Separators, electrochemical cells, stacks, and apparatus

Abstract

To provide a separator that supplies fluid with minimal bias. [Solution] The separator of the embodiment has a flow path 10 including a flow path wall 1 and a flow path groove 2 provided between the flow path walls. A projection 1A is provided on the flow path wall.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to separators, electrochemical cells, stacks, and devices.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, expectations for renewable energy have been increasing. Examples of renewable energy include solar power generation, hydroelectric power generation, wind power generation, geothermal power generation, and the like.

[0003] Furthermore, as an attempt to decarbonize, power generation by fuel cells and energy conversion by electrolysis have attracted attention.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Embodiments provide a separator with less bias and through which a fluid is supplied.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The separator of the embodiment has a flow path including a flow path wall and a flow path groove provided between the flow path walls, and protrusions are provided on the flow path wall.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 2] Schematic cross-sectional view of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 3] Schematic cross-sectional view of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 4] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 5] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 6] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 7] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 8] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 9] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 10] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 11] Schematic diagram of the separator of the embodiment. [Figure 12] Schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell of the embodiment. [Figure 13] Schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell of the embodiment. [Figure 14] Schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell of the embodiment. [Figure 15] Schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell of the embodiment. [Figure 16] Perspective cross-sectional schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell of the embodiment. <H [Figure 17] Schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell of the embodiment. [Figure 18] Schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell of the embodiment. [Figure 19] Schematic diagram of the stack of the embodiment. [Figure 20] Schematic diagram of the device of the embodiment. [Figure 21] Schematic diagram of the device of the embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same members are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of the members once described will be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] The physical property values in the specification are values at a temperature of 25 [°C] and a pressure of 1 [atm]. The thickness of each member is the average value of the distance in the stacking direction.

[0010] (First Embodiment) The first embodiment relates to a separator 100. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of the separator 100 of the embodiment. FIGS. 2 to 3 show schematic cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' of FIG. 1. The separator 100 has a flow path 10, a supply manifold 4, a discharge manifold 6, a supply connection path 3, and a discharge connection path 5. The flow path 10, the supply manifold 4, the discharge manifold 6, the supply connection path 3, and the discharge connection path 5 are provided in a frame 7 of the separator 100. The directions in the figure are represented by X, Y, and Z.

[0011] The separator 100 of the first embodiment is used, for example, in an electrochemical cell for a fuel cell or electrolysis. The separator 100 supplies a fluid used in the reaction of an electrode and discharges a fluid containing the product of the reaction of the electrode. The fluid is a gas and / or a liquid. When the fluid discharged from the discharge manifold 6 contains both a gas and a liquid, the pressure loss of the separator 100 can be effectively suppressed.

[0012] The separator 100 has a flow path 10 including a flow path wall 1 and a flow path groove 2 provided between the flow path walls 1. The flow path wall 1 may surround the supply manifold 4, the discharge manifold 6, the supply connection path 3, and the discharge connection path 5.

[0013] The region sandwiched by the flow path walls 1 is the flow path groove 2. The flow path wall 1 may be, for example, a convex portion of a metal member provided on the frame 7, or the flow path groove 2 may be a concave portion of a metal member provided on the frame 7. A fluid flows through the flow path 10. The flow path 10 has a plurality of flow path grooves 2, and it is preferable that the fluid flows through the plurality of flow path grooves 2. The flow path 10 preferably has a serpentine-type flow path shape as shown in the schematic diagram of FIG. 1 so that the fluid flows through the entire porous layer of the electrode in contact with the separator 100 with little gap.

[0014] The flow path wall 1 is made of, for example, metal.

[0015] A protrusion 1A is provided on a part of the flow path wall 1 to make the height of the flow path wall 1 higher than that of the other flow path walls 1.

[0016] The frame 7 is preferably made of an insulating material, such as a resin material.

[0017] The pitch of the flow channel groove 2 is preferably, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 5 mm or less, more preferably 0.3 mm or more and 3 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.5 mm or more and 2.5 mm or less.

[0018] The supply communication passage 3 is provided between the supply manifold 4 and the flow path 10. The supply communication passage 3 is a flow path that connects the supply manifold 4 and the flow path 10. The fluid that passes through the supply communication passage 3 flows through the flow path 10. The supply communication passage 3 may be the irregularities of the frame 7, or it may be composed of a separate component from the frame 7. The fluid also flows in the direction in which the supply communication passage 3 and the supply manifold 4 connect.

[0019] The supply manifold 4 is the opening of the separator 100. Fluid is supplied from the supply manifold 4. The separator 100 may be provided with other manifolds, which are not shown.

[0020] The discharge connecting passage 5 is provided between the discharge manifold 6 and the flow path 10. The discharge connecting passage 5 is a flow path that connects the discharge manifold 6 and the flow path 10. The fluid that has passed through the flow path 10 and the discharge connecting passage 5 is discharged from the discharge manifold 6. The discharge connecting passage 5 may be made up of the irregularities of the frame 7, or it may be made up of a separate component from the frame 7.

[0021] The discharge manifold 6 is the opening of the separator 100. Fluid is discharged from the discharge manifold 6.

