Dividers, electrochemical cell units, cell stacks, and devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to separators, electrochemical cell units, cell stacks, and devices. A separator of an embodiment has a first supply groove, a first branch groove including a plurality of grooves, and a first discharge groove. The first supply groove and the first discharge groove extend in a first direction. The first branch groove is disposed between the first supply groove and the first branch groove in a second direction. The first supply groove has a depth that is deeper than a depth of the first branch groove. The first discharge groove has a depth that is deeper than the depth of the first branch groove.

Description

[0001] References to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and enjoys priority to Japanese Patent Application 2025-046099 (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 separator in this embodiment includes a first supply channel, a first branch channel comprising a plurality of channels, and a first discharge channel. The first supply channel and the first discharge channel extend along a first direction. The first branch channel is disposed between the first supply channel and the first branch channel in a second direction. The depth of the first supply channel is greater than the depth of the first branch channel. The depth of the first discharge channel is greater than the depth of the first branch channel.

[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 cross-sectional view of the partition in the implementation method.

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

[0012] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0027] Figure 19 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0029] Figure 21 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0030] Figure 22 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0031] Figure 23 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the partition in the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the separator unit 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] 2: Second supply tank

[0039] 2A: First supply tank

[0040] 2B: Second supply tank

[0041] 2C: Third Supply Tank

[0042] 2D: Fourth Supply Tank

[0043] 3A: First branch slot

[0044] 3Aa: First discharge side opening groove

[0045] 3Ab: First supply-side opening groove

[0046] 3B: Second branch slot

[0047] 3Ba: Second discharge side opening groove

[0048] 3Bb: Second supply-side opening groove

[0049] 3C: Third branch slot

[0050] 3Ca: Third discharge side opening groove

[0051] 3Cb: Third supply-side opening groove

[0052] 3D: Fourth Branch Slot

[0053] 3Da: Fourth discharge side opening groove

[0054] 3Db: Fourth supply-side opening slot

[0055] 4A: First discharge slot

[0056] 4B: Second discharge slot

[0057] 4C: Third discharge slot

[0058] 4D: Fourth discharge slot

[0059] 5: Framework

[0060] 7: Framework

[0061] 11: Support body

[0062] 12: Supply connectivity path

[0063] 13: Supply Manifold

[0064] 14: Drain connected paths

[0065] 15: Exhaust manifold

[0066] 21: First electrode

[0067] 21A: Substrate

[0068] 21B: Catalyst layer

[0069] 22: Second electrode

[0070] 22A: Substrate

[0071] 22B: Catalyst layer

[0072] 23: Partition wall

[0073] 24: First separator

[0074] 25: Second separator

[0075] 31: Fastening plate

[0076] 32: Fastening plate

[0077] 41: Anode current collector

[0078] 42: Cathode current collector

[0079] 43: Load, Power Supply

[0080] 100: Separator

[0081] 101: Separator

[0082] 200: Separator Unit

[0083] 300: Electrochemical cell unit

[0084] 400: Battery stack

[0085] 500: Device

[0086] IN: Supply Port

[0087] OUT: Discharge outlet. Detailed Implementation

[0088] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] (First Implementation)

[0092] The first embodiment relates to a separator 100. The separator 100 is a rectifier plate 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 A schematic diagram of the separator 101 is shown in the figure.

[0093] exist Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line A-A'. Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line a-a'. Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line B-B'. Figure 6 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line C-C'. Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line D-D'. Figure 8 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line E-E'. Figure 9 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line F-F'. Figure 10 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 along line G-G'. Figure 11 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the H-H' of the separator 100.

[0094] exist Figure 12 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a modified example of the separator 100, along with line A-A'. Figure 13 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of B-B', a modified example of the separator 100. Figure 14 It shows Figure 1A schematic cross-sectional view of a modified example of the separator 100, specifically along line C-C'. Figure 15 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a modified example of the separator 100, specifically D-D'. Figure 16 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of E-E' of a modified example of the separator 100. Figure 17 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of F-F', a modified example of the separator 100. Figure 18 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a modified example of the separator 100, specifically G-G'. Figure 19 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of H-H' of a modified example of the separator 100.

[0095] exist Figure 20 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of F-F', a modified example of the separator 100. Figure 21 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of F-F', a modified example of the separator 100.

[0096] exist Figure 22 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a modified example of the separator 100, along with line A-A'. Figure 23 It shows Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of F-F', a modified example of the separator 100.

[0097] The separator 100 has a flow path wall 1 and a frame 5 supporting the flow path wall 1. The directions in the figure are represented by X, Y, and Z.

[0098] The flow path wall 1 is made of metal, for example. The frame 5 is made of metal, for example.

[0099] 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 fluids used in the electrode reaction and discharges fluids containing the products of the electrode reaction. The fluid is a gas and / or a liquid.

[0100] Fluid enters through the supply port IN and exits through the discharge port OUT. The separator 100 has a single supply port IN and a single discharge port OUT.

[0101] The flow path wall 1 on the opposite side of the frame 5 of the separator 100 is in contact with the gas diffusion layer, for example. The groove of the separator 100 is connected to the gas diffusion layer, for example. The groove of the separator 100 is connected to the gas diffusion layer as a whole, for example. That is, the gap of the groove as a whole becomes the flow path of the fluid toward the gas diffusion layer.

[0102] The separator 100 is an interdigitated flow channel type separator. The interdigitated flow channel type separator has a structure in which branch channels connecting the flow path to the supply channel and branch channels connecting the flow path to the discharge channel are arranged alternately. It is also possible to use the supply channel as a discharge channel and vice versa.

[0103] The space enclosed by the flow path wall 1 and the frame 5 is called a groove. The groove is formed using the flow path wall 1. The outermost part of the flow path wall 1 becomes the frame. The groove exists between the flow path walls 1. Fluid flows in the groove.

[0104] The separator 100 includes supply channels (2A, 2B, 2C, 2D), branch channels (3A, 3B, 3C, 3D), and discharge channels (4A, 4B, 4C, 4D). Fluid flowing in the separator 100 flows from the supply channels to the branch channels and from the branch channels to the discharge channels, ultimately discharging outside the separator 100. Figure 1 The partition has four supply channels, four branch channels, and four discharge channels, but two or more are acceptable and the upper limit is not particularly limited. For example, it is preferable to have two or more and no more than 15 channels. The number of supply channels, branch channels, and discharge channels can be selected appropriately to match the width of the flow path channel and the shape of the partition 100.

[0105] The following description of unspecified supply tanks applies to the description of the supply tanks as a whole; therefore, this description is not specific to the first supply tank 2A, the second supply tank 2B, the third supply tank 2C, and the fourth supply tank 2D. Similarly, the description of unspecified branch tanks and discharge tanks is also not specific to any particular branch tank or discharge tank.

