Electrolysis apparatus cell frame assembly and electrolysis apparatus

Abstract

The present invention discloses an electrolytic apparatus cell frame assembly comprising a cell frame having an inner and outer periphery, a gasket having an inner and outer periphery, and a cell element having a periphery that is compressed between the gasket and the cell frame. The gasket exhibits compression properties, and the cell frame exhibits rigid properties. The outer periphery of the gasket extends outward beyond the periphery of the cell element in the direction of the outer periphery of the cell frame, such that the gasket overlaps with a predetermined portion of the cell frame.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to an electrolysis device, preferably an alkaline water electrolysis device, and more specifically to a self-frame assembly of an alkaline water electrolysis device.

Background Art

[0002] In alkaline water electrolysis, water is electrochemically converted to hydrogen and oxygen under alkaline conditions (H2O = H2 + 0.5O2). An electrolytic cell includes two electrodes, an anode and a cathode, in an electrolyte. The electrolyte includes a liquid alkaline medium such as an aqueous solution of hydroxide and / or carbonate. The alkaline electrolyte flows through cells connected in fluid parallel and immerses the electrodes in the electrolyte. During operation, a potential is applied between the two electrodes, causing an electrolytic current to flow through the electrolytic cell. During operation, hydrogen is generated at the cathode by a hydrogen production reaction (HER) (2H2O + 2e - = H2 + 2OH - ), and oxygen is generated at the anode by an oxygen production reaction (OER) (2OH - = 0.5O2 + H2O + 2e - ). The electrolytic cell further includes a porous separator (diaphragm) and / or an ion exchange membrane that conducts hydroxide ions and separates the two half-cells to prevent mixing of the generated gases. The electrodes are arranged in a sandwich-like manner on each side of the membrane.

[0003] It is advantageous to arrange the electrodes in a sandwich-like manner as close as possible to the membrane from both sides. This minimizes the distance between the electrodes and reduces the ionic resistance, while ensuring that hydrogen gas bubbles mainly occur on the back surface of the electrodes, which leads to a reduction in overvoltage. This arrangement is often called a "zero-gap configuration" and results in an improvement in cell efficiency. The positioning of the electrodes in this configuration is achieved by pressing the electrodes and the cell membrane together and adjusting the contact pressure through an elastic or rigid spacer adjacent to the electrode on the side opposite to the side facing the membrane. Further, an electrical connection to the electrodes is established through a bipolar plate that contacts the spacer.

[0004] Cells are typically assembled in series as a "cell stack." The more cells there are in the stack, the greater the amount of hydrogen and oxygen produced per unit time. Similarly, the larger the surface area (installation area) of each cell in the stack, the more hydrogen and oxygen can be produced per cell. An electrolysis stack consists of an anode end plate and a cathode end plate, with cells stacked in series between the end plates. In addition to providing electrical contact between cells, the bipolar plates physically separate the anode side of one cell from the cathode side of an adjacent cell.

[0005] Each cell typically has a pair of cell frames essential for forming a reaction chamber within the stack. These cell frames further provide mechanical support to the cell components and, in conjunction with gaskets, prevent leakage of the alkaline electrolyte into the environment. However, most commonly, the cell frames used on the anode side differ structurally from those on the cathode side, making their manufacture less cost-effective.

[0006] The pressurized electrolysis apparatus described in US7,591,932B2 includes a cell frame composed of two materials, one of which is an elastic material in the longitudinal and transverse directions. Secondly, the cell frame includes a rigid material extending in the circumferential direction, providing mechanical stability to the cell frame. The rigid material is connected to the elastic material to form a shell-like frame structure or frame-like insert. The elastic material of the cell frame is made of elastomer or soft elastic thermoplastic resin, and the rigid material is made of metal or plastic. The disadvantage of this arrangement is that the electrolyte flowing through the alkaline electrolysis apparatus affects the material of the elastic element over time, hardening the material and potentially causing undesirable substances to leach from the elastic element. Furthermore, this system requires an additional pressure tank to surround the electrolytic cell block and provide additional compression and insulation. Also, the structure of the elastic and rigid materials makes the manufacturing process of the cell frame complex.

[0007] EP3696298A1 discloses a cell frame for electrolysis or fuel cell blocks. The cell frame includes a receiving opening for receiving a cell membrane, a plurality of collection duct openings designed for the discharge of an electrolyte medium through the cell frame, and a sealing structure used to seal the cell frame to the outside and / or to the receiving opening and / or to the duct openings. The sealing structure consists of a groove in the cell and a sealing element inserted into the groove. The sealing element is a cord seal or an O-seal ring. In this configuration, multiple sealing elements are required to seal the cell, increasing the design complexity of the cell frame and not being a cost-effective option.

