Single-cell layer for electrochemical single-cell reactors

Abstract

This application relates to a single cell layer (100) for an electrochemical single cell stack (10, 60), particularly a fuel cell stack (10) or an electrolytic cell stack (60), comprising at least a single cell frame (120) surrounding the single cell layer (100) in a circumferential direction (Ur), and a radial (Rr) liquid seal for at least one electrode chamber (12 / 13, 62 / 63) of the single cell stack (10, 60), wherein a typical volume element of the single cell frame core (121) of the single cell frame (120) is constructed more rigidly than a similarly large typical volume element of the single cell frame cover (122) of the single cell frame (120), the single cell frame core (121) being at least embedded in the single cell frame cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a single-cell layer of an electrochemical single-cell stack for use in an electrochemical device. Furthermore, this application relates to an electrochemical single-cell stack, an electrochemical device, and an electrochemical system. Background Technology

[0002] In an electrolyzer (stationary or mobile) of an electrolyzer device, such as an electrolyzer facility or an electrolyzer system, the electrochemical conversion of water into hydrogen and oxygen is achieved by means of electrical energy while generating heat. In a cryogenic polymer electrolyte fuel cell (stationary or mobile) of a fuel cell system, such as a fuel cell vehicle, the electrochemical conversion of two reactants in two operating media into electrical energy and heat is achieved.

[0003] Here, the relevant device may include at least one membrane electrode assembly, such as a membrane electrode unit (MEA) having a PEM (proton exchange membrane) or an AEM (anion exchange membrane). Instead of an MEA, at least one electrode of the membrane electrode assembly may be disposed separately from and directly opposite the membrane on the fluid transport structure of the membrane electrode assembly. The device may be constructed with multiple membrane electrode assemblies arranged in a stack and bipolar plates arranged between the membrane electrode assemblies, the bipolar plates forming an electrochemical single-cell stack having multiple individual single cells.

[0004] Currently, there is a focus on improving fuel cell and electrolyzer equipment and designing them cost-effectively in terms of materials, manufacturing costs, and / or maintenance expenses. The objective of this application is to provide an improved and particularly cost-effective single-cell stack for electrochemical single-cell stacks, especially fuel cell stacks or electrolyzer stacks. Utility Model Content

[0005] The objective of this application is achieved by means of a single-cell layer for an electrochemical single-cell stack; by means of an electrochemical single-cell stack for an electrochemical device, particularly a fuel cell stack or an electrolyzer stack; and by means of an electrochemical device and electrochemical system, particularly a fuel cell system or an electrolyzer system. Advantageous extensions, additional features, and / or advantages of this application will become apparent from the following description.

[0006] The single-cell stack according to this application includes at least one single-cell frame, preferably completely surrounding the single-cell stack in the circumferential direction, for radially liquid-sealing at least one electrode chamber of the single-cell stack, wherein a typical volume element of the single-cell frame core (insert, stabilizing core) of the single-cell frame is constructed more rigidly than a similarly large typical volume element of the single-cell frame cover of the single-cell frame, the single-cell frame core being at least embedded in the single-cell frame cover or the single-cell frame cover at least partially surrounding the single-cell frame core. The fuel cell stack can be constructed, for example, as a PEM or AEM fuel cell stack, and the electrolyzer stack can be constructed, for example, as a PEM, AEM, AEL (alkaline electrolysis), or CO2 electrolyzer stack. Here, the electrolyzer stack is particularly designed for high-voltage electrolysis.

[0007] Within the framework of this specification, one or all radial directions (especially as a combination of the width and lateral directions of a single pool stack) are perpendicular to the axial stack direction (axial or height direction) of the single pool stack, whose single pool frame surrounds the axial direction in the circumferential direction. The relevant typical volume elements are, of course, mathematical objects, i.e., mathematical volume shapes, where volume elements of the same size have both the same volume and the same shape. "Typical" should be understood as volume elements that are typical for a single pool frame core or a single pool frame housing and therefore can be constructed substantially arbitrarily in sufficiently small cases.

[0008] Here, the mass density of the single pool frame core can be greater than that of the single pool frame cover. Furthermore, the material of the single pool frame core is different from that of the single pool frame cover. Additionally, the single pool frame core can be made of metal or a metal alloy, and / or the single pool frame cover can be made of plastic. Of course, other materials can be used for this insert to ensure the stability of the single pool frame, such as fiberglass composite pads, ceramics, etc. The single pool frame can be constructed as a closed ring in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, the single pool frame can have a primarily or substantially rectangular, square, elliptical, or circular basic outline. Furthermore, the single pool frame core of the single pool frame cover can be constructed as a single piece or in multiple pieces.

