Method for manufacturing a metal supported fuel cell unit

Abstract

The present invention is based on a method for producing a metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit, in particular a metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell unit. The metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit comprises at least one electrode unit (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) with at least two functional layers (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b; 16c, 18c; 16f, 18f), and the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit comprises at least one metal carrier device for supporting the electrode unit (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f). It is proposed here that the electrode unit (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) with at least two functional layers (16a, 18a; 16c, 18c; 16f, 18f) and the metal carrier device are produced separately from each other.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Prior Art Methods for producing metal supported fuel cell units and / or electrolyser units, in particular metal supported solid oxide fuel cell units, have already been proposed, where the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit comprises at least one electrode unit with at least two functional layers, and the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit comprises at least one metal carrier device for supporting the electrode unit. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0002] Disclosure of the Invention The present invention is based on a method for producing a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit, in particular a metal supported solid oxide fuel cell unit, wherein the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit comprises at least one electrode unit with at least two functional layers, and the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit comprises at least one metal carrier device for supporting the electrode unit.

[0003] It is proposed that the electrode unit with at least two functional layers and the metal support device are manufactured separately from each other. In this context, a "fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit" is to be understood as at least a part, in particular a subassembly, of a fuel cell, in particular a solid oxide fuel cell, and / or an electrolyzer, in particular a high-temperature electrolyzer. In particular, the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit may also comprise an entire fuel cell, in particular an entire solid oxide fuel cell, an entire electrolyzer, in particular an entire high-temperature electrolyzer, a stack of fuel cells and / or electrolyzers, and / or a combination of a plurality of stacks of fuel cells and / or electrolyzers. Advantageously, the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit is provided for providing an oxidant and for burning a fuel in a combustion process to generate electrical energy. Alternatively or additionally, the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit is provided for providing electrical energy and for splitting a fluid into at least two components in a separation process. "Provided" should be understood as being specifically configured, specifically designed, and / or specifically equipped. An object being provided for a particular function should be understood as, in particular, that the object performs and / or executes such particular function, at least in a state of use and / or in operation.

[0004] Advantageously, the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit comprises at least one functional layer, in particular at least three functional layers. Advantageously, "functional layers of the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit" should be understood in particular as layers which are directly involved in the combustion process and / or the separation process carried out by the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit. In particular, at least one, advantageously two functional layers are formed as electrode layers, in particular for use as a cathode and / or an anode. Advantageously, at least one electrode layer is formed as an oxidizer electrode, in particular for contact with an oxidizer and / or fission products. Advantageously, at least one electrode layer is formed as a fuel electrode, in particular for contact with a fuel and / or further fission products. Advantageously, at least one functional layer is formed as a separation layer, in particular as an electrolyte layer. Advantageously, at least one separation layer is arranged on at least one electrode layer, in particular between two electrode layers. Advantageously, the electrode unit comprises at least one of the functional layers formed as an electrode layer. Advantageously, the electrode unit comprises at least one functional layer which is formed as a separating layer. In particular, the electrode unit is formed as a membrane electrode assembly (MEA).

[0005] Advantageously, the metal carrier device is provided for mechanical and / or thermal stabilization of the electrode unit. Advantageously, the metal carrier device has at least one electrode contact surface, in particular on the largest outer surface of the metal carrier device, in order to deposit the electrode unit on the metal carrier device. In particular, in at least one step, the electrode unit is deposited on the metal carrier device. Advantageously, the maximum extension of the electrode contact surface is greater than the maximum extension of one functional layer of the plurality of functional layers, preferably of all functional layers. In particular, the maximum perimeter of the electrode contact surface is greater than the maximum perimeter of one functional layer of the plurality of functional layers, preferably of all functional layers. Advantageously, the metal carrier device has at least a maximum extension in a direction perpendicular to the electrode contact surface, which maximum extension exceeds the layer thickness of one functional layer of the plurality of functional layers, in particular the layer thickness common to all functional layers, advantageously more than twice the thickness of this layer, particularly advantageously more than five times the thickness of this layer. In particular, at least a part of the metal carrier device, in particular the electrode contact surface, is manufactured from a metal film, a metal sheet and / or a metal plate. Advantageously, the metal carrier device is produced at least substantially in at least one step from at least one metal. By an object being produced "substantially from a material" it is to be understood in particular that the volume fraction of this material in the total volume of the object is 25% or more, advantageously 50% or more, particularly advantageously 75% or more. Advantageously, the metal carrier device is produced at least substantially from a high-temperature stable metal. "High-temperature stable" is to be understood in particular as being geometrically and / or chemically stable up to a temperature of at least 500° C., advantageously at least 850° C., particularly advantageously at least 1200° C. It is conceivable that the metal carrier device comprises components produced from ceramic, plastic or some other material, for example for electrically and / or thermally insulated fixing of the metal carrier device and / or individual components of the metal carrier device.

[0006] Advantageously, in at least one electrode manufacturing step, the electrode unit is manufactured, in particular at least preformed. Advantageously, in the electrode manufacturing step, at least one blank, pressed body, green body, white body, etc. of the electrode unit is manufactured. Advantageously, in at least one step, the electrode unit is transferred from the preformed state to the final state after being deposited on the metal carrier device, in particular by sintering and / or hardening. In particular, in the electrode manufacturing step, at least two functional layers of the electrode unit are arranged against one another, in particular fixed against one another.