[0008] US8349151B2 discloses a common cell frame for polymer electrode membrane (PEM) electrolysis apparatus. The cell frame has a central opening and four sets of lateral openings spaced 90 degrees apart. Two sets of openings spaced 180 degrees apart have internal passages communicating with the central opening. By rotating the cell frame by 90 degrees, it can be configured to be used as both an anode and a cathode frame. However, the presence of additional openings (essentially a "cross-flow" configuration) is unsuitable for use in alkaline electrolysis apparatuses because the generated gas is trapped inside the cell frame in the horizontal passages. Furthermore, the surface area of ​​the bipolar plate accommodates the inlet and outlet channels, so the bipolar plate comes into contact with the electrolyte passing through the channels. This configuration increases the parasitic shunt current flowing through the stack, reducing the energy efficiency of the stack during operation.

[0009] EP3608445A1 (February 12, 2020, THYSSENKRUPP) discloses a cell assembly comprising a cathode gasket and an anode gasket, with a porous diaphragm held between the gaskets, the gaskets positioned between the cathode cell frame and the anode frame. However, the prior art omits a detailed description of the mechanism for securing the bipolar plate within the cell assembly.

[0010] EP2993254A1 and EP4151775A1, filed by Asahi Kasei on March 9, 2016 and March 22, 2023, respectively, disclose a gasket designed to hold cell elements, which are positioned between cell frames. The gasket includes slits for inserting the cell elements, thereby securing them in place. However, it is extremely important to note that the manufacturing complexity associated with such a design is a significant drawback. Because the gasket's slits are adapted to accommodate the thickness of a particular cell element, manufacturing complexity arises when dealing with cell elements of varying thicknesses. This limitation is a fundamental drawback because it restricts the universal application of a single gasket configuration across cell elements of varying thicknesses.

[0011] From these perspectives, an improved cell frame design is needed to reduce the complexity and cost of manufacturing cell frames and to facilitate the assembly of electrolytic equipment. [Overview of the project]

[0012] The fundamental objective of this invention is to create a simplified alkaline electrolysis apparatus with an improved cell frame assembly in order to reduce internal leakage between cells and provide better sealing technology.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide sealing between adjacent cells using a cell frame and a single gasket, and to ensure that no leakage occurs from the cells to the external environment.

[0014] Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to design a cell frame assembly that provides mechanical support to the cell components of a stack using a single sealing component.

[0015] The above objectives of the present invention are achieved by the following technical solutions.

[0016] Various embodiments of the present invention disclose an electrolysis apparatus cell frame assembly comprising a cell frame having an inner and outer periphery, a gasket having an inner and outer periphery, and a cell element having a periphery that is compressed between the gasket and the cell frame. The gasket exhibits compressive properties, while the cell frame exhibits rigid properties. The outer periphery of the gasket extends outward in the direction of the outer periphery of the cell frame, beyond the periphery of the cell element, such that the gasket overlaps with a predetermined portion of the cell frame.

[0017] The inner edge of the gasket extends inward beyond the periphery of the cell element in the direction of the inner periphery of the cell frame, so that the gasket overlaps a predetermined portion of the cell element. The gasket is positioned along the entire periphery of the cell element, overlapping portions of the cell frame and portions of the cell element.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the cell frame includes a central opening, grooves for accommodating cell elements, a plurality of lateral channels, and at least two passages, each passage connecting at least one channel to the central opening.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the two passages are arranged at approximately 180-degree intervals.

[0020] According to one embodiment, a bridge is positioned at the junction of the passageway and the central opening.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the cell frame has a first surface and a second surface, the groove is located on the first surface of the cell frame, and the passage and bridge are located on the second surface of the cell frame.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the gasket has at least two extensions that overlap predetermined portions of the cell frame around the channels and passages. The extensions of the gasket include a plurality of openings for accommodating the plurality of channels and passages.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the cell element is either a cell membrane or a bipolar plate.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the self-frame includes a plurality of protrusions and recesses that fit together to align the self-frame and the gasket in the self-frame assembly.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the groove has a gap between the peripheral edge of the groove and the outer periphery of the cell element to compensate for thermal expansion or contraction of the cell element.