[0106] The supply channels of the separator 100 include a first supply channel 2A, a second supply channel 2B, a third supply channel 2C, and a fourth supply channel 2D. The first supply channel 2A, the second supply channel 2B, the third supply channel 2C, and the fourth supply channel 2D extend along a first direction (X direction). Preferably, the first supply channel 2A, the second supply channel 2B, the third supply channel 2C, and the fourth supply channel 2D extend in the same direction or substantially in the same direction. The first direction is along the surface direction of the frame 5. The openings of the supply channels, branch channels, and discharge channels on the side opposite to the frame 5 are all connected to a gas diffusion layer, etc.

[0107] Arranged sequentially from the outside to the inside (along the second direction) are a first supply tank 2A, a second supply tank 2B, a third supply tank 2C, and a fourth supply tank 2D. The first supply tank 2A ​​is the shortest. The second supply tank 2B is a shorter tank immediately following the first supply tank 2A. The fourth supply tank 2D is the longest tank. The third supply tank 2C is a longer tank immediately following the fourth supply tank 2D. The third supply tank 2C is longer than the second supply tank 2B.

[0108] The first supply tank 2A ​​is preferably adjacent to the second supply tank 2B, and more preferably directly adjacent to it. The second supply tank 2B is located between the first supply tank 2A ​​and the third supply tank 2C, preferably adjacent to both the first supply tank 2A ​​and the third supply tank 2C, and more preferably directly adjacent to them. The third supply tank 2C is located between the second supply tank 2B and the fourth supply tank 2D, preferably adjacent to both the second supply tank 2B and the fourth supply tank 2D, and more preferably directly adjacent to them.

[0109] The dividing member 100 has branch slots including a first branch slot 3A, a second branch slot 3B, a third branch slot 3C, and a fourth branch slot 3D. The first branch slot 3A, second branch slot 3B, third branch slot 3C, and fourth branch slot 3D extend along a second direction (Y direction). Preferably, the first branch slot 3A, second branch slot 3B, third branch slot 3C, and fourth branch slot 3D extend in the same direction or substantially in the same direction. The first branch slot 3A, second branch slot 3B, third branch slot 3C, and fourth branch slot 3D are arranged along the long side direction of the supply slot and the discharge slot. The first and second directions are along the surface direction of the frame 5. The second direction is orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the first direction.

[0110] A branch channel is positioned in the second direction (Y direction) between the supply channel and the discharge channel, connecting the two channels. The supply channel, branch channel, and discharge channel are arranged along the second direction.

[0111] The lengths of the first branch slot 3A, the second branch slot 3B, the third branch slot 3C, and the fourth branch slot 3D are the same or approximately the same.

[0112] The first branch slot 3A is preferably adjacent to the second branch slot 3B, and more preferably directly adjacent. The second branch slot 3B is located between the first branch slot 3A and the third branch slot 3C, preferably adjacent to both the first branch slot 3A and the third branch slot 3C, and more preferably directly adjacent. The third branch slot 3C is located between the second branch slot 3B and the fourth branch slot 3D, preferably adjacent to both the second branch slot 3B and the fourth branch slot 3D, and more preferably directly adjacent.

[0113] The discharge channels of the separator 100 include a first discharge channel 4A, a second discharge channel 4B, a third discharge channel 4C, and a fourth discharge channel 4D. The first discharge channel 4A, second discharge channel 4B, third discharge channel 4C, and fourth discharge channel 4D extend along a first direction (X direction). Preferably, the first discharge channel 4A, second discharge channel 4B, third discharge channel 4C, and fourth discharge channel 4D extend in the same direction or substantially in the same direction. Preferably, the direction in which the first discharge channel 4A, second discharge channel 4B, third discharge channel 4C, and fourth discharge channel 4D extend is the same as or substantially the same as the direction in which the first supply channel 2A, second supply channel 2B, third supply channel 2C, and fourth supply channel 2D extend.

[0114] The length of the first discharge channel 4A is at least twice the length of the first supply channel 2A. The length of the first discharge channel 4A is longer than the lengths of the second supply channel 2B and the second discharge channel 4B, preferably at least 1.5 times the length of the second supply channel 2B, more preferably at least twice the length. The length of the first discharge channel 4A is longer than the lengths of the third supply channel 2C and the third discharge channel 4C.

[0115] The length of the fourth supply channel 2D is at least twice the length of the fourth discharge channel 4D. The length of the fourth supply channel 2D is longer than the lengths of the second supply channel 2B and the second discharge channel 4B, preferably at least 1.5 times the length of the second discharge channel 4B, more preferably at least twice the length. The length of the fourth supply channel 2D is longer than the lengths of the third supply channel 2C and the third discharge channel 4C.

[0116] Arranged sequentially from the outside to the inside (along the second direction) are the fourth discharge trough 4D, the third discharge trough 4C, the second discharge trough 4B, and the first discharge trough 4A. The first supply trough 2A is the longest trough. The second supply trough 2B is a relatively long trough immediately following the first supply trough 2A. The fourth discharge trough 4D is the shortest trough. The third discharge trough 4C is a relatively short trough immediately following the fourth discharge trough 4D. The third discharge trough 4C is shorter than the second discharge trough 4B.

[0117] The first discharge trough 4A is preferably adjacent to the second discharge trough 4B, and more preferably directly adjacent to it. The second discharge trough 4B is located between the first discharge trough 4A and the third discharge trough 4C, preferably adjacent to both the first discharge trough 4A and the third discharge trough 4C, and more preferably directly adjacent to them. The third discharge trough 4C is located between the second discharge trough 4B and the fourth discharge trough 4D, preferably adjacent to both the second discharge trough 4B and the fourth discharge trough 4D, and more preferably directly adjacent to them.

[0118] One end of the first branch channel 3A is connected to the first supply channel 2A, and the other end is connected to the first discharge channel 4A. One end is the end on the side of the first supply channel 2A. The other end is the end on the side of the first discharge channel 4A. The first branch channel 3A is disposed between the first supply channel 2A and the first discharge channel 4A in a second direction.

[0119] The first branch channel 3A has a first discharge side opening channel 3Aa that is blocked on the first supply channel 2A side and open on the first discharge channel 4A side, and a first supply side opening channel 3Ab that is open on the first supply channel 2A side and blocked on the first discharge channel 4A side. A set of alternating first discharge side opening channels 3Aa and first supply side opening channels 3Ab is defined as a first branch channel 3A. Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows three sets of first branch grooves 3A. In the first branch grooves 3A, there are multiple sets of first discharge side opening grooves 3Aa and first supply side opening grooves 3Ab, preferably two or more sets and four or less sets, more preferably two or more sets and three or less sets.