[0022] The projection 1A is a member or a portion that increases the height of the flow channel wall 1. The projection 1A is provided in the height direction of the flow channel wall 1. The projection 1A, which is a member that increases the height of the flow channel wall 1, is made of a different material from the flow channel wall 1. The projection 1A, which is a portion that increases the height of the flow channel wall 1, is made of the same material as the flow channel wall 1.

[0023] The protrusion 1A, which is made of a different material from the channel wall 1, may include, for example, resin. The protrusion 1A, which is made of a different material from the channel wall 1, is preferably made of metal, resin, fiber-reinforced metal, or fiber-reinforced resin. As the metal of the channel wall 1, aluminum, copper, or stainless steel is preferred. As the resin of the first convex wall B and the second convex wall C, POM (polyoxometalate), PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), or PEEK (polyether ether ketone) is preferred. As the fiber-reinforced metal of the first convex wall B and the second convex wall C, a combination of alumina-silica (A1203-SiO2) fibers as reinforcing fibers on an aluminum substrate, boron fiber-reinforced aluminum, or silicon carbide fiber-reinforced aluminum is preferred. As the fiber-reinforced resin of the first convex wall B and the second convex wall C, glass epoxy resin, glass fiber-reinforced plastic other than glass epoxy resin, or carbon fiber-reinforced plastic is preferred.

[0024] The projection 1A contacts the porous substrate (e.g., gas diffusion layer) of the electrode that contacts the separator 100. The fluid flowing through the channel groove 2 of the channel 10 diffuses from the channel groove 2 into the substrate, partially overflows the channel wall 1, is supplied to the entire substrate, and is discharged from the discharge manifold 6. When the portion of the substrate in contact with the projection 1A is selectively compressed, a region with a higher density and less fluid flow is formed. When a region where fluid flow is difficult is formed in the substrate, the fluid that was flowing through the substrate flows through the channel 10 again and diffuses into the substrate. Within the substrate, fluid tends to flow more easily through areas where it flows easily, and because the fluid tries to take the shortest distance, for example, it may be difficult to supply fluid to the edges of the substrate.

[0025] When the fluid flows evenly (with minimal bias) through the channel 10 of the separator 100, the fluid also flows more easily to the substrate without bias. It is preferable to provide protrusions 1A along the channel 10 that block the fluid from passing through a portion of the substrate, thereby facilitating fluid flow. By reducing the bias of the fluid flowing through the channel 10 of the separator 100, the accumulation of gas contained in the fluid can be suppressed.

[0026] If gas accumulates in the flow channel groove 2, the gas generated at the electrode in contact with the separator 100 is prone to side reactions. When CO2 is electrolyzed, oxygen gas, which is generated at the cathode and has a high concentration on the anode discharge side, reacts with hydrogen gas, which is produced when water is reduced by the electrolysis of CO2 on the cathode discharge side and undergoes a side reaction. Since hydrogen peroxide degrades the electrolyte membrane, it is preferable to use the separator 100 of the embodiment in the electrochemical cell to prevent gas accumulation.

[0027] It is preferable that the projection 1A is sandwiched between the flow channel grooves 2.

[0028] The separator 100, including the projection 1A, will be described with reference to the schematic cross-sectional view of the separator 100 in Figures 2-3.

[0029] The separator 100 shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of Figure 2 has a flow channel wall 1 provided on the bottom surface 1B, and the projection 1A is the upper part of the flow channel wall 1. The bottom surface 1B is the bottom surface of the flow channel groove 2. As shown in Figure 2, a part of the flow channel wall 1 can be configured as the projection 1A.

[0030] As shown in the schematic cross-sectional view in Figure 3, the separator 100 has a flow channel wall 1 provided on the bottom surface 1B, and a projection 1A provided on the flow channel wall 1. As shown in Figure 3, a part of the flow channel wall 1 can be configured as the projection 1A.

[0031] The bottom surface 1B is the surface of a member that constitutes the surface of the flow channel groove 2 of the flow channel 10. The bottom surface 1B may be the surface of the frame 7, or it may be the surface of a member different from the frame 7. The bottom surface 1B is made of a metal including an alloy, for example, and can be electrically connected to a current collector plate (not shown).

[0032] The height H1 of projection 1A is the height of the portion that protrudes from the reference flow channel wall 1. The height H1 of projection 1A is the distance obtained by subtracting the height H3 of flow channel wall 1 from the height H2 of projection 1A on the opposite side of frame 7 from the bottom surface 1B.

[0033] The height H1 of the projection 1A is preferably 10 [μm] or more and 500 [μm] or less, more preferably 20 [μm] or more and 250 [μm] or less, and even more preferably 30 [μm] or more and 120 [μm] or less.

[0034] From the viewpoint of partially obstructing the fluid flow in the substrate, it is preferable that the flow channel groove 2 includes projections 1A with a length of 50% or more of the length L1 of the straight portion (excluding the folded portion), more preferably projections 1A with a length of 70% or more, and even more preferably projections 1A with a length of 90% or more. The straight portion of the flow channel groove 2 may also include winding portions that do not fold.

[0035] From the viewpoint of partially obstructing the fluid flow in the substrate, it is preferable that the flow channel groove 2 contains two or more protrusions 1A with a length of 50% or more of the length L1 of the straight portion (excluding the folded portion), more preferably two or more protrusions 1A with a length of 70% or more, and even more preferably two or more protrusions 1A with a length of 90% or more.