[0026] The present invention further discloses an electrolyzer, preferably an alkaline water electrolyzer. The electrolyzer includes a first end plate, a second end plate, and a plurality of cells stacked in series between the first end plate and the second end plate. Each cell includes a bipolar plate assembly, a cell membrane assembly, a plurality of electrodes, and a plurality of spacers. The bipolar plate assembly includes a bipolar plate disposed between a first self-frame and a first gasket. The first gasket is assembled to overlap a predetermined portion of the first self-frame and a predetermined portion of the bipolar plate. The cell membrane assembly includes a cell membrane disposed between a second self-frame and a second gasket. The second gasket is assembled to overlap a predetermined portion of the second self-frame and a predetermined portion of the cell membrane disposed in the groove. The first electrode and the first spacer are disposed between the bipolar plate assembly and the cell membrane assembly, and the second electrode and the second spacer are disposed between the cell membrane assembly and the bipolar plate assembly of an adjacent cell.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the first self-frame is structurally identical to the second self-frame. The bipolar plate assembly and the cell membrane assembly are arranged in an alternating pattern, and the first self-frame and the second self-frame are arranged by rotating the self-frame alternately by 180 degrees.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the first gasket of the bipolar plate assembly is compressed between the cell frame of the adjacent cell membrane assembly and the first cell frame and the bipolar plate of the bipolar plate assembly, and the second gasket of the cell membrane assembly is compressed between the first cell frame of the bipolar plate assembly and the second cell frame of the cell membrane assembly.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the perimeters of the first electrode and the second electrode are each smaller than or equal to the inner perimeter of the cell frame. The perimeters of the first spacer and the second spacer are each smaller than or equal to the inner perimeter of the cell frame.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the total number of gaskets in the stack is one more than the number of cell frames, and the additional gasket is disposed behind the first end plate or in front of the second end plate.

[0031] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0032] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better understood and appreciated by considering the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the following description shows preferred embodiments and numerous specific details by way of illustration, not limitation. Within the scope of the embodiments herein, many changes and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0033] The above summary and the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present invention, exemplary configurations of the embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, and reference is made to the following figures.

[0034] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram of a cell frame assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1A is a cross-sectional view of the cell frame assembly, and Figure 1B is a front view of the cell frame assembly. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the first and second surfaces of a cell frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a front view of a gasket having an extension portion according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cell arrangement including two cell frame assemblies according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a cell assembly showing gasket compression according to three different embodiments of the present invention. Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of a cell assembly in which the thickness of the cell elements is the same as the depth of the grooves in the cell frame. Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of a cell assembly in which the thickness of the cell elements is less than the depth of the grooves in the cell frame. Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of a cell assembly in which the thickness of the cell elements is greater than the depth of the grooves in the cell frame.

[0035] However, the following description, while illustrating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details, should be understood to be illustrative and not limiting. Within the scope of these embodiments, many changes and modifications are possible without departing from their spirit, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0036] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which constitute part of this application. The drawings illustrate specific implementable embodiments. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail so that those skilled in the art can implement them, and it should be understood that logical, mechanical, and other modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the embodiments. Therefore, the following detailed description is not intended to be construed in a restrictive sense.

[0037] Various embodiments describe an electrolysis apparatus stack comprising a plurality of cells stacked between a first end plate and a second end plate. Each end plate functions as a positive and negative electrode terminal and is supplied with DC power. The plurality of cells are stacked between the end plates in a specific order. Each cell in the stack comprises a plurality of cell components, including, but not limited to, a plurality of spacers positioned adjacent to the electrodes on both sides of the electrode-cell-electrode assembly, and at least two electrodes (one acting as an anode and the other as a cathode) positioned on each side of the cell membrane. The placement of the electrodes close to the cell membrane is achieved by compression via spacers. A plurality of channels extend from the first end plate through the stack, and the channels branch into each cell through a plurality of passages. The electrolyte flows into the stack through an inlet channel and is supplied to each individual cell through a passage exiting the channel. During the electrolysis process, the generated humidified gas exits the cell through the passage and leaves the stack with the electrolyte through an outlet channel. A plurality of cell frame assemblies ensure the sealing of the cell components. Furthermore, the cell components are supported by multiple cell frame assemblies. Each cell includes at least two cell frame assemblies, each assembly containing a cell frame and a gasket. The end plates and cells are compressed and clamped using tie rods and bolts. This clamping provides sealing pressure and proper pressure distribution between different cell components. The clamping also ensures electrical connections between bipolar plates.