[0120] The opening portion of the first discharge side opening groove 3Aa is connected to the first discharge groove 4A. Multiple first discharge side opening grooves 3Aa are connected to a common first discharge groove 4A. The flow paths of the first discharge side opening grooves 3Aa and the first discharge groove 4A are connected in a connected manner.

[0121] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the first supply channel 2A side of the first discharge side opening groove 3Aa, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the first supply channel 2A side of the first discharge side opening groove 3Aa is connected to the first supply channel 2A. Regarding the connection between the first discharge side opening groove 3Aa and the first supply channel 2A, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the first supply channel 2A side has an opening, the first discharge side opening groove 3Aa and the first supply channel 2A are not connected as a flow path.

[0122] The opening portion of the first supply-side opening slot 3Ab is connected to the first supply slot 2A. Multiple first supply-side opening slots 3Ab are connected to a common first supply slot 2A. The flow paths of the first supply-side opening slots 3Ab and the first supply slot 2A are connected in a connected manner.

[0123] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the first discharge channel 4A side of the first supply-side opening channel 3Ab, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the first discharge channel 4A side of the first supply-side opening channel 3Ab is connected to the first discharge channel 4A. Regarding the connection between the first supply-side opening channel 3Ab and the first discharge channel 4A, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the first discharge channel 4A side has an opening, the first supply-side opening channel 3Ab and the first discharge channel 4A are not connected as a flow path.

[0124] One end of the second branch channel 3B is connected to the second supply channel 2B, and the other end is connected to the second discharge channel 4B. One end is the end on the side of the second supply channel 2B. The other end is the end on the side of the second discharge channel 4B. The second branch channel 3B is disposed between the second supply channel 2B and the second discharge channel 4B in a second direction.

[0125] The second branch channel 3B has a second discharge side opening channel 3Ba that is blocked on the second supply channel 2B side and open on the second discharge channel 4B side, and a second supply side opening channel 3Bb that is open on the second supply channel 2B side and blocked on the second discharge channel 4B side. A set of alternately arranged second discharge side opening channels 3Ba and second supply side opening channels 3Bb constitutes a second branch channel 3B. Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows three sets of second branch grooves 3B. Among the second branch grooves 3B, there are multiple sets of second discharge side opening grooves 3Ba and second supply side opening grooves 3Bb, preferably two or more sets and four or less sets, more preferably two or more sets and three or less sets.

[0126] The opening portion of the second discharge side opening groove 3Ba is connected to the second discharge groove 4B. Multiple second discharge side opening grooves 3Ba are connected to a common second discharge groove 4B. The flow paths of the second discharge side opening grooves 3Ba and the second discharge groove 4B are connected in a connected manner.

[0127] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the second supply channel 2B side of the second discharge side opening groove 3Ba, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the second supply channel 2B side of the second discharge side opening groove 3Ba is connected to the second supply channel 2B. Regarding the connection between the second discharge side opening groove 3Ba and the second supply channel 2B, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the second supply channel 2B side has an opening, the second discharge side opening groove 3Ba and the second supply channel 2B are not connected as a flow path.

[0128] The opening portion of the second supply-side opening groove 3Bb is connected to the second supply groove 2B. Multiple second supply-side opening grooves 3Bb are connected to a common second supply groove 2B. The flow paths of the second supply-side opening grooves 3Bb and the second supply groove 2B are connected in a connected manner.

[0129] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the second discharge channel 4B side of the second supply-side opening channel 3Bb, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the second discharge channel 4B side of the second supply-side opening channel 3Bb is connected to the second discharge channel 4B. Regarding the connection between the second supply-side opening channel 3Bb and the second discharge channel 4B, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the second discharge channel 4B side has an opening, the second supply-side opening channel 3Bb and the second discharge channel 4B are not connected as a flow path.

[0130] One end of the third branch channel 3C is connected to the third supply channel 2C, and the other end is connected to the third discharge channel 4C. One end is the end on the side of the third supply channel 2C. The other end is the end on the side of the third discharge channel 4C. The third branch channel 3C is disposed in the second direction between the third supply channel 2C and the third discharge channel 4C.

[0131] The third branch channel 3C has a third discharge side opening channel 3Ca that is blocked on the third supply channel 2C side and open on the third discharge channel 4C side, and a third supply side opening channel 3Cb that is open on the third supply channel 2C side and blocked on the third discharge channel 4C side. A set of alternately arranged third discharge side opening channels 3Ca and third supply side opening channels 3Cb is defined as a third branch channel 3C. Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows three sets of third branch grooves 3C. Among the third branch grooves 3C, there are multiple sets of third discharge side opening grooves 3Ca and third supply side opening grooves 3Cb, preferably two or more sets and four or less sets, more preferably two or more sets and three or less sets.

[0132] The opening portion of the third discharge side opening groove 3Ca is connected to the third discharge groove 4C. Multiple third discharge side opening grooves 3Ca are connected to a common third discharge groove 4C. The flow paths of the third discharge side opening grooves 3Ca and the third discharge groove 4C are connected in a connected manner.

[0133] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the third discharge side opening groove 3Ca on the third supply groove 2C side, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the third discharge side opening groove 3Ca on the third supply groove 2C side is connected to the third supply groove 2C. Regarding the connection between the third discharge side opening groove 3Ca and the third supply groove 2C, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the third supply groove 2C side is provided with an opening, the third discharge side opening groove 3Ca and the third supply groove 2C are not connected as a flow path.

[0134] The opening portion of the third supply-side opening groove 3Cb is connected to the third supply groove 2C. Multiple third supply-side opening grooves 3Cb are connected to a common third supply groove 2C. The flow paths of the third supply-side opening grooves 3Cb and the third supply groove 2C are connected in a connected manner.

[0135] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the third discharge channel 4C side of the third supply side opening channel 3Cb, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the third discharge channel 4C side of the third supply side opening channel 3Cb is connected to the third discharge channel 4C. Regarding the connection between the third supply side opening channel 3Cb and the third discharge channel 4C, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the third discharge channel 4C side is provided with an opening, the third supply side opening channel 3Cb and the third discharge channel 4C are not connected as a flow path.

[0136] One end of the fourth branch channel 3D is connected to the fourth supply channel 2D, and the other end is connected to the fourth discharge channel 4D. One end is the end on the side of the fourth supply channel 2D. The other end is the end on the side of the fourth discharge channel 4D. The fourth branch channel 3D is disposed between the fourth supply channel 2D and the fourth discharge channel 4D in a second direction.