[0007] Advantageously, in at least one metal carrier manufacturing step, a metal carrier device is manufactured. Advantageously, in the metal carrier manufacturing step, at least one base body of the metal carrier device, in particular a metal sheet, is structured. In particular, in the metal carrier manufacturing step, at least one fluid line is worked into the base body. Advantageously, at least one fluid line is worked into the base body of the metal carrier device by a deformation process, in particular by punching, embossing, milling, laser drilling, laser cutting, etc.

[0008] An object is produced "separately" from other objects, in particular to be understood as being produced independently of the other objects, in particular independently of the presence of other objects at the production site of the object, in particular independently of the current state of the other objects during the production step of the object, in particular independently of the physical presence of the other objects. In particular, the metal carrier device and the electrode unit are in a spatially separated and / or at least non-destructively separable state after each separate production step, in particular until a subsequent merger. It is conceivable that in a planning phase preceding at least one separate production step, the target values ​​for the production parameters and / or object parameters, in particular the dimensions of the metal carrier device and / or the electrode unit, are adjusted to one another. Advantageously, the electrode production step is carried out separately from the metal carrier production step. In particular, the electrode production step can be carried out before the metal carrier production step, after the metal carrier production step and / or at least partially in parallel with the metal carrier production step. In particular, the electrode manufacturing step is performed spatially separated from the metal carrier manufacturing step, in particular spatially separated from the metal carrier device. Advantageously, the electrode unit is applied to the metal carrier device, in particular the electrode contact surface of the metal carrier device, in a step subsequent to the electrode manufacturing step, in particular the metal carrier manufacturing step. In particular, the electrode unit, in particular at least two functional layers of the electrode unit, are applied to the metal carrier device in a single step, in particular in a step different from the electrode manufacturing step. In particular, the electrode unit is applied to the metal carrier device at least in a preformed state. In particular, the at least two functional layers of the electrode unit are applied to the metal carrier device in a state of being fixed in contact with each other.

[0009] This configuration of the method according to the invention allows the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit to be produced by a method that is advantageously suitable for mass production and / or advantageously at low cost. In particular, the electrode units and the metal carrier arrangement can be pre-manufactured. In particular, the electrode units and the metal carrier arrangement can be realised as, in particular, standardised semi-finished products.

[0010] It is further proposed that in at least one step before the electrode units are applied on the metal carrier device, the electrode units are applied, in particular in the form of layers, on the flexible carrier element. Advantageously, the flexible carrier element has at least one electrode application surface, in particular for applying the electrode units on the flexible carrier element. Advantageously, the electrode units are applied in the form of layers on the flexible carrier element, in particular on the electrode application surface, in an electrode production step. Advantageously, the flexible carrier element, in particular together with the electrode units, is formed so as to be rollable. In particular, the flexible carrier element is formed as a film or sheet. Advantageously, the flexible carrier element is provided for the pre-production, transport and / or storage of the electrode units, in particular for the subsequent production of metal-supported fuel cells and / or electrolysers. Advantageously, in an electrode production step, a functional layer formed as an electrode layer is applied on the flexible carrier element. Advantageously, in a further electrode manufacturing step, the functional layer formed as a separating layer is applied onto the functional layer formed as an electrode layer. Optionally, in an electrode manufacturing step, the functional layer formed as a separating layer is applied onto a flexible carrier element and / or in a further electrode manufacturing step, the functional layer formed as an electrode layer is applied onto the functional layer formed as a separating layer. Advantageously, at least two functional layers are applied onto the flexible carrier element by a printing process, for example by a doctor blade process, by a spraying process, by an inkjet process, by an offset printing process, etc. Advantageously, at least one functional layer is applied with a maximum layer thickness of 100 μm or less, advantageously 50 μm or less, particularly advantageously 25 μm or less. Advantageously, at least one functional layer is applied with a minimum layer thickness of 25 nm or more, advantageously 50 nm or more, particularly advantageously 75 nm or more. Advantageously, at least one functional layer is at least substantially made of ceramic. It is conceivable that the electrode units, after being applied onto the flexible transport carrier element, are covered with a protective layer, in particular for transport and / or storage. This configuration according to the invention allows prefabricated electrode units to be stored and / or transported advantageously in a compact manner.

[0011] It is further proposed that in at least one step after the electrode unit is applied onto the metal carrier device, a particularly water-soluble carrier element for the transport of the electrode unit is removed. Advantageously, in the electrode production step, the method proceeds with the particularly water-soluble carrier element in the same way as with the flexible carrier element. In particular, the particularly water-soluble carrier element is identical to the flexible carrier element. However, it is also conceivable that the particularly water-soluble carrier element and the flexible carrier element form separately formed components of a transport unit, in particular built up in layers. Advantageously, the carrier element is made water-soluble. Advantageously, the carrier element is manufactured at least substantially from Trucal. Advantageously, in at least one peeling step, the carrier element is removed from the electrode unit. Advantageously, the carrier element is at least partially moistened in the peeling step. In particular, in the peeling step of the carrier element, it is peeled off from the electrode unit and / or at least partially dissolved. Advantageously, the carrier element is removed before sintering and / or hardening of the electrode unit. This configuration according to the invention allows the use of materials for the carrier element that have a preferably high surface quality, in particular with respect to roughness and porosity, in particular materials that achieve a preferably high wetting, preferably high thickness quality and / or preferably high print image stability for the functional layer, in particular the removal of combustion residues of the carrier element that are generated by sintering can be omitted.