[0038] According to embodiments of the present invention, electrodes can be formed as perforated metal plates, metal fabric meshes, or expanded metal plates having a porous surface. The electrodes need to have long-term corrosion resistance in alkaline environments, as well as good electrical conductivity and high electrochemical activity. Substrate materials used for electrodes include, but are not limited to, nickel-containing substrates or steel substrates. Steel substrate electrodes need to be coated with a thin film of nickel to prevent corrosion and promote catalytic activity. Furthermore, electrodes are preferably coated with an electrode catalyst to achieve an electrochemically activated surface that improves each half-cell reaction. The electrode catalyst material is preferably adapted to the half-cell reaction, and therefore the catalyst coatings of the cathode and anode are different. Preferably, the cathode is often coated with layers of Raney nickel, ruthenium dioxide (RuO2), other mixed metal oxides (MMOs), and molybdenum (Mo). Furthermore, nickel oxide and nickel-cobalt mixed oxides can also be used to further improve the electrochemical activity of the anode.

[0039] In the context of this invention, the term "membrane" is used interchangeably with "separator" and "diaphragm" and refers to a stack component made of a porous or non-porous polymer used to separate the anode and cathode and to transport hydroxide ions through it. The membrane needs to have high heat resistance, chemical resistance, and electrochemical resistance. Zirconium oxide-polysulfonic acid membranes are preferably used, but membranes of different configurations based on inorganic oxides supported by polymer cloths are also suitable. Materials to be considered for the membrane include, but are not limited to, oxide ceramic materials, sulfonated polymers, perfluorosulfonated polymers, and glass fiber-reinforced polyphenylene sulfide or polysulfones containing inorganic oxides.

[0040] Bipolar plates and spacers are primarily manufactured from nickel or nickel-clad steel. The spacers must be designed to have spring-like properties, allowing the electrodes to be lightly pressed against the film via the spacers.

[0041] The electrolyte is preferably an alkaline hydroxide solution, and particularly preferably a sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide solution.

[0042] In the context of the present invention, the stack contains N cells, with 2 × N electrodes, N cell films, 2 × N cell frames, 2 × (N+1) gaskets, N-1 bipolar plates, and 2 end plates.

[0043] Figure 1 shows a cell frame assembly 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1A, the assembly 100 includes a cell frame 101, a gasket 102, and a cell element 103. The cell element 103 includes a peripheral edge 103x. The cell frame 101 includes an outer peripheral edge 101x and an inner peripheral edge 101y and exhibits rigidity properties that provide mechanical support to the cell components enclosed within the cell frame assembly 100. On the other hand, the gasket 102 exhibits compressive properties, facilitating the holding of the cell element 103 in place when compressed. The cell element 103 is inserted between the cell frame 101 and the gasket 102 such that the gasket 102 overlaps with predetermined portions of the cell frame 101 and predetermined portions of the cell element 103. To achieve efficient sealing of the cell frame assembly 100, the gasket 102 is designed as a hollow loop with predetermined width and thickness and includes an outer peripheral edge 102x and an inner peripheral edge 102y.

[0044] As shown in Figure 1B, the outer edge 102x of the gasket 102 extends outward in the direction of the outer edge 101x of the cell frame 101, beyond the periphery 103x of the cell element 103, so that a certain portion of the gasket 102 overlaps with the cell frame 101. In contrast, the inner edge 102y of the gasket 102 extends inward in the direction of the inner edge 101y of the cell frame 101, away from the periphery 103x of the cell element 103, so that a certain portion of the gasket 102 overlaps with the cell element 103. Although the described assembly exemplifies a circular shape, it should be understood that within the scope of the present invention, the assembly components can be of any shape or combination thereof.

[0045] Figure 2 shows a front view of a cell frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. With respect to Figure 2A, the cell frame 101 includes a central opening 201 that forms the inner peripheral edge 101y of the cell frame 101. The cell frame 101 includes a groove 202 having a predetermined width and depth, the groove 202 forming a peripheral edge 202a on the cell frame 101 in the space between the inner peripheral edge 101y and the outer peripheral edge 101x of the cell frame 101. The width of the groove 202 extends from the peripheral edge 202a of the groove 202 to the inner peripheral edge 101y of the cell frame 101. When a cell element 103 is housed in the groove 202 of the cell frame 101, a gap is provided between the peripheral edge 202a of the groove 202 and the peripheral edge 103x of the cell element 103 to compensate for thermal expansion or contraction of the cell element when the electrolysis apparatus is started, operated, or stopped. The groove 202 forms a stepped depression at its periphery 202a, but the groove 202 can be modified to form a different structure, including, but not limited to, a curved or inclined depression, a raised rib, etc.