[0137] The fourth branch channel 3D has a fourth discharge-side opening channel 3Da that is blocked on the fourth supply channel 2D side and open on the fourth discharge channel 4D side, and a fourth supply-side opening channel 3Db that is open on the fourth supply channel 2D side and blocked on the fourth discharge channel 4D side. A set of alternately arranged fourth discharge-side opening channels 3Da and fourth supply-side opening channels 3Db is defined as a fourth branch channel 3D. Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows three sets of fourth branch grooves 3D. Among the fourth branch grooves 3D, there are multiple sets of fourth discharge side opening grooves 3Da and fourth supply side opening grooves 3Db, preferably two or more sets and four or fewer sets, more preferably two or more sets and three or fewer sets.

[0138] The opening portion of the fourth discharge side opening groove 3Da is connected to the fourth discharge groove 4D. Multiple fourth discharge side opening grooves 3Da are connected to a common fourth discharge groove 4D. The flow paths of the fourth discharge side opening grooves 3Da and the fourth discharge groove 4D are connected in a connected manner.

[0139] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the fourth supply channel 2D side of the fourth discharge side opening channel 3Da, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the fourth supply channel 2D side of the fourth discharge side opening channel 3Da is connected to the fourth supply channel 2D. Regarding the connection between the fourth discharge side opening channel 3Da and the fourth supply channel 2D, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the fourth supply channel 2D side is provided with an opening, the fourth discharge side opening channel 3Da and the fourth supply channel 2D are not connected as a flow path.

[0140] The opening portion of the fourth supply-side opening slot 3Db is connected to the fourth supply slot 2D. Multiple fourth supply-side opening slots 3Db are connected to a common fourth supply slot 2D. The flow paths of the fourth supply-side opening slots 3Db and the fourth supply slot 2D are interconnected.

[0141] A flow path wall 1 is provided at the end of the fourth discharge channel 4D side of the fourth supply side opening channel 3Db, and the flow path wall 1 at the end of the fourth discharge channel 4D side of the fourth supply side opening channel 3Db is connected to the fourth discharge channel 4D. Regarding the connection between the fourth supply side opening channel 3Db and the fourth discharge channel 4D, except when the flow path wall 1 at the end of the fourth discharge channel 4D side is provided with an opening, the fourth supply side opening channel 3Db and the fourth discharge channel 4D are not connected as a flow path.

[0142] In the second direction, the fourth supply channel 2D and the first discharge channel 4A sequentially sandwich the third supply channel 2C, the second supply channel 2, the first supply channel 2A, and the first branch channel 3A. In the second direction, the fourth supply channel 2D and the first discharge channel 4A sequentially sandwich the third supply channel 2C, the second supply channel 2, the second branch channel 3B, and the second discharge channel 4B. In the second direction, the fourth supply channel 2D and the first discharge channel 4A sequentially sandwich the third supply channel 2C, the third branch channel 3C, the third discharge channel 4C, and the second discharge channel 4B. In the second direction, the fourth supply channel 2D and the first discharge channel 4A sequentially sandwich the fourth branch channel 3D, the fourth discharge channel 4D, the third discharge channel 4C, and the second discharge channel 4B.

[0143] The volume of the branch channel (the volume of the channel space) is preferably 32% or more and 76% or less of the total volume of the supply channel, the branch channel, and the discharge channel, more preferably 33% or more and 57% or less, and even more preferably 34% or more and 38% or less.

[0144] The opening area of ​​the branch channel is preferably 12% to 36% of the total opening area of ​​the supply channel, the opening area of ​​the branch channel, and the opening area of ​​the discharge channel, more preferably 13% to 27%, and even more preferably 14% to 18%.

[0145] right Figure 1 The separator 100 and Figure 2 The differences between the separator 101 and the separator 100 are explained below. Separator 100, from left to right in the figure, has a first discharge-side opening groove 3Aa and a first supply-side opening groove 3Ab arranged sequentially. Separator 101, on the other hand, has a first supply-side opening groove 3Ab and a first discharge-side opening groove 3Aa arranged sequentially, opposite to separator 100. The flow path wall 1 of the supply groove branch of separator 100 is connected to the supply port IN, but the flow path wall 1 of the supply groove branch of separator 101 is not connected to the supply port IN. The flow path wall 1 of the discharge groove branch of separator 100 is connected to the discharge port OUT, but the flow path wall 1 of the discharge groove branch of separator 101 is not connected to the discharge port OUT. The description of the embodiments is common to both separators 100 and 101.

[0146] The flow path of the fluid flowing from the first supply tank 2A ​​through the first discharge tank 4A will be described. Fluid entering from the opening of the first supply tank 2A, i.e., the opening of the separator 100, flows through the first supply tank 2A ​​and into a plurality of first branch tanks 3A. The fluid flows directly into the first supply-side opening tank 3Ab, and flows across the flow path wall 1, for example, via a gas diffusion layer in contact with the separator 100, into the first discharge-side opening tank 3Aa. The fluid flowing in the first supply-side opening tank 3Ab flows across the flow path wall 1 into the first discharge tank 4A, and the fluid flowing in the first discharge-side opening tank 3Aa can flow directly into the first discharge tank 4A. The fluid flowing in the first discharge tank 4A is discharged from the first discharge tank 4A. A portion of the fluid flows across the flow path wall 1 through an adjacent tank.

[0147] Fluid flows separately from a supply channel to multiple branch channels. The branch channels occupy a large portion of the flow path of the separator, and it is preferable to ensure that the fluid flows continuously without stagnation; therefore, a large volume of fluid is required to flow into the branch channels. Since the supply channel and discharge channel, like the branch channels, are flow paths with openings on opposite sides of the frame 5, if the flow rate or velocity to the supply channel and discharge channel increases relatively, a large volume of fluid will overflow from the separator, making it difficult to supply fluid to the branch channels that connect to the relatively longer supply channels among the multiple supply channels.

[0148] When multiple supply channels exist and the opposite sides of the frame 5 of the supply channels are not open as a whole, it is difficult to generate a large amount of fluid that would overflow from the separator. However, when multiple supply channels exist and the opposite sides of the frame 5 of the supply channels are open as a whole, it is preferable to make the depth of the supply channels and / or discharge channels deeper than the depth of the branch channels, or to make the cross-sectional area of ​​the supply channels and / or discharge channels larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the branch channels, in order to reduce the flow rate and / or velocity of the fluid flowing in the supply channels and / or discharge channels.

