Figure 11 The diagram shown is Figure 10 The schematic diagram shows a modified example of the structure. Alternatively, the frame 7 of the first narrowed section J1 after division can be connected side-by-side.

[0155] exist Figure 12 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 101 is shown. Figure 12 The diagram shown is Figure 10 A modified example of the structure shown in the schematic diagram. Figure 11 In the structure shown, the first flow path 2A is branched by the first narrowing section J1.

[0156] exist Figure 13 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 101 is shown. Figure 13 The diagram shown is Figure 11 A modified example of the structure shown in the schematic diagram. Figure 11 In the structure, the first narrowing portion F1 is configured to allow fluid to pass through on the opposite side of the frame 7. On the other hand, in Figure 13 In the structure, the first narrowing section F1 is configured to allow fluid to pass through the frame 7 side. Figure 11 The structure of the first narrow section F1 after flipping up and down is as follows Figure 13 The structure is shown in the schematic diagram.

[0157] As described above, various shapes of the first narrowing portion J1 are included in the embodiments. The first narrowing portion J1 is not limited to the shape of the first narrowing portion J1 described above.

[0158] The partition 100 (101) of the embodiment can be formed by processing an existing partition to form the narrow part J, or the first flow path wall 1A, the second flow path wall 1B and the frame 7 of the partition 100 (101) can be integrally formed with the first narrow part J1.

[0159] exist Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the separator 102 is shown in the figure. Figure 14 The separator 102 shown is Figure 1 A modified example of the separator 100. The separator 102 has an expansion portion K. One or more expansion portions K are provided in a portion of the flow channel 2. The first flow channel 2A is the flow channel 2 provided with the first expansion portion K1. The flow channels 2 other than the first flow channel 2A are either flow channels 2 provided with expansion portions K or flow channels 2 without expansion portions K. The expansion portion K is a recessed portion of the flow channel 2.

[0160] Preferably, the expansion portion K of the flow channel 2 is provided in the rear half of the flow channel 2 and not in the front half. By providing the expansion portion K in a part of the flow channel 2, it is possible to suppress the presence of gas volume contained in the fluid including liquid and gas flowing in the separator 100 in the flow channel 2. The expansion portion K of the flow channel 2 is preferably provided in the bend portion (third bend portion T3 and / or fourth bend portion T4) of the rear half of the flow channel 2.

[0161] Preferably, a first expansion portion K1 is provided in the third reversal portion T3, the fourth reversal portion T4 (the reversal portion closest to the side of the discharged fluid) closest to the discharge communication path 5, between the third reversal portion T3 and the fourth reversal portion T4, and between the reversal portion closest to the discharge communication path 5 and the discharge communication path 5. More preferably, the first expansion portion K1 is provided in the fourth reversal portion T4 (the reversal portion closest to the side of the discharged fluid) closest to the discharge communication path 5.

[0162] The front half of the first flow channel 2A, the front half of the second flow channel 2B, the front half of the third flow channel 2C, and the front half of the fourth flow channel 2D are located at the first location P1. The rear half of the first flow channel 2A, the rear half of the second flow channel 2B, the rear half of the third flow channel 2C, and the rear half of the fourth flow channel 2D are located at the second location P2.

[0163] If gas accumulates in the flow channel 2, side reactions can easily occur due to the gas generated by the electrodes in contact with the separator 100. In the case of CO2 electrolysis, if oxygen generated at the cathode and whose concentration increases on the anode discharge side reacts with hydrogen gas, whose concentration decreases on the cathode discharge side due to CO2 electrolysis and which is then reduced to water through a side reaction, hydrogen peroxide will be generated. Since hydrogen peroxide degrades the separator wall, it is preferable to expand a portion of the flow channel 2 in a manner that prevents gas accumulation. Expanding only a portion of the flow channel 2 at all the bends in the meandering flow channel shape, or only a portion of the flow channel 2 in the first half of the meandering flow channel 10, is not effective. By expanding only a portion of the flow channel 2 in the second half of the meandering flow channel 10, rather than the first half, gas accumulation can be suppressed.

[0164] By providing an expansion section K, fluid flow is facilitated within the expansion section K. Because the expansion section K is provided locally, the fluid flow is altered. This change in flow is used to suppress the retention of gas contained in the fluid flowing in the flow path 10. In the first half of the flow path 10, since less gas is generated through the electrode reaction, providing an expansion section K in the first half of the flow path 10 to change the fluid flowability is not effective. By not providing an expansion section K in the first half of the flow path 10, and providing a section with different fluid flowability in a portion of the flow path groove 2 in the second half of the flow path 10 where gas easily accumulates, gas accumulation can be suppressed.

