Separators, electrochemical cells, stacks, and apparatus

Abstract

The embodiment provides a separator that is less prone to gas accumulation. [Solution] The separator of the embodiment has a flow path including a first flow path wall, a second flow path wall, and a first flow path groove provided between the first flow path wall and the second flow path wall. One or more first blocking walls are provided that block a portion of the latter half of the first flow path groove.

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 attempts towards decarbonization, power generation by fuel cells and energy conversion by electrolysis have attracted attention.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Documents

[0005]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Embodiments provide a separator in which gas is unlikely to accumulate.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The separator of the embodiment includes a flow path comprising a first flow path wall, a second flow path wall, and a first flow path groove provided between the first flow path wall and the second flow path wall. One or more first blocking walls are provided that block a portion of the latter half of the first flow path groove. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 2] A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 3] A schematic cross-sectional view of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 4] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 5] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 9] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 10] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 11] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 12] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 13] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 14] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 15] A schematic diagram of the separator in the embodiment. [Figure 16] Schematic diagram of an electrochemical cell according to an embodiment. [Figure 17] Schematic diagram of an electrochemical cell according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] A schematic diagram of the stack in the embodiment. [Figure 19] A schematic diagram of the apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] A schematic diagram of the apparatus according to the embodiment.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] 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 that have been described once will be omitted as appropriate.

[0010] 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.

[0011] (First Embodiment) The first embodiment relates to a separator 100. FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of the separator 100 of the embodiment. FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of A-A' in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of B-B' in 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 the frame 7 of the separator 100. The directions in the figure are represented by X, Y, and Z.

[0012] 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.

[0013] 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.

[0014] The region sandwiched between the flow path walls 1 is the flow path groove 2. The flow path walls 1 may be, for example, a protrusion of a metal member provided on the frame 7, or the flow path groove 2 may be a recess of a metal member provided on the frame 7. 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. In order for the fluid to flow through the entire porous layer of the electrode that is in contact with the separator 100 with minimal separation, it is preferable that the flow path 10 has a serpentine flow path shape in which straight sections and folded sections are alternately repeated, as shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 1.

[0015] The channel wall 1 is made of, for example, metal.

[0016] The flow path 10 has multiple flow channel grooves 2. The flow path 10 has a first flow channel wall 1A, a first flow channel groove 2A, a second flow channel wall 1B, a second flow channel groove 2B, a third flow channel wall 1C, a third flow channel groove 2C, a fourth flow channel wall 1D, a fourth flow channel groove 2D, and a fifth flow channel wall 1E. The numbers of the flow channel walls 1 and flow channel grooves 2 are for convenience only, and in some cases they may not be in numerical order. If the order in which the flow channel grooves 2 are arranged is different (for example, in the order of first flow channel groove 2A, fourth flow channel groove 2D, third flow channel groove 2C, second flow channel groove 2B), the numbers of the flow channel walls 1 flanking each flow channel groove 2 will change. In separator 100, the second flow channel groove 2B is adjacent to the first flow channel groove 2A. However, for example, if a blocking wall F exists in the first flow channel groove 2A, and the other flow channel groove 2 may or may not have a blocking wall F, then a different flow channel groove 2 from the flow channel groove 2 designated as the first flow channel groove 2A in separator 100 in Figure 1 can be designated as the first flow channel groove 2A where the first blocking wall F1 exists. In this case, the flow channel wall 1, flow channel groove 2, and blocking wall F located at the same position can be assigned different numbers from those given in the following explanation. The following explanation of flow channel groove 2 is not limited to a specific flow channel groove 2.

[0017] In this embodiment, four flow channel grooves 2 are shown, but the number of flow channel grooves 2 is not limited to four, and can be one or more. For example, separators with three flow channel grooves 2, separators with five flow channel grooves 2, and separators with eight flow channel grooves 2 are also included in the separators of this embodiment.

[0018] The first channel groove 2A is located between the channel walls. In the schematic diagram of Figure 1, the first channel groove 2A is located between the first channel wall 1A and the second channel wall 1B.

[0019] The second channel groove 2B is located between the channel walls. In the schematic diagram of Figure 1, the second channel groove 2B is located between the second channel wall 1B and the third channel wall 1C.

[0020] The third channel groove 2C is located between the channel walls. In the schematic diagram of Figure 1, the third channel groove 2C is located between the third channel wall 1C and the fourth channel wall 1D.

[0021] The fourth channel groove 2D is located between the channel walls. In the schematic diagram of Figure 1, the fourth channel groove 2D is located between the fourth channel wall 1D and the fifth channel wall 1E.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] In the first embodiment, the supply communication path 3 and supply manifold 4 of the separator 100 are provided on the side of the first point P1.

[0026] 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.

[0027] The discharge manifold 6 is the opening of the separator 100. Fluid is discharged from the discharge manifold 6.

[0028] In the first embodiment, the fluid flowing through the channel 10 flows from the first point P1 toward the second point P2.