[0149] Based on the above viewpoints, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown in the schematic diagram, preferably, the depth (length in the Z direction of the channel) of the first supply channel 2A in the embodiment is deeper than the depth of the first branch channel 3A, and the depth of the first discharge channel 4A is deeper than the depth of the first branch channel 3A. By increasing the depth of the first supply channel 2A and the first discharge channel 4A, fluid can easily flow into the multiple first branch channels 3A (multiple first discharge-side open channels 3Aa and first supply-side open channels 3Ab). From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the depth of the second supply channel 2B is deeper than the depth of the second branch channel 3B, and the depth of the second discharge channel 4B is deeper than the depth of the second branch channel 3B. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the depth of the third supply channel 2C is deeper than the depth of the third branch channel 3C, and the depth of the third discharge channel 4C is deeper than the depth of the third branch channel 3C. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the depth of the fourth supply channel 2D is deeper than the depth of the fourth branch channel 3D, and the depth of the fourth discharge channel 4D is deeper than the depth of the fourth branch channel 3D.

[0150] The depths of the supply trough, branch trough, and discharge trough are average values.

[0151] By changing the thickness of the frame 5 and the height of the flow path wall 1, an inclination can be set in the groove without changing the overall height of the separator 100.

[0152] Based on the above viewpoints, the difference between the depth of the first supply channel 2A and the depth of the first branch channel 3A ([depth of the first supply channel 2A] - [depth of the first branch channel 3A]) is preferably 0.5 [mm] or more and 2.5 [mm] or less, more preferably 0.9 [mm] or more and 2.0 [mm] or less, and even more preferably 1.2 [mm] or more and 1.8 [mm] or less. The relationship between the depth of the second supply channel 2B and the depth of the second branch channel 3B also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the depth of the third supply channel 2C and the depth of the third branch channel 3C also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the depth of the fourth supply channel 2D and the depth of the fourth branch channel 3D also preferably satisfies the above range.

[0153] Based on the above viewpoints, the difference between the depth of the first discharge channel 4A and the depth of the first branch channel 3A ([depth of the first discharge channel 4A] - [depth of the first branch channel 3A]) is preferably 0.5 [mm] or more and 2.5 [mm] or less, more preferably 0.9 [mm] or more and 2.0 [mm] or less, and even more preferably 1.2 [mm] or more and 1.8 [mm] or less. The relationship between the depth of the second discharge channel 4B and the depth of the second branch channel 3B also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the depth of the third discharge channel 4C and the depth of the third branch channel 3C also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the depth of the fourth discharge channel 4D and the depth of the fourth branch channel 3D also preferably satisfies the above range.

[0154] Based on the above viewpoint, the difference between the depth of the shallowest part of the first supply channel 2A and the depth of the deepest part of the first branch channel 3A ([depth of the shallowest part of the first supply channel 2A] - [depth of the deepest part of the first branch channel 3A]) is preferably 0.5 [mm] or more and 2.5 [mm] or less, more preferably 0.9 [mm] or more and 2.0 [mm] or less, and even more preferably 1.2 [mm] or more and 1.8 [mm] or less. The relationship between the difference in depth of the shallowest part of the second supply channel 2B and the depth of the deepest part of the second branch channel 3B also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the difference in depth of the shallowest part of the third supply channel 2C and the depth of the deepest part of the third branch channel 3C also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the difference in depth of the shallowest part of the fourth supply channel 2D and the depth of the deepest part of the fourth branch channel 3D also preferably satisfies the above range.

[0155] Based on the above viewpoints, the difference between the depth of the shallowest part of the first discharge channel 4A and the depth of the deepest part of the first branch channel 3A ([depth of the shallowest part of the first discharge channel 4A] - [depth of the deepest part of the first branch channel 3A]) is preferably 0.5 [mm] or more and 2.5 [mm] or less, more preferably 0.9 [mm] or more and 2.0 [mm] or less, and even more preferably 1.2 [mm] or more and 1.8 [mm] or less. The relationship between the difference in depth of the shallowest part of the second discharge channel 4B and the deepest part of the second branch channel 3B also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the difference in depth of the shallowest part of the third discharge channel 4C and the deepest part of the third branch channel 3C also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the difference in depth of the shallowest part of the fourth discharge channel 4D and the deepest part of the fourth branch channel 3D also preferably satisfies the above range.

[0156] like Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown in the schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100, the depth of the supply channel can also be inclined. When the depth of the supply channel is inclined, it is preferable that the supply channel on the side where the supply channel connects to the branch channel is shallower than the average depth of the supply channel. When the depth of the supply channel is inclined, it is preferable that the supply channel on the opposite side of the side where the supply channel connects to the branch channel is deeper than the average depth of the supply channel.

[0157] like Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 18 and Figure 19As shown in the schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100, the depth of the discharge groove can also be inclined. When the depth of the discharge groove is inclined, it is preferable that the discharge groove on the side where it connects to the branch groove is shallower than the average depth of the discharge groove. When the depth of the discharge groove is inclined, it is preferable that the discharge groove on the opposite side of the side where it connects to the branch groove is deeper than the average depth of the discharge groove.

[0158] When the supply and / or discharge channels are tilted, the tilt angle can be the same or different in each channel. Figure 16 Schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100 and Figure 20 A schematic diagram of a modified version of the partition 100 is provided, illustrating examples with different inclination angles in each groove. The E-E' section of the partition 100 is... Figure 16 The schematic diagram shows the shape of the separator 100 and its F-F' cross section is... Figure 20 In the case of the schematic diagram, the fourth supply channel 2D has a gentle inclination angle, while the first supply channel 2A has a steep inclination. Alternatively, it is also possible to select a structure in which some of the supply channels are tilted and others are not tilted.

[0159] When the supply and / or discharge channels are tilted, the entire structure can be tilted, or the tilt angle can be changed midway. For example, as... Figure 21 As shown in the schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100, the region where the supply groove (fourth supply groove 2D) and the branch groove (fourth branch groove 3D) are connected can also be inclined, while the other parts of the groove are inclined.

[0160] From the above viewpoint, it is preferable that the cross-sectional area of ​​the first supply channel 2A is larger than that of the first branch channel 3A, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the first discharge channel 4A is larger than that of the first branch channel 3A. By increasing the cross-sectional areas of the first supply channel 2A and the first discharge channel 4A, fluid can be easily directed to the multiple first branch channels 3A (multiple first discharge-side open channels 3Aa and first supply-side open channels 3Ab). From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the cross-sectional area of ​​the second supply channel 2B is larger than that of the second branch channel 3B, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the second discharge channel 4B is larger than that of the second branch channel 3B. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the cross-sectional area of ​​the third supply channel 2C is larger than that of the third branch channel 3C, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the third discharge channel 4C is larger than that of the third branch channel 3C. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth supply channel 2D is larger than that of the fourth branch channel 3D, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth discharge channel 4D is larger than that of the fourth branch channel 3D.