[0165] The expansion section K does not connect adjacent flow path slots. That is, preferably, the expansion section K does not penetrate the flow path wall 1.

[0166] The expansion section K is not a fine bump or dent that exists as a whole as the flow path wall 1 and frame 7, but rather a shape that is set locally.

[0167] The preferred length of the expansion portion K is the same as the preferred length of the narrowing portion J.

[0168] The expansion portion K is, for example, a recess provided in the flow path wall 1 or / and the frame 7.

[0169] Alternatively, the separator 102 may also include a narrowing portion J. The narrowing portion J may be provided in the flow path 2 where the expansion portion K is provided, or in a flow path 2 that is different from the flow path 2 where the expansion portion K is provided.

[0170] Next, taking the first expansion portion K1 as an example, the expansion portion K in the embodiment will be described. The expansion portion K is preferably provided in one or more of the flow path grooves 2. For example, when the flow path 10 has a first flow path groove 2A, a second flow path groove 2B, a third flow path groove 2C, and a fourth flow path groove 2D, the expansion portion K is provided in any one or more flow path grooves 2. Hereinafter, an example in which the first expansion portion K1 is provided in the first flow path groove 2A will be described, but the same applies to cases where the expansion portion K is provided in other flow path grooves 2.

[0171] One or more first expansion portions K1 are provided in the first flow path channel 2A. Alternatively, two or more first expansion portions K1 may be provided in the first flow path channel 2A. The first expansion portion K1 is provided in the rear half of the first flow path channel 2A, causing a portion of the first flow path channel 2A to expand. The first expansion portion K1 is provided in the fourth foldback portion T4 of the first flow path channel 2A.

[0172] exist Figure 15 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 102 is shown. Figure 15The schematic diagram shown is a schematic perspective view of the portion of the separator 102 where the first expansion portion K1 is provided. Figure 15 The schematic diagram shows a component on frame 7 with a first expansion portion K1 provided between the first flow path wall 1A, the second flow path wall 1B, and the first flow path wall 1A and the second flow path wall 1B. The first expansion portion K1 expands the first flow path groove 2A, allowing fluid to pass through it. Figure 15 The dashed lines are also imaginary lines.

[0173] Figure 16 The schematic diagram illustrates the area expanded using the first expansion section K1. Figure 16 In the schematic diagram, the first expansion section K1 is located between the first flow path 2A and the second flow path 2B. Figure 16 The area enclosed by the thick line in the schematic diagram is the average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow channel 2A. Figure 16 The area enclosed by the thick dashed line in the schematic diagram is the cross-sectional area S3 of the portion of the first flow path groove 2A containing the portion with the first expansion part K1 (the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path groove 2A containing the first expansion part K1). Figure 15 The area expanded by the first expansion portion K1 is evaluated at the position of the rectangle enclosed by the double-dotted line. The position of the rectangle enclosed by the double-dotted line is the position where the flow area of ​​the first flow channel 2A is maximized due to the first expansion portion K1 (the position with the largest area S3). The average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow channel 2A is compared and evaluated with the cross-sectional area S3 of the portion where the first expansion portion K1 opens the first flow channel 2A. The cross-sectional area S3 of the portion where the first expansion portion K1 opens the first flow channel 2A is larger than S1.

[0174] The cross-sectional area S3 of the portion where the first expansion portion K1 opens the first flow path groove 2A is preferably 110% or more and 170% or less of the average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow path groove 2A, more preferably 125% or more and 165% or less, and even more preferably 140% or more and 160% or less. The average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path groove 2A can also be the cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow path groove 2A that does not have the first narrowing portion J1, etc. If the first flow path groove 2A is partially expanded using the first narrowing portion J1, the flow of fluid through the expanded portion will change, and gas that easily accumulates in the latter half of the flow path 10 will be easily discharged.

[0175] exist Figure 17 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 102 is shown. Figure 17 The schematic diagram shown is a perspective view of the portion with the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1. Figure 15A variation of the schematic three-dimensional diagram. Figure 17 In the schematic diagram of the separator 102, the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1 are continuously disposed in the first flow path groove 2A. With both the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1 disposed in the first flow path groove 2A, it is possible to achieve the following: Figure 17 The first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1 are continuously arranged as shown in the schematic diagram. Alternatively, the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1 can be separated. The diagram may also include a portion in which the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1 are continuously arranged, as well as a portion in which the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1 are separately arranged.