[0009] In the cross-section of a single pool frame, the single pool frame cover may completely surround the single pool frame core in the circumferential direction or may not surround the single pool frame core on only one side. When referring to the cross-section of a single pool frame, it means only the cross-section of one side of the single pool frame, that is, the cross-section of the strip-shaped portion of the single pool frame that surrounds the single pool layer in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, the single pool frame core, or a portion thereof, may be completely embedded in the single pool frame cover.

[0010] The single pool frame core can be centrally, centeredly, or coaxially disposed within the single pool housing in the axial and / or radial directions of the single pool layer. Furthermore, the radial extension dimension of the (one-piece or multi-piece) single pool frame core can be at least approximately 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% of the radial extension dimension of the single pool housing, with a deviation of ±2% for each. Furthermore, the axial extension dimension of the (one-piece or multi-piece) single pool frame core can be at least approximately 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75% of the axial extension dimension of the single pool housing, with a deviation of ±2% for each.

[0011] The single-cell housing may have a sealing groove for receiving a seal, wherein the material of the single-cell housing is preferably present at the bottom of the groove. This means that the sealing groove opens the single-cell housing, preferably without reaching the single-cell core. The single-cell housing may have such sealing grooves on both sides of the single-cell core in the axial direction. The sealing grooves may be arranged completely around the single-cell housing in the circumferential direction. The (annular) seal receivable in the sealing groove is used to seal the single-cell layer relative to the bipolar plate or membrane.

[0012] The single-cell frame may have a dielectric through-hole that guides the single-cell frame housing through the single-cell frame and preferably through the single-cell frame core. Alternatively, the single-cell frame may have a dielectric through-hole that guides the single-cell frame core from the side, particularly in cases where a multi-piece single-cell frame core is used for a single single-cell frame. Furthermore, the single-cell frame housing may have a dielectric channel through which the dielectric through-hole and the electrode chamber are in fluid communication.

[0013] In one embodiment, a single cell frame can radially define the electrode chamber for a single cell stack, wherein a fluid transport structure is provided in the free space provided for this purpose within the single cell layer. Furthermore, a membrane is provided on a large-area side surface of the fluid transport structure of the single cell frame within the single cell layer. The fluid transport structure can be constructed as a porous transport layer or a gas diffusion layer; other fluid transport structures can, of course, be applied (see below). Additionally, the single cell layer can include two single cell frames and a membrane disposed between the two single cell frames, wherein no fluid transport structure is provided within the single cell frames, or a fluid transport structure is provided within one or both single cell frames.

[0014] Furthermore, in an embodiment, a single cell frame can radially define exactly two electrode chambers for a single cell stack, wherein fluid transport structures are respectively provided in the free space provided for this purpose in the single cell layer. Additionally, a membrane can be provided between the fluid transport structures of the single cell frame in the single cell layer. Here, one fluid transport structure can be constructed as a porous transport layer, and the other can be constructed as a gas diffusion layer; of course, other fluid transport structures can be applied (see below). Furthermore, the single cell layer can include a single cell frame and a membrane disposed substantially centrally in the axial direction therein, wherein fluid transport structures are provided on one or both sides of the membrane, or, alternatively, no fluid transport structures are provided on the sides of the membrane.

[0015] The first embodiment above (see also the first embodiment above) Figure 3 In this embodiment, two such interrelated single-cell frames can expand corresponding membranes between them. And in the second embodiment (see also...) Figure 4 and Figure 5 In, for example, the corresponding membrane can be stretched on / in the inner edge (step) of a single pool frame.

[0016] The single-cell housing and / or single-cell core, or portions thereof, may have a predominantly or substantially rectangular cross-section. The single-cell layer may also include a membrane and / or bipolar plates. Here, the membrane may be constructed as a single membrane, a membrane electrode unit (possibly having only a single catalyst layer), a catalyst-coated membrane (again possibly having only a single catalyst layer), etc. The single-cell housing may be constructed as an injection-molded part having a single-cell core as an insert. Here, the single-cell core is inserted into a mold or tool and subsequently injection-molded with plastic for use with the single-cell housing. The single-cell housing may be constructed as an integral, material-monolithic, or one-piece single-cell housing.

