Frames for electrochemical cells and stacked devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to a novel frame for electrochemical cells and stacked devices. The object of the present invention is a frame, an electrochemical cell, a pre-assembled assembly and a stacked device according to the invention, as well as a method for producing a pre-assembled assembly, an electrochemical cell and a stacked device comprising a frame according to the invention. The frame, the electrochemical cell and the stacked device according to the invention are suitable for the conversion or production of gases and liquids under pressure. The present invention is based on a new frame and seal concept. The present invention also relates to a cover for the stacked device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a frame for an electrochemical cell and a stacked device for the electrochemical conversion or production of gases and liquids under pressure. The present invention relates to a new frame for electrochemical cells, stacked devices and preassembled modules, including a frame according to the invention, a method for manufacturing a preassembled module and a method for manufacturing a stacked device. The frame according to the invention, the electrochemical cell according to the invention and the stacked device according to the invention are suitable for the electrochemical conversion or production of gases and liquids under pressure, e.g. electrolysis cells, fuel cells or cells for electrochemical compression. The present invention is based on a new frame and seal concept. The present invention also relates to a lid for the stacked device.

[0002] Electrochemical cells can generate electricity by transforming materials or forming other materials through the passage of electricity. Electrochemical cells have at least two electrodes that act as electronic conductors and an electrolyte that acts as an ionic conductor. The preferred electrolyte for the cells developed here is a solid electrolyte, such as an ionically conductive membrane.

[0003] Classical electrochemical cells with solid electrolytes consist of an ionically conductive membrane, which can be coated with a catalyst, where the reaction takes place. On the anode and cathode side, porous electrodes (anode and cathode) direct gases or liquids towards or away from the electrolyte. The inflow and outflow of gases or liquids under pressure can be ensured by a frame made of conventional metal or high-strength plastic (PEEK). The electrodes (anode or cathode) are inserted into this frame. To prevent gases or liquids from leaking out of the electrochemical cell, the frame is laterally sealed with seals such as O-rings, flat gaskets or injection seals. To increase the production, electrochemical cells can be connected in series to form a cell stack. The individual electrochemical cells are separated from each other by so-called bipolar plates. A device consisting of such an arrangement is called a stacked device 23.

[0004] Stacked devices consisting of an electrochemical cell and a frame are known in the art.

[0005] EP 3 699 323 A1 relates for example to electrode supplies for electrode stacks of electrolytic cells.

[0006] DE 25 33 728 A1 relates to an electrolysis cell with bipolar electrodes arranged side by side and an outer frame which surrounds at least one chamber of the electrolysis cell.

[0007] EP 3 770 303 A1 relates to an electrode packing unit for a stack structure of an electrochemical reactor comprising a bipolar plate, two electrode plates and two current transfer structures arranged between the bipolar plate and the electrode plates.

[0008] Difficulties commonly encountered when operating classical electrochemical cells under pressure include: 1. In cell stacks, i.e. stack-type devices, the frames of many electrochemical cells are stacked on top of each other, and there are problems with airtightness because the materials used for the frames and other parts have manufacturing tolerances. As a result, the contact pressure of O-rings and other seals used in some of the frames may be insufficient. Especially when gases or liquids are under pressure, it is difficult or impossible to ensure airtightness with known seals. 2. Mechanical stability of the frame: When gas or liquid is transformed or generated under pressure, the plastic frame will deform (Figure 2). 3. A small gap 17 remains between the electrodes and the frame 1. Into this gap 17 the solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13, is forced during differential pressure operation. The solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13, is forced or creeps up into the gap 17. This effect is intensified when the frame 1 is deformed (see point 2) due to its low mechanical stability, so that the gap 17 becomes larger (Figure 2). 4. The frame often contains channels for supplying and removing liquids and gases. It is known in the art to machine the channels out of the frame, i.e. out of the metal or plastic parts, but this leads to high costs.

[0009] In order to generate gases or liquids under high pressure for industrial use from electrochemical cells, or to introduce gases or liquids under high pressure into electrochemical cells, there is a need for an improved electrochemical cell that can operate under high pressure and does not suffer from the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0010] This problem is solved by the invention according to claims 1 to 21.

[0011] The object of the present invention is a frame 1 for an electrochemical cell 2 for a stacked device 23, comprising a frame 4 having a first side with a planar first surface, a frame 5 having a second side opposite the first side of the frame 4 with a planar second surface, an anode frame 8 and a cathode frame 11. Here, the anode frame comprises a first side of the frame 4, an opposite side of the anode frame 4 to the first side of the frame 4 of the anode frame 4″, and a first opening 6 for receiving an anode 7, the first opening 6 extending from the first side of the frame 4 to the opposite side of the anode frame 4″ to the first side of the frame 4 of the anode frame 4″. Here, the cathode frame 11 comprises a second side of the frame 5, a side of the cathode frame 5″ opposite to the second side of the frame 5, and a second opening 9 for receiving the cathode 10, the second opening 9 extending from the second side of the frame 5 to a side of the cathode frame 5″ opposite to the second side of the frame 5; Here, the side of the anode frame 4″ facing the first side of the frame 4 and the side of the cathode frame 5″ facing the second side of the frame 5 are disposed adjacent to each other. Here, the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are connected to each other. As a result, the first opening 6 and the second opening 9 are in communication with each other. Here, the first opening 6 is larger than the second opening 9, and the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are arranged such that the side of the anode frame 4'' facing the first side of the frame 4 and the side of the cathode frame 5'' facing the second side of the frame 5 form a step 12 at the transition from the anode frame 8 to the cathode frame 11.

[0012] In the frame 1 according to the invention, the step 12 is preferably part of the cathode frame 11. In the frame 1 according to the invention, the step 12 is preferably adjacent to the second opening 9. In the frame 1 according to the invention, the step 12 preferably borders the second opening 9. In the frame 1 according to the invention, the step 12 preferably forms a planar third surface as a support surface for the solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13. In the frame 1 according to the invention, the step 12 is preferably part of the cathode frame 11 and forms a planar third surface as a support surface for the solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13. In the frame 1 according to the invention, the step 12 is preferably part of the cathode frame 11 and forms a planar third surface as a support surface for the solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13, adjacent to the second opening 9, bordering the second opening 9 and forming a planar third surface as a support surface for the solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13.

[0013] According to the invention, as membrane 13, preferably an ion-conducting membrane can be used.

[0014] The anode frame 8 consists of a core 21 and a coating made of a sealant 22. Preferably, the anode frame 8 consists of a core 21 made of metal or other suitable material, which is coated with a coating made of a sealant 22. The core 21 of the anode frame 8 is fully or partially coated with a coating made of a sealant 22. The cathode frame 11 consists of a core 21 and a coating made of a sealant 22. Preferably, the cathode frame 11 consists of a core 21 made of metal or other suitable material, which is coated with a coating made of a sealant 22. The core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is fully or partially coated with a coating made of a sealant 22. As the coating of the sealant 22, any sealant is suitable, for example rubber, in particular ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM). For example, the coating of the sealant 22 may consist of EPDM or may consist of EPDM. The coating of a sealing material 22 is preferably a seal or functions as a seal for an electrochemical cell 2 or a stacked device 23. The subject of the invention is a frame 1 for an electrochemical cell 2, preferably having a metallic core 21, which is coated with a sealing material, preferably rubber, for example EPDM (FIGS. 3a and 3b). The core 21 of the anode frame 8 is completely or partially coated with a coating of a sealing material 22, in particular a seal. The core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is completely or partially coated with a coating of a sealing material 22, in particular a seal. As a seal, any sealing material is suitable, for example rubber, in particular ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM). For example, the seal is composed of EPDM or is composed of EPDM.

[0015] The core 21 of the anode frame 8 is preferably made of or consists of metal. The core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is preferably made of or consists of metal. A metallic core 21 provides good mechanical stability. Alternatively, other materials with similar mechanical properties can be used for the core 21, such as high-strength plastics (PEEK), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), in particular reinforced PTFE or molecular reinforced PTFE. The sealant 22, preferably a coating made of rubber, for example ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM), creates a sealing effect, i.e. the sealant acts as a seal.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the entire surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 is covered with a coating of sealing material 22. In further preferred embodiments, at least 90%, preferably at least 95% or more of the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 is covered with a coating of sealing material. In a preferred embodiment, the entire surface of the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is covered with a coating of sealing material 22. In further preferred embodiments, at least 90%, preferably at least 95% or more of the surface of the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is covered with a coating of sealing material 22. In these embodiments, the sealing surface is very large.

[0017] In alternative embodiments, less than 90% of the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 is covered with a coating of the seal material 22. In further alternative embodiments, less than 90% of the surface of the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is covered with a coating of the seal material 22. However, in these alternative embodiments, the area of ​​the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 and / or the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is covered with a coating of the seal material 22 necessary to allow a complete sealing of the electrolysis cell 2. Preferably, in these alternative embodiments, at least the area of ​​the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 and / or the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 surrounding the first opening 6 and / or the second opening 9 is covered with a coating of the seal material 22. For example, an area of ​​0.5 cm to 2.5 cm, preferably 1 cm to 2 cm, for example 1.5 cm, of the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 directly surrounding the first opening 6 is coated. For example, the area of ​​the surface of the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is 0.5 cm to 2.5 cm, preferably 1 cm to 2 cm, for example 1.5 cm, which immediately surrounds the second opening 9.

[0018] The metal provides good mechanical stability, while the coating of the sealant 22, preferably made of rubber, for example EPDM, provides the sealing effect. The fact that preferably the entire or at least 90%, for example at least 95% or more of the surface of the metallic core 21 of the anode frame 8 or preferably the entire or at least 90%, for example at least 95% or more of the surface of the metallic core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is covered with a sealant, preferably rubber, for example EPDM, means that the sealing surface is very large.

[0019] A further advantage of the stable core 21, for example made of metal, and the coating made of the sealant 22 is that the components such as the anode 7 and the cathode 10 can be press-fitted into the frame 1, in particular the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11. This prevents deformation of the electrochemical cell 2 or the stacked device 23, the frame 1 or the frame 1 during the conversion of substances that generate electricity or the conversion of substances that use electricity under high pressure or pressure differentials, for example during electrolysis, which is carried out at a pressure differential of up to 40 bar. In the electrochemical cell 2 or the frame 1, which is composed of the stacked device 23, larger gaps 17 are formed between the individual components in the frame 1 and between the individual components and the frame 1 or the frame 1. For example, no larger gaps 17 are formed between the cathode 10 and the frame 1 and / or between the anode 7 and the frame 1 (FIG. 8).

[0020] The metal used for the core 21 of the anode frame 8 and / or the cathode frame 11 may be stainless steel, for example with a thickness of 0.01-1 mm, preferably 0.5 mm. The coated core 21 of the anode frame 8, i.e. the core 21 together with the coating made of the seal material 22, and / or the coated core 21 of the cathode frame 11, i.e. the core 21 together with the coating made of the seal material 22, may have a thickness of for example 1-5 mm, preferably 2-3 mm, for example 2.2 mm. Materials with comparable properties are also suitable for the core 21, for example highly reinforced plastics, for example PTFE, molecularly reinforced PTFE.

