Anion exchange membrane edge sealing structure

Abstract

The utility model provides an edge sealing structure of an anion exchange membrane. The edge sealing structure comprises an anion membrane and a frame membrane, the frame membrane comprises an anode frame membrane and a cathode frame membrane, the anode frame membrane and the cathode frame membrane are correspondingly arranged, and the anion membrane is located between the anode frame membrane and the cathode frame membrane. The anion exchange membrane edge sealing structure provided by the utility model has the beneficial effects that the frame membrane and the anion exchange membrane are laminated through a high-temperature hot-pressing process, so that the hot melt adhesive layer is melted at high temperature and is tightly adhered to the surface of the anion exchange membrane, an integrated sealing structure is formed, and the sealing performance between the anion exchange membrane and the frame membrane is ensured. The anion membrane is fixed through the frame membrane, displacement or deformation of the anion membrane in the using process is prevented, meanwhile, the risk that the edge of the anion membrane is damaged and curled is reduced, and the reliability and long-term stability of the system are improved. Sealing structures are further arranged on the two sides of the frame film respectively, so that the sealing effect is further enhanced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of water electrolysis for hydrogen production technology, and in particular to an anion exchange membrane sealing structure. Background Technology

[0002] In the electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen, the existing sealing methods mainly use sealing rings or gaskets for direct compression sealing or adhesive sealing. However, these methods have many defects, which seriously affect the safety and reliability of the hydrogen production system.

[0003] Currently, sealing rings or gaskets rely on physical pressure to achieve a sealing effect through direct compression. However, anion exchange membranes have the property of swelling upon contact with water. During electrolysis, the anion exchange membrane absorbs water, increasing its volume and expanding its pores. This physical change leads to an increase in the sealing gap between the sealing ring or gasket and the anion exchange membrane, potentially causing gas leakage. Furthermore, during long-term operation, seals may lose their sealing performance due to fatigue, aging, or deformation. Especially under conditions of high temperature, high pressure, or frequent start-stop cycles, the service life of the seals will be further shortened, increasing the risk of leakage.

[0004] While adhesive sealing can provide a certain level of sealing performance, anion exchange membranes absorb water and swell during electrolysis, increasing in volume and potentially reducing the adhesion between the adhesive and the membrane surface. This can lead to gaps and gas leakage. For adhesives that are difficult to remove, the dispensing process is complex; dry film dispensing can easily create wrinkles at the dispensing point, resulting in inconsistent adhesive volume on the same sealing surface; wet film dispensing affects adhesive adhesion and carries the risk of inconsistent adhesive volume; furthermore, the potting process can generate air bubbles, leading to poor adhesion and uneven pressure, thus reducing the sealing effect.

[0005] Traditional sealing methods often fail to maintain stable performance under these extreme conditions over a long period of time, and are prone to aging, corrosion or failure, further increasing the risk of leakage. Utility Model Content

[0006] This invention proposes an anion exchange membrane sealing structure to more accurately solve the problem of gas leakage caused by the above-mentioned anion exchange membrane due to sealing failure and unstable sealing.

[0007] This utility model is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0008] This utility model proposes an anion exchange membrane sealing structure, including an anion membrane and a frame membrane; the frame membrane is disposed on both sides of the anion membrane and is fixedly connected to the anion membrane respectively;

[0009] The frame film includes an anode frame film and a cathode frame film, and the anode frame film and the cathode frame film are disposed correspondingly, with the anion exchange membrane located between the anode frame film and the cathode frame film;

[0010] The frame film is provided with a hot melt adhesive layer, and the hot melt adhesive layer is disposed opposite to the anion exchange membrane;

[0011] The frame film and the hot melt adhesive layer are formed by high-temperature hot pressing;

[0012] The frame membrane has sealing structures on both sides, which are pressed and fixed onto the frame membrane to form a seal.

[0013] Furthermore, the hot melt adhesive layer has an adhesive surface, which is correspondingly disposed with the frame film, and the adhesive surface is not exposed outside the hot melt adhesive layer.

[0014] Furthermore, the frame membrane has a hollow area in the middle, the shape of which corresponds to the shape of the anion exchange membrane, and the area of ​​which is smaller than the area of ​​the anion exchange membrane.

[0015] The edge of the frame membrane is larger than the edge of the anion exchange membrane, and is used to cover the anion exchange membrane.

[0016] Furthermore, the anion exchange membrane is provided with a plurality of first extensions at both ends, the first extensions extending toward the edge and arranged in a centrally symmetrical manner.