[0046] The cell frame 101 is mainly composed of plastics, including but not limited to polysulfone, polyetheretherketone, acetal copolymer, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene, polyphenylene sulfide, polyphenylene oxide, polybenzimidazole, polyethyleneimine, polyamideimide, and other plastic polymers. The cell frame material may have fillers such as fibers, polyphenylene oxide, and other suitable materials to provide additional strength and temperature tolerance. However, the cell frame may be composed of metals, ceramics, other materials, or combinations thereof, which have appropriate mechanical strength, thermal tolerance, electrical insulation properties, and chemical resistance to withstand alkaline environments.

[0047] The cell frame 101 further includes a plurality of channels 203a, 203b, 203c, 203d for the medium to enter and exit the cell, the medium including, but not limited to, an electrolyte and a generated gas. The cell frame further includes at least one passage 204a, 204b connecting at least one channel to the central opening of the cell frame 101. The passages 204a, 204b provide a path to the channel for supplying the medium through the cell frame to the central opening 201 or for discharging it from the central opening 201.

[0048] According to one embodiment, channels 203a to 203d are divided into two sets, each set containing at least two channels. When one channel set functions as an inlet, the other channel set functions as an outlet. Referring to Figure 2B, channels 203a and 203b form one set, and channels 203c and 203d form a second channel set. The functions of channels 203a to 203d as inlets and outlets depend on their arrangement in the electrolysis apparatus stack of the cell frame 101. Channels within the same set are arranged adjacent to each other with a predetermined distance between them. However, two channel sets are arranged approximately 180 degrees apart.

[0049] Figure 2B shows the arrangement of channels 203a to 203d within the cell frame 101. For example, consider the cell frame 101 as being arranged such that channels 203a and 203b are located in the upper section of the stack, and channels 203c and 203d are located in the lower section of the stack. In this arrangement, channels 203a and 203b act as outlets and function as generated gas exhaust channels, while channels 203c and 203d act as inlets and function as electrolyte supply channels.

[0050] According to one embodiment, each channel set has at least one passage 204a, 204b connecting the central opening 201 of the cell frame 101 to any channel within the channel set. Thus, each passage is 180 degrees apart and forms an inlet passage and an outlet passage based on the arrangement of the cell frame 101. The inlet passage supplies electrolyte from the inlet channel to the cell, and the outlet passage discharges the gas generated in the cell to the outlet channel.

[0051] Referring again to Figure 2B, passage 204a connects channel 203a to the central opening 201 of the cell frame 101, and passage 204b connects channel 203c to the central opening 201 of the cell frame 101. Assuming that hydrogen is discharged on one side of the stack and oxygen is discharged on the other side of the stack, the hydrogen-discharging cell frame 101 is assembled so that channels 203a, 203c and passages 204a, 204b are positioned on the hydrogen side of the cell. Similarly, if the cell frame 101 is positioned on the oxygen side of the cell, the cell frame 101 is rotated circumferentially 180 degrees relative to the hydrogen-side cell frame 101 and aligned so that channels 203a, 203c and passages 204a, 204b are positioned on the oxygen side of the cell.

[0052] The cell frame 101 includes a bridge 205 at the junction of the passage and the central opening. When the gasket 102 is compressed against the cell frame 101, the bridge 205 prevents the gasket 102 from interfering with the passages 204a and 204b, allows the medium to move freely through the passage between the cell and each channel, and ensures uniform compression of the gasket at the junction. The bridge 205 is made of any material that is rigid and non-compressible and has sufficient mechanical resistance to prevent the gasket 102 from sinking into the passage.

[0053] The cell frame 101 has two sides, a first surface shown in Figure 2A and a second surface shown in Figure 2B. The groove 202 is preferably located on the first surface of the cell frame 101, and the passages 204a, 204b and bridge 205 are located on the second surface of the cell frame 101. Therefore, when the cell frames 101 are arranged alternately, the second surface of the cell frame 101 faces the first surface of the adjacent cell frame. The gasket 102 located on the first surface of the cell frame 101 is subjected to compression from the second surface of the adjacent cell frame.

[0054] Both sides of the cell frame 101 further include a plurality of projections 206a and recesses 206b for aligning the gasket 102 with the cell frame 101. Furthermore, the projections 206a of the cell frame fit into the recesses of adjacent cell frames, fixing the two cell frames 101 in place.

[0055] The gasket is made of a thermosetting material and includes, but is not limited to, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), stretched PTFE, glass fiber reinforced PTFE, vulcanized or peroxide-crosslinked ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), ethylene propylene rubber (EPM), fluorine elastomer, nitrile butadiene rubber, and tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer (PFA).