[0021] The coating made of the seal material 22 has a layer thickness. The thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22 is, for example, 1 to 4.5 mm, for example, 2 to 3 mm. Preferably, the thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22 surrounding the core 21 of the anode frame 8 is the same everywhere. Preferably, the thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22 surrounding the core 21 of the positive electrode frame 11 is the same everywhere. In a specific embodiment, the core 21 of the anode frame 8 has an area where the layer thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22'' is reduced compared to the layer thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22 (Figures 10b to 10d, 14, 16 and 17). In a specific embodiment, the core 21 of the positive electrode frame 11 has an area where the layer thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22'' is reduced compared to the layer thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22. For example, the layer thickness of the coating made of the sealing material 22'' is reduced by 1 mm compared to the layer thickness of the coating made of the seal material 22. For example, the thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22 is 4 mm, and the reduced thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22'' is 3 mm. For example, the thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22 is 10 mm or less, preferably 5 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm or less, 1. For example, the reduced thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22 is 9 mm or less, preferably 4 mm or less, 2.8 mm or less, 1.9 mm or less, 1.45 mm or less, 0.95 mm or less. For example, the difference in thickness between the coating thickness made of the sealant 22 and the reduced thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22'' is 1 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.5 mm or less, for example, 0.3 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.05 mm or less.

[0022] For example, the first opening 6 is at least 0.5 mm to 1 mm, for example 2 mm or more, 0.5 cm, preferably 1 cm, particularly preferably 1.5 cm or more, larger than the second opening 9. Preferably, the step 12 formed on the inside of the cathode frame 11 by the larger first opening 6 and the smaller second opening 9 has the same width everywhere (FIG. 7b). Alternatively, the step 12 can have different widths at different points. The width of the step 12, and therefore the width of the planar third surface for holding the solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13, can have the same width or different widths at different points.

[0023] The anode frame 8 can have, for example, outer dimensions 20-70 cm x 20-70 cm, for example 50 cm x 50 cm or 35 cm x 35 cm. The first opening 6 can have, for example, dimensions 11-51 cm x 11-51 cm, for example 21 cm x 21 cm or 15 cm x 15 cm (Fig. 9b). The cathode frame 11 can have, for example, outer dimensions 20-70 cm x 20-70 cm, for example 50 cm x 50 cm or 35 cm x 35 cm. The second opening 9 can have dimensions 10-50 cm x 10-50 cm, for example 20 cm x 20 cm or 14 cm x 14 cm (Fig. 9a). Preferably, the same outer dimensions are selected for the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11. The dimensions of the first opening 6 and the second opening 9 are selected such that the first opening 9 is larger than the second opening 9, such that when the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 1 interact as a frame 1, a step 12 is formed.

[0024] Various frame shapes are known to the person skilled in the art, and the frame 1, the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 can be designed, for example, square, rectangular or circular. Due to the fact that the shape of the frame 1 can be freely selected, the contact pressure in certain areas of the frame 1 can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the thickness of the frame, preferably by decreasing the thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22. The thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22 can also be increased. This allows forming areas in which the layer thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22 on the core 21 is thicker than in other areas of the anode frame 8 or the cathode frame 11. The layer thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22 can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to form areas in which the layer thickness of the coating made of the sealant 22 on the core 21 is smaller than in other areas of the anode frame 8 or the cathode frame 11. Areas with different layer thicknesses of the coating made of the sealant 22 can take over the function of the frame 1 according to the invention.

[0025] To avoid lateral leakage, the pressure on the active area can be increased, for example, by a circumferential increase 26'' in the layer thickness of the coating of the seal material 22, for example a circumferential rubber increase. The circumferential increase 26'' in the layer thickness of the coating of the seal material 22 can have a width of, for example, 1 mm. The layer thickness difference between the coating of the seal material 22 and the circumferential increase 26'' can be, for example, 1 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.05 mm.

[0026] The subject of the present invention is a frame 1 in which the coating of sealing material 22 in certain areas of the anode frame 8 and / or in certain areas of the cathode frame 11 has a reduced layer thickness 22'' compared to the layer thickness of the coating of sealing material 22, for example to reduce the contact pressure.

[0027] The subject of the invention is a frame 1, in which in a specific region of the anode frame 8, a coating of a sealing material 22 has a circumferential height 26'' surrounding the first opening 6, for example to enhance the sealing effect. The subject of the invention is a frame 1, in which in a specific region of the cathode frame 11, a coating of a sealing material 22 has a circumferential height 26'' surrounding the second opening 9, for example to enhance the sealing effect.

[0028] In a square anode frame 8, the first opening 6 may be defined by a first side 27, a second side 28, a third side 29, and a fourth side 30. In a square cathode frame 11, the second opening 9 may be defined by a first side 27'', a second side 28'', a third side 29'', and a fourth side 30''.

[0029] Further components which are part of the electrochemical cell 2 or the stacked device 23 can be saved by installing them as structures in the frame 1, the anode frame 8, the cathode frame 11, in particular by using a coating 22 of a sealant, with which the cores 21 of the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are coated. For example, the coating 22 of a sealant can be a coating of rubber and is composed, for example, of a rubber lip 25, which is arranged in the connection area for the individual voltage measurement. In this way, insulating foils can be saved. The invention relates to a frame 1 in which the coating 22 of the sealant of the anode frame 8 and / or the seal of the cathode frame 11 take over other functions in addition to the sealing function. For this purpose, the coating 22 of the sealant of the anode frame 8 and / or the cathode frame 11 can be composed of a corresponding embodiment, for example of a rubber lip 25.

[0030] The number of individual parts required to manufacture the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23 can be reduced, since other necessary parts can be manufactured directly from the coating of the sealant 22. This significantly reduces the labor required for assembling the stacked device 23. Similarly, by inserting the means for connecting the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11, such as the pins 19 and holes 18, no additional assembly aids are required.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the coating of the sealing material 22 comprises one or more channels type II 15. The channel type II 15 is designed as an area of ​​the coating of the sealing material 22 with a reduced layer thickness compared to the layer thickness of the coating of the sealing material 22. The channel type II 15 is therefore a depression or recess of the coating made of the sealing material 22 and does not contribute to the sealing effect. Adjacent individual channels type II 15 are separated by a plateau 26. A plateau 26 between two adjacent channels type II 15 is, for example, an area in which the core 21 has a coating of the sealing material 22 with a non-reduced layer thickness. The reduced layer thickness of the coating of the sealing material 22'' in the area in which the individual channel type II 15 is located can be selected independently of the reduced layer thickness of the coating of the sealing material 22'' in other areas of the coating surrounding the core 21 and can have a reduced layer thickness of the coating. In a particular embodiment, the core 21 does not have a coating of the sealing material 22 in one or more areas representing one or more channel types II 15.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the first opening 6, bordered by the anode frame 8, and the second opening 9, bordered by the cathode frame 11, are of different sizes (Figs. 7b, 8, 9a and 9b). For example, the cathode frame 11 is small and the anode frame 8 is large. This means that no pressure difference, e.g. 40 bar, i.e. when only the cathode side of the electrochemical cell 2 is operated under pressure or when only the cathode side of the stacked device 23 is operated under pressure, no liquid or gas pressure (gas or liquid depending on which medium is under pressure) presses against the anode frame 8 and the anode 7. The solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is only pressed against the anode 7 and mechanically supported by the anode 7. In this way, the solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is prevented from being forced or forced into the gap 17 between the frame 1, e.g. anode frame 8, and the electrode, e.g. anode 7.

[0033] In alternative embodiments of the frame 1, the electrochemical cell 2 and the stacked device 23, the anode frame 8 is smaller and the cathode frame 11 is larger. In these alternative embodiments, the step 12 is formed by the anode frame 8. As a result, the medium pressure does not press the gap 17 between the cathode frame 11 and the cathode 10 when only the anode side of the electrochemical cell 2 is operated under pressure, for example a differential pressure of 40 bar, i.e. when only the anode side of the electrochemical cell 2 is operated under pressure, or when only the anode side of the stacked device 23 is operated under pressure. The solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13, is only pressed against the cathode 10 and mechanically supported by the cathode 10. In this way, it is possible to prevent the solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13, from being pressed or crawling 24 into the gap 17 between the frame 1, for example the cathode frame 11, and the electrode, for example the cathode 11.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the frame 1 according to the invention comprises two different types of channels for the supply and removal of water and gas.

[0035] Preferably, the frame 1 comprises one or more flow channels type I 14 for the supply of liquid and gas into the frame 1 and for the removal of gas out of the frame 1, respectively. Preferably, the I-type channels 14 are not directly connected to the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 or to the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11. Preferably, the core 21 of the anode frame 8 consists of one or more I-type channels 14. Preferably, the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 consists of one or more I-type channels 14. Preferably, the I-type channels 14 are covered with a coating made of a sealant 22.

[0036] Furthermore, the frame 1 preferably comprises one or more channels type II 15 for supplying liquid and gas to the first opening 6, removing liquid and gas from the first opening 6, supplying liquid and gas to the second opening 9 and removing liquid and gas from the second opening 9. Preferably, the type II channels 15 connect the type I channels 14 to the first opening 6. Preferably, the type II channels 15 connect the type I channels 14 to the second opening 9.

[0037] Depending on the application, the liquid delivered and the gas discharged will vary.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the covering of the seal material 22 on which the anode frame 8 is entirely or partially covered consists of one or more type II channels 15. In another embodiment, the core 21 of the anode frame 8 consists of one or more type II channels 15. In a preferred embodiment, the covering of the seal material 22 on which the cathode frame 11 is entirely or partially covered consists of one or more type II channels 15. In another embodiment, the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 consists of one or more type II channels 15. The advantage of this embodiment is the manufacturing costs. In a preferred embodiment, the channel type II 15 is not milled out of each anode frame 8 and each cathode frame 11, but is transferred once to a tool. A suitable tool is, for example, a negative of the anode frame 8 or a negative of the cathode frame 11. For example, the arrangement, diameter, length and possibly other parameters of the channel type II 15 are transferred to the tool. The tool can be used to transfer the channel type II 15 to the seal 22, for example, as a stamp is used to stamp into the seal material, preferably rubber, for example EPDM. Using a tool, the core 21 of the anode frame 8 or the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is encapsulated by vulcanization.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment of the frame 1, the anode frame 8 comprises one or more channels of type II 15 on the surface of the first side of the frame 4, which are connected to the channel type I 14 and connect the channel type I 14 to the first opening 6 and are arranged in the direction of the BPP 16 when the frame 1 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, and the surface of the anode frame 4'' opposite the first side of the frame does not comprise a channel type II 15.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the frame 1, the cathode frame 11 comprises one or more channels of type II 15 on the surface of the second side of the frame 5, which are connected to the channel type I 14 and connect the channel type I 14 to the second opening 9 and are arranged in a direction towards the BPP 16 when the frame 1 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, and the surface of the cathode frame 5'' opposite the second side of the frame does not comprise a channel type II 15.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the frame 1 according to the invention comprises one or more channels type I 14 and one or more channels type II 15 for the supply and removal of water and gases, the one or more channels type I 14 being not connected to the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 or to the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11. In a preferred embodiment of the frame 1, the anode frame 8 comprises, on the surface of the first side 4, one or more channels type II 15 which are connected to the one or more channels type I 14 and which connect the one or more channels type I 14 to the first opening 6 and which are arranged in a direction towards the BPP 16 when the frame 1 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, and the side opposite to the first side 4 of the anode frame 4'' does not comprise a channel type II 15. In a preferred embodiment of the frame 1, the cathode frame 11 is connected on the surface of the second side 5 with one or more channels of type I 14, connecting the one or more channels of type I 14 to the second opening 9, and arranged in a direction towards the BPP 16 when the frame 1 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, and the side opposite the second side 5 of the cathode frame 5'' does not constitute a channel type II 15.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, the frame 1 according to the invention comprises at least two channels type I 14 for the supply and removal of liquids and gases and at least two channels type II 15, the channels type I 14 being not connected to the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 or to the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11. In a preferred embodiment of the frame 1, the anode frame 8 comprises at least two channels type II 15, arranged on the surface of the first side of the frame 4, connected to the at least two channels type I 14, connecting the channels type I 14 to the first opening 6 and arranged in the direction towards the BPP 16 when the frame 1 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, and the face of the anode frame 4 ″ opposite to the first side of the frame does not comprise channels type II 15. Preferably, the plurality of channels type II 15 arranged on the first side of the frame 4 connect the channels type I 14 to the first opening 6. In a preferred embodiment of the frame 1, the cathode frame 11 comprises at least two channels type I 14 connected to the second opening 9 on the surface of the second side of the frame 5, arranged in a direction towards the BPP 16 when the frame 1 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, and the surface of the cathode frame 5'' opposite to the second side of the frame does not comprise channels type II 15. Preferably, the plurality of channels type II 15 arranged on the second side of the frame 5 connect the channels type I 14 to the second opening 9.