[0029] In the first embodiment, the discharge communication passage 5 and discharge manifold 6 of the separator 100 are provided on the side of the first point P1.

[0030] The frame 7 is preferably made of an insulating material, such as a resin material.

[0031] A blocking wall F is provided in a portion of the flow channel groove 2. For example, as shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 2, no blocking wall F is provided at the position of cross section A-A' in Figure 1, but as shown in the schematic diagram of Figure 3, a blocking wall F is provided at the position of cross section B-B' in Figure 1. The first flow channel groove 2A is a flow channel groove 2 in which the first blocking wall F1 is provided. Flow channel grooves 2 other than the first flow channel groove 2A are either flow channel grooves 2 in which a blocking wall F is provided or flow channel grooves 2 in which a blocking wall F is not provided.

[0032] It is preferable that the blocking wall F of the flow channel groove 2 is provided in the latter half of the flow channel groove 2 and not in the first half of the flow channel groove 2. When the fluid flows from the first point P1 side to the second point P2 side of the flow channel groove 2, if the length of the flow channel groove 2 is L, the portion from the end on the first point P1 side to a length of L / 2 is considered the first half of the flow channel groove 2, and the portion from the end on the second point P2 side to a length of L / 2 is considered the second half of the flow channel groove 2. By providing a blocking wall F in a portion of the flow channel groove 2, it is possible to suppress the accumulation of gas contained in the fluid, including the liquid and gas flowing through the separator 100, in the flow channel groove 2.

[0033] The first half of the first channel groove 2A, the first half of the second channel groove 2B, the first half of the third channel groove 2C, and the first half of the fourth channel groove 2D are located on the side of the first point P1. The second half of the first channel groove 2A, the second half of the second channel groove 2B, the second half of the third channel groove 2C, and the second half of the fourth channel groove 2D are located on the side of the second point P2.

[0034] If gas accumulates in the flow channel groove 2, the gas generated at the electrode in contact with the separator 100 is likely to undergo a side reaction. 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 reduced in concentration by the electrolysis of CO2 on the cathode discharge side and reduces water through a side reaction, producing hydrogen peroxide. Since hydrogen peroxide degrades the electrolyte membrane, it is preferable to block off a portion of the flow channel groove 2 to prevent gas accumulation. Blocking off a portion of the flow channel groove 2 at all the return sections of the serpentine-shaped flow channel, or blocking off a portion of the flow channel groove 2 in the first half of the flow channel 10 of the serpentine-shaped flow channel, is not effective. By blocking off a portion of the flow channel groove 2 in the second half of the flow channel 10 of the serpentine-shaped flow channel, rather than the first half, gas accumulation can be suppressed.

[0035] By providing a blocking wall F, the fluid is prevented from flowing through the flow channel groove 2. In the area where the blocking wall F is provided, the fluid flows more easily into the porous layer of the electrode. In the first half of the flow channel 10, there is little gas generated by the electrode reaction, so providing a blocking wall F in the first half of the flow channel 10 to change the fluid flow rate is not effective. By not providing a blocking wall F in the first half of the flow channel 10, and instead providing a section in the latter half of the flow channel groove 2 where gas tends to accumulate, where the fluid flow rate differs, gas accumulation can be suppressed.

[0036] If the supply and discharge sides are unknown for the separator 100 alone, it is preferable to designate one end of the flow path 10 as the first point P1 and the other end of the flow path 10 as the second point P2, and to determine the first and second halves of the flow path 10 and the first and second halves of each flow channel groove 2 based on the arrangement of the connecting passage and manifold, and to provide the following closing wall F in the flow channel groove 2. In other words, it is preferable that the closing wall F is provided in only one of the first or second halves of the flow channel groove 2 where the direction of fluid flow is the same, and the supply and discharge sides of the fluid can be determined according to the position of the closing wall F. If the flow path includes a flow channel groove 2 through which fluid flows from the first point P1 to the second point P2 and a flow channel groove 2 through which fluid flows from the second point P2 to the first point P1, it is preferable that the closing wall F of the flow channel groove 2 through which fluid flows from the second point P2 to the first point P1 is provided on the first half side of the flow channel groove 2 through which fluid flows from the first point P1 to the second point P2.

[0037] The blocking wall F may be made of the same material as the flow channel wall 1, or it may be made of a different material than the flow channel wall 1. The blocking wall F preferably contains metal or resin.

[0038] The closure wall F of the flow channel groove 2 is preferably provided in the folded portion of the flow channel 10. The flow channel 10 includes a straight portion and a folded portion. The straight portion is the portion connecting the folded portion and is mainly a straight flow channel. The folded portion is the portion that changes the direction of fluid flow by 180° (or approximately 180°). The flow channel 10 in Figure 1 includes four folded portions. The flow channel 10 in Figure 1 includes a first folded portion T1, a second folded portion T2, a third folded portion T3, and a fourth folded portion T4.