[0176] When the first flow channel 2A includes both the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1, the total length of the first expansion portion K1 and the first narrowing portion J1 preferably meets the requirement of the preferred length of the narrowing portion J.

[0177] exist Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the separator 103 is shown in the figure. Figure 18 The separator 103 shown is Figure 14 A modified example of the separator 102. The separator 103 has an expansion portion K. One or more expansion portions K are provided in a part of the flow path 2. The first flow path 2A is the flow path 2 provided with the first expansion portion K1. The flow path 2 other than the first flow path 2A is either the flow path 2 provided with the expansion portion K or the flow path 2 without the expansion portion K.

[0178] exist Figure 19 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the separator 103 is shown. Figure 19 The schematic diagram shown is a schematic perspective view of the portion of the separator 103 where the first expansion portion K1 is provided. Figure 19 In the schematic diagram, a component with a first expansion portion K1 provided on the surface of the first flow path wall 1A, the second flow path wall 1B, and the frame 7 is shown on the frame 7. The recessed portion on the surface of the frame 7 is the first expansion portion K1. The first flow path groove 2A is expanded by the first expansion portion K1, and fluid can also pass through the first expansion portion K1. The first expansion portion K1 in the recessed portion of the surface of the frame 7 extends to the first flow path wall 1A and the second flow path wall 1B. Alternatively, the recessed portion may also exist in the first flow path wall 1A and / or the second flow path wall 1B.

[0179] Figure 20 The schematic diagram illustrates the area expanded using the first expansion section K1. Figure 20 In the schematic diagram, the first expansion section K1 is located between the first flow path 2A and the second flow path 2B. Figure 20 The first expansion portion K1 shown in the schematic diagram is not the horizontal recess shown in the diagram, but rather... Figure 19The recessed portion on the side of frame 7 is set as shown in the schematic diagram. Figure 20 The area enclosed by the thick line in the schematic diagram is the average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow channel 2A. Figure 20 The area enclosed by the thick dashed line in the schematic diagram is the cross-sectional area S3 of the portion of the first flow path groove 2A containing the portion with the first expansion part K1 (the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow path groove 2A containing the first expansion part K1). Figure 19 The area expanded by the first expansion portion K1 is evaluated at the position of the rectangle enclosed by the double-dotted line. The position of the rectangle enclosed by the double-dotted line is the position where the flow area of ​​the first flow channel 2A is maximized due to the first expansion portion K1 (the position with the largest area S3). The average cross-sectional area S1 of the first flow channel 2A is compared and evaluated with the cross-sectional area S3 of the portion where the first expansion portion K1 opens the first flow channel 2A. The cross-sectional area S3 of the portion where the first expansion portion K1 opens the first flow channel 2A is larger than S1.

[0180] exist Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the separator 104 is shown in the figure. Figure 21 The separator 103 shown is Figure 1 A modified example of the separator 100. The separator 104 has a narrowing portion J, an expansion portion K, and a blocking wall F. The first flow path 2A is a flow path 2 provided with the first narrowing portion J1. The second flow path 2B is a flow path 2 provided with the second expansion portion K2. The third flow path 2C is a flow path 2 provided with the third narrowing portion J3. The fourth flow path 2D is a flow path 2 provided with the fourth blocking wall 4F. When the blocking wall F is provided in the first flow path 2A, the blocking wall F is the first blocking wall F1.

[0181] The first narrowing section J1 is, for example, a protrusion provided on the bottom side of the first flow channel 2A, i.e., on the frame 7, and is provided in the fourth reversal section T4 of the rear half of the flow path 10. The first narrowing section J1 changes the flow of fluid in the fourth reversal section T4.

[0182] The second expansion section K2 is, for example, a recess provided in the second flow path wall 1B, and is provided in the third return section T3 of the rear half of the flow path 10. The second expansion section K2 changes the flow of fluid in the third return section T3.

[0183] The third expansion section K3 is, for example, a recess provided on the side of the frame 7, and is provided in the fourth return section T4 in the rear half of the flow path 10. The third expansion section K3 changes the flow of fluid in the fourth return section T4.

[0184] The fourth blocking wall F4 (blocking wall F) is provided, for example, between the fourth flow path wall 1D and the fifth flow path wall 1E, and blocks the fourth flow path channel 2D. Although the narrowing part J does not completely block the flow path channel 2, the blocking wall F completely blocks the flow path channel 2.