[0043] For the supply and removal of liquids and gases, type I channels 14 connecting the first opening 6 and the second opening 9, i.e. the anode 7 and the cathode 10 with the type I channels 14, are arranged in the anode frame 8 and / or the cathode frame 11 so as to face the BPP 16 and not towards the solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13. If gas or liquid flows through the type I 14 channels, the solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13, is not affected by this, because the side of the anode frame 7 and the side of the cathode frame 11 on which the solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13 rests, do not constitute type II 15 channels. That is, there are no type II 15 channels in the immediate vicinity of the first opening 6 or the second opening 9 in the area where the solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13 is located and is exposed to a differential pressure of up to 40 bar during electrolysis. The solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13, rests on a smooth flat surface without channels, so that it is well supported even at a differential pressure of up to 40 bar. At the same time, the anode compartment (the anode compartment is formed by the anode frame 7, a solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13 and BPP 16), the cathode compartment (the cathode compartment is formed by the cathode frame 11, a solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13 and BPP 16) and the entire electrochemical cell 2 are completely sealed even at differential pressures of up to 40 bar, and no gas or liquid can leak out.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the frame 1 is composed of 2 to 1000 or more type II channels 15, such as at least 100 type II channels 15, preferably at least 200 type II channels 15, or more, such as 50 or less. Preferably, at least half of the type I channels 14 are connected to the first opening 6 or the second opening 9 by type II channels 15. Preferably, at least 2 or more, such as 4, 10 or more type II channels 15 connect the type I channels 14 to the first opening 6. Preferably, at least 2 or more, such as 4, 10 or more type II channels 15 connect the type I channels 14 to the second opening 9.

[0045] For example, the channel type II 15 communicating with the first opening 6 are arranged adjacent to each other on the first side of the frame 4. The distance between two adjacent channel type II 15 is, for example, ≦5 mm, ≦3 mm, preferably ≦2 mm or less. For example, the channel type II 15 between the channel type I 14 and the first opening 6 are arranged in a fan shape on the first side of the frame 4.

[0046] For example, the channel type II 15 connected to the second opening 9 are arranged adjacent to each other on the second side of the frame 5. The distance between two adjacent channel type II 15 is, for example, ≦5 mm, ≦3 mm, preferably ≦2 mm or less. For example, the channel type II 15 between the channel type I 14 and the second opening 9 are arranged in a fan shape on the second side of the frame 5.

[0047] The flow channels of the frame 1 are designed such that the liquid is distributed through the type I 14 flow channels in the stacked device 23 and the liquid reaches the individual electrochemical cells 2 through the type II 15 flow channels. The I-type 14 flow channels are preferably arranged at regular intervals along or parallel to the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8. The I-type 14 flow channels are preferably arranged at regular intervals along or parallel to the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11. For example, there are more than 20 or less, for example 5, I-type channels 14 on each side of the square first opening 6 or each side of the square second opening 9.

[0048] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the flow channels type I 14 are arranged to supply the inlet medium (liquid, gas) to the same portion and therefore the same area of ​​the first opening 6 and the second opening 9 of the electrochemical cell 2 or the first opening 6 and the second opening 9 of the stacked device 23, respectively.

[0049] In a particularly preferred embodiment, a continuous channel type II 15 with a constant opening diameter, preferably 5 mm or less, particularly preferably <2 mm, leads from each channel type I 14 or part of the channel type I 14 to the first opening 6 or the second opening 9. These channels type II 15 are arranged, for example, in the shape of a fan, so that the channels type II 15 are evenly distributed over the first opening 6 or the second opening 9. Other arrangements of the channels type II 15 in the area between the first opening 6 or the second opening and the channel type I 14 passing through the channel type II 15 are also possible. By limiting the width of the channel type II 15 to 5 mm or less, preferably 2 mm or less, a sufficient contact pressure is transmitted to the counter frame 1 in the area of ​​the channel type II 15.

[0050] The uniform distribution of channels type I 14 and type II 15 along the first opening 6 or along the second opening 9 across the entire width of the frame 1, for example along the entire width of the first side of the first opening 27 and along the entire width of the third side of the first opening 29 (Fig. 10a), provides a particularly good distribution of the liquid across the entire active cell area of ​​the electrochemical cell 2 (=first opening 6 + second opening 9). The liquid flows uniformly in the electrochemical cell 2. The uniform distribution of type II channels 15 leads to homogeneous heat dissipation, since a large part of the incoming liquid is used for cooling. Such an arrangement of channels type II 15 allows the heat generated during the electrochemical reaction to be dissipated uniformly. Dissipation of the reaction heat is an important parameter for the electrochemical cell 2 or for the stacked device 23.

[0051] In accordance with the present invention, stacked devices 23 having different designs and configurations are included.

[0052] The frame 1, the electrochemical cell 2, the pre-assembled module 20 and the stacked device 23 are included, and each individual channel type II 15 is adapted to provide a higher or lower pressure loss in the flow of the fluid compared to the other channel type II 15 of the respective frame 1, respective electrochemical cell 2, respective stacked device 23. For example, the external channel type II 15 is adapted accordingly, i.e., the channel type II 15 located at the end of the arrangement of channel type II 15 on the first side of the frame 4, for example the type II channel 15 located at the end of the arrangement of type II channels 15 with respect to the first side of the first opening 27, is adapted to provide either a higher or lower pressure loss for the flowing liquid compared to the other type II channels 15 of the frame 1, the electrochemical cell 2, the pre-assembled module 20 and the stacked device 23. This can be achieved, for example, by reducing the opening cross-section of the channel type II 15. This is necessary, for example, if the pressure loss of the channels type I 14 is not uniform, but the channels type II 15 is uniform, when a certain area of ​​the active cell area (=first opening 6+second opening 9) with a higher volumetric flow rate of liquid through said channels type II 15 is connected to a channel type I 14 where the flowing liquid has a higher pressure. Without adapting the type II channels 15, for example, the liquid flowing through them may result in non-uniform cooling of the active cell area. This can be compensated for by adapting the type II channels 15. The cross-sectional area of ​​the relevant type II channels 15 can be adapted, for example, by being smaller, to compensate for the difference in fluid pressure in the type I channels 14. Preferably, a uniform or homogeneous fluid pressure is generated over the entire active cell area. Channels I 15 that are, for example, individually adapted, for example with different opening cross-sectional areas, can compensate for the different pressure losses in the channels type I 14 and homogenize the flow through all channels I 15.

[0053] According to the present invention, a frame 1, an electrochemical cell 2, an assembled module 20 and a stacked device 23 are constructed, and the individual flow channels type II 15 of each frame 1, each electrochemical cell 2, each assembled module 20 and each stacked device 23 are arranged such that each flow channel type II 15 supplies liquid to an area of ​​the active cell area that is the same size.

[0054] According to the invention, a frame 1, an electrochemical cell 2, a preassembled module 20 and a stacked device 23 are constructed, and the individual channels type II 15 of each frame 1, each electrochemical cell 2, each preassembled module 20 and each stacked device 23 are designed such that all channels type II 15 can simultaneously transport the same amount of liquid or gas, i.e. all channels type II 15 are identical. This can be achieved, for example, by all channels type II 15 having the same cross-section through which the liquid or gas can flow. Preferably, the channels type II 15 are arranged such that each channel type II 15 supplies the liquid or gas to an area of ​​the active cell area that is of the same size. Particularly preferably, the channels type II 15 are arranged such that each channel type II 15 supplies the liquid or gas to an area of ​​the active cell area that is of the same size, and all channels type II 15 are identical. In this way, the liquid or gas can be uniformly supplied over the entire active cell area.

[0055] The number, shape and arrangement of type I channels 14, as well as other parameters of type I channels 14, and the number, shape and arrangement of type II channels 15, as well as other parameters of type II channels 15, can be adapted as necessary, for example to suit the frame shape used.

[0056] In the frame 1 according to the invention, the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are connected to each other via connecting elements. Corresponding connecting elements are known to the person skilled in the art. In a preferred embodiment of the frame 1, the anode frame 8 is composed of one or more connecting elements, for example pins 19, and the cathode frame 11 is composed of one or more connecting elements, for example holes 18, the pins or pins 19 and the holes or holes 18 being arranged in such a way that the holes or holes 18 of the cathode frame 11 can be inserted into the pins or pins 19 of the anode frame 8, and the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 can be connected to each other thereby.

[0057] The subject of the present invention is an electrochemical cell 2 operating under a differential pressure of up to 40 bar for producing high pressure gases and liquids, comprising a solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13, an anode 7, a cathode 10, the electrochemical cell 2 constituting a frame 1 according to the invention, the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 constituting the anode 7, the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11 constituting the cathode 10, the solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13, being arranged between the side of the anode frame 4″ facing the first side of the frame 4 and the side of the cathode frame 5″ facing the second side of the frame 5, the solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13, being arranged between the side of the anode frame 4″ facing the first side of the frame 4 and the side of the cathode frame 5″ facing the second side of the frame 5, one side of the solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13, resting on the anode 7 and the other side of the solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13, resting on the step 12 and the cathode 10 (Figures 7b and 7c). When the electrolysis cell 2 is operated under a pressure difference, the pressure difference does not act on the solid electrolyte, e.g., membrane 13, in the region of the gap 17 between the anode frame 8 and the anode 7. This prevents the solid electrolyte, e.g., membrane 13, from being pushed or creeping up 24 into the gap 7 (Figures 8 and 8a).

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the electrochemical cell 2 according to the invention comprises a solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13 having a thickness of 80 μm or less, for example a membrane 13 having a thickness of 50 μm or less, particularly preferably a membrane 13 having a thickness of 20 μm or less, for example 15 μm or less. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the electrochemical cell 2 according to the invention comprises a solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13, preferably an ion-conducting membrane 13 having a thickness of 80 μm or less, for example an ion-conducting membrane 13 having a thickness of 50 μm or less, particularly preferably an ion-conducting membrane 13 having a thickness of 20 μm or less, for example 15 μm or less.