[0017] A single-piece construction is understood as a single pool frame housing in which the components of the single pool frame housing are force-locked and / or form-locked together, and the single pool frame housing can preferably be separated into its components without damage, and if necessary, using tools. A material-integrated (bonded) single-piece construction is understood as a single pool frame housing in which the individual parts of the single pool frame housing are material-locked together (bonded, laminated, etc.), and the single pool frame housing can preferably be separated into individual parts without damaging its individual parts. Here, the assembly of the single pool frame housing can also be achieved by force-locking and / or form-locking (not in the case of an integral construction).

[0018] The monolithic construction is understood as the following configuration of a single-pool housing, in which only a single component exists, separable only in the event of its failure. The single-pool housing is made from a single initial piece and / or a single initial mass (plastic melt), which itself must be monolithic. Internal assembly is achieved (only) by means of bonding and / or polymerization. The single-pool housing may additionally incorporate lamination, coating, monolithic deposition, etc., in all embodiments.

[0019] The single-cell stack according to this application includes multiple electrochemical single cells, wherein the single-cell layer of the single-cell stack is constructed according to this application. In the single-cell stack, each pair of bipolar plates can jointly clamp a single-cell layer consisting of a single-cell frame, a membrane, and fluid transport structures disposed on both sides of the membrane.

[0020] Alternatively, in a single-cell stack, each of two bipolar plates can jointly clamp an anode-side single-cell layer with fluid transport structures disposed therein, a membrane, and a cathode-side single-cell layer with fluid transport structures disposed therein. Furthermore, in a single-cell stack, the sealing grooves of two single-cell frames directly adjacent to each other with respect to the membrane are radially staggered such that these sealing grooves do not have radially overlapping areas.

[0021] The device or electrochemical system according to this application includes at least one electrochemical single-cell stack and a controller for operating and / or regulating the operation of the single-cell stack, wherein the single-cell layer of the single-cell stack is constructed according to this application, and / or the single-cell stack is constructed according to this application. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The present application is explained in detail below with reference to illustrative and non-total-scale drawings based on embodiments. In this application, features may be configured as positive (i.e., present) or negative (i.e., absent). Negative features are not explained in detail in this specification unless the absence of such a negative feature is specifically emphasized by the present application. This means that the actual completed application, and not derived from prior art, omits the feature. In embodiments, the absence of a feature (negative feature) indicates that the feature may be (to those skilled in the art) optional. As shown in the exemplary and illustrative drawings (illustrations): Figure 1 A simplified block diagram illustrates an embodiment of a fuel cell device with an electrochemical fuel cell stack for a fuel cell system used in fuel cell vehicles. Figure 2 A simplified block diagram illustrates an embodiment of an electrolyzer device with an electrochemical electrolytic cell stack for an electrolyzer system, such as an electrolyzer facility. Figures 3 to 5 The two-dimensional, schematic cross-sectional views show the electrochemical device according to this application. Figure 1 or Figure 2 The single-cell layer of the electrochemical single-cell stack. Detailed Implementation

[0023] This application is based on the electrochemical single-cell stack 100 of the electrochemical single-cell stack 10 and 60 for electrochemical devices 1 and 51 (see...). Figures 3 to 5 ) will be explained in detail. Here, devices 1 and 51 can be configured as fuel cell device 1 for mobile or stationary fuel cell systems (see [reference]). Figure 1 ), or may also be constructed as a stationary or mobile electrolyzer device 51 for use in an electrolyzer system (see Figure 2 ).

[0024] The accompanying drawings show only those sections of the fuel cell system or electrolyzer system necessary for understanding this application. Although this application is described and illustrated in detail by way of preferred embodiments, it is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations can be derived therefrom without departing from the scope of protection of this application.

[0025] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Electrochemical devices 1 and 51 according to a common embodiment are shown respectively. Figure 1 Fuel cell device 1, Figure 2 Electrolyzer device 51), having at least one, especially multiple, combined into an electrochemical single-cell stack 10, 60 or a stack 10, 60 ( Figure 1 Fuel cell stack 10 Figure 2 Electrochemical single cell 11, 61 (electrolytic cell stack 60) Figure 1 : Single fuel cell 11, Figure 2 (61) The single electrochemical cell is preferably housed in a sealed stack housing 16, 66.

[0026] Each individual cell 11, 61 includes electrode chambers 12, 62 configured as anode chambers 12, 62 and electrode chambers 13, 63 configured as cathode chambers 13, 63, which are spatially and electrically separated from each other by a membrane 130 or a MEA or CCM (Catalyst Coated Membrane). Conductive fluid transport structures 140 are provided in the respective electrode chambers 12, 13; 62, 63, which are in fluid communication with the bipolar plate 110 (see below). Alternatively, or additionally to an MEA or CCM having only one electrode, at least one electrode may also be disposed separately from the membrane 130 on at least one fluid transport structure 140.