[0039] The portion where the channel groove 2 bends at 90° at the connection point between the channel 10 and the supply communication channel 3 is not included in the bent portion, because the channel groove 2 can also connect the channel 10 and the supply communication channel 3 without bending.

[0040] The portion where the flow channel groove 2 bends at a 90° angle at the connection point between the flow channel 10 and the discharge communication channel 5 is not included in the bent portion, because the flow channel groove 2 can also connect the flow channel 10 and the discharge communication channel 5 without bending.

[0041] The first folded portion T1 and the second folded portion T2 are included in the first half of the flow channel groove 2. The third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4 are included in the second half.

[0042] The boundary between the first and second halves of channel groove 2 is shown by the dashed line G (thick line) in Figure 1. Because channel 10 has a serpentine channel shape, the boundary between the first and second halves of channel groove 2 is stepped. The boundary between the first and second halves of channel 10 is the dashed line G.

[0043] The boundary between the first and second halves of the flow channel groove 2 may exist within the folded portion. In this case, both the first and second halves of the flow channel groove 2 are included in one folded portion.

[0044] Next, the closure wall F of the embodiment will be described using the first closure wall F1 as an example. It is preferable that the closure wall F is provided in one or more of the flow channel grooves 2. For example, if the flow channel 10 has a first flow channel groove 2A, a second flow channel groove 2B, a third flow channel groove 2C, and a fourth flow channel groove 2D, then the closure wall F is provided in one or more of the flow channel grooves 2. The following description will be an example in which the first closure wall F1 is provided in the first flow channel groove 2A, but the same applies when the closure wall F is provided in the other flow channel grooves 2.

[0045] A first blocking wall F1 is provided in the first flow channel groove 2A. The first blocking wall F1 is located in the latter half of the first flow channel groove 2A and blocks a portion of the first flow channel groove 2A. The first blocking wall F1 is located in the fourth folded portion T4 of the first flow channel groove 2A.

[0046] The schematic diagram in Figure 1 shows the length L1 of the first channel groove 2A of the fourth folded portion T4, the length L2 of the second channel groove 2B of the fourth folded portion T4, the length L3 of the third channel groove 2C of the fourth folded portion T4, and the length L4 of the fourth channel groove 2D of the fourth folded portion T4.

[0047] The schematic diagram in Figure 1 shows the widths W1 of the first channel groove 2A, W2 of the second channel groove 2B, W3 of the third channel groove 2C, and W4 of the fourth channel groove 2D.

[0048] The boundary between the first half and the second half of the first flow channel groove 2A is located midway between the second folded portion T2 and the third folded portion T3. The second half of the first flow channel groove 2A consists of the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4, and it is preferable that the first closure wall F1 is provided in the third folded portion T3 and / or the fourth folded portion T4.

[0049] The length of the first blocking wall F1 is preferably 1% to 100% of the length L5 of the folded portion of the first flow channel groove 2A in which the first blocking wall F1 is provided, more preferably 10% to 67%, and even more preferably 17% to 33%. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0050] When a blocking wall F is provided in the second flow channel groove 2B, the length of the blocking wall F is preferably 1% to 100% of the length L4 of the folded portion of the second flow channel groove 2B in which the blocking wall F is provided, more preferably 4% to 29%, and even more preferably 3% to 18%. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0051] When a closure wall F is provided in the third flow channel groove 2C, the length of the closure wall F is preferably 1% to 100% of the length L3 of the folded portion of the third flow channel groove 2C where the closure wall F is provided, more preferably 4% to 29%, and even more preferably 7% to 14%. If the length of the closure wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0052] When a closure wall F is provided in the fourth channel groove 2D, the length of the closure wall F is preferably 3% to 100% of the length L2 of the folded portion of the fourth channel groove 2D where the closure wall F is provided, more preferably 10% to 67%, and even more preferably 17% to 33%. If the length of the closure wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a channel 10 will increase.

[0053] The length of the first occlusion wall F1 is preferably 0.1 to 3 times the width W1 of the first flow channel groove 2A, more preferably 0.3 to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 to 1 time. If the length of the occlusion wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0054] When a blocking wall F is provided in the second flow channel groove 2B, the length of the blocking wall F is preferably 0.1 to 3 times the width W2 of the second flow channel groove 2B, more preferably 0.3 to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 to 1 time. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0055] When a blocking wall F is provided in the third flow channel groove 2C, the length of the blocking wall F is preferably 0.1 to 3 times the width W3 of the third flow channel groove 2C, more preferably 0.3 to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 to 1 time. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0056] If a blocking wall F is provided in the fourth flow channel groove 2D, the length of the blocking wall F is preferably 0.1 to 3 times the width W4 of the fourth flow channel groove 2D, more preferably 0.3 to 2 times, and even more preferably 0.5 to 1 time. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0057] The length of the first occlusion wall F1 is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the first flow channel groove 2A (total length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the occlusion wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0058] When a blocking wall F is provided in the second flow channel groove 2B, the length of the blocking wall F is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the second flow channel groove 2B (total length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0059] When a blocking wall F is provided in the third flow channel groove 2C, the length of the blocking wall F is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the third flow channel groove 2C (total length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0060] When a blocking wall F is provided in the fourth flow channel groove 2D, the length of the blocking wall F is preferably 0.1% to 1.7% of the length of the fourth flow channel groove 2D (total length), more preferably 0.2% to 1.1%, and even more preferably 0.3% to 0.6%. If the length of the blocking wall F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0061] The first blocking wall F1 connects the flow channel walls 1 that sandwich the first flow channel groove 2A, in which the first blocking wall F1 is provided, for example, the first flow channel wall 1A and the second flow channel wall 1B.