[0012] It is further proposed that in at least one step before the electrode unit is applied on the metal carrier device, an additional functional layer, in particular formed as an oxidizer electrode, is applied on the electrode unit. Advantageously, in at least one step, the additional functional layer is applied on the functional layer of the electrode unit, formed as a separation layer. In particular, the additional functional layer is applied on the electrode unit, which is located on a transport carrier element. In particular, the additional functional layer is fixed to the electrode unit. In particular, in at least one step, the electrode unit is applied on the metal carrier device together with the additional functional layer. In particular, the additional functional layer is arranged on the electrode contact surface, in particular between the electrode unit and the metal carrier device. Advantageously, the additional functional layer is formed as an electrode layer. In particular, the additional functional layer is formed as an oxidizer electrode. Alternatively, the additional functional layer is formed as a fuel electrode. However, it is also possible that the additional functional layer is formed as a separation layer, in particular for electrical insulation of the electrode unit from the metal carrier device. This configuration according to the invention makes it possible to carry out the method, preferably with few individualization steps and / or with preferably little time expenditure, in particular all functional layers of the fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit can be advantageously manufactured in advance, in particular preformed.

[0013] It is further proposed that in at least one step after the electrode unit is applied on the metal carrier device, an additional functional layer, in particular formed as an oxidizer electrode, is applied on the electrode unit. Advantageously, in at least one step after sintering and / or hardening of the electrode unit, the additional functional layer, in particular formed as an oxidizer electrode, is applied on the electrode unit. Advantageously, in at least one step, the additional functional layer is baked on the electrode unit. Advantageously, the additional functional layer is applied on the functional layer of the electrode unit, which is formed as a separating layer. Advantageously, the additional separating layer is applied as an oxidizer electrode. This configuration according to the invention allows the sintering and / or hardening to be adapted, preferably material-specifically, to the electrode unit. In particular, limitations on process parameters for sintering and / or hardening, for example temperature and / or pressure, can be advantageously avoided. In particular, degradation processes of the additional functional layer during sintering and / or hardening can be avoided.

[0014] The invention is further based on a metal carrier device for a metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit, in particular a metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit produced by the method according to the invention. It supports an electrode unit of the metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit by at least one electrode contact surface. It is proposed that the electrode contact surface is structured. Advantageously, the metal carrier device comprises at least one base body. Advantageously, the electrode contact surface is formed at least as a partial area of ​​the surface of the base body, in particular as a partial area of ​​the largest outer surface. Advantageously, the base body is formed flat. In particular, the base body comprises a maximum extension at least in a direction perpendicular to the electrode contact surface, in particular in a direction perpendicular to the largest outer surface, which is smaller than the maximum extension of the electrode contact surface, in particular of the largest outer surface, advantageously smaller than 1 / 10 of the maximum extension, particularly advantageously smaller than 1 / 30 of the maximum extension. Advantageously, the maximum radius of curvature of the largest outer surface, in particular of the electrode contact surface, is larger than the maximum extension of the largest outer surface, in particular of the electrode contact ... Advantageously, the base body is formed as a metal film, metal sheet and / or metal plate. In particular, the electrode contact surface, in particular the maximum extension in a direction perpendicular to the maximum outer surface, is at least 1 mm, preferably 750 μm or less, particularly preferably 500 μm or less. By "structured" the electrode contact surface, in particular, it is to be understood that the metal carrier device has structural elements arranged in and / or at the electrode contact surface. In particular, the structural elements limit the electrode contact surface. For example, the metal carrier device comprises as structural elements at the electrode contact surface grooves, gaps, ribs, projections, wells, channels, pins, etc. Advantageously, the metal carrier device comprises at least one fluid conduit. Advantageously, the fluid conduit is recessed in the base body, in particular at the electrode contact surface. Alternatively or additionally, the metal carrier device has at least one structural element arranged at the electrode contact surface for the guidance of a fluid. Advantageously, the fluid conduit comprises at least one outlet opening in the electrode contact surface. Advantageously, the fluid line comprises at least one inlet opening in a partial region of the surface of the base body which is formed differently from the electrode contact surface, in particular on the side of the metal carrier device which faces away from the electrode contact surface.In particular, the fluid line is formed as a through-hole through the base body. Advantageously, the electrode contact surface completely surrounds the outlet opening of the fluid line. Advantageously, the fluid line structures the electrode contact surface. In particular, the fluid line forms a gap in the electrode contact surface. With this configuration according to the invention, the electrode unit is preferably supported reliably and preferably supplied with fluid, in particular fuel and / or oxidizer, in particular at the same time.