[0027] The membrane electrode assemblies 15 and 65 of the single-cell stacks 10 and 60 have a membrane 130 or a MEA or CCM membrane 130 and a fluid transport structure 140 on a large-area side surface of the membrane (see also) Figures 3 to 5 Each fluid transport structure 140 may include a transport layer, a transport monolayer, a PTL 142 (Porous Transport Layer), a GDL 144 (Gas Diffusion Layer), sintered metal elements, sintered metal paper, fiber elements, carbon layers, carbon paper, flow structures, and / or flow fields, etc. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The fluid transport structure 140, which is not shown in detail, is provided in the anode chamber 12 and cathode chamber 13 of the single pool stacks 10 and 60.

[0028] A bipolar plate 110 is arranged between two directly adjacent membrane electrode assemblies 15, 15; 65, 65, comprising associated anode chambers 12, 62 and corresponding cathode chambers 13, 63. The bipolar plate is also used for the supply / export of dielectrics 3 / 4, 5 / 6, 7 / 8; 53 / 54, 56 of the anode chambers 12, 62 of the first individual cell 11, 61 or the cathode chambers 13, 63 of the second individual cell 11, 61 directly adjacent to the first individual cell, and also enables conductive connections between these individual cells 11, 11; 61, 61. Here, the common inflow area of ​​cathode chambers 13, 63 and possibly the actual electrodes of the cathode chambers forms cathodes 39, 89, and the common inflow area of ​​anode chambers 12, 62 and possibly the actual electrodes of the anode chambers forms anodes 29, 79 of the cell stacks 10, 60.

[0029] In principle, the membranes in the single-cell stacks 10 and 60 can have a PEM (proton exchange membrane) or an AEM (ion exchange membrane). Preferably, the membrane in the fuel cell stack 10 is a PEM and the membrane in the electrolyzer stack 60 is either an AEM or a PEM. In addition to the fuel cell device 1 or the electrolyzer device 51, the fuel cell system or electrolyzer system also includes peripheral system components, such as a controller, which can be one of the components within the fuel cell system or electrolyzer system itself.

[0030] The following implementation scheme only relates to the electrochemical device 1 as the fuel cell device 1, for example, according to Figure 1 In order to supply the actual operating medium 3 (anode operating medium, actual fuel) and 5 (cathode operating medium, mainly air) to the electrochemical single cell stack 10, which is the fuel cell stack 10, the fuel cell device 1 has an anode supply device 20 and a cathode supply device 30.

[0031] The anode supply device 20 preferably includes: a fuel reservoir 23 for the anode operating medium 3 (inflow); an anode supply path 21 (medium path 21) having a pressure reducer, a shut-off valve and / or a throttle valve 27 (exemplary) and a jet pump 24 (jet pump 24, injector 24); an anode exhaust path 22 (medium path 22) for the anode exhaust medium 4 (outflow, mainly to the environment 2); a fuel recirculation path 25 having a fluid transfer device 26 located therein; and possibly preferably a water separator having a water container.

[0032] The cathode supply device 30 preferably includes: a cathode supply path 31 (medium path 31) with a fluid transfer device 33 for the cathode operating medium 5 (inflow, mainly from the environment 2); a cathode exhaust path 32 (medium path 32) for the cathode exhaust medium 6 (outflow, mainly outflow into the environment 2), preferably having a turbine 34, especially for the fluid transfer device 33; a humidity exchanger 36, especially a gas-to-gas humidifier 36; a possible cathode side stack bypass 35 (wastegate 35) between the cathode supply path 31 and the cathode exhaust path 32, having a bypass valve 37; and a water separator, possibly preferably having a water container.

[0033] Furthermore, the fuel cell device 1 particularly includes a cooling medium supply device 40 for the thermal system, through which the fuel cell stack 10 can preferably be connected to the cooling loop by means of its bipolar plates 110 (cooling medium path 43) via heat transfer for temperature regulation. The cooling medium supply device 40 includes a cooling medium inflow path 41 and a cooling cut-off outflow path 42. The transfer of the cooling medium 7 (inflow) and 8 (outflow) circulating in the cooling medium supply device 40 is preferably achieved by means of at least one cooling medium transfer device 44.