[0062] When a blocking wall F is provided in the second flow channel groove 2B, the flow channel walls 1 that sandwich the second flow channel groove 2B where the blocking wall F is provided, for example, the second flow channel wall 1B and the third flow channel wall 1C are connected.

[0063] When a closure wall F is provided in the third flow channel groove 2C, the flow channel walls 1 that sandwich the third flow channel groove 2C where the closure wall F is provided, for example, the third flow channel wall 1C and the fourth flow channel wall 1D are connected.

[0064] If a closure wall F is provided in the fourth channel groove 2D, the channel walls 1 that sandwich the fourth channel groove 2D where the closure wall F is provided, for example, the fourth channel wall 1D and the fifth channel wall 1E, are connected.

[0065] If the flow path 10 includes multiple flow path grooves 2, it is preferable that the multiple flow path grooves 2 are parallel.

[0066] The total length of the blocking walls F provided in the flow channel groove 2 is preferably 0.2% to 6.7% of the length of a single flow channel groove 2, more preferably 0.7% to 4.5%, and even more preferably 1.1% to 2.2%. If the length of the blocking walls F is too long, it is undesirable because the portion that does not function as a flow channel 10 will increase.

[0067] The following provides further explanation of the closing wall F, illustrating it with multiple examples of separator 100.

[0068] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of separator 101. Separator 101 shown in Figure 4 is a modified example of separator 100. The first flow channel groove 2A is located at the innermost part of the fourth folded portion T4, and the second flow channel groove 2B, third flow channel groove 2C, and fourth flow channel groove 2D are provided from the inside outwards. The closing wall F is provided in the first flow channel groove 2A, the second flow channel groove 2B, and the third flow channel groove 2C. From the viewpoint of changing the ease of fluid flow, it is preferable that a blocking wall F (first blocking wall F1 in Figure 4) is provided in the innermost flow channel groove 2 (first flow channel groove 2A in Figure 4) of the return section located furthest towards the discharge side in the latter half of the flow channel 10 (fourth return section T4 in Figure 4), and it is preferable that a blocking wall F (first blocking wall F1 in Figure 4) is provided in the innermost flow channel groove 2 (first flow channel groove 2A in Figure 4) of the return section located furthest towards the discharge side in the latter half of the flow channel 10 (fourth return section T4 in Figure 4).

[0069] The separator 101 shown in Figure 4 also has a closing wall F in the third folded portion T3. In the third folded portion T3, there is a second closing wall F2 provided in the second flow channel groove 2B and a third closing wall F3 provided in the third flow channel groove 2C. Closing walls F may be provided in different flow channel grooves 2 in different folded portions, for example, in the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4, or closing walls F may be provided in the same flow channel groove 2 in different folded portions. By providing closing walls F in the latter half of the flow channel groove 2 in the separator 101, the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel 10 can be changed, and the accumulation of gas in the fluid can be suppressed.

[0070] 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 a first closing wall F1 provided in the first flow channel groove 2A of the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4, a second closing wall F2 provided in the second flow channel groove 2B of the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4, a third closing wall F3 provided in the third flow channel groove 2C of the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4, and a fourth closing wall F4 provided in the fourth flow channel groove 2D of the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4.

[0071] In the separator 102 shown in Figure 5, the closing wall F provided in the third folded portion T3 and the closing wall F provided in the fourth folded portion T4 are both located on the same straight line. Because the fluid flowability changes in the central portions of the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4, the separator 102 can suppress the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0072] 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 a first closing wall F1 having a length L1 of the first flow channel groove 2A of the fourth folded portion T4, provided in the longitudinal direction of the first flow channel groove 2A of the first flow channel groove 2A of the fourth folded portion T4, a second closing wall F2 having a length L2 of the second flow channel groove 2B of the fourth folded portion T4, provided in the longitudinal direction of the second flow channel groove 2B of the second flow channel groove 2B of the fourth folded portion T4, a third closing wall F3 having a length L3 of the third flow channel groove 2C of the fourth folded portion T4, provided in the longitudinal direction of the third flow channel groove 2C of the third flow channel groove 2C of the fourth folded portion T4, and a fourth closing wall F4 having a length L4 of the fourth flow channel groove 2D of the fourth folded portion T4, provided in the longitudinal direction of the fourth flow channel groove 2D of the fourth folded portion T4.