[0015] It is further proposed that the metal carrier device comprises at least one fluid conduit with a large-area outlet opening arranged at the electrode contact surface. By "large-area outlet opening" it is to be understood in particular that an imaginary surface with an outer perimeter defined by the outlet openings, in particular in a plane parallel to the electrode contact surface, has a maximum area that is at least 1%, preferably 2% or more, particularly preferably 3% or more larger than the maximum area of ​​the electrode contact surface and / or compared to the total conduit surface. By "total conduit surface" it is to be understood in particular that the total maximum area of ​​an imaginary surface with an outer perimeter defined by each outlet opening of one fluid conduit of the totality of the fluid conduits of the metal carrier device, in particular in a plane parallel to the electrode contact surface. For example, the metal carrier device comprises exactly one fluid conduit. Advantageously, the exactly one fluid conduit has a large-area outlet opening that is tortuous, spiral and / or branching. For example, the metal carrier device comprises at least one slit-shaped fluid conduit, advantageously a plurality of slit-shaped fluid conduits arranged at least substantially in parallel. Here, "substantially parallel" is to be understood in particular as a directional orientation relative to a reference direction, in particular in a plane, where this direction has a deviation from the reference direction, in particular of not more than 8°, preferably not more than 5°, particularly preferably not more than 2°. In particular, the large-area outlet openings, in particular of the slit-shaped fluid ducts, have at least one maximum longitudinal extent in at least one direction, which at least substantially corresponds to the maximum extent of the electrode contact surface in this direction. A section "substantially corresponds" to another section is to be understood in particular as meaning that this section comprises at least 25%, preferably more than 50%, particularly preferably more than 75% of the other section. For example, the metal carrier device comprises a plurality of fluid ducts, in particular of at least substantially identical construction, which are embedded in the base body, in particular distributed at regular and / or irregular intervals. This configuration according to the invention allows the flow resistance of the metal carrier device, in particular with respect to the fuel and / or oxidant, to be advantageously kept low. In particular, an advantageously large area proportion of the functional layer arranged on the metal carrier device can be directly supplied with fluid during operation of the fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit.In particular the metal carrier device is advantageously flexible, in particular for handling, transport and / or storage.

[0016] It is further proposed that the metal carrier device comprises a fluid distribution element arranged on the electrode contact surface. Advantageously, the fluid distribution element is arranged in at least one fluid line. In particular, the fluid distribution element is in fluid technical communication with at least one fluid line. In particular, the at least one fluid line is in communication with the fluid distribution element. Advantageously, the outlet opening of the fluid distribution element at the electrode contact surface is larger than the outlet opening of the fluid line which is in communication with the fluid distribution element. Advantageously, the distribution element is formed as a groove, in particular a branched and / or spirally extending groove, on the electrode contact surface. However, it is also possible for the fluid distribution element to be formed as an expansion of the cross section of the fluid line. With this configuration according to the invention, a particularly consistent porosity of the metal carrier device can be advantageously kept low. In particular, the metal carrier device can be advantageously formed so as to be stable.

[0017] It is further proposed that the metal carrier device comprises expanded metal elements for the guidance of the fluid, in particular for forming the electrode contact surface. In particular, the expanded metal element has at least one region with a rhombic mesh, a longitudinal web mesh, a hexagonal mesh, a circular mesh, a square mesh and / or a special mesh. Advantageously, the expanded metal element forms the base body of the metal carrier device. Advantageously, the mesh of the expanded metal element forms the fluid conduit. However, it is also possible that the expanded metal element is fixed, in particular on the additional base body. In particular, the expanded metal element is arranged and in particular fixed, on the largest outer surface of the additional base body of the metal carrier device. In particular, the side of the expanded metal facing away from the largest outer surface of the additional base body forms the electrode contact surface of the metal carrier device. Advantageously, at least one fluid conduit communicates with the mesh of the expanded metal element. In particular, at least one mesh is formed as a large-area outlet opening of the fluid conduit. Optionally, at least one mesh of the expanded metal element forms the fluid distribution element. Advantageously, the expanded metal element is at least substantially manufactured from metal, in particular from the same metal as the base body and / or from plastic. This configuration according to the invention makes it possible to advantageously easily and / or advantageously at low cost to manufacture the metal carrier device.

[0018] Furthermore, a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit, in particular a metal supported solid oxide fuel cell unit, produced by the method according to the invention and / or comprising a metal carrier device according to the invention is proposed. This configuration according to the invention makes it possible to provide a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit which is advantageously compact, mechanically stable and / or vibration resistant. In particular, a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit can be provided which is advantageously suitable for use in mobile applications. In particular, a low-cost metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit can be provided.

[0019] The method according to the invention, the metal carrier device according to the invention and / or the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit according to the invention should not be limited to the above-mentioned applications and embodiments. In particular, the method according to the invention, the metal carrier device according to the invention and / or the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit according to the invention may have a different number of individual elements, components and units and steps than those listed herein in order to achieve the functions described herein. Furthermore, within the ranges of values ​​specified in this disclosure, values ​​that are within the listed boundaries should also be considered as disclosed and optionally usable.