[0185] For example, if a blocking wall F is provided in the first flow path channel 2A, then the blocking wall F is designated as the first blocking wall F1, etc., which is the same as the narrowing section J. The first blocking wall F1 blocks the first flow path channel 2A.

[0186] For example, if a blocking wall F is provided in the second flow path channel 2B, then the blocking wall F is designated as a second blocking wall F2, etc., which is common to the narrowing section J. The second blocking wall F2 blocks the second flow path channel 2B.

[0187] For example, if the blocking wall F is set in the third flow path channel 2C, then the blocking wall F is set as the third blocking wall F3, etc., which is the same as the narrowing part J. The third blocking wall F3 blocks the third flow path channel 2C.

[0188] The preferred length and position of the blocking wall F are the same as those of the narrowing portion J. When the blocking wall F is provided in the flow path groove 2, it is preferable that one or more blocking walls F are provided in the flow path groove 2. When the blocking wall F is provided in the flow path groove 2, it is preferable that one or more blocking walls F are provided in one or more flow path grooves 2. When the blocking wall F is provided in the flow path groove 2, the blocking wall F is preferably located in the rear half of the flow path 10. The narrowing portion J may also be connected to the blocking wall F.

[0189] exist Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the separator 105 is shown in the figure. Figure 22 The separator 103 shown is Figure 1 A modified example of the separator 100. The separator 105 has a narrowing portion J, an expanding portion K, and a connecting path M. The first flow path 2A is a flow path 2 provided with the first narrowing portion J1. The second flow path 2B is a flow path 2 connected to the third flow path 2C by the third connecting path M3. The third flow path 2C is a flow path 2 provided with the third expanding portion K3. The fourth flow path 2D is a flow path 2 without the narrowing portion, expanding portion K, etc. When the connecting path M is provided in the first flow path 2A, the connecting path M is the first connecting path M1.

[0190] The first narrowing section J1 is, for example, a protrusion provided on the bottom side of the first flow channel 2A, i.e., on the frame 7, and is provided in the fourth reversal section T4 of the rear half of the flow path 10. The first narrowing section J1 changes the flow of fluid in the fourth reversal section T4.

[0191] The third connecting path M3 (connecting path M) extends through the third flow path wall 1C and is located in the third reversal portion T3 of the rear half of the flow path 10. Connecting path M is located at the opening of the flow path wall 1, connecting the flow path groove 2 that sandwiches the flow path wall 1. For example, if connecting path M is located at the second flow path wall 1B, then connecting path M is the second connecting path M2, and the numbering changes depending on the flow path wall 1 at which it is located. The third connecting path M3 alters the flow of fluid in the third reversal portion T3. The preferred length and position of the connecting path M in the long side direction are the same as those of the narrowing portion J.

[0192] The third expansion section K3 is, for example, a recess provided on the side of the frame 7, and is provided in the fourth return section T4 in the rear half of the flow path 10. The third expansion section K3 changes the flow of fluid in the fourth return section T4.

[0193] exist Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the separator 106 is shown in the figure. Figure 23 The partition 106 shown is a variation of the partition 100. The partition 106 has a structure in which two flow paths, namely a first flow path 10 and a second flow path 11, are independently arranged side-by-side. The first flow path 10 and the second flow path 11 each include a first foldback portion T1 and a second foldback portion T2. ​​The first foldback portion T1 is the foldback portion included in the front half of the first flow path 10 and the front half of the second flow path 11, and the second foldback portion T2 is the foldback portion included in the rear half of the flow path groove 2. A first flow path groove 2A, a second flow path groove 2B, a third flow path groove 2C, and a fourth flow path groove 2D are provided from the outside of the second foldback portion T2 toward the inside.

[0194] The first flow path 10 includes a first flow path groove 2A with a first narrowing section J1. The first narrowing section J1 is provided in the rear half of the first flow path 10.

[0195] The second flow path 11 includes a first flow path groove 2A with a first narrowing section J1. The first narrowing section J1 is provided in the rear half of the second flow path 11.

[0196] Preferably, the first flow path 10 and the second flow path 11 have the same flow path pattern, and each has a different flow path pattern in the first half and the second half.

[0197] In the separator 106, the first flow path 10 and the second flow path 11 are narrowed by the first narrowing portion J1, thereby changing the flowability of the fluid at the bend portion T. By changing the flowability of the fluid in the first and second halves of the first flow path 10 and the second flow path 11, it is difficult for gas to accumulate in the latter half of the first flow path 10 and the latter half of the second flow path 11.