[0017] Furthermore, the cutout area of ​​the frame film is provided with a plurality of second extensions, which extend toward the inside of the cutout area and are arranged in a centrally symmetrical manner.

[0018] Furthermore, the anode frame film and the cathode frame film are respectively provided with a plurality of flow ports; the flow ports include a first flow port and a second flow port, and the first flow port is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the second flow port.

[0019] Furthermore, the frame membrane is provided with a plurality of fixing holes on the side near the first flow port and the second flow port, respectively, for fixing purposes.

[0020] Furthermore, the first extension and the second extension are staggered. When the frame film is attached to the anion exchange membrane, the first extension and the second extension partially overlap for sealing.

[0021] Furthermore, the first and second flow ports of the anode frame film are configured to correspond to the first and second flow ports of the cathode frame film.

[0022] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0023] This invention proposes an anion exchange membrane sealing structure. By setting frame membranes on both sides of the anion exchange membrane and connecting them, an integrated sealing structure is formed. The frame membrane has a hot-melt adhesive layer with excellent adhesion properties, enabling it to form a tight bond with the anion exchange membrane at high temperatures. The frame membrane and anion exchange membrane are pressed together using a high-temperature hot-pressing process, causing the hot-melt adhesive layer to melt and adhere tightly to the surface of the anion exchange membrane, forming an integrated sealing structure. This ensures the sealing performance and structural stability of the anion exchange membrane's sealing structure. The high-temperature hot-pressing process effectively eliminates air bubbles and gaps, making the sealing structure tighter and further improving sealing reliability and structural stability. Furthermore, the frame membranes on both sides of the anion exchange membrane also provide support, preventing performance degradation or damage due to displacement or deformation, while also reducing the risk of edge breakage and curling, extending the service life of the anion exchange membrane, thereby extending the system's lifespan and reducing maintenance and replacement costs. The left and right sides of the frame membrane are also equipped with sealing structures. The sealing structures are squeezed and sealed with the smooth surface of the frame membrane to ensure the airtightness and liquid tightness of the electrolysis chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of an anion exchange membrane sealing structure in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a front view of the overall structure of an anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a front view of the frame membrane of an anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a front view of an anion exchange membrane with an edge-sealing structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Reference numerals: Anion membrane 1, first extension 11;

[0029] Frame film 2, anode frame film 21, cathode frame film 22, hollow area 23, second extension 24, outlet 25, first outlet 26, second outlet 27, fixing hole 28, notch 29. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, a clear and complete description will be provided below in conjunction with the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are some, but not all, embodiments of this utility model. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0031] Please refer to Figures 1-4 This utility model proposes an anion exchange membrane sealing structure, including anion exchange membrane 1 and a frame membrane 2; the frame membrane 2 is disposed on both sides of the anion exchange membrane 1 and is fixedly connected to the anion exchange membrane 1 respectively; the frame membrane 2 includes an anode frame membrane 21 and a cathode frame membrane 22, and the anode frame membrane 21 and the cathode frame membrane 22 are correspondingly arranged, and the anion exchange membrane 1 is located between the anode frame membrane 21 and the cathode frame membrane 22; the frame membrane 2 is provided with a hot melt adhesive layer, which is arranged opposite to the anion exchange membrane; the frame membrane 2 and the hot melt adhesive layer are formed by high temperature hot pressing; the two sides of the frame membrane 2 are respectively provided with sealing structures, which are pressed and fixed on the frame membrane 2 to form a seal.

[0032] In this embodiment, the anode frame membrane 21 and cathode frame membrane 22 seal the edges of the anion exchange membrane 1 to prevent electrolyte leakage from the edges of the anion exchange membrane 1 and to prevent the diffusion of electrolytic products or impurities across the chamber. The frame membrane 2 is made of a material resistant to high temperature, high pressure, acids, alkalis, and corrosion, and it has a hot melt adhesive layer that is also resistant to high temperature, acids, alkalis, and corrosion. This hot melt adhesive layer has excellent adhesion properties and can form a tight bond with the anion exchange membrane 1 at high temperatures, ensuring the sealing performance and structural stability of the anion exchange membrane 1. The frame membrane 2 and the anion exchange membrane are pressed together using a high-temperature hot-pressing process, causing the hot melt adhesive layer to melt at high temperature and adhere tightly to the surface of the anion exchange membrane 1, forming an integrated sealing structure. This achieves a tight bond between the anion exchange membrane 1 and the frame membrane 2, thereby improving the sealing reliability and structural stability of the AEM during long-term operation. The integrated design of the frame membrane 2 and the anion exchange membrane 1 not only simplifies the installation and replacement process of the anion exchange membrane 1 but also reduces overall manufacturing and maintenance costs. Sealing structures are provided on both the left and right sides of the frame membrane 2. These sealing structures are specifically sealing rings or gaskets. One side of the sealing structure abuts against the frame membrane 2, and the other side abuts against the electrode plate. They are mechanically pressed and fixed to the frame membrane 2 to form a seal between the frame membrane 2 and the electrode plate. Furthermore, the frame membrane 2 also supports and fixes the anion exchange membrane 1. The frame membrane 2 is adhered and fixed to the anion exchange membrane 1, and is mechanically fixed between the electrode plates, thus preventing displacement or deformation of the anion exchange membrane 1 during use. The edges of the anion exchange membrane 1 are adhered to the frame membrane 2, further reducing the risk of edge damage and curling of the anion exchange membrane 1.