[0036] From the viewpoint of partially but not entirely blocking the fluid flow in the substrate, the area on which the protrusion 1A is provided is preferably 50% to 100% of the surface area (excluding the sides) of the flow channel wall 1 sandwiched in the flow channel groove 2, more preferably 70% to 100%, and even more preferably 90% to 100%.

[0037] The Young's modulus (modulus of elasticity in the height direction) of projection 1A is preferably 2.5 [GPa] or higher. The Young's modulus can be determined, for example, by the resonance method. The Young's modulus of projection 1A is preferably 2.5 [GPa] or higher, more preferably 5 [GPa] or higher, and even more preferably 50 [GPa] or higher.

[0038] The projection 1A will be further explained below, with several examples of separators 100.

[0039] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of the separator 101. The separator 101 shown in Figure 4 is a modified example of the separator 100. The projection 1A of the separator 101 is also provided at the folded portion of the flow path 10.

[0040] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the separator 102. The separator 102 shown in Figure 5 is a modified version of the separator 100. The separator 102 has two flow paths 10, and the two flow paths 10 are divided by a projection 1A provided between the two flow paths. When the separator 102 is large, the flow path 10 can be divided into multiple paths to reduce pressure loss between the supply side and the discharge side of the flow path 10. The projection 1A is sandwiched between flow path grooves 2 through which the fluid flows in the same direction.

[0041] The separator 102 shown in Figure 5 has two flow paths arranged horizontally in the drawing, and a supply manifold 4 is provided on the upper side of the drawing and a discharge manifold 6 is provided on the lower side of the drawing so that the two flow paths flow in the same direction. When the flow path is divided into two systems as in the separator 102 of Figure 5, the pressure difference at the boundary between the two flow paths 10 is large, making it easy for the fluid to flow into the flow path of the other system. By providing a projection 1A at the boundary between the two flow paths 10, it is possible to suppress the mixing of fluids between the systems.

[0042] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of separator 103. Separator 103 shown in Figure 6 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 103 has two flow paths 10, and the two flow paths 10 are divided by a projection 1A provided between the two flow paths. When separator 102 is large, the flow path 10 can be divided into multiple paths to reduce pressure loss between the supply side and the discharge side of the flow path 10. The projection 1A is sandwiched in a flow path groove 2 through which fluid flows in the opposite direction.

[0043] The separator 103 shown in Figure 6 has two flow paths arranged vertically, and the two flow paths flow in opposite directions. The upper flow path has a supply manifold 4 on the left and a discharge manifold 6 on the right, while the lower flow path has a discharge manifold 6 on the left and a supply manifold 4 on the right. When the flow path is divided into two systems as shown in the separator 102 in Figure 6, the pressure difference at the boundary between the two flow paths 10 is large, making it easy for fluid to flow into the other flow path. By providing a projection 1A at the boundary between the two flow paths 10, mixing of fluids between the systems can be suppressed, and fluid can be supplied and discharged to the entire substrate.

[0044] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of the separator 104. The separator 104 shown in Figure 7 is a modified version of the separator 103. Protrusions 1A are provided near the supply manifold 4 and discharge manifold 6 where the pressure difference is large, and protrusions 1A are not provided near the middle of the flow path 10 where the pressure difference is small.

[0045] By providing projections 1A near the supply manifold 4 and discharge manifold 6, where there is a large pressure difference, it is possible to suppress the mixing of fluids between the systems, and to supply and discharge fluid to the entire substrate.

[0046] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of separator 105. Separator 105 shown in Figure 8 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 100 has an even number of folded sections, while separator 104 has an odd number of folded sections. The projection 1A is sandwiched between flow channel grooves 2 through which fluid flows in the same direction.

[0047] The separator 105 shown in Figure 8 has protrusions 1A in the latter half of the flow path 10 where the fluid flow tends to be uneven (the number of turns in the entire flow path 10 (the number of patterns that turn at approximately 90° or approximately 180° (in the case of separator 105 in Figure 8, the number of turns is 5))). It is preferable that the protrusions 1A are provided next to the flow path groove 2 from the 1 / 2th turn onwards, counting from the supply manifold 4. By providing protrusions 1A in the latter half of the flow path 10, the fluid can be supplied to and discharged from the entire substrate.

[0048] Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of separator 106. Separator 106 shown in Figure 9 is a modified example of separator 101. Separator 106 has one channel 10 of separator 101. The projection 1A is also useful for separator 106 which has a short channel 10.

[0049] Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram of separator 107. Separator 107 shown in Figure 10 is a modified example of separator 106. In separator 107, the supply communication passage 3 and supply manifold 4 and the discharge communication passage 5 and discharge manifold 6 are arranged asymmetrically. The projection 1A is also useful for separator 107, which has a short flow path 10 and in which the supply communication passage 3 and supply manifold 4 and the discharge communication passage 5 and discharge manifold 6 are arranged asymmetrically.

[0050] Figure 11 shows a schematic diagram of separator 108. Separator 108 shown in Figure 11 is a modified example of separator 106. Separator 108 has one folded portion in the flow path 10. The projection 1A is also useful for separator 106, which has a simple flow path 10 with one folded portion.