[0198] exist Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the separator 107 is shown in the figure. Figure 24 The partition 107 shown is a variation of the partition 100. The partition 107 has a first flow path channel 2A and a second flow path channel 2B from which fluid flows from the first location P1 to the second location P2, and a third flow path channel 2C and a fourth flow path channel 2D from the second location P2 to the first location P1. The second location P2 side, serving as the supply side of the second flow path 11, is connected to the supply communication path 3 and the supply manifold 4. Furthermore, the first location P1 side, serving as the discharge side of the second flow path 11, is connected to the discharge communication path 5 and the discharge manifold 6. That is, the fluid flowing in the first flow path 10 flows in the opposite direction to the direction in which the fluid flows in the second flow path 11.

[0199] The first flow path 10 includes a first flow path groove 2A with a first narrowing portion J1. The flow path pattern of the reversal portion T of the rear half of the first flow path 10, namely the third reversal portion T3 and / or the fourth reversal portion T4, is different from the flow path pattern of the reversal portion T of the front half of the first flow path 10, namely the first reversal portion T1 and the second reversal portion T2. ​​The first narrowing portion J1 is provided in the rear half of the first flow path 10.

[0200] The second flow path 11 includes a first flow path groove 2A with a first narrowing portion J1. The flow path patterns of the reversal portions T of the rear half of the second flow path 11, namely the first reversal portion T1 and / or the second reversal portion T2, are different from the flow path patterns of the reversal portions T of the front half of the second flow path 11, namely the third reversal portion T3 and the fourth reversal portion T4. The first narrowing portion J1 is provided in the rear half of the second flow path 11.

[0201] Although the first flow path 2A, the second flow path 2B, the third flow path 2C, and the fourth flow path 2D are divided into two flow paths with opposite fluid flow directions, they are arranged in parallel.

[0202] In the separator 107, the first flow path 10 and the second flow path 11 are narrowed by the first narrowing portion J1, thereby changing the flowability of the fluid at the bend portion T. By changing the flowability of the fluid in the first and second halves of the first flow path 10 and the second flow path 11, it is difficult for gas to accumulate in the latter half of the first flow path 10 and the latter half of the second flow path 11.

[0203] (Second Implementation)

[0204] The second embodiment relates to an electrochemical battery cell. Figure 25A schematic diagram of the electrochemical battery unit 200 according to the second embodiment is shown. The electrochemical battery unit 200 is, for example, for water electrolysis, CO2 electrolysis, ammonia electrolysis, or a fuel cell. When CO2 is used in the electrolysis reaction, the CO2 can also be CO2 recovered from combustion gases, etc., using an amine solution. The electricity generated by the electrochemical battery unit can be used for electrolysis, charging a secondary battery, or consumed by a load. Fuel cells and solar cells can also be used as the power source for the electrochemical battery unit. For example, the electrochemical battery unit can be used to convert surplus electrical energy into chemical energy and store it.

[0205] The electrochemical cell unit 200 has an anode 21, a cathode 22, a separator 23, a first separator 24, and a second separator 25.

[0206] The first electrode (anode) 21 has a porous substrate on the side of the first separator 24 and a catalyst layer on the side of the separator wall 23. The substrate and catalyst layer of the first electrode 21 can be adapted to the anodic reaction of the first electrode 21 using appropriate components.

[0207] The second electrode (cathode) 22 has a porous substrate on the side of the second separator 25 and a catalyst layer on the side of the separator wall 23. The substrate and catalyst layer of the second electrode 22 can be adapted to react with the cathode of the second electrode 22 using appropriate components.

[0208] A membrane 23 is disposed between the cathode 22 and the anode 21, and forms a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) by being stacked with the cathode 22 and the anode 21. The membrane 23 is made of a material that allows ions to move between the anode 21 and the cathode 22 and that can separate the anode portion of the anode 21 and the anode portion of the first separator 24 from the cathode portion of the cathode 22 and the cathode portion of the second separator 25. Specifically, it is made of a porous membrane of anion exchange membrane, cation exchange membrane, or organic polymer material.

[0209] Examples of ion exchange membranes used in the diaphragm 23 include cation exchange membranes such as Nafion and Flemion, and anion exchange membranes such as Neosepta, Selemion, Sustainion, and PiperION. The organic polymeric material constituting the porous membrane is not particularly limited, but examples include fluorinated resins such as Teflon and polyvinylidene fluoride, hydrocarbon polymers such as polyether, polysulfone, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethersulfone, and cellulose.