[0073] In the separator 103 shown in Figure 6, the flow channel groove 2 along the length direction of the fourth folded portion T4 is blocked by a blocking wall F. Because there is a pressure difference between the supply side and the discharge side of the separator 103, fluid also flows into the flow channel groove 2 after the fourth folded portion T4, and the ease of fluid flow changes in the latter half of the flow channel 10, which can suppress the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0074] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of separator 104. Separator 104 shown in Figure 7 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 104 has multiple blocking walls F in the first flow channel groove 2A, second flow channel groove 2B, third flow channel groove 2C, and fourth flow channel groove 2D of the third folded portion T3. The length of each blocking wall F is the same, and the number of blocking walls F changes according to the length of each flow channel groove 2 of the third folded portion T3. The blocking walls F of separator 104 can change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel 10, thereby suppressing the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0075] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of separator 105. Separator 105 shown in Figure 8 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 105 has a third closing wall F3 in the third flow channel groove 2C of the third folded portion T3, a first closing wall F1 in the first flow channel groove 2A of the fourth folded portion T4, and a fourth closing wall F4 in the fourth flow channel groove 2D of the fourth folded portion T4. The closing walls F of separator 104 can change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel 10, thereby suppressing the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0076] Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of separator 106. Separator 106 shown in Figure 9 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 106 has a closing wall F between the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4, and on the second point P2 side of the fourth folded portion T4. The closing wall F of separator 106 changes the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow path 10, thereby suppressing the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0077] Figure 10 shows a schematic diagram of separator 107. Separator 107 shown in Figure 10 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 107 has a closing wall F on the second point P2 side of the fourth return portion T4. Although the closing walls F of separator 107 are all located near the discharge manifold 6, the closing walls F change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow path 10, which can suppress the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0078] Figure 11 shows a schematic diagram of separator 108. Separator 108 shown in Figure 11 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 108 has a first blocking wall F1 in the first flow channel groove 2A between the third folded portion T3 and the fourth folded portion T4. The first blocking wall F1 of separator 108 can change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel 10, thereby suppressing the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0079] Figure 12 shows a schematic diagram of separator 109. Separator 109 shown in Figure 12 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 109 has a configuration in which two flow paths 10 are arranged independently in parallel. Each flow path 10 includes a first return portion T1 and a second return portion T2. ​​The first return portion T1 is a return portion included in the first half of the flow path groove 2, and the second return portion T2 is a return portion included in the second half of the flow path groove 2. From the outside to the inside of the second return portion T2, a fourth flow path groove 2D, a first flow path groove 2A, a second flow path groove 2B, and a third flow path groove 2C are provided. The fourth flow path groove 2D is provided between the fifth flow path wall 1E and the first flow path wall 1A. A first closing wall F1 is provided in the first flow path groove 2A of the second return portion T2.

[0080] The first flow channel groove 2A is provided between the first flow channel wall 1A and the second flow channel wall 1B. The second flow channel groove 2B is provided between the second flow channel wall 1B and the third flow channel wall 1C. The third flow channel groove 2C is provided between the third flow channel wall 3C and the fourth flow channel wall 1D. The fourth flow channel groove 2D, the first flow channel groove 2A, the second flow channel groove 2B, and the third flow channel groove 2C are provided from the outside to the inside of the fourth folded portion T4. The first closing wall F1 of the separator 109 can change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel 10, thereby suppressing the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0081] Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of separator 110. Separator 110 shown in Figure 13 is a modified example of separator 100. Separator 110 has a first flow channel groove 2A and a fourth flow channel groove 2D through which fluid flows from the first point P1 to the second point P2, and a second flow channel groove 2B and a third flow channel groove 2C through which fluid flows from the second point P2 to the first point P1. In other words, the flow channel 10 has flow channel grooves 2 through which fluid flows in opposite directions. The direction of the fluid flowing through the adjacent first flow channel groove 2A and second flow channel groove 2B is opposite. A first blocking wall F1 is provided in the first flow channel groove 2A of the fourth folded portion T4. A second blocking wall F2 is provided in the second flow channel groove 2B of the first folded portion T1.

[0082] The first half of the first channel groove 2A and the first half of the fourth channel groove 2D are located on the side of point 1 P1. The second half of the first channel groove 2A and the second half of the fourth channel groove 2D are located on the side of point 2 P2. The first half of the second channel groove 2B and the first half of the third channel groove 2C are located on the side of point 2 P2. The second half of the second channel groove 2B and the second half of the third channel groove 2C are located on the side of point 1 P1.

[0083] The first channel groove 2A is provided between the first channel wall 1A and the second channel wall 1B. The second channel groove 2B is provided between the second channel wall 1B and the third channel wall 1C. The third channel groove 2C is provided between the third channel wall 1C and the fourth channel wall 1D. The fourth channel groove 2D is provided between the fifth channel wall 1E and the first channel wall 1A.