[0161] Based on the above viewpoints, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first supply channel 2A is preferably 150% or more and 350% or less of the cross-sectional area of ​​the first branch channel 3A, more preferably 190% or more and 300% or less, and even more preferably 220% or more and 280% or less. The relationship between the cross-sectional area of ​​the second supply channel 2B and the cross-sectional area of ​​the second branch channel 3B also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the cross-sectional area of ​​the third supply channel 2C and the cross-sectional area of ​​the third branch channel 3C also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth supply channel 2D and the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth branch channel 3D also preferably satisfies the above range.

[0162] Based on the above viewpoints, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first discharge trough 4A is preferably 150% or more and 350% or less of the cross-sectional area of ​​the first branch trough 3A, more preferably 190% or more and 300% or less, and even more preferably 220% or more and 280% or less. The relationship between the cross-sectional area of ​​the second discharge trough 4B and the cross-sectional area of ​​the second branch trough 3B also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the cross-sectional area of ​​the third discharge trough 4C and the cross-sectional area of ​​the third branch trough 3C also preferably satisfies the above range. The relationship between the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth discharge trough 4D and the cross-sectional area of ​​the fourth branch trough 3D also preferably satisfies the above range.

[0163] By increasing the depth of the supply and / or discharge channels, the cross-sectional area of ​​the supply and / or discharge channels can be made larger than that of the branch channels. Furthermore, by changing the width (length in the second direction) of the supply and / or discharge channels, the cross-sectional area of ​​the supply and / or discharge channels can be made larger than that of the branch channels.

[0164] use Figure 22 A schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100 is provided, illustrating an example where the cross-sectional area of ​​the supply channel and / or discharge channel is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the branch channel. Figure 22 In the schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100, the cross-sectional area increases in the order of the first supply channel 2A, the second supply channel 2B, the third supply channel 2C, and the fourth supply channel 2D, and the cross-sectional area is larger than that of the first branch channel 3A. This makes the cross-sectional area of ​​the relatively longer supply channel larger than that of the relatively shorter supply channel.

[0165] Alternatively, it could involve not only changing the depth and cross-sectional area of ​​the groove, but also narrowing, widening, or blocking parts of the groove. Figure 22 In a schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100, a protrusion exists on the frame 5 forming the bottom surface of the first discharge side opening groove 3Aa, and a portion of the branch groove becomes narrower. Figure 23 of Figure 22 In the schematic diagram of a modified example of the separator 100, the grooves become narrower because a portion of the fourth discharge side opening groove 3Da and the fourth supply side opening groove 3Db protrudes on the flow path wall 1.

[0166] By adopting the structure of this embodiment, the fluid can be easily made to flow uniformly. By adopting the structure of this embodiment, even without changing the groove pattern of the already designed separator 100, the fluid can be easily made to flow uniformly without significantly changing the pressure loss. By making the fluid flow highly uniform, gas accumulation is difficult.

[0167] (Second Implementation)

[0168] The second embodiment relates to a partition unit. The partition unit has partitions 100 and 101 as in the first embodiment. Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the separator unit 200 is shown. The separator unit 200 includes a support 11, a separator 100, a supply connection path 12, a supply manifold 13, a discharge connection path 14, and a discharge manifold 15.

[0169] The support body 11 is preferably insulating, for example, made of resin material. A spacer 100 is provided on the support body 11.

[0170] A supply connection path 12 is provided between the supply manifold 13 and the supply port IN. The supply connection path 12 is a flow path connecting the supply manifold 13 to the flow path on the supply slot side of the separator 100. The supply connection path 12 may also have a slot. Preferably, the slot of the supply connection path 12 is connected to the flow path wall 1 of the supply slot of the separator 100. The supply connection path 12 can be a protrusion or depression of the support 11, or it can be constructed from a component different from the support 11.

[0171] The supply manifold 13 is the opening of the partition unit 200. Fluid is supplied from the supply manifold 13. Alternatively, other manifolds (not shown) may be provided in the partition unit 200.

[0172] The discharge connection path 14 is provided between the discharge manifold 15 and the discharge outlet OUT. The discharge connection path 14 is a flow path that connects the discharge manifold 15 to the flow path on the supply channel side of the separator 100. The discharge connection path 14 may also have a groove. Preferably, the groove of the discharge connection path 14 is connected to the flow path wall 1 of the supply channel of the separator 100. The discharge connection path 14 can be a protrusion or depression of the support body 11, or it can be constructed from a component different from the support body 11.

[0173] The discharge manifold 15 is the opening of the partition unit 200. Fluid is discharged from the discharge manifold 15. Alternatively, other manifolds (not shown) may be provided in the partition unit 200.

[0174] If the structure of the embodiment is adopted, the fluid can be easily made to flow uniformly. By making the fluid flow highly uniform, it is difficult for gas to accumulate.

[0175] (Third implementation method)

[0176] The third embodiment relates to an electrochemical battery cell. Figure 25 A schematic diagram of an electrochemical battery unit 300 according to a third embodiment is shown. The electrochemical battery unit 300 is, for example, used for water electrolysis, CO2 electrolysis, ammonia electrolysis synthesis, or a fuel cell. When CO2 is used in the electrolysis reaction, the CO2 can also be CO2 recovered from combustion gases 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.

[0177] The electrochemical cell unit 300 has an anode 21, a cathode 22, a separator 23, a first separator 24, and a second separator 25.

[0178] The first electrode (anode) 21 has a porous gas diffusion layer or other substrate 21A on the side of the first separator 24, and a catalyst layer 21B on the side of the separator wall 23. The substrate 21A and catalyst layer 21B of the first electrode 21 can be adapted to the anodic reaction of the first electrode 21 by using appropriate components.

[0179] The second electrode (cathode) 22 has a porous gas diffusion layer or other substrate 22A on the side of the second separator 25, and a catalyst layer 22B on the side of the separator wall 23. The substrate 22A and catalyst layer 22B of the second electrode 22 can be adapted to react with the cathode of the second electrode 22 using appropriate components.

[0180] A separator 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 separator 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 cathode portion of the first separator 24 from 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.

[0181] Examples of ion exchange membranes used in the separator 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.

[0182] 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.

[0183] 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.

[0184] The separator 100 of the first embodiment or the separator unit 200 of the second embodiment is preferably used in the first separator 24 and / or the second separator 25.

[0185] By using the separator 100 of the first embodiment or the separator unit 200 of the second embodiment, it is difficult for gas to accumulate in the separator 100, and the deterioration of the separator wall 23 can be suppressed.

[0186] (Fourth Implementation)

[0187] The fourth embodiment involves a battery stack. Figure 26 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the battery stack 400 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 26 The battery stack 400 shown in the fourth embodiment is formed by connecting multiple electrochemical battery cells 300 in series. Fastening plates 31 and 32 are installed at both ends of the battery stack 400. The modified electrochemical battery cells can also be used in the fourth embodiment.