[0210] The first separator 24 supplies the fluid used in the reaction at the first electrode 21 and discharges the fluid containing the reactants. The first separator 24 is electrically connected to the first electrode 21.

[0211] The second separator 25 supplies the fluid used in the reaction at the second electrode 22 and discharges the fluid containing the reactants. The second separator 25 is electrically connected to the second electrode 22.

[0212] The separators 100-107 in the first embodiment are preferably used in the first separator 24 and / or the second separator 25. Alternatively, either the first separator 24 or the second separator 25 may be a separator without the narrowing portion J and the expansion portion K.

[0213] By using the separators 100-107 of the first embodiment, it is difficult for gas to accumulate in the separators 100-107, and the deterioration of the separator wall 23 can be suppressed.

[0214] (Third implementation method)

[0215] The third embodiment involves a battery stack. Figure 26 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the battery stack 300 according to the third embodiment. Figure 26 The battery stack 300 shown in the third embodiment is formed by connecting multiple electrochemical battery cells 200 in series. Fastening plates 31 and 32 are installed at both ends of the battery stack 300. The modified electrochemical battery cells can also be used in the third embodiment.

[0216] When electrolysis is performed, the amount of carbon compounds such as H2 and CO generated by a single electrochemical cell unit 200 is relatively small. When generating electricity, the amount of electricity generated by a single electrochemical cell unit 200 is relatively small. Therefore, when a battery stack 300 is constructed by connecting multiple electrochemical cell units 200 in series, the amount of products and the amount of electricity generated will increase.

[0217] (Fourth Implementation)

[0218] The fourth embodiment relates to an electrolysis apparatus and a fuel cell. The electrolysis apparatus and fuel cell use an electrochemical cell unit 200 or a battery stack 300 using an electrochemical cell unit 200. Figure 27 A schematic diagram of the apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment is shown. An electrochemical cell unit 200 is used in the apparatus 400. A portion of the structure of the actual apparatus is illustrated in the apparatus 400. When CO2 is electrolyzed using the electrochemical cell unit 200, the CO2 electrolyzed by the electrochemical cell unit 200 can also be CO2 gas recovered from combustion gases, etc., using an amine solution or the like.

[0219] The device 400 (401) has an electrochemical cell unit 200, an anode current collector 41, a cathode current collector 42 and a power source or load 43.

[0220] An anode current collector 41 is provided on the first separator 24 of the electrochemical cell unit 200. The first separator 24 is electrically connected to the anode current collector 41.

[0221] A cathode current collector 42 is provided on the second separator 25 of the electrochemical cell unit 200. The second separator 25 is electrically connected to the cathode current collector 42.

[0222] Preferably, the separators 100-107 of the first embodiment are used in the first separator 24 and / or the second separator 25. Alternatively, either the first separator 24 or the second separator 25 may be a separator without the narrowing portion J and the expanding portion K.

[0223] A power source or load 43 is connected between the anode current collector 41 and the cathode current collector 42.

[0224] If device 500 (501) is an electrolysis device, then a power supply 43 is connected between the anode collector plate 41 and the cathode collector plate 42.

[0225] If device 500 (501) is a fuel cell, a load 43 is connected between the anode current collector 41 and the cathode current collector 42. The load 43 can also be a power conversion device, a storage battery, etc.

[0226] The present invention will be described in more detail below based on embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0227] (Example 1)

[0228] Will Figure 1 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0229] (Example 2)

[0230] Will Figure 1 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0231] (Example 3)

[0232] Will Figure 9 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0233] (Example 4)

[0234] Will Figure 14 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0235] (Example 5)

[0236] Will Figure 18 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0237] (Example 6)

[0238] Will Figure 21 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0239] (Example 7)

[0240] Will Figure 22 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0241] (Comparative Example 1)

[0242] Not set Figure 1 The narrowing portion J has a partition for the first partition 24 and the second partition 25, and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0243] Electrochemical cell units from Examples 1-7 and Comparative Example 1 were used to perform electrolytic operation of CO2 electrolysis to generate CO under the same conditions. Compared with Comparative Example 1, Examples 1-7 all prevented gas from accumulating in the separator and suppressed the rise of cell voltage even during long-term operation.

[0244] Using the electrochemical cell units of Examples 1-7 and the electrochemical cell unit of Comparative Example 1, fuel cell operation using methanol as fuel was conducted under the same conditions. Compared with Comparative Example 1, Examples 1-7 all demonstrated that gas was less likely to accumulate in the separator, and the voltage drop of the cell unit was suppressed even during long-term operation.