[0034] The following implementation scheme only relates to the electrochemical device 51 as the electrolyzer device 51, for example, according to Figure 2 In order to supply, for example, weakly alkaline water 53 as a supply medium 53 to the electrochemical single-cell stack 60, which serves as the electrolytic cell stack 60, the electrolyzer device 51 has a medium supply device 70. Furthermore, in order to extract the media 54, 56 from the single-cell stack 60, the electrolyzer device 51 has a medium extraction device 80.

[0035] The media supply device 70 preferably includes: a media reservoir 73 for supplying media 53 (inflow), a supply path 71 (media path 71), and a transfer device 76 on / in the supply path 71. The media extraction device 80 has at least one waste treatment path 81 (media path 81) for waste media 54 or waste media 54 containing oxygen, the waste treatment path returning to the media reservoir 73, the waste treatment path possibly having a gas separator for oxygen, and / or, the waste treatment path returning to the environment 2 in another direction (shown in dashed lines).

[0036] The product medium 56, i.e., the produced hydrogen 56, of the electrolyzer device 51 is transported out through the product medium path 82 of the medium extraction device 80. Here, a gas-liquid separator 83 with a valve 84 can be installed in the product medium path 82 to allow waste medium 54 to deposit. The waste medium 54 deposited in the gas-liquid separator 83 can be transferred back to the medium storage tank 73 or may be transported in another direction, for example, to the environment 2, under gravity. The produced hydrogen 56 can be stored, for example, in a hydrogen storage tank 90, to which the product medium path 82 can be directly connected. Other forms of transport of hydrogen 56 are, of course, possible.

[0037] According to the embodiment of the electrolyzer device 51, the medium guidance in the single-cell stack 60 can be constructed differently. Here it is possible to set temperature regulation, especially water cooling, that is different from the electrochemical function of the single-cell stack 60, or to achieve temperature regulation and the electrochemical function of the single-cell stack 60 together.

[0038] In the membrane electrode assembly 65 with AEM, it is possible that, in addition to the supply to the anode side and the cathode side, the supply medium 53 may be provided only to the anode side (dashed arrow in anode 79), and may also be provided as a cooling medium. Furthermore, in the membrane electrode assembly 65 with PEM, in addition to the supply to the anode side only, it is also possible that the supply medium 53 may be provided only to the cathode side 89 as a cooling medium (dashed arrow in cathode 89).

[0039] For example, Figure 3Due to the mechanical clamping force of the stacked single-cell piles 10, 60 along the axial direction Ar (see the vertical, mutually oriented block arrows), the following are clamped between the two bipolar plates 110: a (first) single-cell layer 100, a membrane 130, and a (second) single-cell layer 100, wherein a membrane 130 is clamped between the two single-cell layers 100. Each single-cell layer 100 includes a single-cell frame 120, which is preferably constructed to completely surround the single-cell layer 100 in the circumferential direction Ur, wherein the planar-extending membrane 130 completely closes the through-hole in the single-cell layer 100 established by the inner (frame) opening of the two single-cell frames 120. Here, the membrane 130 may be attached to a single-cell layer 100 or not (see also below).

[0040] In, for example, in Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the alternative shown, the two single-pool layers 100 can preferably be integrally combined into a single single-pool layer 100 (single single-pool frame 122, see below). In this embodiment, the membrane 130 is disposed substantially centrally in a single (frame) opening of the single-pool frame 120 along the axial direction Ar, wherein the membrane 130 is internally, for example, fixed in the radial direction Rr, to the inner wall or inner edge (step) of the single-pool frame 120.

[0041] On both sides of the axial Ar of membrane 130, in each single cell frame 120 ( Figure 3 A fluid transfer structure 140 is provided in the single pool frame 120 (see below), or in a single pool frame 120. Figure 4 and Figure 5 Each of the components is provided with a fluid transfer structure 140 (see below), wherein one fluid transfer structure 140 ( Figure 3 ) or two fluid transport structures 140 ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) can be assigned to the single pool layer 100, or not assigned to the single pool layer. The associated fluid transport structure 140 is provided in the corresponding single pool frame 120 in the axial direction Ar and radial direction Rr. Figure 3 ) or set in a single pool frame 120 ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 )middle.

[0042] Here, the corresponding electrodes for electrochemical functions can be disposed on the membrane 130 or on the side of the fluid transport structure 140 directly adjacent to the membrane 130. A hybrid configuration can be used, i.e., electrodes on the membrane 130 and electrodes on the fluid transport structure 140, which is opposite to the first electrode with respect to the membrane 130. This means that the membrane 130 can be constructed as a standalone membrane 130 (without electrodes), or as having electrodes coated on one side, or as having electrodes coated on both sides (MEA 130 or CCM 130, etc.).

