fuel cells
By optimizing catalyst metal distribution in fuel cells, the design addresses inefficiencies caused by catalyst waste beneath ribs, enhancing power generation efficiency and reducing costs.
JP2026091279APending Publication Date: 2026-06-03SUBARU CORP
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SUBARU CORP
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-03
AI Technical Summary
Technical Problem
Current fuel cell technologies suffer from reduced power generation efficiency due to catalyst metal waste beneath separator ribs, where oxygen diffusion is inhibited by generated water, leading to inefficient power generation.
Method used
The fuel cell design includes a membrane electrode assembly with varying catalyst metal distribution, where the amount of catalyst metal is higher in regions directly below flow paths than beneath ribs, optimizing catalyst utilization.
Benefits of technology
This design enhances power generation efficiency by minimizing catalyst waste and improving overall performance without increasing costs.
✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
Smart Images
Figure 2026091279000001_ABST
Abstract
The present invention provides a fuel cell that can suppress waste of catalyst metal in the catalyst layer of the fuel cell and improve the power generation efficiency relative to the amount of catalyst metal. [Solution] A fuel cell in one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a membrane electrode assembly in which an electrolyte membrane is sandwiched between catalyst layers, a separator comprising a plurality of ribs in contact with the membrane electrode assembly, and a flow path formed between the plurality of ribs through which a gas supplied to the electrolyte membrane can flow, wherein the amount of catalyst metal contained in the catalyst layer is greater in the flow path region located directly below the flow path than in the flow path region located directly below the ribs in the in-plane direction of the catalyst layer.
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