[0033] Please refer to Figure 1 The hot melt adhesive layer has an adhesive surface, which is corresponding to the frame film 2, and the adhesive surface does not protrude from the hot melt adhesive layer.

[0034] In practical implementation: After the hot melt adhesive layer is subjected to high temperature hot pressing treatment, it can form a stable bond between the frame film 2 and the anion exchange membrane 1, thereby improving the overall durability and reliability of the frame film 2 and the anion exchange membrane 1.

[0035] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The frame membrane 2 has a hollow area 23 in the middle. The shape of the hollow area 23 corresponds to the shape of the anion membrane 1, and its area is smaller than that of the anion membrane 1. The edge of the frame membrane 2 is larger than the edge of the anion membrane 1 and is used to cover the anion membrane 1.

[0036] In practical implementation: The frame membrane 2 has a hollowed-out area 23 in the middle for placing the anion exchange membrane 1. The hollowed-out area 23 ensures that the central area of ​​the anion exchange membrane 1 is unobstructed, allowing the electrolyte to fully contact the membrane surface, achieving efficient ion conduction and reactant exchange. The edges of the hollowed-out area 23 are smoothly curved to avoid stress concentration or electrolyte leakage caused by sharp edges. The area of ​​the hollowed-out area 23 of the frame membrane 2 is smaller than the area of ​​the anion exchange membrane 1, so that the frame membrane 2 can completely cover the anion exchange membrane 1, providing a reliable contact surface for bonding. The hollowed-out area 23 is aligned with the central part of the anion exchange membrane 1 to ensure that the membrane body of the anion exchange membrane 1 is exposed in this area for ion conduction and medium circulation between the anode and cathode. The shape of the hollowed-out area 23 corresponds to the shape of the anion exchange membrane 1, and its shape includes, but is not limited to, circles, ellipses, and rectangles. Its shape can be adjusted according to actual conditions to ensure the sealing reliability and structural stability of the anion exchange membrane 1.

[0037] Specifically, the anion exchange membrane 1 is sealed on both sides by the anode frame membrane 21 and the cathode frame membrane 22, which not only prevents liquid leakage but also prevents impurities from entering the membrane, thus improving operational stability. The edge-covering design of the frame membrane 2 provides a larger bonding area, allowing the hot melt adhesive layer to melt more fully and adhere tightly to the surface of the anion exchange membrane 1 under high-temperature hot-pressing. This not only improves the bonding strength of the sealing structure but also enhances the reliability of the seal, while reducing the risk of system failure due to edge damage or seal failure, and extending the overall system service life. The materials of the frame membrane 2 include, but are not limited to, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) and polyester (PET).

[0038] In one specific embodiment, a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) membrane is used as the edge membrane material 2. The PPS membrane exhibits extremely strong corrosion resistance to strong acids, strong alkalis, and organic solvents, enabling it to withstand harsh chemical environments. In acidic or alkaline electrolytes, the PPS membrane does not undergo significant chemical degradation or swelling. Under high temperature, high humidity, or strong oxidizing environments, the performance of PPS remains stable, with minimal performance degradation and a long service life, ensuring the long-term stability of the anion exchange membrane sealing structure. Furthermore, the PPS membrane possesses high mechanical strength and rigidity, capable of withstanding significant pressure and stress, providing robust support for the anion exchange membrane 1 and preventing deformation or damage during operation.

[0039] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 4 The anion membrane 1 has multiple first extensions 11 at both ends, which extend toward the edge and are arranged in a centrally symmetrical manner.