[0043] The single-cell frame 120 is used for liquid or fluid sealing of the radial Rr of the electrochemically active region in at least one individual single cell 15, 65 in the single-cell stacks 10, 60. For this purpose, the single-cell frame 120 preferably has sealing grooves 128 extending outwards in the radial Rr from the outer sections of its two axial Ar directions, respectively, preferably completely surrounding the outer sections in the circumferential direction Ur. These sealing grooves, in addition to extending in the radial Rr for the width of the associated seal 129, are also provided in the axial direction Ax toward the outer sections of the radial Rr. In the associated sealing grooves 128, at least one seal 129 is provided in each of the single-cell layers 100 assembled in the single-cell stacks 10, 60.

[0044] according to Figure 3 The two seals 129 of the single cell frame 120 seal the electrode chambers 12 / 13, 62 / 63 of the single cell stack 10, 60 outward in the radial direction Rr, relative to the bipolar plate 110 on one hand and relative to the membrane 130 on the other. Here, the seals 129 of the two single cell frames 120 that are directly adjacent to each other through the membrane 130 can also be staggered in the radial direction Rr.

[0045] according to Figure 4 and Figure 5 Two seals 129 seal the electrode chambers 12, 13; 62, 63 on the anode and cathode sides of the single-cell stacks 10, 60 outward in the radial direction Rr relative to the two bipolar plates 110. Here, the sealing function toward the membrane 130 is achieved by fixing the membrane 130 in the single-cell frame 120, wherein the two seals 129 and their sealing grooves 128 are removed.

[0046] The single pool layer 100 may have a fluid transport structure 140 ( Figure 3 ) or two fluid transport structures 140 ( Figure 4 and Figure 5In this configuration, the associated fluid transport structures 140 of the single-cell stacks 10 and 60 are disposed in the electrode chambers 12 / 13, 62 / 63 on the anode and / or cathode sides of the single-cell layer 100, and correspondingly form the fluid transport structures 140 on the anode and / or cathode sides. Here, the associated fluid transport structures 140 are disposed on a large-area side surface of the membrane 130 inside the single-cell frame 120. The associated fluid transport structures 140 and 142 can be configured as a porous transport layer 142 or a gas diffusion layer 144. Of course, other fluid transport structures 140 can be applied (see above).

[0047] According to this application, the cross-section of the single pool frame 120 (see...) Figures 3 to 5 Instead of being uniformly constructed, the inner single-pool frame core 121 of the single-pool frame 120 is constructed to be more rigid than the outer single-pool frame cover 122 surrounding at least a portion of the single-pool frame 120 (see above). Here, the single-pool frame core 121 is at least partially or completely embedded in the single-pool frame cover 122. In particular, the single-pool frame core 121 has a different material from the single-pool frame cover 122, wherein the single-pool frame core 121 is preferably constructed of a (very) rigid material (see above), and the single-pool frame cover 122 is preferably constructed of a potentially rigid plastic, such as thermoplastic, thermosetting, etc.

[0048] Here, the entire single pool frame 121 itself can be constructed more rigidly than the single pool frame cover 122 itself. Furthermore, the entire (relatively smaller) single pool frame 121 itself can be constructed more rigidly than the (relatively larger) solid single pool frame, which is constructed of plastic, also the aforementioned plastic, wherein the space for the single pool frame 121 is replaced by the material used for the single pool frame cover 122 of the solid single pool frame. This can be applied to all embodiments of this application.

[0049] Preferably, the single pool frame core 121 is centrally disposed in the axial direction Ar and / or the radial direction Rr of the single pool layer 100 (see [reference]). Figure 3 See also, under certain restrictions. Figure 4 and Figure 5 ) and / or coaxially arranged in a single pool frame 122 ( Figures 3 to 5 Here, the radial Rr of the single-pool frame core 121 is arranged substantially parallel to the bipolar plate 110 in the single-pool stacks 10 and 60. Preferably, the single-pool frame core 121 is constructed with a simple rectangular cross-section. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Of course, other cross-sectional shapes can also be applied. Figure 5 (See below). The single pool frame 120 may have a single, preferably fully encircling, single pool frame core 121 (see below). Figure 3 and Figure 4Alternatively, it may have a multi-piece, preferably fully encircling, single pool frame core 121 (see...). Figure 5 ).