[0051] (Second Embodiment) The second embodiment relates to an electrochemical cell. Schematic diagrams of the electrochemical cell 200 of the second embodiment are shown in Figures 11 to 13. The electrochemical cell 200 is for electrolysis or fuel cell applications.

[0052] The electrochemical cell 200 has an anode 21, a cathode 22, an electrolyte membrane 23, a first separator 24, and a second separator 25.

[0053] The anode 21 has a porous substrate 21A on the first separator 24 side and a catalyst layer 21B on the electrolyte membrane 23 side. The substrate 21A and catalyst layer 21B of the anode 21 are made of materials suitable for the reaction of the anode 21.

[0054] The cathode 22 has a porous substrate 22A on the second separator 25 side and a catalyst layer 22B on the electrolyte membrane 23 side. The substrate 22A and catalyst layer 22B of the cathode 22 are made of materials suitable for the reaction of the cathode 22.

[0055] The electrolyte membrane 23 is provided between the anode 21 and the cathode 22. The electrolyte membrane 23 includes, for example, a cation exchange membrane or an anion exchange membrane.

[0056] The first separator 24 is supplied with the fluid used in the reaction of the anode 21, and the fluid containing the reactants is discharged from it. The first separator 24 is electrically connected to the anode 21. It is preferable that the separator 100 of the first embodiment is used for the first separator 24.

[0057] The second separator 25 is supplied with the fluid used for the reaction at the cathode 22, and the fluid containing the reactants is discharged from it. The second separator 25 is electrically connected to the cathode 22. It is preferable that the separator 100 of the first embodiment is used for the second separator 25.

[0058] In the first embodiment, the separator 100 is preferably used as the first separator 24 and / or the second separator 25. Either the first separator 24 or the second separator 25 may be a separator having a flow channel groove 2 sandwiched between flow channel walls 1 where no protrusions 1A exist.

[0059] The electrochemical cell 200 in Figure 12 uses the separator 100 of the first embodiment for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0060] The electrochemical cell 200 in Figure 13 uses the separator 100 of the first embodiment as the first separator 24.

[0061] The electrochemical cell 200 in Figure 14 uses the separator 100 of the first embodiment as the second separator 25.

[0062] By using the separator 100 of the first embodiment on the anode 21 side, the base material 21A of the anode 21 is crushed by the protrusion 1A, creating a region 21C with low porosity within the base material 21A. Fluid flow is restricted between the protrusion 1A and the region 21C with low porosity, resulting in fluid being supplied and discharged more evenly across the entire base material 21A.

[0063] The porosity of the region 21C with low porosity is preferably 50% to 99% of the average porosity of the substrate 21A, more preferably 70% to 99%, and even more preferably 85% to 99%.

[0064] By using the separator 100 of the first embodiment on the cathode 22 side, the substrate 22A of the cathode 22 is crushed by the protrusion 1A, creating a region 22C with low porosity within the substrate 22A. Fluid flow is restricted between the protrusion 1A and the region 22C with low porosity, resulting in fluid being supplied and discharged more evenly across the entire substrate 22A.

[0065] The porosity of the region 22C with low porosity is preferably 50% to 99% of the average porosity of the substrate 22A, more preferably 70% to 99%, and even more preferably 85% to 99%.

[0066] The thickness H4 of the base materials 21A and 22A is preferably 100 [μm] or more and 1500 [μm] or less, more preferably 120 [μm] or more and 1000 [μm] or less, and even more preferably 150 [μm] or more and 300 [μm] or less.

[0067] From the viewpoint of supplying and discharging fluid with minimal bias to the entire substrate 21A, the height H1 of the protrusion 1A is preferably 0.05 to 0.5 times the thickness H4 of the substrate 21A in contact with the first separator 24 on which the protrusion 1A is provided, more preferably 0.1 to 0.4 times, and even more preferably 0.15 to 0.35 times.

[0068] From the viewpoint of supplying and discharging fluid with minimal bias to the entire substrate 22A, the height H1 of the projection 1A is preferably 0.05 to 0.5 times the thickness H4 of the substrate 22A in contact with the second separator 25 on which the projection 1A is provided, more preferably 0.1 to 0.4 times, and even more preferably 0.15 to 0.35 times.

[0069] By using the separator 100 of the first or second embodiment, the fluid used in the reaction is supplied and discharged with less bias to the entire substrate, thereby improving the reaction efficiency at the anode 21 and / or cathode 22.

[0070] (Third embodiment) The third embodiment relates to an electrochemical cell. Figure 15 shows a schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell 300 of the third embodiment. The electrochemical cell 300 is for electrolysis or fuel cell use.

[0071] The electrochemical cell 300 has an anode 21, a cathode 22, an electrolyte membrane 23, a first separator 24, and a second separator 25.

[0072] The first separator 24 and the second separator 25 have a flow path 10 including a flow path wall 1 and a flow path groove 2 provided between the flow path walls 1.

[0073] The electrochemical cell 300 of the third embodiment differs from the electrochemical cell 200 of the second embodiment in that resin is provided on the substrate 21A and / or substrate 22A. Details common to the second and third embodiments will not be explained.

[0074] It is preferable that the resin 21D is provided in the base material 21A. It is preferable that the resin 21D is provided along the flow path wall 1 of the first separator 24.

[0075] It is preferable that the resin 22D is provided in the base material 22A. It is preferable that the resin 22D is provided along the flow path wall 1 of the second separator 25.