[0059] In the electrochemical cell 2 according to the invention, the seal 22 of the core 21 of the anode frame 8, for example a rubber coating, preferably a coating made of EPDM, the seal 22 of the core 21 of the cathode frame 11, for example a rubber coating, preferably a coating made of EPDM, and the step 12 interact with the solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13 (Fig. 7c and Fig. 8a), completely sealing the electrochemical cell 2, the anode compartment and the cathode compartment, without the solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13, being forced or forced into the gap 17 between the anode frame 8 and the anode 7. The special arrangement of the type II flow channels 15 completely guarantees both the supply and removal of liquids and gases, as well as the stability of the solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13, and the complete sealing of the electrochemical cell 2. The frame 1 according to the invention therefore allows the use of solid electrolytes, for example membranes 13, with a thickness of 80 μm or less, for example 50 μm or less, preferably 20 μm or less, for example 15 μm or less. These solid electrolytes, for example membranes 13, are called thin solid electrolytes or thin membranes 13. The frame 1 according to the invention allows electrochemical cells 2 to be manufactured with thinner solid electrolytes, e.g. thinner membranes 13, than are usual in the prior art. Furthermore, these electrochemical cells 2 can be operated such that liquid or gas accumulates on one side of the cell at pressures of up to 40 bar without damaging the solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, or without the electrochemical cell 2 leaking.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the anode 7 is designed such that the BPP 16 is connected to the anode 7, which is in accordance with the present invention called BPP / anode 36. The use of the BPP / anode 36 not only facilitates assembly but also reduces the contact resistance between the individual components.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the anode 7 consists of at least one coarse distributor and at least one fine distributor for the process medium, in particular the liquid. The coarse distributor efficiently distributes the liquid over the entire cell area (i.e. the first opening and the second opening 6+9). The fine distributor transports the liquid to the solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13, allows a good electrical contact to the solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13 and at the same time mechanically supports the solid electrolyte, for example the membrane 13. As a coarse distributor of the anode 7, for example an expanded metal can be used. As a fine distributor of the anode 7, for example a plate made of sintered powder can be used. The anode 7 can be manufactured by joining the coarse distributor and the fine distributor, for example an expanded metal and a sintered metal, for example by resistance welding. Alternatively, the anode 7 can be manufactured by sintering the powder directly onto the expanded metal. The anode 7 can be connected to the BPP 16. Preferably, the BPP 16 is made of the same material as the anode 7. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the BPP 16 and the anode 7 are made of titanium. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the BPP 16 and the anode 7 are at least 80% made of the same material, for example titanium. The connection between the BPP 16 and the anode 7 can be realized, preferably at several points, for example by resistance welding. In the BPP / anode 36, the surface of the BPP 16 corresponds to the outer surface of the frame 1, or the surface of the BPP / anode 36 essentially corresponds to the outer surface of the frame 1. The surface of the anode 7 of the BPP / anode 36 is adapted to fill or fit into the first opening 6. Instead of two parts (BPP 16 and anode 7), only one part is needed for assembly: the BPP / anode 36. This means that one part is saved.

[0062] Depending on whether liquid or gas is transported through the electrode, the channel type I14 on one or both sides along the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 can also be significantly smaller than the channel type I14 on the other side along the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 (see FIG. 10b). For example, the channel type I14 on the positive electrode side can be significantly smaller than the negative electrode side (see FIGS. 10b-10d). To save space and ensure the mechanical stability of the frame 1, the channel type I14 can be designed, for example, as a slot instead of a round hole. Various shapes and corresponding adaptations are possible for the I-type channels 14.

[0063] The subject of the invention is a preassembled module 20 for producing a stacked device 23 consisting of a frame 1 according to the invention. For example, the subject of the invention is a preassembled module 20 for producing a stacked device 23 consisting of an anode frame 8, a cathode frame 11, a BPP 16, an anode 7 and a cathode 10, Here, the anode frame 8 comprises a first side of the frame 4 having a planar first surface, an opposite side of the first side of the frame 4 of the anode frame 4″, and a first opening 6 for receiving an anode 7, the first opening 6 extending from the first side of the frame 4 to the opposite side of the frame 4 of the anode frame 4″, the first opening 6 being surrounded by the anode frame 8, the anode frame 8 comprising at least one connection element, e.g. a pin 19, for connection to a cathode frame 11, a cathode frame 11 comprising a second side of the frame 5 having a planar second surface, a side of the cathode frame 5″ opposite to the second side of the frame 5, and a second opening 9 for receiving a cathode 10, wherein the second opening 9 extends from the second side of the frame 5 to the side of the cathode frame 5″ opposite to the second side of the frame 5 and is surrounded by the cathode frame 11, the cathode frame 11 being comprised of at least one connection element for connection to the anode frame 8, e.g. a hole 18 for receiving a pin 19 of the anode frame 8; Here, the BPP 16 is disposed between a first side of the frame 4 and a second side of the frame 5, and the BPP 16 may be part of the BPP / anode 36. Here, the anode frame 8 consists of a core 21 and a coating 22 of a sealing material, the core 21 being completely or partially covered with the coating 22 of a sealing material, for example the core 21 consists of a metal or consists of a metal and the coating 22 of a sealing material consists of, preferably the BPP 16 is connected to the anode 7 to form a BPP / anode 36, the anode 7 or the BPP / anode 36 is inserted or pressed into the first opening 6, the anode 7 being bordered by the anode frame 8, The cathode frame 10 consists of a core 21 and a sealant coating 22, the core 21 being fully or partially covered with the sealant coating 22, for example the core 21 being made of or consisting of metal and the sealant coating 22 being made of or consisting of a sealant, for example rubber, preferably EPDM, the cathode 10 being inserted or pressed into the second opening 9 and being bordered by the cathode frame 11, As a result, the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are connected via the connecting elements of the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11, for example, the pins 19 of the anode frame 8 are inserted into the holes 18 of the cathode frame 11, and the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are connected to each other. Here, the first opening 6 is larger than the second opening 9, the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are arranged such that the first side of the frame 4 and the second side of the frame 5 form a step 12 at the transition from the anode frame 8 to the cathode frame 11, where the step 12 is preferably the part of the cathode frame 11 adjacent to and preferably bordering the second opening 9, the step 12 preferably forms a planar third surface as a support surface for the solid electrolyte, e.g. the membrane 13, and the BPP 16 or the BPP 16 of the BPP / anode 36 rests on one side on the anode 7 and the anode frame 8 and on the other side on the cathode 10, the cathode frame 11 and the step 12. The preassembled module 20 is preferably comprised of flow channels type I 14 and type II 15 as described herein for the supply and removal of liquids and gases, which can be arranged as described.

[0064] Problem to be solved by the invention The subject of the invention is a method for producing an assembled module 20 consisting of a frame 1 according to the invention. The subject of the invention is, for example, a method for producing an assembled module 20, comprising the following method steps: a) For the anode frame 8, a core 21, preferably made of metal, is manufactured, the core 21 comprising a first side of the frame 4 having a planar first surface and a side of the anode frame 4″ facing the first side of the frame 4, the first side of the frame 4 and the side of the anode frame 4″ facing the first side of the frame 4 comprising one, two or more I-shaped channels 14 for the supply and removal of liquids and gases, the I-shaped channels 14 being not connected to the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8, the anode frame 8 comprising at least one connection element, e.g. a pin 19, for connection to the cathode frame 11, e.g. a pin 19, b) the surface of the core 21 produced according to a) for the anode frame 8 is completely or partially, for example at least 90% of the surface of the core 21 produced according to a) for the anode frame 8, coated with natural or synthetic rubber and then vulcanized, in order to produce a coating of rubber as a coating of the sealant 22 by vulcanization, whereby a coating of rubber, preferably a coating of EPDM, is produced on the entire surface or part of the surface of the core 21, in which two or more channels of type II 15 are generated on the surface of the first side of the frame 4, which channels are connected to one, two or more channels of type I 14, which channels or channels of type I 14 14 are connected to the first opening 6, and when the anode frame 8 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, which are arranged towards the BPP side of the BPP 16 or BPP / anode 36, and no channels of type II 15 are generated on the surface of the anode frame 4 ″ opposite to the first side of the frame 4, c) the anode 7 and the BPP 16 or the BPP / anode 36 are placed or pressed into the anode frame 8 manufactured according to a) and b); d) a core 21, preferably made of metal, is manufactured for the cathode frame 11, the core 21 being composed of a second side of the frame 5 having a planar second surface and a side of the cathode frame 5 ″ facing the second side of the frame 5, the second side of the frame 5 and the side of the cathode frame 5 ″ facing the second side of the frame 5 being provided with one, two or more I-shaped channels 14 for the supply and removal of liquids and gases, the I-shaped channels 14 being provided with a second opening 9 extending from the second side of the frame 5 to the side of the cathode frame facing the second side of the frame 5 and bordered by the cathode frame 11, the I-shaped channels 14 being not connected to the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11, the cathode frame 11 being provided with at least one connection element, e.g. a hole 18, for connection to the anode frame 8. e.g. a hole 18, e) The surface of the core 21 for the cathode frame 11 produced according to d) is coated with natural or synthetic rubber, for example at least 90% of the surface of the core 21 produced according to d) for the cathode frame 8, with natural or synthetic rubber and then vulcanized, in order to produce a rubber coating as a coating of the sealant 22 by vulcanization, whereby a rubber coating, preferably an EPDM coating, is produced on the entire surface or on a part of the surface of the core 21, in which two or more channels of type 1.II 15 are formed. , are generated on the surface of the second side of the frame 5, and these channels are connected to one, two or more channels of type I 14, and these channels connect the channel or channels of type I 14 to the second opening 9, and when the cathode frame 11 is installed in the electrochemical cell 2 or stacked device 23, they are arranged in the direction of the BPP side of the BPP 16 or BPP / anode 36, and no channel type II 15 is generated on the surface of the cathode frame 5″ opposite to the second side of the frame 5, f) The cathode frame 11 manufactured according to d) and e) is connected to the anode frame 8, for example, by inserting the cathode frame 11 into the anode frame 8, placing the BPP 16 or the BPP of the BPP / anode 36 between the first side of the frame 4 and the second side of the frame 5, and then inserting or pushing the cathode 10 into the cathode frame 11.

[0065] The subject of the present invention is a method for producing a stacked device 23 for converting or producing gases and liquids under pressure, consisting of a frame 1 according to the invention, an assembled module 20 according to the invention and an electrochemical cell 2. The subject of the present invention is a method for producing a stacked device 23 for operation under differential pressure, for example for converting or producing high pressure liquids or high pressure gases, comprising the method steps: a) at least x preassembled modules 20 according to the invention and at least x+1 solid electrolytes, e.g. at least x+1 membranes 13, are stacked one on top of the other in an alternating manner to produce a stack of preassembled modules 3, in which one preassembled module 20 and one solid electrolyte are stacked one on top of the other in an alternating manner, one solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is arranged on the upper and lower sides of the stack of preassembled modules 3, one solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is stacked one on top of the other in an alternating manner, one solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is arranged on the upper and lower sides of the stack of preassembled modules 3, a solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is arranged between each of two adjacent preassembled modules 20, and b) and on one side of the stack of preassembled modules 3 a single anode 7' is arranged parallel to an outer solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13, and on the other side of the stack of preassembled modules 3 a single cathode 10' is arranged parallel to an outer solid electrolyte, for example a membrane 13; c) end plates 33 are placed parallel to a single anode 7′ and parallel to a single cathode 10′, and the resulting stack is compressed between the two end plates 33 to form a stacked device 23; where x is an integer ≧2.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment of the method for manufacturing a stacked device 23 according to the present invention, each of the one or more, preferably x+1, solid electrolytes, e.g. each of the x+1 membranes 13 of the stacked device 23, has a thickness of 80 μm or less, preferably a thickness of 50 μm or less, more preferably a thickness of 20 μm or less, e.g. a thickness of 15 μm or less, where x is an integer and ≧2.

[0067] The subject of the invention is a stacked device 23 operating under differential pressure for converting or producing high pressure liquids or gases, consisting of one or more frames 1 according to the invention. The subject of the invention is a stacked device 23 consisting of one or more preassembled modules 20 according to the invention. The subject of the invention is a stacked device 23 consisting of one or more electrochemical cells 2 according to the invention.