[0084] Although the first flow channel groove 2A and the second flow channel groove 2B have opposite directions of fluid flow, the presence of a blocking wall F in the latter half of the first flow channel groove 2A and the second flow channel groove 2B allows the first blocking wall F1 of the separator 110 to change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel groove 2, thereby suppressing the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0085] Figure 14 shows a schematic diagram of separator 111. Separator 111 shown in Figure 14 is a modified example of separator 110. Separator 111 has a first flow channel groove 2A and a fourth flow channel groove 2D through which fluid flows from the first point P1 to the second point P2, and a second flow channel groove 2B and a third flow channel groove 2C through which fluid flows from the second point P2 to the first point P1. In other words, the flow channel 10 has flow channel grooves 2 through which fluid flows in opposite directions. The direction of the fluid flowing through the adjacent first flow channel groove 2A and second flow channel groove 2B is opposite. A first blocking wall F1 is provided in the first flow channel groove 2A of the fourth folded portion T4. A second blocking wall F2 is provided in the second flow channel groove 2B of the first folded portion T1.

[0086] The first half of the first channel groove 2A and the first half of the fourth channel groove 2D are located on the side of point 1 P1. The second half of the first channel groove 2A and the second half of the fourth channel groove 2D are located on the side of point 2 P2. The first half of the second channel groove 2B and the first half of the third channel groove 2C are located on the side of point 2 P2. The second half of the second channel groove 2B and the second half of the third channel groove 2C are located on the side of point 1 P1.

[0087] The first channel groove 2A is located between the first channel wall 1A and the second channel wall 1B. The second channel groove 2B is located between the third channel wall 1C and the fourth channel wall 1D. The third channel groove 2C is located between the third channel wall 1C and the fifth channel wall 1E. The fourth channel groove 2D is located between the second channel wall 1B and the fifth channel wall 1E.

[0088] Although the first flow channel groove 2A and the second flow channel groove 2B have opposite directions of fluid flow, the presence of a blocking wall F in the latter half of the first flow channel groove 2A and the second flow channel groove 2B allows the first blocking wall F1 of the separator 110 to change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel groove 2, thereby suppressing the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0089] Figure 15 shows a schematic diagram of separator 111. Separator 111 shown in Figure 14 is a modified example of separator 101. A first blocking wall F1 is provided in the first flow channel groove 2A of the fourth folded portion T4. A connecting passage J is also provided connecting the second flow channel groove 2B and the third flow channel groove 2C of the third folded portion T3. The connecting passage J is a portion where the third flow channel wall 1C is partially cut. Fluid can pass through the connecting passage J. The ease of fluid flow can also be changed in the connecting passage J. It is preferable that the connecting passage J is also provided in the latter half of the flow channel groove 2. The first blocking wall F1 of separator 111 can change the ease of fluid flow in the latter half of the flow channel groove 2 and suppress the accumulation of gas in the fluid.

[0090] (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.

[0091] The electrochemical cell 200 has an anode 21, a cathode 22, an electrolyte membrane 23, a first separator 24, and a second separator 25.

[0092] The first electrode (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 first electrode 21 are made of materials suitable for the anode reaction of the first electrode 21.

[0093] The second electrode (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 second electrode 22 are made of materials suitable for the cathode reaction of the second electrode 22.

[0094] The electrolyte membrane 23 is provided between the first electrode 21 and the second electrode 22. The electrolyte membrane 23 includes, for example, a cation exchange membrane or an anion exchange membrane.

[0095] The first separator 24 is supplied with the fluid used in the reaction of the first electrode 21, and the fluid containing the reactants is discharged from it. The first separator 24 is electrically connected to the first electrode 21.

[0096] The second separator 25 is supplied with the fluid used in the reaction of the second electrode 22, and the fluid containing the reactants is discharged from it. The second separator 25 is electrically connected to the second electrode 22.

[0097] 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 that is not provided with a closing wall F or a connecting passage J.

[0098] The electrochemical cell 200 in Figure 16 uses the separator 100 of the first embodiment for the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0099] The electrochemical cell 200 in Figure 17 uses the separator 100 of the first embodiment as the first separator 24.

[0100] By using the separator 100 of the first or second embodiment, gas is less likely to accumulate inside the separator 100, and the deterioration of the electrolyte membrane 23 can be suppressed.

[0101] (Third embodiment) The third embodiment relates to a stack. Figure 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a stack 300 of the fourth embodiment. The stack 300 of the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 18 consists of multiple electrochemical cells 200 connected in series. Clamping plates 31 and 32 are attached to both ends of the stack 300. Modified electrochemical cells can also be used in the third embodiment.

[0102] When performing electrolysis, the amount of carbon compounds such as H2 and CO produced by a single electrochemical cell 200 is small. Similarly, when generating electricity, the amount of electricity produced by a single electrochemical cell 200 is small. Therefore, by configuring a stack 300 with multiple electrochemical cells 200 connected in series, the amount of products and electricity generated increases.