[0245] The technical solutions for implementing these methods are attached below.

[0246] Technical Solution 1

[0247] A separator, wherein the separator has a flow path, the flow path including a first flow path wall, a second flow path wall, and a first flow path groove disposed between the first flow path wall and the second flow path wall.

[0248] The separator is provided with a first narrowing portion that narrows a portion of the rear half of the first flow channel and / or a first expansion portion that expands a portion of the rear half of the first flow channel.

[0249] Technical Solution 2

[0250] According to the separator described in technical solution 1, the flow path has a meandering flow path shape.

[0251] Technical Solution 3

[0252] According to the separator described in technical solution 1 or 2, wherein,

[0253] The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first narrowing portion is provided is 20% or more and 75% or less of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel.

[0254] The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first expansion portion is provided is more than 125% and less than 165% of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel.

[0255] Technical Solution 4

[0256] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 3, wherein,

[0257] The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first narrowing portion is provided is 40% or more and 60% or less of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel.

[0258] The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first expansion portion is provided is more than 140% and less than 160% of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel.

[0259] Technical Solution 5

[0260] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 4, wherein,

[0261] The first expansion portion did not penetrate the first flow path wall.

[0262] The first expansion section did not penetrate the second flow path wall.

[0263] Technical Solution 6

[0264] According to any one of technical solutions 1 to 5, the separator, wherein the first narrowing portion and the first expansion portion are disposed in the folded-back portion of the rear half of the flow path.

[0265] Technical Solution 7

[0266] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 6, wherein,

[0267] The length of the first narrowing portion is more than 1% and less than 100% of the length of the folded-back portion of the flow path.

[0268] The length of the first expansion portion is more than 1% and less than 100% of the length of the fold-back portion of the flow path.

[0269] Technical Solution 8

[0270] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 7, wherein,

[0271] The length of the first narrowing portion is more than 0.1 times and less than 3 times the width of the first flow channel.

[0272] The length of the first expansion portion is more than 0.1 times and less than 3 times the width of the first flow channel.

[0273] Technical Solution 9

[0274] According to any one of technical solutions 1 to 8, the separator has a first blocking wall that blocks the first flow path groove.

[0275] Technical Solution 10

[0276] According to any one of technical solutions 1 to 9, the separator is provided with the first narrowing portion and / or the first expansion portion on the folded-back portion on the side closest to the discharged fluid.

[0277] Technical Solution 11

[0278] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 10, wherein,

[0279] The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove disposed between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall.

[0280] The first connection path connecting the first flow path slot and the second flow path slot is used for connection.

[0281] Technical Solution 12

[0282] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 11, wherein,

[0283] The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove disposed between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall.

[0284] The flow path connects the first location side to the second location side.

[0285] The front half of the first flow path channel and the front half of the second flow path channel are located on the first location side.

[0286] The rear half of the first flow path channel and the rear half of the second flow path channel are located on the second location side.

[0287] The first flow path slot is parallel to the second flow path slot.

[0288] Technical Solution 13

[0289] According to the separator of technical solution 12, the separator is provided with a second narrowing portion that narrows a portion of the rear half of the second flow path groove and / or a second expansion portion that expands a portion of the rear half of the second flow path groove.

[0290] Technical Solution 14

[0291] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 11, wherein,

[0292] The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove disposed between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall.

[0293] The flow path connects the first location side to the second location side.

[0294] The front half of the first flow path channel and the rear half of the second flow path channel are located on the first location side.

[0295] The rear half of the first flow path channel and the front half of the second flow path channel are located on the second location side.

[0296] Technical Solution 15

[0297] According to the separator of technical solution 14, the separator is provided with a second narrowing portion that narrows a portion of the rear half of the second flow path groove and / or a second expansion portion that expands a portion of the rear half of the second flow path groove.

[0298] Technical Solution 16

[0299] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 11, wherein,

[0300] The flow path further includes a third flow path wall, a fourth flow path wall, and a second flow path groove disposed between the third flow path wall and the fourth flow path wall.

[0301] The flow path connects the first location side to the second location side.

[0302] The front half of the first flow path channel and the rear half of the second flow path channel are located on the first location side.

[0303] The rear half of the first flow path channel and the front half of the second flow path channel are located on the second location side.

[0304] Technical Solution 17

[0305] According to the separator of technical solution 16, the separator is provided with a second narrowing portion that narrows a portion of the rear half of the second flow path groove and / or a second expansion portion that expands a portion of the rear half of the second flow path groove.