[0020] drawing Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings, in which six embodiments of the invention are shown. The drawings, the description and the claims contain a number of combinations of features. Those skilled in the art will also consider these features individually and combine them into further useful combinations, as appropriate. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the method according to the present invention. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a metal carrier device according to the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of a cross-section of a fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit according to the invention; [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an alternative metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an alternative method for producing an alternative metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit according to the present invention; [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an alternative metal carrier device according to the present invention. [Figure 8]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a further metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit according to the invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a further method according to the invention for producing a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or an electrolyser unit according to the further invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a metal carrier device according to a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a further alternative metal carrier device according to the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a metal carrier device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an additional metal carrier device according to the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Description of the embodiment FIG. 1 shows a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a, in particular a metal supported solid oxide fuel cell unit. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a is manufactured using a method 10a shown in FIG. 2. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a comprises a metal support device 20a. The metal support device 20a is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14a. Advantageously, the metal support device 20a comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28a. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a comprises at least one electrode unit 14a. The electrode unit 14a comprises at least two functional layers 16a, 18a. In particular, at least one of the functional layers 16a, 18a is formed as a fuel electrode 48a. In particular, the fuel electrode 48a is provided for contacting a fuel 50a during operation of the fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a. In particular, at least one of the functional layers 16a, 18a is formed as a separation layer 52a, in particular as an electrolyte layer. Advantageously, the fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit 12a comprises at least one additional functional layer 26a. Advantageously, the additional functional layer 26a is formed as an oxidizer electrode 24a. In particular, the oxidizer electrode 24a is provided for contacting an oxidizer 54a during operation of the fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit 12a. Advantageously, the additional functional layer 26a formed as an oxidizer electrode 24a is arranged on an electrode contact surface 28a of the metal carrier device 20a. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20a comprises at least one fluid passage area 56a. In particular, the fluid passage area 56a borders on the electrode contact surface 28a in order to pass a fluid, in particular the oxidizer 54a, through the metal carrier device 20a to the additional functional layer 26a arranged on the electrode contact surface 28a. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20a is made porous in the fluid passage area 56a. In particular, the metal carrier device 20a comprises at least one fluid line 30a (see FIG. 3 ), in particular for realizing the fluid passage area 56a. Advantageously, the functional layer 18a formed as a separating layer 52a is arranged adjacent to an additional functional layer 26a formed as an oxidizer electrode 24a.Advantageously, the functional layer 16a formed as the fuel electrode 48a is arranged on the functional layer 18a formed as the separating layer 52a. In particular, the separating layer 52a is arranged between the fuel electrode 48a and the oxidizer electrode 24a. In particular, the additional functional layer 26a is arranged between the electrode unit 14a and the metal carrier device 20a.

[0023] 2 shows a method 10a for producing a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyser unit 12a, in particular a metal supported solid oxide fuel cell unit. An electrode unit 14a having at least two functional layers 16a, 18a and a metal carrier device 20a are produced separately from each other. Advantageously, the method 10a comprises an electrode production step 58a. Advantageously, the method 10a comprises a metal carrier production step 60a. Advantageously, the electrode production step 58a and the metal carrier production step 60a are carried out independently of each other. In particular, the electrode production step 58a and the metal carrier production step 60a are carried out in parallel, sequentially and / or with partial overlap in time.

[0024] Advantageously, in the electrode manufacturing step 58a, at least two functional layers 16a, 18a are manufactured, in particular preformed. In particular, in the electrode manufacturing step 58a, respective green bodies of the functional layers 16a, 18a are manufactured. Advantageously, in the electrode manufacturing step 58a, at least two functional layers 16a, 18a are arranged in contact with one another, in particular fixed in contact with one another. Advantageously, in the electrode manufacturing step 58a, before the electrode unit 14a is applied on the metal carrier device 20a, the electrode unit 14a is applied, in particular in layers, on the flexible carrier carrier element 22a. Advantageously, in at least one fuel electrode application step 62a, the functional layer 16a formed as the fuel electrode 48a is applied, in particular printed, on the carrier carrier element 22a. For example, at least the functional layer 16a formed as the fuel electrode 48a is at least substantially made of NiO / Ni with yttrium-stabilized zirconia, of cerium-gadolinium oxide, of perovskite, etc. Advantageously, in at least one electrolyte deposition step 64a, the functional layer 18a formed as the separation layer 52a is deposited, in particular printed, on the fuel electrode 48a. For example, at least the functional layer 18a formed as the separation layer 52a is at least substantially made of yttrium-stabilized zirconia and / or cerium-gadolinium oxide. In particular, one of the functional layers 16a, 18a can be formed of at least two or more separation layers, in particular where different separation layers are made of different materials. In at least one oxidizer electrode deposition step 66a before the electrode unit 14a is deposited on the metal carrier device 20a, an additional functional layer 26a formed in particular as the oxidizer electrode 24a is deposited, in particular printed, on the electrode unit 14a. For example, at least the additional functional layer 26a formed as oxidizer electrode 24a is at least substantially made of lanthanum-strontium-manganese oxide, lanthanum-strontium-cobalt-ferrite, lanthanum-strontium-chromite, etc. Advantageously, in electrode manufacturing step 58a, the transport carrier element 22a is rolled up and / or stacked for transport and / or storage after deposition of the electrode unit 14 and / or the additional functional layer 26a.It is also conceivable that the transport carrier element 22a provided with the electrode unit 14a and / or the additional functional layer 26a is directly transported to further processing, for example via a conveyor system.

[0025] Advantageously, in a metal carrier manufacturing step 60a, a metal carrier device 20a is manufactured. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20a comprises at least one base body 68a, in particular a metal sheet. For example, the metal carrier device 20a, in particular the base body 68a, is at least substantially manufactured from titanium, Crofer® 22H / APU, Inconel® 600, etc. Advantageously, in a metal carrier manufacturing step 60a, at least the base body 68a of the metal carrier device 20a, in particular the electrode contact surface 28a, is structured. In particular, in a metal carrier manufacturing step 60a, at least one fluid conduit 30a is worked into the base body 68a. Advantageously, the at least one fluid conduit 30a is worked into the base body 68a of the metal carrier device 20a by a deformation process, in particular by punching, embossing, milling, laser drilling, laser cutting, etc. Advantageously, in a metal carrier manufacturing step 60a, the metal carrier device 20a is deburred. Advantageously, in the metal carrier production step 60a, the metal carrier device 20a is cleaned. Advantageously, in the metal carrier production step 60a, the metal carrier device 20a is thermally post-treated. Advantageously, in the metal carrier production step 60a, the metal carrier device 20a is rolled up and / or stacked for transport and / or storage. It is also conceivable that the metal carrier device 20a is directly transported to further processing, for example via a conveyor system.