[0103] (Fourth Embodiment) The fourth embodiment relates to an electrolytic device and a fuel cell. An electrochemical cell 200 or a stack 300 using an electrochemical cell 200 is used in the electrolytic device and the fuel cell. Figure 19 shows a schematic diagram of the device 400 of the fourth embodiment. An electrochemical cell 200 is used in the device 400. Figure 20 shows a schematic diagram of the device 301 of the fourth embodiment. An electrochemical cell 200 is used in the device 401. The diagrams for devices 400 and 401 show some of the configurations of the actual devices. Modified electrochemical cells can also be used in the fifth embodiment.

[0104] The device 400 (401) includes an electrochemical cell 200, an anode current collector plate 41, a cathode current collector plate 42, and a power supply or load 43.

[0105] An anode current collector plate 41 is provided on the first separator 24 of the electrochemical cell 200. The first separator 24 is electrically connected to the anode current collector plate 41.

[0106] A cathode current collector plate 42 is provided on the second separator 25 of the electrochemical cell 200. The second separator 25 is electrically connected to the cathode current collector plate 42.

[0107] A power source or load 43 is connected between the anode current collector plate 41 and the cathode current collector plate 42.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] The present invention will be described more specifically below based on examples, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0111] (Example 1) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 16 was fabricated by using the separator 100 shown in Figure 1 as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0112] (Example 2) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 16 was fabricated by using the separator 100 shown in Figure 4 as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0113] (Comparative Example 1) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 16 was fabricated by using separators without the closing wall F shown in Figure 1 as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0114] (Comparative Example 2) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 16 was fabricated by using separators, such as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, which also have the closure wall F in Figure 1 provided in the first folded portion T1.

[0115] (Comparative Example 3) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 16 was fabricated by using separators without the closing wall F shown in Figure 4 as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25.

[0116] (Comparative Example 4) An electrochemical cell corresponding to Figure 16 was fabricated by using separators, such as the first separator 24 and the second separator 25, which also have the closure wall F shown in Figure 4 provided in the first folded portion T1.

[0117] Using the electrochemical cells of Examples 1 and 2, and the electrochemical cells of Comparative Examples 1 to 4, electrolytic operations were performed to generate CO by electrolyzing CO2 under the same conditions. In both Examples 1 and 2, gas accumulated less in the separator than in Comparative Examples 1 to 4, and the rise in cell voltage was suppressed even during long-term operation.

[0118] Using the electrochemical cells of Examples 1 and 2 and the electrochemical cell of Comparative Example 1, fuel cells were operated under the same conditions with methanol as the fuel. In both Examples 1 and 2, gas accumulated less in the separator than in Comparative Examples 1 to 4, and the decrease in cell voltage was suppressed even during long-term operation.

[0119] The following is a technical proposal for an embodiment. Technical proposal 1 A flow channel including a first flow channel wall, a second flow channel wall, and a first flow channel groove provided between the first flow channel wall and the second flow channel wall, It has, A separator provided with one or more first blocking walls that block a portion of the latter half of the first flow channel groove. Technical proposal 2 The separator according to Technical Proposal 1, wherein the first blocking wall is not present in the first half of the first flow channel groove. Technical proposal 3 The channel is a separator according to Technical Proposal 1 or 2, having a serpentine channel shape. Technical proposal 4 The separator according to Technical Proposal 3, wherein the length of the first blocking wall is 1% or more and 100% or less of the length of the folded portion of the flow path. Technical proposal 5 A separator according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 4, wherein the length of the first blocking wall is 0.1 times or more and 3 times or less the width of the first flow channel groove. Technical proposal 6 The first blocking wall is provided in the folded portion of the flow path, A separator according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 5, wherein the length of the first closing wall is 1% or more and 100% or less of the length of the folded portion on which the first closing wall is provided. Technical proposal 7 A separator according to any one of Technical Proposals 1 to 6, wherein the length of the first blocking wall is 0.1% or more and 1.7% or less of the length of the first flow channel groove. Technical proposal 8 The first blocking wall is a separator according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 7 that connects the first flow channel wall and the second flow channel wall. Technical proposal 9 The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove provided between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall, The aforementioned flow path connects the first point side and the second point side. The first half of the first channel groove and the first half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the first point, The latter half of the first channel groove and the latter half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the second point, A separator according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 8, wherein the first channel groove and the second channel groove are parallel. Technical proposal 10 The separator according to technical proposal 9, wherein one or more second blocking walls are provided to block a portion of the latter half of the second flow channel groove. Technical proposal 11 The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove provided between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall, The aforementioned flow path connects the first point side and the second point side. The first half of the first channel groove and the second half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the first point, The latter half of the first channel groove and the first half of the second channel groove are separators according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 8 located on the second point side. Technical proposal 12 The separator according to technical proposal 11, wherein one or more second blocking walls are provided to block a portion of the latter half of the second flow channel groove. Technical proposal 13 The flow path further includes a third flow path wall, a fourth flow path wall, and a second flow path groove provided between the third flow path wall and the fourth flow path wall. The aforementioned flow path connects the first point side and the second point side. The first half of the first channel groove and the second half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the first point, The latter half of the first channel groove and the first half of the second channel groove are separators according to any one of the technical proposals 1 to 8 located on the second point side. Technical proposal 14 A separator according to technical proposal 13, wherein one or more second blocking walls are provided to block a portion of the latter half of the second flow channel groove. Technical proposal 15 The separator according to technical proposal 10, wherein the second blocking wall is not present in the first half of the second flow channel groove. Technical proposal 16 The separator described in technical proposal 12, wherein the second blocking wall is not present in the first half of the second flow channel groove. Technical proposal 17 The separator described in technical proposal 14, wherein the second blocking wall is not present in the first half of the second flow channel groove. Technical proposal 18 First electrode and, The second electrode and, An electrolyte membrane is placed between the first electrode and the second electrode, A first separator in contact with the first electrode, The device comprises a second separator in contact with the second electrode, 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 17. Technical proposal 19 A stack having an electrochemical cell as described in Technical Proposal 18. Technical proposal 20 An electrolytic device or fuel cell having an electrochemical cell as described in Technical Proposal 18.