[0068] The subject of the present invention is a stacked device 23 for operation under differential pressure, for example for the conversion or production of high pressure liquids or high pressure gases, comprising x preassembled modules 20 according to the invention, x+1 solid electrolytes, for example x+1 membranes 13 respectively, a single anode 7′, a single cathode 10′ and two end plates 33, in which the x preassembled modules 20 and the x+1 solid electrolytes are stacked alternately on top of one another, as for example the x+1 membranes 13, forming a stack of preassembled modules 3, in which the x+1 membranes 13 are stacked alternately one on top of the other, forming a stack of assembled modules 3, in which in each case one preassembled module 20 and one ... forming a stack of assembled modules 3, in which in each case one preassembled module 20 and 3 are stacked one on top of the other to form a stack of preassembled modules 3, where one preassembled module 20 and one solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, are alternately stacked one on top of the other to form a stack of preassembled modules 3, where one solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is placed on the upper and lower sides of the stack of preassembled modules 3, one solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, is placed between two adjacent preassembled modules 20, one anode 7' is placed parallel to the outer solid electrolyte, one end plate 33 is placed parallel to the single anode 7' and one end plate 33 is placed parallel to the single cathode 10', and the resulting stack is compressed between the two end plates 33 to form the stacked device 23; where x is an integer ≧2.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment of the stacked device 23 according to the invention, each of the one or more, preferably x+1, solid electrolytes, e.g. each of the x+1 membranes 13 of the stacked device 23, has a thickness of less than or equal to 80 μm, preferably less than or equal to 50 μm, particularly preferably less than or equal to 20 μm, e.g. less than or equal to 15 μm, where x is an integer number ≧2.

[0070] Depending on the requirements, further components can be installed at suitable positions in the stacked device 23, for example insulating plates 32 can be installed between the solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane 13, and the end plates 33. The insulating plates 32 at these positions prevent the end plates 33 from shorting out, for example when screws are used. Corresponding parts are known to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art can adapt the manufacturing method accordingly.

[0071] Another subject of the invention is a stacked device 23 operating under differential pressure for converting or producing a high pressure liquid or gas, comprising x preassembled modules 20 according to the invention, x+1 solid electrolytes, for example membranes 13, and a single anode 7, in which x preassembled modules 20 and x+1 solid electrolytes, for example membranes 13, are stacked one on top of the other alternately to form a stack of preassembled modules 3, in which in each case one preassembled module 20 and one solid electrolyte, for example membrane 13, are stacked, the solid electrolytes, for example membranes 13, are arranged on the upper and lower sides of the stack of preassembled modules 3, in each case one solid electrolyte, for example membrane 13, is arranged between two adjacent preassembled modules 20, in which on one side of the stack of preassembled modules 3 a half-cell anode is arranged parallel to the outer solid electrolyte, for example membrane 13, and on the other side of the stack of preassembled modules 3 a half-cell cathode is arranged parallel to the outer solid electrolyte, for example membrane 13, Here, end plates 33 are placed parallel to the half-cell anode and parallel to the half-cell cathode, and the resulting stack is compressed between the two end plates 33 to form the stacked device 23. where x is an integer and is ≧2.

[0072] A half-cell anode is comprised only of the anode side of an electrochemical cell 2, and not the cathode side of the electrochemical cell 2. In a preferred embodiment, the half-cell anode is comprised of a single anode 7' and an anode frame 8. In a preferred embodiment, the half-cell anode is comprised of a single anode 7' and an anode frame 8. The half-cell anode completes an electrochemical cell 2 in an assembled module 20 or a stack of assembled modules 3.

[0073] The half-cell cathode constitutes only the cathode side of the electrochemical cell 2, and not the anode side of the electrochemical cell 2. In a preferred embodiment, the half-cell cathode is comprised of a single cathode 10' and a cathode frame 11. In a preferred embodiment, the half-cell cathode is comprised of a single cathode 10' and a cathode frame 8. The half-cell cathode completes an electrochemical cell 2 in an assembled module 20 or a stack of assembled modules 3.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the stacked device 23 is composed of at least 2 or 3 or 5 or more, e.g. 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000 or more preassembled modules 20 according to the invention. Preferably, in addition to a number x of preassembled modules 20 according to the invention (x being an integer and ≧2), the stacked device 23 according to the invention is composed of a cathode frame 11, a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13, an anode frame 8 and two end plates 33. Preferably, in the stacked device 23 according to the invention, the first and the last electrochemical cell 2 are different from the one located between them. For example, to manufacture the stacked device 23, a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13, is placed on the cathode frame 11, and x preassembled modules 20 and x solid electrolytes, e.g. a membrane 13, are alternately stacked on the solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13, and an anode frame 8 is stacked on top of it. The stack is compressed between the end plates 33 to form the stacked device 23, x being an integer and ≧2.

[0075] In the stacked type apparatus 23, preferably, one of the two end plates 33 is, for example, an upper end plate 38 disposed at the upper portion of the stacked type apparatus 23. In the stacked type apparatus 23, preferably, one of the two end plates 33 is, for example, a lower end plate 44 disposed at the lower portion of the stacked type apparatus 23.

[0076] The stacked apparatus 23 is preferably operated as a flow reactor. Liquid and / or gas are continuously fed to the stacked apparatus 23 and liquid and / or gas are continuously discharged from the stacked apparatus 23. The liquid has to be distributed from the liquid inlet connection (=liquid connection) 39 of the stacked apparatus 23 to the flow channel I-type 14. At the same time, the liquid has to be sent from the I-type flow channel 14 to the liquid outlet connection (=liquid connection) 40. This requires space that may not be available for the end plates 33, for example, because the end plates 33 would be too thick and the stacked apparatus 23 would be too heavy if the end plates 33 were too thick.

[0077] Problem to be solved by the invention The present invention is a lid 37 for the stacked apparatus 23. The lid 37 according to the present invention has a structure that forms as much space for liquid as possible without making the entire end plate 33 unnecessarily thick.

[0078] The subject of the present invention is a lid 37 for a stacked device 23, in which an end plate 33, for example an upper end plate 38, is provided with at least one connection 39 for the introduction of liquid, at least one connection 40 for the discharge of liquid and at least two distributor covers 41, the upper end plate 38 for forming a space for liquid having at least two spaces for the distribution of liquid in the upper end plate 42, each of the at least two distributor covers 41 having a space for the distribution of liquid in the distributor cover 43, at least one distributor cover 43 for the introduction of liquid into the stacked device 23 is connected to at least one connection 39 for the introduction of liquid and to the space for liquid distribution of the end plate 42, and at least one further distributor cover 43 for the discharge of liquid from the stacked device 23 is connected to at least one connection 40 for the discharge of liquid and to the space for liquid distribution of the end plate 42.

[0079] Problem to be solved by the invention The subject of the invention is a stacked device 23 according to the invention, which comprises a lid 37 according to the invention. The subject of the invention is a stacked device 23 according to the invention, which comprises a lid 37 according to the invention.

[0080] In order to completely seal the individual frames 1 of the electrochemical cells 2 and the individual frames 1 of the stacked device 23, especially at high pressures or high pressure differences, the end plates 33 must be tensioned with sufficient bolt force or contact pressure. The coating of the sealing material 22 then acts as a seal and completely seals the individual frames 1, the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11. If frames 1 with large frame surfaces are used, the contact pressure required to clamp the end plates 33 so as to completely seal them is even higher. In the case of frames 1 with large frame areas, the contact pressure is particularly high if the core 21 of the anode frame and the core 21 of the cathode frame are completely covered with a coating of the sealing material 22, i.e. with a large area of ​​the coating of the sealing material 22 on the first side of the frame 4 of the anode frame 8 and with large first openings 6, i.e. with a long first side of the first opening 27 and possibly with a long second side of the first opening 28. A large frame area is, for example, 1600 cm 2or more. In a preferred embodiment, not the entire frame surface of the anode frame 8 is required for sealing. In a particular embodiment, not the entire frame surface of the cathode frame 11 is required for sealing. In order to reduce the contact pressure, the layer thickness of the coating of the sealing material 22 can be reduced in the areas of the surface of the core 21 that are not required for sealing. The corresponding anode frame 8 or cathode frame 11 is composed of areas on the core 21 where the coating of the sealing material 22 has a layer thickness and areas on the core 21 where the coating of the sealing material 22'' has a reduced layer thickness compared to the layer thickness of the coating of the sealing material 22 (FIG. 10b, FIG. 14). The layer thickness of the coating of the sealing material 22'' in the areas of the surface of the core 21 that are not required for sealing is at least 0.05 mm, for example at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 0.2 mm, less than the layer thickness of the coating of the sealing material 22 in the areas of the surface of the core 21 that are required for sealing the active areas (active area = first and second openings 6 + 9) and the channels type I and type II 14 + 15. In order to reduce the contact pressure, the thickness of the coating of sealant 22 can be reduced in areas of the surface of the core 21 for the positive frame 11 or the negative frame 8 that are not required for sealing, for example in the following areas: For example, in the areas of the surface of the core 21 that are not required for sealing the active areas (first and second openings 6+9) and the channels type I and type II 14+15, the layer thickness of the coating of sealant 22″ is reduced by at least 0.05 mm, for example by at least 0.1 mm, preferably by at least 0.2 mm.

[0081] The areas of the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 and / or the cathode frame 11 where the coating of the sealing material 22 has a non-reduced layer thickness are mainly subjected to pressure when the stacked device 23 is clamped (Fig. 1, 10-15 MPa). The sealing areas where the coating of the sealing material 22 on the surface of the core 21 has a non-reduced layer thickness can be defined as areas of the surface of the core 21 that are located at a distance of 0.2 mm or more, for example 0.5 mm or 1 mm or more, preferably 1.5 mm or 2 mm or more, around the first inner opening 6 or the second inner opening 9, and around the channel type I 14 and the channel type II 15 (Fig. 10b, Fig. 14). The distances are various. The arrangement of the first inner opening 6, the second inner opening 9, the I-type flow channels 14, the distance to the II-type flow channels 15 may be the same or different, if the coating of the sealing material 22 has a non-reduced layer thickness. In certain embodiments, the coating of sealant 22 can have a zero layer thickness in the area or part of the area of ​​the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 or cathode frame 11, where the coating 22″ of sealant 22 has a reduced layer thickness, i.e. in certain embodiments, in this area of ​​the surface, the core 21 is not covered with a coating of sealant 22. By reducing the layer thickness of the coating of sealant 22 in certain areas of the surface of the core 21 of the anode frame 8 or cathode frame 11, the area that has to be compressed can be reduced, for example by 50%, compared to a coating of sealant 22 completely covering the surface of the core 21 with the same layer thickness. This also reduces the contact pressure required to compress the frame 1 of the stacked device 23 by up to 50%.

[0082] Preferably, the stack-type apparatus 23 according to the invention is used for the electrolysis of liquids in a temperature range of 10 to 95° C., preferably 40 to 80° C., particularly preferably 68 to 72° C. The stack-type apparatus 23 according to the invention also has the advantage that the temperature difference from one side of the stack to the other is preferably at most 0 to 10° C., preferably at most 3 to 7° C., particularly preferably at most 4° C.

[0083] A further advantage of the advantageous embodiment of the invention is the manufacturing costs. In a preferred embodiment, the channels type II 15 are not milled out of each anode frame 8 and each cathode frame 11, but are transferred once to a tool. A suitable tool is, for example, a negative of the anode frame 8, and another tool is a negative of the cathode frame 11. For example, the arrangement, diameter, length and possibly other parameters of the type II channels 15 are transferred to the tool. With this tool, the channels type II 15 can be transferred to the sealing 22, for example, as if a stamp were used to stamp a sealing material, preferably rubber, for example EPDM. With the help of the tool, the core 21 of the anode frame 8 or the core 21 of the cathode frame 11 is covered with the sealing 22 by vulcanization, and at the same time the desired structure, for example the channels type II 15 on the first side of the frame 4 or the second side of the frame 5, is generated in the sealing 22. In this method of manufacturing the frames 1, a sealing 22 is preferably used, which consists of rubber, for example EPDM. In this embodiment, the core 21 is covered with a seal 22, which allows the simultaneous production of channels type II 15 in the desired areas of the anode frame 8 and / or cathode frame 11 according to the invention. The molded or rubber molded parts produced by vulcanization of the anode frame 8 and / or cathode frame 11 can be used directly and can be produced in large quantities at low cost. Alternative processes are known, such as, for example, injection molding or 3D printing.