[0026] Advantageously, the electrode unit 14a, in particular together with the additional functional layer 26a, is deposited on the metal carrier device 20a, in particular on the electrode contact side 28a, in a merging process 70a. Advantageously, in the merging process 70a, the carrier carrier element 22a with the electrode unit 14a and / or the additional functional layer 26a is placed on the metal carrier device 20a. In particular, the additional functional layer 26a faces the metal carrier device 20a, in particular on the electrode contact side 28a. Advantageously, the merging process 70a comprises a hot pressing process, in particular for laminating the electrode unit 14a and / or the additional functional layer 26a on the metal carrier device 20a, in particular on the electrode contact side 28a. In at least one peeling step 72a after the electrode unit 14a has been deposited on the metal carrier device 20a, the carrier carrier element 22a, in particular for carrying the electrode unit 14a, which is in particular water-soluble, is removed. The particularly water-soluble carrier element 22a is in particular moistened in the peeling step 72a. The particularly water-soluble carrier element 22a is in particular at least partially dissolved in the peeling step 72a. The particularly water-soluble carrier element 22a is in particular peeled off from the electrode unit 14a, in particular from the functional layer 16a formed as the fuel electrode 48a, in the peeling step 72a. It is conceivable that the method 10a comprises a cleaning process of the electrode unit 14a after the peeling step 72a. Advantageously, the method 10a comprises a sintering step 74a. Advantageously, the electrode unit 14a and / or the additional functional layer 26a are sintered in the sintering step 74a, in particular in a state where they are deposited on the metal carrier device 20a. Advantageously, the electrode unit 14a and / or the additional functional layer 26a, in particular in a state where they are deposited on the metal carrier device 20a, are heated in the sintering step 74a to a temperature of 600° C. or more, advantageously 800° C. or more, advantageously 1000° C. or more. With the electrode unit 14a and / or the additional functional layer 26a applied, in particular on the metal carrier device 20a, during sintering, in particular at 10 -16 Bar or less, 10 in favor -17 up to bar, particularly preferably 10 -18It is conceivable that the metal carrier device 20a is surrounded by a reducing atmosphere having an oxygen partial pressure of less than or equal to millibar. Advantageously, in a singulation step 76a, the metal carrier device 20a is divided into individual metal supported fuel cell units and / or electrolyser units 12a together with the electrode units 14a and / or additional functional layers 26a. Advantageously, the maximum outer surface of the metal supported fuel cell units and / or electrolyser units 12a is at least 0.5 cm after separation in the singulation step 76a. 2 , advantageously at least 2 cm 2 , particularly preferably at least 4.5 cm 2 Advantageously, the maximum outer surface of the metal supported fuel cell units and / or electrolyser units 12a, after separation in the singulation step 76a, is 1500 cm 2 Below, 1000cm is advantageous 2 Below, 550cm is particularly advantageous 2 It has a maximum area of:

[0027] FIG. 3 shows a plan view of the metal carrier device 20a, in particular the electrode contact surface 28a. FIG. 4 shows a cross-section of the metal carrier device 20a, in particular the fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a. The metal carrier device 20a for a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a, in particular the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a produced according to the method 10a, is provided for supporting the electrode unit 14a of the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12a. The metal carrier device 20a comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28a. The electrode contact surface 28a is structured. In particular, the metal carrier device 20a comprises exactly one fluid conduit 30a. The fluid conduit 30a is formed as a through-hole through the base body 68a of the metal carrier device 20a. In particular, the fluid conduit 30a comprises an outlet opening 38a. Advantageously, the outlet opening 38a is arranged in the surface comprising the electrode contact surface 28a. The metal carrier device 20a comprises a fluid conduit 30a with a large-area outlet opening 38a arranged on the electrode contact surface 28a. In particular, the outlet opening 38a has a serpentine shape. In particular, the outlet opening 38a comprises at least one meander, advantageously a plurality of meanders. Advantageously, the fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit 12a is mounted on a gas space sheet 78a in at least one step of the method 10a to form a gas space 80a. In particular, the metal carrier device 20a is mounted on the gas space sheet 78a. It is conceivable that the gas space sheet 78a is integrated into the metal carrier device 20a.

[0028] Five further embodiments of the invention are shown in figures 5 to 13. The following description and figures are substantially limited to the differences between the embodiments. Here, for components with the same name, in particular for components with the same reference numbers, reference can essentially be made to the drawings and / or the description of the other embodiments, in particular to figures 1 to 4. To distinguish between these embodiments, in figures 1 to 4 the letter a is placed after the reference number of the embodiment. In the embodiments of figures 5 to 13 the letter a is replaced by the letters b to f.