[0120] 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]

[0121] 1: Flow channel wall 1A: First channel wall 1B: Second channel wall 1C: Third channel wall 1D: Fourth channel wall 1E: Fifth channel wall 2: Flow channel groove 2A: First channel groove 2B: Second channel groove 2C: Third channel groove 2D: Fourth channel groove 3: Supply communication channels 3C: Third channel wall 4: Supply Manifold 5: Discharge connection channel 6: Exhaust manifold 7: Frame 10: Flow path 21: 1st electrode 22: 2nd electrode 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, load 100: Separator 101: Separator 102: Separator 103: Separator 104: Separator 105: Separator 106: Separator 107: Separator 108: Separator 109: Separator 110: Separator 111: Separator 200: Electrochemical cell 300: Stack 301: Equipment 400: Equipment 401: Device 500: Device F: Occlusive wall F1: First occlusion wall F2: Second occluder wall F3: Third occlusion wall F4: Fourth occluder wall

Claims

1. A flow channel including a first flow channel wall, a second flow channel wall, and a first flow channel groove provided between the first and second flow channel walls, It has, A separator provided with one or more first blocking walls that block a portion of the latter half of the first flow channel groove.

2. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the flow channel has a serpentine-shaped flow channel.

3. The separator according to claim 2, wherein the length of the first blocking wall is 1% or more and 100% or less of the length of the folded portion of the flow path.

4. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the length of the first blocking wall is 0.1 times or more and 3 times or less the width of the first flow channel groove.

5. The first blocking wall is provided in the folded portion of the flow path, The separator according to claim 1, wherein the length of the first closing wall is 1% or more and 100% or less of the length of the folded portion on which the first closing wall is provided.

6. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the length of the first blocking wall is 0.1% or more and 1.7% or less of the length of the first flow channel groove.

7. The separator according to claim 1, wherein the first blocking wall connects the first flow channel wall and the second flow channel wall.

8. The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove provided between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall. The aforementioned flow path connects the first point side and the second point side. The first half of the first channel groove and the first half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the first point, The latter half of the first channel groove and the latter half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the second point, The separator according to claim 1, wherein the first channel groove and the second channel groove are parallel.

9. The separator according to claim 8, wherein one or more second blocking walls are provided to block a portion of the latter half of the second flow channel groove.

10. The flow path further includes a third flow path wall and a second flow path groove provided between the second flow path wall and the third flow path wall. The aforementioned flow path connects the first point side and the second point side. The first half of the first channel groove and the second half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the first point, The separator according to claim 1, wherein the latter half of the first channel groove and the first half of the second channel groove are located on the second point side.

11. The separator according to claim 10, wherein one or more second blocking walls are provided to block a portion of the latter half of the second flow channel groove.

12. The flow path further includes a third flow path wall, a fourth flow path wall, and a second flow path groove provided between the third flow path wall and the fourth flow path wall. The aforementioned flow path connects the first point side and the second point side. The first half of the first channel groove and the second half of the second channel groove are located on the side of the first point, The separator according to claim 1, wherein the latter half of the first channel groove and the first half of the second channel groove are located on the second point side.

13. The separator according to claim 12, wherein one or more second blocking walls are provided to block a portion of the latter half of the second flow channel groove.

14. First electrode and, The second electrode and An electrolyte membrane is placed between the first electrode and the second electrode, A first separator in contact with the first electrode, The device comprises a second separator in contact with the second electrode, An electrochemical cell in which the first separator and / or the second separator is the separator described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A stack having the electrochemical cell according to claim 14.

16. An electrolytic device or fuel cell having the electrochemical cell described in claim 14.

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