[0084] The stacked device 23 is preferably designed such that all components have smooth and homogenous surfaces to avoid voltage peaks in the solid electrolyte, e.g., membrane 13. At medium pressures, anodes 7 and / or cathodes 10 with pore diameters of e.g. <0.1 mm are used to prevent the solid electrolyte, e.g., membrane 13, from being forced or forced into the pores of the anodes 7 and / or cathodes 10.

[0085] The anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 can be easily joined to form the assembled module 20, since the sealing part 22 and the anode frame 8 or the sealing part 22 and the cathode frame 11 are each composed of one part. Preferably, to manufacture the assembled module 20, a BPP 16 connected to the anode 7 is used, i.e. BPP / anode 36. For example, the BPP 16 and the anode 7 are welded together so that they are present as one part BPP / anode 36. To manufacture the assembled module 20, first the anode frame 8 is inserted or pressed onto the anode 7 or the anode 7 of the BPP / anode 36. For example, the anode frame 8, in addition to the first pin 19 as a means of connection to the cathode frame 11, can also have a second pin 19 as a means of connection to the BPP 16 or the BPP / anode 36, which can be inserted into the BPP 16. For this purpose, the BPP 16 of the BPP 16 or BPP / anode 36 is provided with corresponding means, preferably holes 18, for connection to the anode frame 8. The anode frame 8 with the inserted or pressed-in anode 7 and the BPP 16 or BPP / anode 36 is then turned over and the cathode frame 11 is also inserted on the other side of the anode frame 8 with its connection means, preferably holes 18, to the anode frame and can be connected to the anode frame 8. The cathode 10 is then inserted or pressed into the cathode frame 11 (FIG. 6). An assembled module 20 is obtained. The assembled modules 20 can be stacked alternately with solid electrolytes, for example membranes 13, for example via centering pins, in order to produce a stack of assembled modules 3 or a stacked device 23.

[0086] Reference sign list Frame 1 Electrochemical cell 2 Stack of 20 pre-assembled modules 3 Frame 1, Side 1 4 Surface 4'' of anode frame 8 opposite to the first surface of frame 4 Frame 1, Side 2 5 The surface 5'' of the positive frame 11 opposite to the second surface of the frame 5 First Opening 6 Anode 7 Single anode 7' Anode Frame 8 Second Opening 9 Cathode 10 Single cathode 10' Cathode Frame 11 Step 12 Membrane 13 Channel Type I 14 Channel Type II 15 Bipolar Plate (BPP) 16 Gap 17 Holes 18 Pen 19 Pre-assembled Modules 20 Core 21 Coating with sealant 22 The thickness of the coating of the sealant 22 was reduced. Stacked Devices 23 Crawl 24 Rubber Lip 25 Elevation between two waterways Type II 15 26 Circumferential ridges for improved sealing around active areas 26 26'' First side surface 27 of first opening 6 of anode frame 8 A first side surface 27' of the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11 A second side surface 28 of the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 A second side surface 28' of the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11 Third side surface 29 of first opening 6 of anode frame 8 The third side surface 29' of the second opening 9 of the cathode frame 11 The fourth side surface 30 of the first opening 6 of the anode frame 8 The fourth side surface 30' of the second opening 9 of the positive electrode frame 11 Channel Edge Type I14 31 Insulation Panels 32 End Plate 33 Tie rod 34 Current collector 35 BPP 16 and anode 7 are connected (=BPP / anode) 36 Stacking device lids 23 37 Upper end plate 38 Liquid introduction connection (= liquid connection input) 39 Liquid outlet connection port (=liquid connection port) 40 Distributor cover 41 Liquid distribution space 42 in upper end plate 38 Fluid distribution space in distributor cover 43 Lower end plate 44 [Brief description of the drawings]

[0087] [Figure 1] Classical structure in the art of an electrochemical cell with a frame 1, a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane 13, a bipolar plate (BPP) 16, an anode 7, a cathode 10 with a gap 17 between the frame 1 and the anode 7 and between the frame 1 and the cathode 10. The frame 1 shown here consists of a channel type I 14 for the supply and removal of water and gases. [Diagram 2] The frame 1 is deformed, and large gaps 17 are formed between the frame 1 and the anode 7 and between the frame 1 and the cathode 10, and a crawl 24 of solid electrolyte, e.g., membrane 13, enters the enlarged gaps 17 between the frame 1 and the anode 7 and between the frame 1 and the cathode 10 of the frame 1 according to FIG. [Figure 3a] FIG. 1 shows a part of a frame 1 according to the invention, which consists of a core 21 covered with a coating of sealing material 22 in which a channel type II 15 is formed. [Figure 3b] 1 shows a part of a frame 1 according to the invention. The frame 1 consists of a core 21 covered with a coating made of a sealing material 22 and part of a channel type II 15 within the coating made of the sealing material 22. [Figure 4]The cathode frame 11 according to the invention shown here has a second opening 9 bordered by a first side 27', a second side 28', a third side 29' and a fourth side 30' of the cathode frame 11. The cathode frame 11 consists of two holes 18 as connecting elements for connecting with the anode frame 8 and 20 channels type I 14. On the second side 5 of the cathode frame 11, several channels type II 15 connecting the second opening 9 with ten channels type I 14, each channel type I 14 being connected to the second opening 9 by several channels type II 15. On the side opposite to the second side 5 of the cathode frame 5 ″, there are no type II channels 15 connecting the type I channels 14 with the second opening 9. [Diagram 5] The anode frame 8 according to the invention shown here has a first opening 6 bordered by a first side 27, a second side 28, a third side 29 and a fourth side 30 of the anode frame 8. The anode frame 8 comprises two pins 19 as connecting elements for connection to the cathode frame 11 and, in this embodiment, 20 type I channels 14 arranged so that they can interact with the 20 type I channels 14 of the cathode frame 11 for the supply and removal of liquids and gases when the anode frame 8 and the cathode frame 11 are connected. The anode frame 8 has type II channels 15 on the first side 4, connecting the first opening 6 with the ten type I channels 14. On the side of the anode frame 4 ″ opposite to the first side of the frame 4, there are no type II channels 15 connecting the type I channels 14 with the first opening 6. The anode frame 8 comprises a coating of a sealant 22, preferably made of rubber. The anode frame 8 comprises a lip made of a sealant, preferably made of rubber, 25. [Figure 6] Schematic showing the manufacturing method of the assembled module 20: a) initial position: anode 7 and BPP 16 are connected (BPP / anode 36), b) first step: pins 19 of the anode frame 8 are inserted into holes 18 of the BPP / anode 36, c) second step: d) third step: cathode frame 11 is inserted into position, e) fourth step: cathode 10 is inserted into second opening 9. [Figure 7]Exploded perspective view of the assembled module 20. The parts that make up the assembled module 20 are visible: cathode frame 11, anode frame 8, BPP / anode 36, cathode 10, and the arrangement of the cathode frame 11, anode frame 8, BPP / anode 36, cathode 10 in the assembled module 20. The order in which the individual parts are preferably assembled is also shown. The type II channels 15 of the cathode frame 11 are arranged on the side opposite to the viewing side of the cathode frame 11. This is the second side of the frame 5. They are not visible from this point of view. Their arrangement on the second side of the frame 5 is marked in light grey on the side of the cathode frame 5'' opposite to the second side of the frame. [Figure 7a] The assembled module 20 is shown in plan view. Four parts belonging to the assembled module 20 are visible: cathode frame 11, anode frame 8, BPP / anode 36, cathode 10. The type II channels 15 are not visible in the pre-assembled component 20, since they are all arranged in the direction towards the BPP / anode 36 and are therefore arranged inside the pre-assembled component 20. The arrangement of the channels type II 15 inside the module 20 is shown in light grey on the visible side of the cathode frame 11 (= the side opposite to the second side of the frame of the cathode frame = 5''). [Figure 7b] Side view of assembled module 20. Anode frame 8 and cathode frame 11 are connected. Anode 7 is inserted into anode frame 8 and cathode 10 is inserted into cathode frame 11. BPP 16 is placed between anode frame 8 and cathode frame 11. Anode frame 8 and cathode frame 11 form a step 12 because first opening 6 is larger than second opening 9. BPP 16 is placed on cathode 10, step 12 and cathode frame 11 and rests its other side on anode 7 and anode frame 8. [Figure 7c] FIG. 7b is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of assembled module 20, clearly showing step 12. [Figure 8]Shown is a part of the schematic structure of a stack type device 23 according to the invention, i.e. a stack of assembled modules 3. The arrangement shows a stack with three electrochemical cells 2. The arrows indicate the direction of gas pressure during high pressure liquid electrolysis performed under a differential pressure of 40 bar. [Figure 8a] An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of an electrochemical cell 2 with step 12. The arrows indicate the direction in which the pressure difference exerts increased pressure on a solid electrolyte, e.g., a membrane 13. [Figure 9a] Exemplary dimensions of the cathode frame 11. Channel type II 15 connects the second opening 9 with channel type I 14, which are arranged along the second side of the second opening 28' and along the fourth side of the second opening 30'. In each case, multiple type II channels 15 connect the second opening 9 with the type I channels 14. The individual type II channels 15 are separated from each other by pedestals 26. [Figure 9b] Exemplary dimensions of the anode frame 8, which corresponds to the cathode frame 11 shown in Fig. 9a. The channel type II 15 connects the first openings 6 with the channel type I 14, which are arranged along a first side of the first openings 27 and along a third side of the first openings 29. In each case several type II channels 15 connect the first openings 6 and the type I channels 14. The individual type II channels 15 are separated from each other by pedestals 26. [Figure 10a]1 shows an embodiment of an anode frame 8. The anode frame 8 is composed of type I channels 14 and type II channels 15, with the type II channels 14 arranged in a sector shape on the first side of the frame 4. In this embodiment, the anode frame 8 is rectangular and comprises a rectangular first opening 6 and twenty channels of type I 14, five of the channel types I 14 being arranged on each of the four sides of the anode frame, i.e., the first side of the first opening 27 comprises five channel types I 14, the second side of the first opening 28 comprises five channel types I 14, the third side of the first opening 29 comprises five channel types I 14, and the fourth side of the first opening 30 comprises five channel types I 14. On two opposing sides of the anode frame 8, the five type I channels 14 are each connected to eight type I channels 15. Each channel type II 15 is connected to a channel type I 14 and a first opening 6. The type II channels 15 are arranged in a fan shape on the first side surface of the frame 4 , and are arranged at equal intervals along the first side surface of the first opening 27 and the third side surface of the first opening 29 . [Figure 10b] The anode frame 8 is shown. The anode frame 8 is made of channels type I 14, some of which have a circular shape and some of which have an elliptical shape. The anode frame 8 is provided with a coating 22 of sealing material arranged on a core 21 (core not shown) of the anode frame 8. The coating of sealing material 22 has a defined layer thickness, which is shown as a bordered area. The line surrounding the bordered area is a circumferential height 26 for enhancing the sealing effect around the active area 26''. The area of ​​the anode frame 8 surrounding the type I and type II channels 14 and the first opening 6 is covered with a coating of sealing material 22 with a defined layer thickness. The remaining part of the core 21 of the anode frame 6 (shown outside the border and labeled 22') has a reduced thickness 22'' of the coating of sealing material 22 compared to the defined thickness of the coating of sealing material 22. [Figure 10c]The anode frame 8 is shown in a perspective side view. It shows the channels type II 15, which are designed as recesses in a coating made of a sealant 22 with a defined layer thickness in this area of ​​the anode frame 8. The individual adjacent channels of type II 15 are separated by plateaus (= areas with a coating made of a sealant 22 with a defined layer thickness). [Figure 10d] A cross section of the anode frame 8 is shown in FIG. 10c. [Figure 10e] The cathode frame 11 is shown. The cathode frame 11 consists of a channel type I 14, some of which have a round shape and some of which have an elliptical shape. The elliptical channel type I 14 is connected to the second opening 9 through a channel type II 15. The cathode frame 11 consists of a rubber lip 25 for insulating the single voltage measurement. The anode frame 8 can have a similar arrangement. [Figure 11] An embodiment of an assembled module 20 (shown without the cathode 10 and without the solid electrolyte, e.g. without the membrane 13) consisting of a cathode frame 11 and an anode frame 8 is shown. A step 12 is formed by the different sizes of the first opening 6 and the second opening 9. A type II channel 15 is located in part of the step 12 and is only partially visible because it is covered by the cathode frame 11. [Figure 12] 2 shows a stacked device 23 according to the present invention, in which electrochemical cells 2, insulating plates 32, end plates 33, tie rods 34 and current collecting plates 35 are stacked. [Figure 13] A preferred embodiment of anode 7 is shown, where BPP 16 is connected to anode 7 to form BPP / anode 36. [Figure 14]The pressure distribution in an electrochemical cell 2 with an anode frame 8 as shown in FIG. 10b. The highest pressures of 10-15 MPa are in the areas of the anode frame 8 where the core 21 is coated with a coating of the seal material 22 with a defined layer thickness, i.e., for example, along the first side of the first opening 27 and along the second side of the first opening 29 and in the area around the channel type I 14. Excluded from this are the areas where the type II channels 15 connecting the first openings 6 with the type I channels 14 and the plateaus 26 are located. In this area, the pressure is only 1-2 MPa. An even lower pressure of 0.1-0.5 MPa is in the area at the outer edge of the anode frame 8 where the core 21 is coated with a coating of the seal material 22 with a reduced layer thickness (=coating of the seal material 22 with a reduced layer thickness) compared to the coating of the seal material 22 with a defined layer thickness. [Figure 15a] A lid 37 according to the invention for a stacked device 23 is shown. The lid 37 consists of an end plate 33, for example an upper end plate 38, which is connected to two distributor covers 41, one distributor cover 41 forming a connection for the introduction of liquid 39 and the other distributor cover 41 forming a connection for the discharge of liquid 40. [Figure 15b] The lid 37 of the stacked device 23 is shown with the distributor cover 41 removed, so that the liquid distribution space in the end plate 42 and the flow path type I 14 connected to the liquid distribution space in the end plate 42 are visible in the end plate 33. [Figure 15c] 1 shows a distributor cover 41 for a lid 37 according to the invention for a stacked device 23, whereby the water distribution space within the distributor cover 43 is visible. [Figure 15d] For example, a simulation of how water is distributed in a lid 37 according to the invention, which also shows the different flow rates at different points of the lid 37 and in the region of the transition to the flow channel type I 14. [Figure 16]1 shows an anode frame 7 in which channels type I 14 and channels type II 15 are arranged, as well as coated areas of sealant 22 and coated areas of reduced thickness sealant 22''. The channels type II 15 connect parts of the channels type I 14 to the first openings 6 and are arranged at regular intervals along a first side of the first openings 27 and along a third side of the first openings 29, such that each channel type II 15 introduces liquid or gas into the first openings 6 or into the same area of ​​the active surface, or expels liquid and gas. [Figure 16a] FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the anode frame of FIG. 16. [Figure 16b] FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the anode frame of FIG. 16. [Figure 16c] FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the anode frame of FIG. 16. [Figure 17] A cathode frame 11 is shown with type I channels 14 and type II channels 15, as well as areas coated with a sealant 22 and areas coated with a reduced thickness sealant 22''. The type II channels 15 connect parts of the type I channels 14 to the second opening 9. They are spaced apart along a second side of the second opening 28' and along a fourth side of the second opening 30' such that each channel type II 15 introduces water or expels water and gas to the same area of ​​the first opening 6 or active area.