[0050] The single-pool frame 120 has a (vertical / horizontal) medium-through notch 105 that guides through the single-pool frame housing 122 and preferably also through the single-pool frame core 121 of the single-pool frame. Furthermore, the single-pool frame housing 122 may have a (horizontal / vertical) medium channel 125 extending from the medium-through notch 105 to the associated electrode chambers 12 / 13, 62 / 63, which are bounded by the single-pool frame 120 in the circumferential direction Ur. This means that the electrode chambers 12 / 13, 62 / 63 are in fluid communication with the medium-through notch 105. Here, the medium channel 125 may, for example, be configured as a groove 125 within the single-pool frame housing 122.

[0051] The medium through-hole 105 and medium channel 125 are used to supply medium 3 / 5, 53 / 54 / 56 and / or to the electrode chambers 12 / 13, 62 / 63 for waste treatment of the medium in the electrode chambers. For example, in the case of the electrolytic cell stack 60, the medium through-hole 105 is constructed as a chimney 105 and the medium channel 125 is constructed as a delta channel 125. Here, the medium through-hole 105 and medium channel 125 supply medium 53 to the electrode chambers 62 / 63 and / or treat waste medium 54 or product medium 56 from the electrode chambers.

[0052] In an alternative embodiment, a single pool layer 100 may include two pool frames 120 and a membrane 130 disposed between the two pool frames, wherein a fluid transport structure 140 may be disposed in one or both pool frames 120 (see [reference needed]). Figure 3 Position in: (100)).

[0053] In addition, in alternative implementations, see Figure 4 Each single-cell layer 100 may include a single-cell frame 120 having a single-cell frame cover 122 (including, of course, a single-cell frame core 121) for two electrode chambers 12, 13 / 62, 63. Here, the membrane 130 may be disposed or fixed substantially centrally, especially fluid-tightly, inside the single-cell frame cover 122 in the axial direction Ar, for example, disposed or fixed on a stepped inner edge there that projects inward in the radial direction Rr.

[0054] Figure 5 Another alternative implementation is shown. Here, according to Figure 4The single-pool frame core 121 of the embodiment is constructed in multiple parts, currently in a four-piece configuration in cross-section. Of course, other divisions can be applied, particularly two-piece or three-piece divisions. Here, portions or layers of the multi-piece single-pool frame core 121 are arranged separately in the single-pool frame housing 122 along the radial direction Rr. Furthermore, portions of the single-pool frame core 121 are arranged in the single-pool frame housing 122 such that the medium-through notch 105 of the single-pool frame is guided beside the single-pool frame core 121, i.e., it is only provided in the single-pool frame housing 122. Alternatively, the medium-through notch 105 can of course also be guided through the single-pool frame core 121.

[0055] according to Figure 5 The implementation method can of course also be applied to... Figure 3 In this implementation, it is particularly likely that a portion of the single pool frame core 121 is separated radially Rr from at least one sealing groove 128. Furthermore, it includes one ( Figures 3 to 5 ) or two single-pool frames 120 ( Figure 3 The single-cell layer 100 may include at least one electrode 110, wherein the electrode 110 may be configured as a bipolar plate 110 or as a single-stage plate 110 (not shown).

[0056] The single-cell layer 100 is particularly suitable for high-voltage electrolysis. The desired strength can be achieved by using a single-cell core 121, particularly made of metal (metal alloy), and a single-cell cover 122, particularly made of rigid plastic. The single-cell core 121 is insulated from the chemical environment (no contamination from deionized water, thus preventing ion leaching from the single-cell core 121 and thereby preventing strength loss). Furthermore, the possibility of placing the seal 129 is retained. Additionally, the clamping force of the single-cell stacks 10, 60 can be well transmitted through the relatively narrow plastic of the single-cell cover 122.

Claims

1. A single-cell layer (100) for use in electrochemical single-cell stacks (10, 60), comprising: At least one single-cell frame (120) surrounding the single-cell layer (100) in the circumferential direction (Ur) for radial (Rr) liquid sealing of at least one electrode chamber (12 / 13, 62 / 63) of the electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60), characterized in that, The typical volume element of the single pool frame core (121) of the single pool frame (120) is constructed more rigidly than the typical volume element of the single pool frame cover (122) of the single pool frame (120), the single pool frame core (121) being at least embedded in the single pool frame cover.

2. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, • The mass density of the single pool frame core (121) is greater than the mass density of the single pool frame cover (122). • The material of the single pool core (121) is different from the material of the single pool cover (122), and / or • The single pool frame core (121) is made of metal or metal alloy and / or the single pool cover (122) is made of plastic.

3. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, • The single pool frame (121) of the single pool frame cover (122) is constructed in one or more pieces. • In the cross-section of the single pool frame (120), the single pool frame cover (122) either completely surrounds the single pool frame core (121) in the circumferential direction of the single pool frame or does not surround the single pool frame core on only one side, and / or • The single pool frame core (121) is fully embedded in the single pool frame cover (122).

4. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The single pool frame (122) has a sealing groove (128) for receiving a seal (129), wherein the material of the single pool frame (122) is present at the bottom of the groove, and / or the single pool frame (122) has such a sealing groove (128) on both sides of the single pool frame core (121) in the axial direction (Ar).

5. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The single pool frame (120) has a medium through-hole (105) that guides a single pool frame cover (122) through the single pool frame, and / or the single pool frame cover (122) has a medium channel (125) through which the medium through-hole (105) and the electrode chambers (12 / 13, 62 / 63) are in fluid communication.

6. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The single cell frame (120) is radially (Rr) defined for a single electrode chamber (12 / 13 / 62 / 63) of the electrochemical single cell stack (10, 60), wherein a fluid transport structure (140, 142 / 144) is provided in the free space provided for this purpose in the single cell layer (100), and / or a membrane (130) is provided on a large area side surface of the fluid transport structure (140, 142 / 144) of the single cell frame (120) in the single cell layer (100).

7. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The single-pool layer (100) includes two single-pool frames (120) and a membrane (130) disposed between the two single-pool frames, wherein no fluid transport structure (140, 142 / 144) is provided in the single-pool frame (120), or the fluid transport structure is provided in one or both single-pool frames (120).

8. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The single cell frame (120) is radially (Rr) defined for exactly two electrode chambers (12, 13 / 62, 63) of the electrochemical single cell stack (10, 60), wherein fluid transport structures (140, 140; 142, 144) are respectively provided in the free space provided for this purpose in the single cell layer (100), and / or, a membrane (130) is provided in the single cell layer (100) between the fluid transport structures (140, 140; 142, 144) of the single cell frame (120).

9. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The single pool layer (100) includes a single pool frame (120) and a membrane (130) disposed substantially centrally in the axial direction (Ar) within the single pool frame, wherein a fluid transport structure (140, 142 / 144) is provided on one or both sides of the membrane (130), or the fluid transport structure is not provided on the side of the membrane.

10. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, • The single-pool frame (122) and / or the single-pool core (121) have a predominantly or substantially rectangular cross-section. • The single-cell layer (100) further includes a membrane (130) and / or a bipolar plate (110). • The single pool frame (120) is configured as an injection molded part having the single pool frame core (121) as an insert, and / or • The single pool frame (122) is constructed as an integral, one-piece or single-piece single pool frame (122) in terms of material.

11. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The electrochemical single-cell stacks (10, 60) are fuel cell stacks or electrolytic cell stacks.

12. The single-pool layer (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The medium through-hole (105) guides the single pool frame core (121) through the single pool frame.

13. An electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) for use in electrochemical devices (1, 51), having multiple electrochemical single cells, characterized in that, The single-cell layer (100) of the electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) is constructed according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) according to claim 13, characterized in that, In the electrochemical single-cell stacks (10, 60): • Two bipolar plates (110) together clamp the anode-side monocell layer (100) with fluid transport structures (140 / 141 / 142) disposed therein, the membrane, and the cathode-side monocell layer (100) with fluid transport structures (140 / 142 / 141) disposed therein, and / or • Two sealing grooves (128) of single-cell frames (120) directly adjacent to each other with respect to the membrane (130) are arranged radially (Rr) offset from each other, such that the sealing grooves do not have radially (Rr) overlapping areas, or, • Two bipolar plates (110) together clamp a single single cell layer (100) consisting of a single single cell frame (120), a membrane (130) and fluid transport structures (140, 140 / 141, 142) arranged on both sides of the membrane (130).

15. The electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) is a fuel cell stack or an electrolyzer stack, and the electrochemical device (1, 51) is a fuel cell device or an electrolyzer device.

16. An electrochemical device (1, 51), comprising at least one electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) and a controller for operating and / or regulating the operation of said electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60), characterized in that, The single-cell layer (100) of the electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) is constructed according to any one of claims 1 to 12, and / or the electrochemical single-cell stack (10, 60) is constructed according to any one of claims 13 to 15.

17. The electrochemical device (1, 51) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The electrochemical device is a fuel cell device or an electrolyzer device.

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