[0040] In practical implementation: The design of the first extension 11 allows the anion exchange membrane 1 to have a larger surface area at both ends, which helps to achieve a uniform distribution of ion flow. The extension increases the effective conduction area of ​​the anion exchange membrane 1 and reduces the overall resistance. This advantage is particularly significant in high current density applications. Reducing resistance not only improves system efficiency but also reduces heat accumulation caused by excessive resistance.

[0041] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 3 The hollow area 23 of the frame film 2 is provided with a plurality of second extensions 24, which extend toward the inner side of the hollow area 23 and are arranged in a centrally symmetrical manner.

[0042] In specific implementation: the first extension 11 of the anion exchange membrane 1 and the second extension 24 of the frame membrane 2 are staggered, that is, the first extension 11 is located on the left, and the second extension 24 is located on the right. The second extension 24 protrudes inward toward the hollow area 23 and is attached to the side of the anion exchange membrane 1 away from the first extension 11. The first extension 11 extends outward and is attached to the side of the hollow area 23 away from the second extension 24, so as to achieve the sealing of the frame membrane 2 and the anion exchange membrane 1 at the end near the outlet 25.

[0043] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 1 The anode frame film 21 and the cathode frame film 22 are respectively provided with multiple flow ports 25; the flow ports 25 include a first flow port 26 and a second flow port 27, and the first flow port 26 is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the second flow port 27.

[0044] In practical implementation: Multiple outlets 25 are provided on the anode frame membrane 21 and the cathode frame membrane 22, and these outlets 25 correspond to the outlets 25 pre-reserved on the electrode plates, allowing gas or liquid to flow through the outlets 25 on the frame membrane 2 and the electrode plates. In the electrolysis chamber, oxygen is produced at the anode and hydrogen at the cathode; these gases can be promptly discharged through the outlets 25 on the anode frame membrane 21, the cathode frame membrane 22, and the electrode plates, preventing accumulation and ensuring reaction efficiency. A sealing ring is provided between the frame membrane 2 and the electrode plates to seal the first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27, preventing gas or liquid leakage from a direction parallel to the electrode plates (i.e., gas or liquid from the first outlet 26 and gas or liquid from the second outlet 27 cross-flow horizontally), thereby improving the safety and reliability of the system.

[0045] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The frame membrane 2 is also provided with a plurality of fixing holes 28 on the side near the first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27 for fixing.

[0046] In practical implementation: The electrode plate has an outlet 25, corresponding to the outlet 25 of the frame membrane 2. Multiple fixing holes 28 are provided on the end of the electrode plate closest to the outlet 25. The fixing holes 28 of the frame membrane 2 correspond to the fixing holes 28 of the electrode plate. During installation, the fixing holes 28 of the frame membrane 2 are aligned with the fixing holes 28 of the electrode plate, simplifying the installation process and saving time and labor. Sealing rings are provided on both sides of the frame membrane 2, specifically located within the sealing groove of the electrode plate. During installation, the frame membrane 2 and the electrode plate are mechanically pressed together, causing the sealing rings within the sealing groove of the electrode plate to abut against the frame membrane 2, forming a complete sealing area between the frame membrane 2 and the electrode plate. This allows hydrogen and oxygen generated on the electrode surface within the sealing area to be discharged through the flow channels of the electrode plate. The sealing ring in the sealing area can prevent gas or electrolyte from leaking from the gap between the frame membrane 2 and the electrode plate, ensuring that the gas or electrolyte can be discharged smoothly; the fixing hole 28 on the frame membrane 2 can effectively prevent the frame membrane 2 from shifting during installation and use, ensuring the sealing performance and structural stability of the sealing structure between the frame membrane 2 and the electrode plate.

[0047] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 3 The frame membrane 2 has a notch 29, which is located on the side near the outlet 25 and between the fixing holes 28.

[0048] In practical implementation: the notch 29 on the frame membrane 2 corresponds to the notch 29 on the electrode plate. The electrode plate has tabs at the notches 29 for connecting to external circuits and outputting operating signals during electrolysis. The notches 29 on the frame membrane 2, corresponding to the tabs on the electrode plate, prevent the frame membrane 2 from covering the electrode portion of the electrode plate, allowing the tabs to be exposed. This facilitates connection to external sensors and control equipment, enabling real-time monitoring of various parameters during electrolysis and ensuring stable system operation. The notch 29 design, while meeting functional requirements, reduces material and processing costs, thereby lowering manufacturing costs and improving the system's economic efficiency.