[0076] Resin 21D and resin 22B are preferably one or more selected from the group consisting of epoxy resins, phenolic resins, and polyurethane resins.

[0077] It is preferable that the resin 21D is in direct contact with the flow channel walls 1 that sandwich the flow channel grooves 2 of the first separator 24. In the portion of the flow channel grooves 2 that sandwich the flow channel walls 1 in direct contact with the resin 21D, the movement of fluid is blocked by the resin 21D, and the fluid diffuses along the flow channel grooves 2, so that the fluid is supplied and discharged with little bias to the entire base material 21A of the anode 21. It is preferable that the resin 21D is provided in the base material 21A along the flow channel walls 1 sandwiched in the flow channel grooves 2.

[0078] It is preferable that the resin 22D is in direct contact with the flow channel walls 1 that sandwich the flow channel grooves 2 of the second separator 25. In the portion of the flow channel grooves 2 that sandwich the flow channel walls 1 in direct contact with the resin 22D, the movement of fluid is blocked by the resin 22D, and the fluid diffuses along the flow channel grooves 2, so that the fluid is supplied and discharged with little bias to the entire base material 22A of the cathode 22. It is preferable that the resin 22D is provided in the base material 22A along the flow channel walls 1 sandwiched in the flow channel grooves 2.

[0079] Figure 16 shows a schematic perspective view of the B-B' cross section of Figure 15. Figure 16 shows the cathode 22 side, but the anode 21 side is the same as in Figure 16. It is preferable that the resin 22D (21D) is provided along the flow channel wall 1 on the surface side of the base material 22A (21A). It is preferable that the resin 21D (resin 22D) is provided along the flow channel wall 1 in a pattern such as the separators 100 to 108 in Figures 1, 3 to 10, and it is preferable that the resin 21D (22D) is provided at the same position as the projection 1A is provided in the separators 100 to 108 in Figures 1, 3 to 10.

[0080] If the width W1 of the resin 22D (21D) is significantly larger than the width W2 of the flow channel wall 1, the flow channel groove 2 may be blocked by the resin 22D (21D). Therefore, the width W1 of the resin 22D (21D) is preferably 10% to 250% of the width W2 of the flow channel wall 1, more preferably 30% to 150%, and even more preferably 50% to 90%.

[0081] The thickness H5 of resins 21D and 22D is the range in which resins 21D and 22D are provided, extending from the surface of base materials 21A and 22A in the direction of thickness H4 of base materials 21A and 22A.

[0082] The thickness H5 of resins 21D and 22D is preferably 10 [μm] or more and 500 [μm] or less, more preferably 20 [μm] or more and 250 [μm] or less, and even more preferably 30 [μm] or more and 120 [μm] or less.

[0083] The thickness H5 of the resins 21D and 22D is preferably 0.05 to 0.5 times the thickness H4 of the base material 21A on which the resin 21D is provided, more preferably 0.1 to 0.4 times, and even more preferably 0.15 to 0.35 times.

[0084] The thickness H5 of the resins 21D and 22D is preferably 0.05 to 0.5 times the thickness H4 of the base material 22A on which the resin 22D is provided, more preferably 0.1 to 0.4 times, and even more preferably 0.15 to 0.35 times.

[0085] From the viewpoint of partially obstructing the fluid flow in the substrate, it is preferable that resin 21D, 22D with a length of 50% or more of the length L1 of the straight portion (excluding the folded portion) of the flow channel groove 2 is provided along the flow channel wall 1, more preferably with a length of 70% or more of the length of the resin 21D, 22D along the flow channel wall 1, and even more preferably with a length of 90% or more of the length of the resin 21D, 22D along the flow channel wall 1. The straight portion of the flow channel groove 2 may include a curved portion that does not fold back.

[0086] From the viewpoint of partially, rather than completely, blocking the fluid flow in the substrate, the area on which the resins 21D and 22D are provided is preferably 50% to 100% of the surface area (excluding the sides) of the flow channel wall 1 sandwiched in the flow channel groove 2, more preferably 70% to 100%, and even more preferably 90% to 100%.

[0087] The Young's modulus (modulus of elasticity in the height direction) of the base material 21A in the portion where resin 21D is provided and the base material 22A in the portion where resin 22D is provided is preferably 2.5 [GPa] or higher. The Young's modulus can be determined, for example, by the resonance method. The Young's modulus of the projection 1A is preferably 2.5 [GPa] or higher, more preferably 5 [GPa] or higher, and even more preferably 50 [GPa] or higher.

[0088] Below, we will further explain resins 21D and 22D, referring to separators 101-108 shown in Figures 4 to 11.

[0089] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of separator 101. Separator 101 shown in Figure 4 is a modified example of separator 100. The resins 21D and 22D of separator 101 are also provided in the folded portion of the flow path 10.

[0090] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of separator 102. Separator 102 shown in Figure 5 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 102 has two flow paths 10, and the two flow paths 10 are divided by resins 21D and 22D provided between the two flow paths. When separator 102 is large, the flow path 10 can be divided into multiple paths to reduce pressure loss between the supply side and the discharge side of the flow path 10. Resins 21D and 22D are sandwiched in flow path grooves 2 through which fluid flows in the same direction.