[0056] Referring to Figure 3, the gasket 102 includes at least two extensions 302a, 302b that overlap predetermined portions of the cell frame around the channels and passages. The extensions include a plurality of openings 303a, 303b for accommodating the channels and passages present on the cell frame, respectively. Thus, the extensions 302a, 302b are positioned 180 degrees apart.

[0057] The extensions 302a and 302b of the gasket 102 further include openings 303c for accommodating projections of the cell frame. The gasket 102 is aligned on the cell frame such that the openings 303a, 303b and 303c on the gasket 102 are positioned according to the channels, passages and projections of the cell frame.

[0058] According to another embodiment, the extension can have an irregular shape, and its shape depends on various factors, including but not limited to the arrangement and structure of the passages, the number of channels, and the number of protrusions. However, in another embodiment, the entire outer edge of the gasket can be extended to include an opening, thereby eliminating the need for an extension.

[0059] Referring again to Figure 1B, the cell element 103, positioned in the groove of the cell frame 101, is either a bipolar plate or a cell film. The surface region of the cell element 103 is designed so that it does not surround the lateral channel, thereby minimizing parasitic shunt current and improving placement energy efficiency. Other cell components (such as electrodes and spacers, but not limited to these) are suspended from the central opening of the cell frame 101.

[0060] The stack is configured in one of three shapes, circular, square, or rectangular, based on the functional requirements of the stack. In other suitable embodiments, the cell frame 101 may have a non-circular shape, such as a rectangular disk shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape with fewer or more sides than a square.

[0061] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cell arrangement according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. With respect to Figure 4, the cell 10 is assembled from two components: a bipolar plate assembly 100a and a cell film assembly 100b. The bipolar plate assembly 100a includes a bipolar plate 401a interposed between a first cell frame 101a and a first gasket 102a. Similarly, the cell film assembly 100b includes a cell film 402 interposed between a second cell frame 101b and a second gasket 102b. The cell frames 101a and 101b used in both assemblies can be identical, but the arrangement of consecutive cell frames 101a and 101b differs between assemblies. The bipolar plate assemblies and cell film assemblies can be stacked alternately between end plates, and consecutive cell frames of the assemblies can be arranged by rotating them 180 degrees relative to each other. In this embodiment, the cell frame 101a of the bipolar plate assembly 100a is rotated 180 degrees relative to the cell frame 101b of the cell membrane assembly 100b.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4, each cell frame assembly 100 further includes at least one electrode and at least one spacer, positioned at the central opening of the cell frame 101. Thus, the first electrode 403a and the first spacer 404a are surrounded between the bipolar plate assembly 100a and the cell membrane assembly 100b, with spacer 404a positioned adjacent to the bipolar plate 401a and the first electrode 403a positioned adjacent to the first spacer 404a. Similarly, the second electrode 403b and the second spacer 404b are surrounded between the cell membrane assembly 100b and the bipolar plate assembly 100c of the adjacent cell, with the second electrode 403b positioned adjacent to the cell membrane 402 and the second spacer 404b positioned adjacent to electrode 403b. When the bipolar plate assembly 100a and the cell film assembly 100b are stacked on top of each other, the first electrode 403a of the bipolar plate assembly 100a and the second electrode 403b of the cell film assembly 100b are positioned on opposite sides of the cell film 402, and the spacers 404a and 404b press the electrodes 403a and 403b against the cell film 402, thereby achieving a zero-gap configuration.

[0063] The peripheries of electrodes 403a and 403b, and the peripheries of spacers 404a and 404b are below the inner periphery 101y of the cell frame 101. To protect the electrodes and ensure proper sealing to prevent electrolyte leakage, electrodes 403a and 403b and spacers 404a and 404b are positioned within the central opening 201 of the cell frame 101.

[0064] When the cell is clamped and compressed between the first and second end plates, the cell frame 101a of the bipolar plate assembly 100a compresses the gasket 102b of the cell membrane assembly 100b, holding the cell membrane 402 in place. Similarly, the cell frame 101b of the cell membrane assembly 100b compresses the gasket 102c of the adjacent bipolar plate assembly 100c, holding the bipolar plate 401b in place. The cell frames 101a and 101c of the bipolar plate assemblies 100a and 100c are identical.

[0065] An additional gasket is placed on the first or second end plate of the stack to apply compressive force to the first or last cell, depending on the alignment of the cell elements within the stack. Therefore, the total number of gaskets in the stack is one greater than the number of cell frames.