[0029] FIG. 5 shows a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b, in particular a metal supported solid oxide fuel cell unit. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b is manufactured using a method 10b shown in FIG. 6. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b comprises a metal support device 20b. The metal support device 20b is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14b. Advantageously, the metal support device 20a comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28b. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b comprises at least one electrode unit 14b. The electrode unit 14b comprises at least two functional layers 16b, 18b. In particular, at least one of the functional layers 16b, 18b is formed as an oxidant electrode 24b. Advantageously, the fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b comprises at least one additional functional layer 26b. Advantageously, the additional functional layer 26b is formed as a fuel electrode 48b. Advantageously, the additional functional layer 26b formed as a fuel electrode 48b is arranged on the electrode contact side 28b of the metal support device 20b. For further features and / or functions of the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit 12b, reference may be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0030] 6 shows a method 10b for producing a metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b, in particular a metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell unit. The metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b comprises at least an electrode unit 14b with at least two functional layers 16b, 18b. The metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b comprises at least a metal carrier device 20b for supporting the electrode unit 14b. The electrode unit 14b with at least two functional layers 16b, 18b and the metal carrier device 20b are produced separately from each other. Advantageously, in at least one oxidizer electrode-depositing step 66b, the functional layer 16b formed as an oxidizer electrode 24b is deposited, in particular printed, on the transport support element 22b. Advantageously, in at least one electrolyte-depositing step 64a, the functional layer 18b formed as a separating layer 52a is deposited, in particular printed, on the oxidizer electrode 24b. Advantageously, in at least one fuel electrode deposition step 62b, before the electrode unit 14b is deposited on the metal carrier device 20b, an additional functional layer 26b formed as a fuel electrode 48b is deposited, in particular printed, on the electrode unit 14b. For further features and / or functions of the method 10b, reference can be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0031] FIG. 7 shows a plan view of a metal carrier device 20b, in particular an electrode contact surface 28b of the metal carrier device 20b. A metal carrier device 20b for a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b, in particular a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b manufactured according to the method 10b, is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14b of the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12b. The metal carrier device 20b comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28b. The electrode contact surface 28b is structured. The metal carrier device 20b comprises fluid conduits 30b-36b with large-area outlet openings 38b-44b arranged on the electrode contact surface 28b. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20b comprises at least two, advantageously five or more, fluid conduits 30b-36b. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20b comprises at least one slit-shaped fluid conduit 30b-36b. In particular, the large-area outlet openings 38b-44b of the slit-like fluid conduits 30b-36b have at least one maximum longitudinal extent in at least one direction, which corresponds at least substantially to the maximum extent of the electrode contact surface 28b in this direction. Advantageously, the fluid conduits 30b-36b are formed to be at least substantially identical in structure. Advantageously, at least two fluid conduits 30b-36b are arranged at least substantially parallel. Advantageously, the fluid conduits 30b-36b are arranged at regular and / or irregular intervals from one another. For further features and / or functions of the metal carrier device 20b, reference can be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0032] FIG. 8 shows a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c, in particular a metal supported solid oxide fuel cell unit. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c is manufactured using a method 10c shown in FIG. 9. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c comprises a metal support device 20c. The metal support device 20c is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14c. Advantageously, the metal support device 20c comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28c. The metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c comprises at least one electrode unit 14c. The electrode unit 14c comprises at least two functional layers 16c, 18c. In particular, at least one of the functional layers 16a, 18a is formed as a fuel electrode 48c. Advantageously, the fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c comprises at least one additional functional layer 26c. Advantageously, the additional functional layer 26c is formed as an oxidizer electrode 24c. Advantageously, the functional layer 16c formed as an electrode unit 14c, in particular as a fuel electrode 48c, is arranged on the electrode contact surface 28c of the metal carrier device 20c. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20c comprises at least one fluid passage area 56c. In particular, the fluid passage area 56c borders on the electrode contact surface 28c in order to pass a fluid, in particular a fuel 50c, through the metal carrier device 20c to the electrode unit 14c arranged on the electrode contact surface 28c, in particular to the functional layer 16c formed as a fuel electrode 48c. In particular, the electrode unit 14a is arranged between the additional functional layer 26c and the metal carrier device 20c. For further features and / or functions of the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or the electrolyzer unit 12c, reference can be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0033] 9 shows a method 10c for producing a metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c, in particular a metal-supported solid oxide fuel cell unit. The metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c comprises at least one electrode unit 14c with at least two functional layers 16c, 18c. The metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c comprises at least a metal carrier device 20c for supporting the electrode unit 14b. The electrode unit 14b with the at least two functional layers 16c, 18c and the metal carrier device 20b are produced separately from each other. Advantageously, in at least one electrolyte-depositing step 64c, the functional layer 18c formed as a separating layer 52c is deposited, in particular printed, on the carrier support element 22c. Advantageously, in at least one fuel electrode-depositing step 62c, an additional functional layer 26c formed as a fuel electrode 48c is deposited, in particular printed, on the separating layer 52c. Advantageously, in an oxidizer electrode deposition step 66c after the electrode unit 14c has been deposited on the metal carrier device 20c, an additional functional layer 26c, in particular formed as an oxidizer electrode 24c, is deposited, in particular baked, on the electrode unit 14c. Advantageously, the oxidizer electrode deposition step 66c is carried out in particular after a sintering step 74c for sintering the electrode unit 14c arranged on the metal carrier device 20c. For further features and / or functions of the method 10c, reference can be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0034] FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a metal carrier device 20c, in particular an electrode contact surface 28c of the metal carrier device 20c. A metal carrier device 20c for a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c, in particular a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c produced according to the method 10c, is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14c of the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12c. The metal carrier device 20c comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28c. The electrode contact surface 28c is structured. The metal carrier device 20c comprises fluid lines 30c-34c with large-area outlet openings 38c-42c arranged on the electrode contact surface 28c. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20c comprises at least two, advantageously five or more, particularly advantageously twenty or more fluid lines 30c-34c, all of which are not numbered here for the sake of clarity. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20c comprises at least one fluid line 30c-34c with a rectangular outlet opening 38c-42c. Advantageously, the fluid lines 30c-34c are formed to be at least substantially identical in structure. Advantageously, the fluid lines 30c-34c are arranged at regular and / or irregular intervals with respect to each other. For further features and / or functions of the metal carrier device 20c, reference may be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0035] FIG. 11 shows a plan view of a metal carrier device 20d, in particular an electrode contact surface 28d of the metal carrier device 20d. The metal carrier device 20d for a metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14 of a metal-supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit. The metal carrier device 20d comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28d. The electrode contact surface 28d is structured. The metal carrier device 20d comprises fluid lines 30d-34d with large-area outlet openings 38d-42d arranged on the electrode contact surface 28d, all of which are not numbered here for the sake of clarity. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20d comprises at least two, advantageously more than five, particularly advantageously more than twenty fluid lines 30d-34d. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20d comprises at least one fluid line 30d-34d with a rotationally symmetric, in particular rotationally symmetric, outlet opening 38d-42d. Advantageously, the fluid lines 30d-34d are formed to be at least substantially identical in structure. Advantageously, the fluid lines 30d-34d are arranged at regular and / or irregular intervals with respect to one another. For further features and / or functions of the metal carrier device 20d, reference can be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0036] FIG. 12 shows a plan view of a metal carrier device 20e, in particular an electrode contact surface 28e of the metal carrier device 20e. The metal carrier device 20e for a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14e of a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit. The metal carrier device 20e comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28e. The electrode contact surface 28e is structured. The metal carrier device 20e comprises in particular an expanded metal element 47e for guiding a fluid to form the electrode contact surface 28e. In particular, the mesh of the expanded metal element 47e forms the fluid conduits 30e-34e of the metal carrier device 20e, which are not all numbered here for the sake of clarity. It is conceivable that the mesh of the expanded metal element 47e forms the large-area outlet openings of the fluid conduits 30e-34e. For further features and / or functions of the metal carrier device 20e, reference may be made to the description of FIGS.