[0091] The separator 102 shown in Figure 5 has two flow paths arranged horizontally in the drawing, and a supply manifold 4 is provided on the upper side of the drawing and a discharge manifold 6 is provided on the lower side of the drawing so that the two flow paths flow in the same direction. When the flow path is divided into two systems as in the separator 102 of Figure 5, the pressure difference at the boundary between the two flow paths 10 is large, making it easy for the fluid to flow into the flow path of the other system. By providing resins 21D and 22D at the boundary between the two flow paths 10, it is possible to suppress the mixing of fluids between the systems.

[0092] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of separator 103. Separator 103 shown in Figure 6 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 103 has two flow paths 10, and the two flow paths 10 are divided by resins 21D and 22D provided between the two flow paths. When separator 102 is large, the flow path 10 can be divided into multiple paths to reduce pressure loss between the supply side and the discharge side of the flow path 10. Resins 21D and 22D are sandwiched in flow path grooves 2 through which fluid flows in opposite directions.

[0093] The separator 103 shown in Figure 6 has two flow paths arranged vertically, and the two flow paths flow in opposite directions. The upper flow path has a supply manifold 4 on the left and a discharge manifold 6 on the right, while the lower flow path has a discharge manifold 6 on the left and a supply manifold 4 on the right. When the flow path is divided into two systems as shown by the separator 102 in Figure 6, the pressure difference at the boundary between the two flow paths 10 is large, making it easy for fluid to flow into the other flow path. By providing resins 21D and 22D at the boundary between the two flow paths 10, mixing of fluids between the systems can be suppressed, and fluid can be supplied and discharged throughout the entire base material 21A and 22A.

[0094] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of separator 104. Separator 104 shown in Figure 7 is a modified version of separator 103. Resins 21D and 22D are provided near the supply manifold 4 and discharge manifold 6 where the pressure difference is large, but resins 21D and 22D are not provided near the middle of the flow path 10 where the pressure difference is small.

[0095] By placing resins 21D and 22D near the supply manifold 4 and discharge manifold 6, where there is a large pressure difference, mixing of fluids between systems can be suppressed, and fluid can be supplied and discharged throughout the entire substrate 21A and 22A.

[0096] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of separator 105. Separator 105 shown in Figure 8 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 100 has an even number of folded sections, while separator 104 has an odd number of folded sections. Resins 21D and 22D are sandwiched in flow channel grooves 2 through which fluid flows in the same direction.

[0097] The separator 105 shown in Figure 8 has resins 21D and 22D provided in the latter half of the flow path 10 where the fluid flow tends to be uneven (the number of turns in the entire flow path 10 (the number of patterns that turn at approximately 90° or approximately 180° (in the case of separator 105 in Figure 8, the number of turns is 5)). It is preferable that resins 21D and 22D beside the flow path grooves from the 1 / 2 turn onwards, counting from the supply manifold 4. By providing a projection 1A in the latter half of the flow path 10, the fluid can be supplied to and discharged from the entire base material 21A and 22A.

[0098] Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of separator 106. Separator 106 shown in Figure 9 is a modified example of separator 101. Separator 106 has one channel 10 of separator 101. Resins 21D and 22D are also useful for separator 106 which has a short channel 10.

[0099] Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram of separator 107. Separator 107 shown in Figure 10 is a modified example of separator 106. In separator 107, the supply communication passage 3 and supply manifold 4 and the discharge communication passage 5 and discharge manifold 6 are arranged asymmetrically. Resins 21D and 22D are also useful for separator 107, which has a short flow path 10 and in which the supply communication passage 3 and supply manifold 4 and the discharge communication passage 5 and discharge manifold 6 are arranged asymmetrically.

[0100] Figure 11 shows a schematic diagram of separator 108. Separator 108 shown in Figure 11 is a modified example of separator 106. Separator 108 has one folded portion in the flow path 10. Resins 21D and 22D are also useful for separator 106, which has a simple flow path 10 with one folded portion.

[0101] Figure 17 shows a schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell 301 of the third embodiment. The electrochemical cell 301 is a modified version of the electrochemical cell 300. In the electrochemical cell 300, the substrate 21A of the third embodiment is used for the substrate 21A of the anode 21, the substrate 22A without resin 22D is used for the cathode 22, and the separator of the first embodiment is used for the second separator 25. The first and second embodiments can be suitably combined depending on the supplied fluid, the compounds produced by the electrode reaction, and the pressure and temperature conditions during operation.

[0102] Figure 18 shows a schematic diagram of the electrochemical cell 302 of the third embodiment. The electrochemical cell 301 is a modified example of the electrochemical cell 300. The electrochemical cell 300 uses the anode 21 and first separator 24 of the second embodiment, the cathode 22 uses a substrate 22A on which resin 22D is provided, and the second separator 25 uses the separator of the first embodiment. Depending on the supplied fluid, the compounds produced by the electrode reaction, and the operating pressure and temperature conditions, the first to third embodiments can be suitably combined.

[0103] (Fourth Embodiment) The fourth embodiment relates to a stack. Figure 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a stack 400 of the fourth embodiment. The stack 400 of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 18 consists of multiple electrochemical cells 200 or 300 connected in series. Clamping plates 31 and 32 are attached to both ends of the stack 400. Modified electrochemical cells can also be used in the fourth embodiment.