[0188] When electrolysis is performed, the amount of carbon compounds such as H2 and CO generated by a single electrochemical cell unit 300 is relatively small. When generating electricity, the amount of electricity generated by a single electrochemical cell unit 300 is relatively small. Therefore, when a battery stack 400 is constructed by connecting multiple electrochemical cell units 300 in series, the amount of products and the amount of electricity generated will increase.

[0189] (Fifth Implementation)

[0190] The fifth embodiment relates to an electrolysis apparatus and a fuel cell. The electrolysis apparatus and fuel cell use an electrochemical cell unit 300 or a battery stack 400 using an electrochemical cell unit 300. Figure 27 A schematic diagram of the apparatus 500 according to the fourth embodiment is shown. An electrochemical cell unit 300 is used in the apparatus 500. A portion of the structure of the actual apparatus is illustrated in the apparatus 500. When CO2 is electrolyzed using the electrochemical cell unit 300, the CO2 electrolyzed by the electrochemical cell unit 300 can also be CO2 gas recovered from combustion gases, etc., using an amine solution or the like.

[0191] The device 500 includes an electrochemical cell unit 300, an anode current collector 41, a cathode current collector 42, and a power source or load 43.

[0192] An anode current collector 41 is provided on the first separator 24 of the electrochemical cell unit 300. The first separator 24 is electrically connected to the anode current collector 41.

[0193] A cathode current collector 42 is provided on the second separator 25 of the electrochemical cell unit 300. The second separator 25 is electrically connected to the cathode current collector 42.

[0194] Preferably, the separator 100 of the first embodiment or the separator unit 200 of the second embodiment is used in the first separator 24 and / or the second separator 25.

[0195] A power source or load 43 is connected between the anode current collector 41 and the cathode current collector 42.

[0196] If the device 500 is an electrolysis device, a power supply 43 is connected between the anode current collector 41 and the cathode current collector 42.

[0197] If device 500 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.

[0198] The present invention will be described in more detail below based on embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0199] (Example 1)

[0200] 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.

[0201] (Example 2)

[0202] Will Figure 1 The separator 100 is used for the first separator 24 and is made equivalent to Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0203] (Comparative Example 1)

[0204] Will Figure 1 The same depth and cross-sectional area of ​​the supply channel, branch channel, and discharge channel are used for the first partition 24 and the second partition 25, and are made equivalent to... Figure 25 Electrochemical battery unit.

[0205] Electrolytic operation to electrolyze CO2 and generate CO was performed under the same conditions using the electrochemical battery cells of Examples 1-2 and Comparative Example 1. Compared with Comparative Example 1, Examples 1-2 were able to prevent gas from accumulating in the separator, and even after long-term operation, the rise in battery cell voltage was suppressed.

[0206] Using the electrochemical cell units of Examples 1-2 and Comparative Example 1, fuel cell operation using methanol as fuel was conducted under the same conditions. Compared with Comparative Example 1, Examples 1-2 were able to prevent gas from accumulating in the separator, and even after long-term operation, the voltage drop of the cell unit was suppressed.

[0207] The technical solutions for implementing these methods are attached below.

[0208] Technical Solution 1

[0209] A separator, wherein the separator comprises:

[0210] First supply tank;

[0211] A first branch slot, the first branch slot comprising a plurality of slots; and

[0212] First discharge groove,

[0213] The first supply channel and the first discharge channel extend along a first direction.

[0214] The first branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the first supply slot and the first branch slot.

[0215] The depth of the first supply channel is greater than the depth of the first branch channel.

[0216] The depth of the first discharge channel is greater than the depth of the first branch channel.

[0217] Technical Solution 2

[0218] According to the separator described in technical solution 1, the difference between the depth of the first supply groove and the depth of the first branch groove is more than 0.5 mm and less than 2.5 mm.

[0219] Technical Solution 3

[0220] According to the separator described in technical solution 1 or 2, the difference between the depth of the first supply groove and the depth of the first branch groove is 0.9 [mm] or more and 2.0 [mm] or less.

[0221] Technical Solution 4

[0222] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 3, wherein,

[0223] The first branch channel has multiple sets of first discharge-side opening channels and first supply-side opening channels. The first supply channel side of the first discharge-side opening channel is blocked and the first discharge channel side is open. The first supply channel side of the first supply-side opening channel is open and the first discharge channel side is blocked.

[0224] The first discharge-side opening groove and the first supply-side opening groove are arranged alternately.

[0225] Technical Solution 5

[0226] According to any one of technical solutions 1 to 4, the length of the first discharge groove is more than twice the length of the first supply groove.

[0227] Technical Solution 6

[0228] According to any one of technical solutions 1 to 5, the first supply groove, the first branch groove and the first discharge groove are spaces surrounded by the frame of the separator and the flow path wall disposed on the frame of the separator.

[0229] Technical Solution 7

[0230] According to the separator described in technical solution 6, the first supply groove, the first branch groove and the first discharge groove are all open on the side opposite to the frame side.

[0231] Technical Solution 8

[0232] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 1 to 7, wherein,

[0233] The separator includes:

[0234] The second supply tank is longer than the first supply tank;

[0235] The second branch groove, comprising a plurality of grooves, is arranged along the long side of the first supply groove, as opposed to the first branch groove; and

[0236] Second discharge channel,

[0237] The second supply channel and the second discharge channel extend along the first direction.

[0238] The second branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the second supply slot and the second branch slot.

[0239] The depth of the second supply channel is greater than the depth of the second branch channel.

[0240] The depth of the second discharge channel is greater than the depth of the second branch channel.

[0241] Technical Solution 9

[0242] According to the separator described in technical solution 8, the length of the first discharge groove is longer than the lengths of the second supply groove and the second discharge groove.

[0243] Technical Solution 10

[0244] According to the separator described in technical solution 8 or 9, the length of the first discharge groove is more than twice the length of the second supply groove.

[0245] Technical Solution 11

[0246] A separator, wherein the separator comprises:

[0247] First supply tank;

[0248] A first branch slot, the first branch slot comprising a plurality of slots; and

[0249] First discharge groove,

[0250] The first supply channel and the first discharge channel extend along a first direction.

[0251] The first branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the first supply slot and the first branch slot.

[0252] The cross-sectional area of ​​the first supply channel is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first branch channel.

[0253] The cross-sectional area of ​​the first discharge channel is larger than that of the first branch channel.

[0254] Technical Solution 12

[0255] According to the separator of technical solution 11, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first supply groove is more than 150% and less than 350% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the first branch groove.