Claims

1. A frame (1) for an electrochemical cell (2) for a stacked device (23), comprising: The frame (1) comprises a first side (4) of the frame having a planar first surface, a second side (5) of the frame opposite the first side (4) having a planar second surface, an anode frame (8) and a cathode frame (11); the anode frame comprises a first side (4) of the frame, a side of the anode frame (4'') opposite the first side (4) of the frame, and a first opening (6) for receiving an anode (7), the first opening (6) extending from the first side (4) of the frame to the opposite side of the anode frame (4''); a cathode frame (11) comprising a second side of the frame (5) and a cathode frame (5'') opposite the second side of the frame (5) and a second opening (9) for receiving a cathode (10), the second opening (9) extending from the second side of the frame (5) to the opposite side of the cathode frame (5''); the anode frame (4'') on a side facing the first side (4) of the frame and the cathode frame (5'') on a side facing the second side (5) of the frame are disposed adjacent to each other; The anode frame (8) and the cathode frame (11) are connected to each other, The first opening (6) and the second opening (9) are connected to each other; 1. A frame (1), characterized in that the first opening (6) is larger than the second opening (9), the anode frame (8) and the cathode frame (11) are arranged in such a way that the side of the anode frame (4'') opposite to the first side (4) of the frame and the side of the cathode frame (5'') opposite to the second side (5) of the frame form a step (12) at the transition from the anode frame (8) to the cathode frame (11), the step (12) forming a planar third surface as a support surface for a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), the anode frame (8) consisting of a coating made of a core (21) and a sealing material (22) and the cathode frame (11) consisting of a coating made of a core (21) and a sealing material (22).

2. one or more type I channels (14) for the input and output of liquids and gases, and one or more type II channels (15) for the input and output of liquids and gases, wherein the type I channels (14) are not connected to the first opening (6) of the anode frame (8) or the second opening (9) of the cathode frame (11), A channel type II (15) connects the channel type I (14) with the first opening (6) and the second opening (9); the anode frame (8) comprises, on a first side surface of the frame (4), one or more type II channels (15) which are connected to one or more type I channels (14) and which connect the one or more type I channels (14) with the first opening (6); 2. The frame (1) according to claim 1, wherein when the frame (1) is installed in an electrochemical cell (2) or a stacked device (23), the anode frame (4'') is arranged in the direction of a bipolar plate (BPP) (16) and the face opposite to the first side of the frame (4) is free of channels type II (15).

3. one or more type I channels (14) for the input and output of liquids and gases, and one or more type II channels (15) for the input and output of liquids and gases, wherein the type I channels (14) are not connected to the first opening (6) of the anode frame (8) or the second opening (9) of the cathode frame (11), A channel type II (15) connects the channel type I (14) with the second opening (9) and the first opening (6); 3. The frame (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cathode frame (11) comprises, on a surface of the second side of the frame (5), one or more channels type II (15) connected to one or more channels type I (14) and connecting the channels type I (14) to the second opening (9), and arranged in the direction of the bipolar plate (BPP) (16) when the frame (1) is installed in an electrochemical cell (2) or a stacked device (23), and the face of the cathode frame (5'') opposite the second side of the frame (5) is free of channels type II (15).

4. a first opening (6) defined by a first side (27), a second side (28), a third side (29) and a fourth side (30); For a uniform flow of liquid through the first openings (6) and for a constant removal of heat of reaction from the first openings (6), each type I channel (14) connected to the first openings (6) is connected to the first openings (6) by at least two type II channels (15), 3. The frame (1) of claim 2, wherein the channels type II (15) are arranged adjacent to each other on a first side of the frame (4), and the distance between two adjacent channels type II (15) on a first side (27) of the first opening is ≦3 mm, and the distance between two adjacent channels type II (15) on a third side (29) of the first opening is ≦3 mm.

5. a second opening (9) is defined by a first side (27'), a second side (28'), a third side (29') and a fourth side (30'); for a uniform flow of water through the second openings (9) and for a constant removal of heat of reaction from the second openings (9), each type I channel (14) connected to the second openings (9) is connected to the second openings (9) by at least two type II channels (15), 3. The frame (1) of claim 2, wherein the channels type II (15) are arranged adjacent to each other on the second side of the frame (5), and the distance between two adjacent channels type II (15) on the second side (28') of the second opening is ≦3 mm and the distance between two adjacent channels type II (15) on the fourth side (30') of the second opening is ≦3 mm.

6. 6. A frame (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the distances between adjacent channels type II (15) on the first side (27) of the first opening and on the third side (29) of the first opening are equal, and optionally the distances between adjacent channels type II (15) on the second side (28') of the second opening and the distances between adjacent channels type II (15) on the fourth side (30') of the second opening are equal.

7. at least two type II channels (15) are arranged in a sector between a first side (27) of the first opening (6) and a type I channel (14) connected to the first opening (6) by said at least two type II channels (15); the at least two type II channels (15) are arranged in a sector between a third side (29) of the first opening (6) and the type I channel (14) connected to the first opening (6) by the at least two type II channels (15); Optionally, at least two type II channels (15) between the second side (28') of the second opening and the type I channel (14) connected to the second opening (9) by these at least two type II channels (15) are arranged in a fan shape; A frame (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the at least two channels type II (15) between the fourth side (30') of the second opening and the channel type I (14) connected to the second opening (9) by these at least two channels type II (15) are arranged in a sector shape.

8. 3. A frame (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the core (21) of the anode frame (8) is made of metal, the core of the cathode frame (11) is made of metal, the sealing material coating (22) of the anode frame (8) is a rubber coating, and the sealing material coating (22) of the cathode frame (11) is a rubber coating.

9. 3. A frame (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in order to reduce the contact pressure, a portion of the sealing material coating (22) of the anode frame (8) has a sealing material coating (22'') with a reduced layer thickness compared to the layer thickness of the sealing material coating (22) of the anode frame (8) and / or a portion of the sealing material coating (22) of the cathode frame (11) has a sealing material coating (22'') with a reduced layer thickness compared to the layer thickness of the sealing material coating (22) of the cathode frame (11) in order to reduce the contact pressure.

10. 10. The frame (1) according to claim 9, wherein the sealant coating (22) on the portion of the anode frame (8) has a circumferential height (26'') for enhancing the sealing effect around the first opening (6) and / or the sealant coating (22) on the portion of the cathode frame (11) has a circumferential height (26'') for enhancing the sealing effect around the second opening (9).

11. The anode frame (8) comprises one or more connection elements, e.g. one or more pins (19), for connection to the cathode frame (11), and the cathode frame (11) comprises one or more connection elements, e.g. one or more holes (18), for connection to the anode frame (8); 3. A frame (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting elements are arranged such that the anode frame (8) and the cathode frame (11) can be connected to each other, for example the pins (19) or holes (19) of the cathode frame (11) are inserted into the holes (18) or pins (19) of the anode frame (8), thereby allowing the anode frame (8) and the cathode frame (11) to be connected to each other, the pins (19) and holes (18) being arranged such that the pins (19) or holes (19) of the cathode frame (11) are inserted into the holes (18) or pins (19) of the anode frame (8), thereby allowing the anode frame (8) and the cathode frame (11) to be connected to each other.

12. An electrochemical cell (2) for converting or producing a high pressure liquid or gas, operating under a pressure difference of up to 40 bar, comprising a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), an anode (7) and a cathode (10), The electrochemical cell (2) comprises a frame (1) according to claim 1, the first opening (6) of the anode frame (8) constitutes the anode (7), the second opening (9) of the cathode frame (11) constitutes the cathode (10), and a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), is disposed between the side of the anode frame (4'') facing the first side of the frame and the side of the cathode frame (5'') facing the second side of the frame; An electrochemical cell (2), characterized in that one side of a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), rests on an anode (7) and the other side of the solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), rests on a step (12) and on a cathode (10).

13. Electrochemical cell (2) according to claim 12, wherein the solid electrolyte, e.g. membrane (13), has a thickness of 80 μm or less, e.g. 50 μm or less, preferably 20 μm or less.