[0104] When performing electrolysis, the amount of carbon compounds such as H2 and CO produced by a single electrochemical cell 200 or electrochemical cell 300 is small. When performing power generation, the amount of electricity generated by a single electrochemical cell 200 or electrochemical cell 300 is small. Therefore, by configuring a stack 400 in which multiple electrochemical cells 200 or electrochemical cells 300 are connected in series, the amount of products and power generated increases.

[0105] (Fifth embodiment) The fifth embodiment relates to an electrolytic device and a fuel cell. The electrolytic device and fuel cell use an electrochemical cell 200 or an electrochemical cell 300, or a stack 400 using an electrochemical cell 200 or a stack 400 using an electrochemical cell 300. Figure 20 shows a schematic diagram of the device 500 of the fourth embodiment. The device 500 uses an electrochemical cell 200. Figure 21 shows a schematic diagram of the device 501 of the fourth embodiment. The device 501 uses an electrochemical cell 300. Devices 500 and 501 show some of the configurations of the actual devices. Modified electrochemical cells can also be used in the fifth embodiment.

[0106] The apparatus 500 (501) includes an electrochemical cell 200, an anode current collector plate 41, a cathode current collector plate 42, and a power supply or load 43.

[0107] An anode current collector plate 41 is provided on the first separator 24 of the electrochemical cell 200 and the electrochemical cell 300. The first separator 24 is electrically connected to the anode current collector plate 41.

[0108] A cathode current collector plate 42 is provided on the second separator 25 of the electrochemical cell 200 and the electrochemical cell 300. The second separator 25 is electrically connected to the cathode current collector plate 42.

[0109] A power source or load 43 is connected between the anode current collector plate 41 and the cathode current collector plate 42.

[0110] If the device 500 (501) is an electrolytic device, a power supply 43 is connected between the anode current collector plate 41 and the cathode current collector plate 42.

[0111] If device 500 (501) is a fuel cell, a load 43 is connected between the anode current collector plate 41 and the cathode current collector plate 42. The load 43 may be a power converter, a storage battery, or the like.

[0112] The present invention will be described more specifically below based on examples, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0113] (Example 1) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 12 was fabricated by using separator 100 having the protrusion 1A shown in Figure 1 as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0114] (Example 2) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 15 was fabricated using a substrate 21A with resin 21D provided at the position shown in Figure 1 and a substrate 22A with resin 22D provided at the position shown in Figure 1.

[0115] (Comparative Example 1) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 12 was fabricated by using separator 100, which does not have the protrusion 1A shown in Figure 1, as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0116] Using the electrochemical cells of Examples 1 and 2 and the electrochemical cell of Comparative Example 1, electrolytic operations were performed to generate CO by electrolyzing CO2 under the same conditions. In both Examples 1 and 2, electrolytic operations were performed with a lower fluid imbalance in substrates 21A and 22A than in Comparative Example 1.

[0117] Fuel cell operation using H2 as fuel was performed under the same conditions using the electrochemical cells of Examples 1 and 2 and the electrochemical cell of Comparative Example 1. Both Examples 1 and 2 were able to operate with lower fluid imbalance in base material 21A and base material 22A than Comparative Example 1, and their IV characteristics were superior to those of Comparative Example 1.

[0118] The following is a technical proposal for an embodiment. Technical proposal 1 A flow path including a flow path wall and a flow path groove provided between the flow path wall, It has, A separator having protrusions on the channel wall. Technical proposal 2 A separator according to technical proposal 1, wherein the projection is provided on the channel wall sandwiched between the channel grooves. Technical proposal 3 The separator according to Technical Proposal 1 or 2, wherein the length of the projection is 50% or more of the length of the straight portion of the flow path. Technical proposal 4 The separator according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 3, wherein the height of the aforementioned protrusion is 10 [μm] or more and 500 [μm] or less. Technical proposal 5 A separator according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 4, wherein the area on which the protrusion is provided is 50% or more and 100% or less of the surface area of ​​the flow channel wall sandwiched in the flow channel groove. Technical proposal 6 The separator according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 5, wherein two or more protrusions are provided on the flow channel wall. Technical proposal 7 The projection is provided in the height direction of the flow channel wall, and is a separator according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 6. Technical proposal 8 The channel, including the channel wall and the channel groove, is a separator according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 7, having a serpentine channel shape. Technical proposal 9 an anode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, A cathode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, An electrolyte membrane is placed between the anode and the cathode. A first separator is provided on the side of the anode opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, The cathode has a second separator on the side opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, An electrochemical cell in which the first separator and / or the second separator is a separator as described in any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 8. Technical proposal 10 The height of the projection is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times or less the height of the substrate of the anode in contact with the first separator on which the projection is provided. The electrochemical cell according to Technical Proposal 9, wherein the height of the protrusion is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times less than the height of the substrate of the cathode in contact with the second separator on which the protrusion is provided. Technical proposal 11 an anode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, A cathode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, An electrolyte membrane is placed between the anode and the cathode. A first separator is provided on the side of the anode opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, The cathode has a second separator on the side opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, A resin is provided in the substrate of the anode and / or the substrate of the cathode. The first separator and the second separator each have a flow path including a flow path wall and a flow path groove provided between the flow path wall. The resin is an electrochemical cell located along the channel wall. Technical proposal 12 The aforementioned resin is along the channel wall sandwiched in the channel groove, as described in technical proposal 11, an electrochemical cell. Technical proposal 13 The resin is in direct contact with the first separator. The electrochemical cell according to technical proposal 11 or 12, wherein the resin is in direct contact with the second separator. Technical proposal 14 An electrochemical cell according to any one of the technical proposals 11 to 13, wherein the thickness of the resin is 10 [μm] or more and 500 [μm] or less. Technical proposal 15 The thickness of the resin is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times or less the thickness of the substrate of the anode on which the resin is provided. The electrochemical cell according to any one of the technical proposals 11 to 14, wherein the thickness of the resin is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times or less the thickness of the substrate of the cathode on which the resin is provided. Technical proposal 16 The electrochemical cell according to any one of the technical proposals 11 to 15, wherein the length of the resin is 50% or more of the length of the straight portion of the flow path. Technical proposal 17 The electrochemical cell according to any one of the technical proposals 11 to 16, wherein the area on which the resin is provided is 50% or more and 100% or less of the surface area of ​​the channel wall sandwiched in the channel groove. Technical proposal 18 The electrochemical cell according to any one of the technical proposals 11 to 17, wherein the width of the resin is 10% or more and 250% or less of the width of the channel wall. Technical proposal 19 An electrolytic device or fuel cell having an electrochemical cell as described in Technical Proposal 9 or 10. Technical proposal 20 An electrolytic device or fuel cell having an electrochemical cell as described in any one of Technical Proposals 11 to 18.