[0066] Another embodiment of the present invention illustrates a simplified adaptation of the cell frame assembly 100 for accommodating cell elements of different thicknesses. The gasket 102 is compressed to adapt to the varying thicknesses of the cell elements 103. The thickness of the gasket 102 is calculated based on the thickness of the cell elements 103, and the following equation is satisfied:

number

[0067] Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C are cross-sectional views of a cell assembly illustrating the compression of a gasket according to different embodiments of the present invention. The gasket 102 of the cell frame assembly 100 is configured to variably adapt to the different thicknesses of the cell elements 103 inserted into the grooves 202 of the cell frame 101. The gasket 102 is configured to compensate for the gaps caused by the differences in thickness of the cell elements 103 and to seal the space between two adjacent cell frames to prevent electrolyte leakage.

[0068] With respect to Figure 5A, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the cell element 103 is the same as the depth of the groove 202 of the cell frame 101b. When pressure is applied, the gasket 102 becomes uniform in thickness throughout the areas that contact and overlap with the cell element 103 and the areas that contact and overlap with the cell frame 101, sealing the space between adjacent cell frame assemblies.

[0069] With respect to Figure 5B, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the cell element 103 is less than the depth of the groove 202 in the cell frame 101b. When pressure is applied, the cell frame 101a compresses the gasket 102 against the cell frame 101b and the cell element 103, so the thickness 102" of the portion of the gasket 102 that contacts the cell frame 101 decreases, and the thickness of the gasket 102' that overlaps with the cell element 103 becomes greater than the thickness of the gasket 102". This is because the gasket 102 fills the space between the surface of the cell element 103 that contacts the first surface of the gasket 102 and the cell frame 101b that contacts the second surface of the gasket 102.

[0070] With respect to Figure 5C, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the cell element 103 is greater than the depth of the groove 202 in the cell frame 101b. When pressure is applied, the gasket 102 is compressed between the cell element and the cell frame 101b, so the thickness of the gasket 102' that overlaps the cell element 103 becomes smaller than the thickness of the gasket 102” that contacts the cell frame 101b.

[0071] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below. It should be understood that this embodiment is merely an example to illustrate the overlapping aspects of the cell frame assembly according to the present invention and does not limit the present invention in any way.

[0072] Considering a pressurized alkaline water electrolysis apparatus having circular cell components, each cell comprises two cell frames, two gaskets, one bipolar plate, and one cell membrane. The overlapping aspects of the present invention are shown with respect to the diameter of the cell components. The cell components are defined by the predetermined diameters shown below.

[0073] Cell frame inner diameter: 350mm Cell frame outer diameter: 490mm Gasket inner diameter: 350mm Gasket outer diameter: 405mm Cell element diameter: 385mm

[0074] When the cell components are arranged according to the cell frame assembly shown in Figure 1B, the dimensions of the cell components allow the gasket to overlap with parts of the cell frame and parts of the cell elements.

[0075] The portion of the cell element where the gasket overlaps is calculated as the diameter of the cell element minus the inner diameter of the gasket. 35mm

[0076] The portion of the cell frame where the gasket overlaps is calculated as the outer diameter of the gasket minus the diameter of the cell element. 20mm

[0077] The above detailed description of various embodiments clearly discloses the advantages of the present invention, namely, providing a cell frame assembly that reduces the complexity of frame manufacturing. The cell frame, together with the gasket, ensures a secure and reliable seal, reducing the risk of leaks and guaranteeing that the system operates as intended.

[0078] The above description relating to specific embodiments fully illustrates the general nature of the embodiments herein, and those skilled in the art can readily modify and / or apply such specific embodiments to various uses without departing from the general concept by applying their current knowledge. Such applications and modifications should and are intended to be included in the equivalent meaning and scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0079] The expressions and terms used herein should be understood to be for illustrative purposes only and not to be limiting. Accordingly, although the embodiments described herein are described as preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments described herein can be implemented with modifications within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0080] While embodiments described herein are illustrated in various specific examples, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented with modifications. However, all such modifications should be considered to fall within the scope of the claims.

[0081] It should also be understood that the following claims are intended to encompass all general and specific features of the embodiments described herein, as well as all descriptions relating to the scope of the embodiments that may be said to fall somewhere in between.