[0306] Technical Solution 18

[0307] An electrochemical battery cell, wherein the electrochemical battery cell comprises:

[0308] First electrode;

[0309] Second electrode;

[0310] A partition wall is located between the first electrode and the second electrode;

[0311] A first separator, the first separator being in contact with the first electrode; and

[0312] The second separator is in contact with the second electrode.

[0313] The first partition and / or the second partition are partitions as described in any one of technical solutions 1 to 17.

[0314] Technical Solution 19

[0315] A battery stack, wherein the battery stack has the electrochemical battery cell described in technical solution 18.

[0316] Technical Solution 20

[0317] An apparatus, wherein the apparatus is an electrolysis device or a fuel cell having the electrochemical battery unit described in technical solution 18.

[0318] Some embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are given by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included within the scope of the technical solutions described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A separator, wherein, The separator has a flow path, which includes a first flow path wall, a second flow path wall, and a first flow path groove disposed between the first flow path wall and the second flow path wall. The separator is provided with one or more first narrowing portions that narrow a portion of the rear half of the first flow channel and / or one or more first expanding portions that expand a portion of the rear half of the first flow channel.

2. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The flow path has a meandering shape.

3. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first narrowing portion is provided is 20% or more and 75% or less of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel. The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first expansion portion is provided is more than 125% and less than 165% of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel.

4. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first narrowing portion is provided is 40% or more and 60% or less of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel. The cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the first flow channel opening where the first expansion portion is provided is more than 140% and less than 160% of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the first flow channel.

5. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The first expansion portion did not penetrate the first flow path wall. The first expansion section did not penetrate the second flow path wall.

6. The separator according to claim 2, wherein, The first narrowing portion and the first expansion portion are disposed in the fold-back portion of the rear half of the flow path.

7. The separator according to claim 2, wherein, The length of the first narrowing portion is more than 1% and less than 100% of the length of the folded-back portion of the flow path. The length of the first expansion portion is more than 1% and less than 100% of the length of the fold-back portion of the flow path.

8. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The length of the first narrowing portion is more than 0.1 times and less than 3 times the width of the first flow channel. The length of the first expansion portion is more than 0.1 times and less than 3 times the width of the first flow channel.

9. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The separator has a first blocking wall that blocks the first flow path channel.

10. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The first narrowing portion and / or the first expansion portion are provided on the folded-back portion on the side closest to the discharge fluid.

11. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove disposed between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall. The first connection path connecting the first flow path slot and the second flow path slot is used for connection.

12. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove disposed between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall. The flow path connects the first location side to the second location side. The front half of the first flow path channel and the front half of the second flow path channel are located on the first location side. The rear half of the first flow path channel and the rear half of the second flow path channel are located on the second location side. The first flow path slot is parallel to the second flow path slot.

13. The separator according to claim 12, wherein, The separator is provided with one or more second narrowing portions that narrow a portion of the rear half of the second flow channel and / or one or more second expansion portions that expand a portion of the rear half of the second flow channel.

14. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove disposed between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall. The flow path connects the first location side to the second location side. The front half of the first flow path channel and the rear half of the second flow path channel are located on the first location side. The rear half of the first flow path channel and the front half of the second flow path channel are located on the second location side.

15. The separator according to claim 14, wherein, The separator is provided with one or more second narrowing portions that narrow a portion of the rear half of the second flow channel and / or one or more second expansion portions that expand a portion of the rear half of the second flow channel.

16. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The flow path further includes a third flow path wall, a fourth flow path wall, and a second flow path groove disposed between the third flow path wall and the fourth flow path wall. The flow path connects the first location side to the second location side. The front half of the first flow path channel and the rear half of the second flow path channel are located on the first location side. The rear half of the first flow path channel and the front half of the second flow path channel are located on the second location side.

17. The separator according to claim 16, wherein, The separator is provided with one or more second narrowing portions that narrow a portion of the rear half of the second flow channel and / or one or more second expansion portions that expand a portion of the rear half of the second flow channel.

18. An electrochemical battery cell, wherein, The electrochemical battery unit includes: First electrode; Second electrode; A partition wall is located between the first electrode and the second electrode; A first separator, which is in contact with the first electrode; as well as The second separator is in contact with the second electrode. The first partition and / or the second partition is the partition as described in any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. A battery stack, wherein, The battery stack has the electrochemical battery cell as described in claim 18.

20. An apparatus wherein, The device is an electrolysis device or a fuel cell having the electrochemical battery unit of claim 18.

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