[0119] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments described above can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 1: Flow channel wall 1A: Protrusion 1B: Bottom 2: Flow channel groove 3: Supply communication channels 4: Supply Manifold 5: Discharge connection channel 6: Exhaust manifold 7: Frame 10: Flow path 21: Anode 21A: Base material 21B: Catalyst layer 21C: Region with low porosity 22: Cathode 22A: Base material 22B: Catalyst layer 22C: Region with low porosity 23: Electrolyte membrane 24: First separator 25: Second separator 31: Clamping plate 32: Clamping plate 41: Anode current collector plate 42: Cathode current collector plate 43:Power supply 43: Load 100: Separator 200: Electrochemical cell 300: Electrochemical cell 400: Stack 500: Equipment 501: Equipment

Claims

1. A flow path including a flow path wall and a flow path groove provided between the flow path wall, It has, A separator having protrusions on the channel wall.

2. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the projection is provided on the channel wall sandwiched between the channel grooves.

3. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the length of the projection is 50% or more of the length of the straight portion of the flow path.

4. The height of the aforementioned protrusion is 10 [μm] or more and 500 [μm] The separator according to claim 1, which is less than or equal to [μm].

5. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the area on which the protrusions are provided is 50% or more and 100% or less of the surface area of ​​the flow channel wall sandwiched in the flow channel groove.

6. The separator according to claim 1, wherein two or more protrusions are provided on the flow path wall.

7. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the projection is provided in the height direction of the flow channel wall.

8. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the flow channel, including the flow channel wall and the flow channel groove, has a serpentine flow channel shape.

9. an anode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, A cathode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, An electrolyte membrane is placed between the anode and the cathode. A first separator is provided on the side of the anode opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, The cathode has a second separator on the side opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, An electrochemical cell in which the first separator and / or the second separator is the separator according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The height of the projection is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times or less the height of the substrate of the anode that is in contact with the first separator on which the projection is provided. The electrochemical cell according to claim 9, wherein the height of the projection is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times less than the height of the substrate of the cathode in contact with the second separator on which the projection is provided.

11. an anode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, A cathode having a substrate and a catalyst layer, An electrolyte membrane is placed between the anode and the cathode. A first separator is provided on the side of the anode opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, The cathode has a second separator on the side opposite to the electrolyte membrane side, A resin is provided in the substrate of the anode and / or the substrate of the cathode. The first separator and the second separator each have a flow path including a flow path wall and a flow path groove provided between the flow path wall. The resin is an electrochemical cell located along the channel wall.

12. The electrochemical cell according to claim 11, wherein the resin is along the channel wall sandwiched in the channel groove.

13. The resin is in direct contact with the first separator. The electrochemical cell according to claim 11, wherein the resin is in direct contact with the second separator.

14. The thickness of the aforementioned resin is 10 [μm] or more and 500 The electrochemical cell according to claim 11, wherein the [μm] is less than or equal to [μm].

15. The thickness of the resin is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times or less the thickness of the substrate of the anode on which the resin is provided. The electrochemical cell according to claim 11, wherein the thickness of the resin is 0.05 times or more and 0.5 times or less the thickness of the substrate of the cathode on which the resin is provided.

16. The electrochemical cell according to claim 11, wherein the length of the resin is 50% or more of the length of the straight portion of the flow path.

17. The electrochemical cell according to claim 11, wherein the area on which the resin is provided is 50% or more and 100% or less of the surface area of ​​the channel wall sandwiched in the channel groove.

18. The electrochemical cell according to claim 11, wherein the width of the resin is 10% or more and 250% or less of the width of the channel wall.

19. An electrolytic device or fuel cell having the electrochemical cell described in claim 9.

20. An electrolytic device or fuel cell having the electrochemical cell described in claim 11.

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