Claims

1. A cell frame (101) having an inner periphery (101y) and an outer periphery (101x), wherein the cell frame (101) exhibits rigidity characteristics, and A gasket (102) having an inner peripheral edge (102y) and an outer peripheral edge (102x), wherein the gasket (102) exhibits compression characteristics, and The device comprises a cell element (103) having a peripheral edge (103x) and being compressed between the gasket (102) and the cell frame (101), The outer peripheral edge (102x) of the gasket (102) extends outward beyond the peripheral edge (103x) of the cell element (103) in the direction of the outer peripheral edge (101x) of the cell frame (101) so that the gasket (102) overlaps a predetermined portion of the cell frame (101). The inner peripheral edge (102y) of the gasket (102) extends inward beyond the peripheral edge (103x) of the cell element (103) in the direction of the inner peripheral edge (101y) of the cell frame (101) so that the gasket (102) overlaps a predetermined portion of the cell element (103). The gasket (102) is positioned along the entire periphery (103x) of the cell element (103) so as to overlap with the portion of the cell frame (101) and the portion of the cell element (103) in the electrolysis apparatus cell frame assembly (100).

2. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cell frame (101) includes a central opening (201), a groove (202) for accommodating the cell elements (103), a plurality of lateral channels (203a to 203d), and at least two passages (204a, 204b), each passage connecting at least one channel to the central opening.

3. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 2, wherein the two passages (204a, 204b) are arranged at approximately 180-degree intervals.

4. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the cell frame (101) further includes a bridge (205) at the joint between the passage (204a or 204b) and the central opening (201).

5. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 2 or 4, wherein the cell frame (101) has a first surface and a second surface, the groove (202) is located on the first surface of the cell frame (101), and the passage (204a or 204b) and the bridge (205) are located on the second surface of the cell frame (101).

6. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 2, wherein the gasket (102) includes at least two extensions (302a, 302b) that overlap predetermined portions of the cell frame (101) around the channels (203a to 203d) and the passages (204a or 204b).

7. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 6, wherein the extension (302a or 302b) of the gasket (102) includes a plurality of openings (303a to 303c) for accommodating the plurality of channels (203a to 203d) and the passage (204a or 204b).

8. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cell element (103) is either a cell membrane or a bipolar plate.

9. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 2, wherein the cell frame (101) includes a plurality of interlocking protrusions (206a) and a plurality of recesses (206b) that fit together to align the cell frame (101) and the gasket (102) within the cell frame assembly (100).

10. The cell frame assembly (100) according to claim 2 or 5, wherein the groove (202) has a gap between the periphery of the groove (202) and the periphery (103x) of the cell element (103) to compensate for thermal expansion or contraction of the cell element (103).

11. First end plate and second end plate, The device comprises a plurality of cells stacked in series between the first end plate and the second end plate, Each cell (10) is: A bipolar plate assembly (100a) including a bipolar plate (401a) disposed between a first cell frame (101a) and a first gasket (102a), The first gasket (102a) is assembled to overlap a bipolar plate assembly (100a) which is assembled to overlap a predetermined portion of the first cell frame (101a) and a predetermined portion of the bipolar plate (401a), A cell film assembly (100b) including a cell film (402) disposed between a second cell frame (101b) and a second gasket (102b), The second gasket (102b) is assembled to overlap a predetermined portion of the second cell frame (101b) and a predetermined portion of the cell film (402), It includes multiple electrodes and multiple spacers, The first electrode (403a) and the first spacer (404a) are positioned between the bipolar plate assembly (100a) and the cell film assembly (100b). An electrolysis apparatus, preferably an alkaline water electrolysis apparatus, wherein the second electrode (403b) and the second spacer (404b) are positioned between the cell membrane assembly (100b) and the bipolar plate assembly (100c) of an adjacent cell.

12. The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the first cell frame (101a) is structurally identical to the second cell frame (101b).

13. The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the bipolar plate assembly (100a) and the cell membrane assembly (100b) are arranged in an alternating pattern, and the first cell frame (101a) and the second cell frame (101b) are arranged to rotate alternately by 180 degrees each.

14. The first gasket (102a) of the bipolar plate assembly (100a) is compressed between the cell frame of the adjacent cell membrane assembly, the first cell frame (101a) of the bipolar plate assembly (100a), and the bipolar plate (401a). The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 11, 12, or 13, wherein the second gasket (102b) of the cell membrane assembly (100b) is compressed between the first cell frame (101a) of the bipolar plate assembly (100a), the second cell frame (101b) of the cell membrane assembly (100b), and the cell membrane (402).

15. The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the peripheries of the first electrode (403a) and the second electrode (403b) are below the inner periphery of the cell frame, and the peripheries of the first spacer (404a) and the second spacer (404b) are below the inner periphery of the cell frame.

16. The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the total number of gaskets in the laminate is one greater than the number of cell frames, and the additional gaskets are located either behind the first end plate or in front of the second end plate.

Images