[0037] FIG. 13 shows a cross section of a metal carrier device 20f, in particular a cross section of a fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12f. The metal carrier device 20f for a metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12f is provided for supporting an electrode unit 14f of the metal supported fuel cell unit and / or electrolyzer unit 12f. The metal carrier device 20f comprises at least one electrode contact surface 28f. The electrode contact surface 28f is structured. The metal carrier device 20f comprises at least one fluid distribution element 46f arranged on the electrode contact surface 28f. In particular, the fluid distribution element 46f comprises areas for the guidance of a fluid, in particular with branched and / or spirally arranged grooves. Advantageously, the metal carrier device 20f comprises at least one fluid conduit 30f-35f formed as a supply well, in particular as a through-hole through a base body 68f of the metal carrier device 20f. In particular, at least one fluid line 30f-35f communicates with a fluid distribution element 46f.Regarding further features and / or functions of the metal carrier device 20f, reference may be made to the description of figures 1 to 4.

[0038] Further, each of the metal support devices 20a-20f shown herein is compatible with each of the methods 10a, 10b, 10c shown herein, and in particular each of the metal support devices 20a-20f may be used in each of the metal supported fuel cell units and / or electrolyzer units 12a, 12b, 12c, 12f.

Claims

1. 1. A method for manufacturing a metal supported fuel cell unit, comprising the steps of: said metal supported fuel cell unit comprising at least one electrode unit (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) with at least two functional layers (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b; 16c, 18c; 16f, 18f), the metal supported fuel cell unit comprises at least one metal support device for supporting the electrode unit (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f), In the manufacturing method, The electrode unit (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) having the at least two functional layers (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b; 16c, 18c; 16f, 18f) and the metal carrier device are manufactured separately from each other, In at least one step prior to depositing the electrode units (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) on the metal carrier device, the electrode units (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) are deposited in layers on flexible transport carrier elements (22a; 22b; 22c), in at least one step after the electrode units (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) have been deposited on the metal carrier device, a water-soluble carrier element (22a; 22b; 22c) for the transportation of the electrode units (14a; 14b; 14c; 14f) is removed by at least partially dissolving and peeling off, A manufacturing method comprising the steps of:

2. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in at least one step prior to depositing the electrode unit (14a; 14b) on the metal carrier device, an additional functional layer (26a; 26b) formed as an oxidizer electrode (24a) is deposited on the electrode unit (14a; 14b).

3. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in at least one step after the electrode unit (14c) is deposited on the metal carrier device, an additional functional layer (26c) formed as an oxidizer electrode (24c) is deposited on the electrode unit (14c).

4. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the metal supported fuel cell unit is a metal supported solid oxide fuel cell unit.

Images