[0049] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first extension 11 and the second extension 24 are staggered. When the frame film 2 is attached to the anion exchange membrane 1, the first extension 11 and the second extension 24 partially overlap for sealing.

[0050] In practical implementation: the anion exchange membrane 1 has first extensions 11 at both ends, and the perforated area 23 of the frame membrane 2 has a second extension 24, and the two are staggered. When the frame membrane 2 is attached to the anion exchange membrane 1, the first extensions 11 and the second extensions 24 partially overlap, increasing the sealing contact area, thereby sealing the perforated area 23 and ensuring that the perforated area 23 is completely located on the anion exchange membrane 1. This avoids the risk of leakage due to poor adhesion between the anion exchange membrane 1 and the perforated area 23, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the electrolysis process.

[0051] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27 of the anode frame film 21 are configured to correspond to the first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27 of the cathode frame film 22.

[0052] In practical implementation: the first inlet 26 and the second inlet 27 of the anode frame membrane 21 are correspondingly set with the first inlet 26 and the second inlet 27 of the cathode frame membrane 22. The hollow area 23 of the anode frame membrane 21 is also correspondingly set with the hollow area 23 of the cathode frame membrane 22, which makes the installation of the frame membrane 2 simpler. The operator only needs to install it according to the position of the corresponding inlet 25, which reduces the complexity of the installation process. At the same time, it ensures that the hollow area 23 of the anode frame membrane 21 and the hollow area 23 of the cathode frame membrane 22 can form the maximum reactive zone. The larger reactive zone can disperse the current, reduce the local current density, reduce the damage and efficiency reduction of the anion membrane 1 caused by excessive current density, thereby improving the production rate of hydrogen and oxygen. The electrode plate is provided with an outlet 25, and the first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27 on the electrode plate are correspondingly arranged with the first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27 of the frame membrane 2. A sealing ring is also provided between the electrode plate and the frame membrane 2. When the electrode plate is pressed tightly against the anode frame membrane 21 and the cathode frame membrane 22 respectively, the sealing ring separates the first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27 of the anode frame membrane 21 and the cathode frame membrane 22 into independent sealed areas, so that gas or liquid cannot cross-flow between the first outlet 26 and the second outlet 27, and can only flow in the direction perpendicular to the electrode plate. By setting the sealing ring, the gas between the anode and the cathode can be effectively prevented from crossing in the horizontal direction, ensuring the separation of oxygen and hydrogen and avoiding safety hazards caused by gas mixing.

[0053] In the description of the embodiments of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0054] Furthermore, it should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0055] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural or procedural changes made based on the content of this application's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A sealing structure for anion exchange membrane, characterized in that, It includes an anion exchange membrane and a frame membrane; the frame membrane is disposed on both sides of the anion exchange membrane and is fixedly connected to the anion exchange membrane respectively; The frame film includes an anode frame film and a cathode frame film, and the anode frame film and the cathode frame film are disposed correspondingly, with the anion exchange membrane located between the anode frame film and the cathode frame film; The frame film is provided with a hot melt adhesive layer, and the hot melt adhesive layer is disposed opposite to the anion exchange membrane; The frame film and the hot melt adhesive layer are formed by high-temperature hot pressing; The frame membrane has sealing structures on both sides, which are pressed and fixed onto the frame membrane to form a seal.

2. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hot melt adhesive layer has an adhesive surface, which is correspondingly disposed with the frame film, and the adhesive surface is not exposed outside the hot melt adhesive layer.

3. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The frame membrane has a hollow area in the middle, the shape of which corresponds to the shape of the anion exchange membrane, and the area of ​​which is smaller than the area of ​​the anion exchange membrane. The edge of the frame membrane is larger than the edge of the anion exchange membrane, and is used to cover the anion exchange membrane.

4. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The anion exchange membrane has multiple first extensions at both ends, which extend toward the edge and are arranged in a centrally symmetrical manner.

5. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cutout area of ​​the frame film is provided with a plurality of second extensions, which extend toward the inside of the cutout area and are arranged in a centrally symmetrical manner.

6. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The anode frame film and the cathode frame film are respectively provided with multiple flow ports; the flow ports include a first flow port and a second flow port, and the first flow port is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the second flow port.

7. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The frame membrane is also provided with multiple fixing holes on the side near the first and second flow ports for fixing.

8. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first extension and the second extension are staggered. When the frame film is attached to the anion exchange membrane, the first extension and the second extension partially overlap for sealing.

9. The anion exchange membrane sealing structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first and second flow ports of the anode frame film are configured to correspond to the first and second flow ports of the cathode frame film.

Images