[0256] Technical Solution 13

[0257] According to the separator described in technical solution 11 or 12, wherein,

[0258] The first branch channel has multiple sets of first discharge-side opening channels and first supply-side opening channels. The first supply channel side of the first discharge-side opening channel is blocked and the first discharge channel side is open. The first supply channel side of the first supply-side opening channel is open and the first discharge channel side is blocked.

[0259] The first discharge-side opening groove and the first supply-side opening groove are arranged alternately.

[0260] Technical Solution 14

[0261] The separator according to any one of technical solutions 11 to 13, wherein,

[0262] The separator includes:

[0263] The second supply tank is longer than the first supply tank;

[0264] The second branch groove, comprising a plurality of grooves, is arranged along the long side of the first supply groove, as opposed to the first branch groove; and

[0265] Second discharge channel,

[0266] The second supply channel and the second discharge channel extend along the first direction.

[0267] The second branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the second supply slot and the second branch slot.

[0268] The cross-sectional area of ​​the second supply channel is larger than that of the second branch channel.

[0269] The cross-sectional area of ​​the second discharge channel is larger than that of the second branch channel.

[0270] Technical Solution 15

[0271] According to the separator described in technical solutions 11, 13 or 14, the first supply groove, the first branch groove and the first discharge groove are spaces surrounded by the frame of the separator and the flow path wall disposed on the frame of the separator.

[0272] Technical Solution 16

[0273] According to any one of technical solutions 1 to 15, the separator is generally open on the side opposite to the frame side of the first supply groove, the first branch groove and the first discharge groove.

[0274] Technical Solution 17

[0275] An electrochemical battery cell, wherein the electrochemical battery cell comprises:

[0276] A first electrode, the first electrode comprising a substrate;

[0277] The second electrode includes a substrate;

[0278] A partition wall is located between the first electrode and the second electrode;

[0279] A first separator, the first separator being in contact with the first electrode; and

[0280] The second separator is in contact with the second electrode.

[0281] The first partition and / or the second partition are partitions as described in any one of technical solutions 1 to 16.

[0282] Technical Solution 18

[0283] According to the electrochemical battery unit described in technical solution 17, wherein,

[0284] The first separator is connected to the substrate of the first electrode.

[0285] The second separator is connected to the substrate of the second electrode.

[0286] Technical Solution 19

[0287] A battery stack, wherein the battery stack has the electrochemical battery cells described in technical solution 17 or 18.

[0288] Technical Solution 20

[0289] An apparatus, wherein the apparatus is an electrolysis device or a fuel cell having the electrochemical battery unit described in technical solutions 17 or 18.

[0290] 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 includes: First supply tank; A first branch slot, the first branch slot comprising multiple slots; as well as First discharge groove, The first supply channel and the first discharge channel extend along a first direction. The first branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the first supply slot and the first branch slot. The depth of the first supply channel is greater than the depth of the first branch channel. The depth of the first discharge channel is greater than the depth of the first branch channel.

2. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The difference between the depth of the first supply groove and the depth of the first branch groove is 0.5 mm or more and 2.5 mm or less.

3. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The difference between the depth of the first supply groove and the depth of the first branch groove is 0.9 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less.

4. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The first branch channel has multiple sets of first discharge-side opening channels and first supply-side opening channels. The first supply channel side of the first discharge-side opening channel is blocked and the first discharge channel side is open. The first supply channel side of the first supply-side opening channel is open and the first discharge channel side is blocked. The first discharge-side opening groove and the first supply-side opening groove are arranged alternately.

5. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The length of the first discharge channel is more than twice the length of the first supply channel.

6. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The first supply channel, the first branch channel, and the first discharge channel are spaces surrounded by the frame of the separator and the flow path wall disposed on the frame of the separator.

7. The separator according to claim 6, wherein, The first supply channel, the first branch channel, and the first discharge channel are all open on the side opposite to the frame side.

8. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The separator includes: The second supply tank is longer than the first supply tank; The second branch groove includes multiple grooves and is arranged along the long side of the first supply groove, together with the first branch groove. as well as Second discharge channel, The second supply channel and the second discharge channel extend along the first direction. The second branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the second supply slot and the second branch slot. The depth of the second supply channel is greater than the depth of the second branch channel. The depth of the second discharge channel is greater than the depth of the second branch channel.

9. The separator according to claim 8, wherein, The length of the first discharge trough is longer than the lengths of the second supply trough and the second discharge trough.

10. The separator according to claim 8, wherein, The length of the first discharge trough is more than twice the length of the second supply trough.

11. A separator, wherein, The separator includes: First supply tank; A first branch slot, the first branch slot comprising multiple slots; as well as First discharge groove, The first supply channel and the first discharge channel extend along a first direction. The first branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the first supply slot and the first branch slot. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first supply channel is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the first branch channel. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first discharge channel is larger than that of the first branch channel.

12. The separator according to claim 11, wherein, The cross-sectional area of ​​the first supply channel is more than 150% and less than 350% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the first branch channel.

13. The separator according to claim 11, wherein, The first branch channel has multiple sets of first discharge-side opening channels and first supply-side opening channels. The first supply channel side of the first discharge-side opening channel is blocked and the first discharge channel side is open. The first supply channel side of the first supply-side opening channel is open and the first discharge channel side is blocked. The first discharge-side opening groove and the first supply-side opening groove are arranged alternately.

14. The separator according to claim 11, wherein, The separator includes: The second supply tank is longer than the first supply tank; The second branch groove includes multiple grooves and is arranged along the long side of the first supply groove, together with the first branch groove. as well as Second discharge channel, The second supply channel and the second discharge channel extend along the first direction. The second branch slot is disposed in the second direction between the second supply slot and the second branch slot. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second supply channel is larger than that of the second branch channel. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second discharge channel is larger than that of the second branch channel.

15. The separator according to claim 11, wherein, The first supply channel, the first branch channel, and the first discharge channel are spaces surrounded by the frame of the separator and the flow path wall disposed on the frame of the separator.

16. The separator according to claim 1, wherein, The first supply channel, the first branch channel, and the first discharge channel are all open on the side opposite to the frame side.

17. An electrochemical battery cell, wherein, The electrochemical battery unit includes: A first electrode, the first electrode comprising a substrate; A second electrode, the second electrode comprising a substrate; 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 16.

18. The electrochemical battery cell according to claim 17, wherein, The first separator is connected to the substrate of the first electrode. The second separator is connected to the substrate of the second electrode.

19. A battery stack, wherein, The battery stack has the electrochemical battery cell as described in claim 17.

20. An apparatus in which, The device is an electrolysis device or a fuel cell having the electrochemical battery unit of claim 17.

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