14. A pre-assembled module (20) for manufacturing a stacked device (23) for electrochemically converting or producing gases and liquids under pressure, consisting of an anode frame (8), a cathode frame (11), a BPP (16), an anode (7) and a cathode (10), The anode frame (8) comprises a frame first side (4) having a planar first surface, an anode frame (4'') on a side opposite the frame first side (4), and a first opening (6) for receiving an anode (7); the first opening (6) extends from the first side (4) of the frame to a side of the anode frame (4″) opposite the first side (4) of the frame, the first opening (6) being bordered by the anode frame (8), the anode frame (8) including at least one connection element, preferably a pin (19), for connection to the cathode frame (11); the cathode frame (11) comprises a frame second side (5) having a planar second surface, a side of the cathode frame (5'') opposite the frame second side (5), and a second opening (9) for receiving the cathode (10); the second opening (9) extends from the second side (5) of the frame to the side of the cathode frame (5″) opposite the second side (5) of the frame and is bordered by a cathode frame (10), the cathode frame (11) comprising a hole (18) for receiving at least one connecting element, preferably a pin (19), for connecting to the anode frame (8); The BPP (16) is disposed between the first side (4) of the frame and the second side (5) of the frame; the anode frame (8) comprises a core (21), preferably made of metal or plastic, and a sealant coating (22), the sealant coating (22) being preferably a rubber coating; The BPP (16) is connected to the anode (7) to form a BPP / anode (36), which is inserted or pressed into the first opening (6) and is framed by the anode frame (8); a cathode frame (10) preferably consisting of a metal or plastic core (21) and a sealing material coating (22), preferably a rubber coating, the cathode (10) being inserted or pressed into the second opening (9) and framed by the cathode frame (11); the connecting elements of the anode frame (8) are connected to the connecting elements of the cathode frame (11), preferably with at least one pin (19) inserted into at least one hole (18), the anode frame (8) and the cathode frame (11) being thereby connected to each other; the first opening (6) is larger than the second opening (9), the anode frame (8) and the cathode frame (11) are arranged such that the first side (4) of the frame and the second side (5) of the frame form a step (12) at the transition from the anode frame (8) to the cathode frame (11), the step (12) forming a planar third surface as a support surface for a solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13); An assembled module (20) characterized in that the BPP (16) rests on one side on the anode (7) and anode frame (8) and on the other side on the cathode (10), cathode frame (11) and step (12).

15. A method for manufacturing a pre-assembled module (20) for a stacked device (23) for electrochemically converting or producing gases and liquids under pressure, characterized in that it comprises the following steps a) to f): a) a metallic core (21) is manufactured for an anode frame (8), the core (21) comprising a frame first side (4) having a planar first surface and a side of the anode frame (4'') opposite the frame first side (4), the frame first side (4) and the side of the anode frame (4'') opposite the frame first side (4) constituting a first opening (6) extending from the frame first side (4) to the side of the anode frame (4'') opposite the frame first side (4) and bordered by the anode frame (8), in the anode frame (8) one or more channels type I (14) for the supply and removal of liquids and gases are formed, the channels type I (14) are not connected to the first opening (6) of the anode frame (8), the anode frame (8) comprises at least one connection element, preferably at least one pin (19), for connection to a cathode frame (11), b) all or part of the surface of the metallic core (21) for the anode frame (8) produced according to a), preferably at least 90% of the surface of the core (21) produced according to a), is fully or partially coated with natural or synthetic rubber to form a rubber coating by vulcanization and then vulcanized, thereby forming a rubber coating on the metallic core (21) as a sealant (22); in the rubber coating, one or more channels type II (15) are formed on the surface of the first side (4), which channels type II are connected to one or more channels type I (14) and connect the channels type I (14) with the first opening (6); when the anode frame (8) is installed in the electrochemical cell (2) or in the stacked device (23), it is arranged in the direction of the BPP (16), and in the rubber coating on the side of the anode frame (4'') opposite the first side (4) of the frame, no channels type II (15) are formed; c) an anode (7), preferably an anode (7) connected to the BPP (16) to form a BPP / anode (36), is placed or pressed into the anode frame (8) produced according to a) and b); d) a metallic core (21) is manufactured for the cathode frame (11), the core (21) being composed of a frame second side (5) having a planar second surface and a side of the cathode frame (5'') opposite the frame second side (5), the second side (5) of the cathode frame (5) and the side opposite the frame second side (5) being formed with a second opening (9) extending from the frame second side (5) to the opposite side of the cathode frame (5'') and bordered by the cathode frame (11), in which one or more channels type I (14) for the supply and removal of liquids and gases are formed, the channels type I (14) being not connected to the second opening (9) of the cathode frame (11), the cathode frame (11) comprising at least one connection element, for example at least one hole (18), for connection to the anode frame (8); e) all or part of the surface of the metal core (21) for the cathode frame (11) produced according to d), preferably at least 90% of the surface of the core (21) produced according to d) for forming a rubber coating by vulcanization, is fully or partially coated with natural or synthetic rubber and then vulcanized, thereby forming a rubber coating as a sealant (22) on the metal core (21); in the rubber coating, one or more channels type II (15) are formed on the surface of the second side (5) of the frame, which channels type II (15) are connected to one or more channels type I (14) and connect the channels type I (14) with the second opening (9); when the cathode frame (11) is installed in the electrochemical cell (2) or in the stacked device (23), it is arranged in the direction of the BPP (16) and no channels type II (15) are formed in the rubber coating on the side facing the second side (5) of the cathode frame (5''); f) The cathode frame (11) manufactured according to d) and e) is connected to the anode frame (8) manufactured according to a) to c) by at least one connecting element, preferably at least one hole (19) of the cathode frame (11) and by at least one connecting element, preferably at least one pin (18) of the anode frame (8), preferably at least one hole (19) is plugged on the at least one pin (18), the cathode frame (11) is thereby connected to the anode frame (8), the BPP (16) is placed between the first side (4) of the frame and the second side (5) of the frame, and the cathode (10) is inserted or pressed into the cathode frame (11).

16. A method for producing a stacked device (23) operating under differential pressure for converting or producing a high pressure liquid or gas, comprising the steps of: a) preparing a first liquid or gas; b) preparing a second liquid or gas; c) preparing a second liquid or gas; a) at least x preassembled modules (20) according to claim 14 and at least x+1 solid electrolytes, e.g. at least x+1 membranes (13), are stacked alternately on top of one another to produce a stack of preassembled modules (3), in which one preassembled module (20) and one solid electrolyte are stacked alternately on top of one another, one solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), is arranged on the upper and lower sides of the stack of preassembled modules (3), one solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), is arranged on the upper and lower sides of the stack of preassembled modules (3), one solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), is arranged on the upper and lower sides of the stack of preassembled modules (3), and one solid electrolyte, e.g. a membrane (13), is arranged between two adjacent preassembled modules (20), b) a half-cell anode, preferably a single anode (7') and an anode frame (8), is arranged on one side of the stack of assembled modules (3) parallel to an outer solid electrolyte, e.g. an outer membrane (13), and a half-cell cathode, preferably a single cathode (10') and a cathode frame (11), is arranged on the other side of the stack of assembled modules (3) parallel to an outer solid electrolyte, e.g. an outer membrane (13); c) end plates (33) are placed parallel to the half-cell anode and parallel to the half-cell cathode, and the resulting stack is compressed between the two end plates (33) to form a stacked device (23); where x is an integer, ≧2.

17. A stack-type apparatus (23) for operating under differential pressure for the conversion or production of high pressure liquids or gases, comprising: A solar cell comprising x preassembled modules (20) according to claim 14, x+1 solid electrolytes, e.g. x+1 membranes (13), a single anode (7') or half-cell anode, a single cathode (10') or half-cell cathode and two end plates (33), x assembled modules (20) and x+1 solid electrolytes, e.g., x+1 membranes (13), are alternately stacked one on top of the other to form a stack of assembled modules (3), where one assembled module (20) and one solid electrolyte, e.g., membrane (13), are alternately stacked one on top of the other in the stack of assembled modules (3); One solid electrolyte, e.g., a membrane (13), is arranged on each of the upper and lower sides of the stack of assembled modules (3), and one solid electrolyte, e.g., a membrane (13), is arranged between two adjacent assembled modules (20); A single anode (7') or half-cell anode is arranged parallel to the outer solid electrolyte, e.g., outer membrane (13), on one side of the stack of assembled modules (3), and a single cathode (10') or half-cell cathode is arranged parallel to the outer solid electrolyte, e.g., outer membrane (13), on the other side of the stack of assembled modules (3); The end plates (33) are arranged parallel to the single anode (7') or half-cell anode and parallel to the single cathode (10') or half-cell cathode, respectively, and the resulting stack is compressed between the two end plates (33) to form the stacked device (23). where x is an integer, ≧2.

18. A stack-type apparatus (23) for operation under differential pressure for producing high pressure liquids or gases, comprising:

13. A method for producing a fuel cell comprising: providing a fuel cell comprising: a fuel cell assembly comprising: a fuel cell having a first end plate and a second end plate, the fuel cell comprising: a first end plate and a second end plate; x+1 electrochemical cells (2) and x-1 BPPs (16) are alternately stacked one on top of the other in the stack, one electrochemical cell (2) and one BPP (16) are alternately stacked one on top of the other in the stack, one BPP (16) is disposed on the upper and lower sides of the stack, and one BPP (16) is disposed between two adjacent electrochemical cells (2); A stacked device (23) characterized in that an upper end plate (38) is arranged on the upper side of the stack parallel to the BPP (16), and a lower end plate (44) is arranged on the lower side of the stack parallel to the BPP (16), and the resulting stack is compressed between the upper end plate (38) and the lower end plate (44) to form the stacked device (23). where x is an integer, ≧2.

19. A stacked device (23) according to claim 17 or 18 or a stacked arrangement (23) obtained according to claim 16, A stacked device (23), wherein each of the x+1 solid electrolytes, e.g. each of the x+1 membranes (13), has a thickness of 50 μm, preferably 20 μm or less.

20. A stacked device (23) according to claim 17 or 18 or obtained according to claim 16, It comprises two end plates (33), preferably an upper end plate (38) located on the upper side of the stack and a lower end plate (44) located on the lower side of the stack; At least one end plate (33), preferably the upper end plate (38), is provided with at least one connection (39) for the introduction of liquid, at least one connection (40) for the discharge of liquid and at least two distribution covers (41), At least one end plate (33) for providing a space for liquid has at least two spaces for distribution of liquid in the at least one end plate (33); Each of the at least two distribution covers (41) has a space for distribution of liquid in the distribution cover (43); A stacked apparatus (23) characterized in that at least one distribution cover (43) for the introduction of liquid into the stacked apparatus (23) is connected to at least one connection (39) for the introduction of liquid and to a space for distribution of liquid in an end plate (42), and at least one further distribution cover (43) for the discharge of liquid from the stacked apparatus (23) is connected to at least one connection (40) for the discharge of liquid and to a space for distribution in the end plate (42).

21. A lid (37) for a stacked device (23) according to claim 17 or 18, in which an end plate (33), for example an upper end plate (38), is provided with at least one connection for the introduction of a liquid (39) into the stacked device (23) and at least one connection for the discharge of a liquid (40) from the stacked device (23) and at least two distributor covers (41), The end plate (33) has at least two spaces for liquid distribution within the end plate (33) to provide a space for liquid; Each of the at least two distributor covers (41) has a space for distributing liquid within the distributor cover (43); At least one distributor cover (43) is connected to at least one liquid introduction connection (39) for introduction of liquid into the stacked device (23) and to the space for liquid distribution in the end plate (33); A lid (37) for a stacked device (23), characterized in that at least one further distributor cover (43) is connected to at least one liquid discharge connection (40) for discharging liquid from the stacked device (23) and to a space for distributing liquid in the end plate (33).

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