Activation device

Abstract

To prevent flooding and to activate an electrode catalyst.SOLUTION: An activation device (40) includes jigs (42, 44) having a plurality of gas channels (52, 84). The plurality of gas channels each has an inlet (60, 92) into which the activation gas flows, a feed port (54, 86) opening towards an anode electrode (14) or a cathode electrode (16) of an electrolyte membrane / electrode structure (10), and an outlet (62, 94) from which the activation gas flows out. In other words, the plurality of gas channels is independent of each other and is not connected to each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an activation device for activating a membrane electrode assembly for a fuel cell. [Background technology]

[0002] Efforts aimed at mitigating or reducing the impact of climate change have been ongoing, and research and development into CO2 reduction has been conducted to achieve this. From this perspective, fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) equipped with fuel cells have been attracting attention. Fuel cell vehicles only emit water vapor, and do not emit CO2 or NOx. x and SO x This is because there is no emission of waste materials.

[0003] A fuel cell comprises a membrane electrode assembly (MEA). The MEA comprises an electrolyte membrane made of a solid polymer having a first end face and a second end face, an anode electrode provided on the first end face of the electrolyte membrane, and a cathode electrode provided on the second end face of the electrolyte membrane. In other words, the MEA is configured by sandwiching the electrolyte membrane between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. A unit cell of the fuel cell is assembled by sandwiching the MEA between a pair of separators.

[0004] Immediately after assembly, the water content of the electrolyte membrane of a unit cell is insufficient. Therefore, the unit cell does not provide sufficient power generation performance. To avoid this, the fuel cell is activated before the first operation. Generally, a fuel cell stack made up of multiple unit cells stacked together is activated. In contrast, Patent Document 1 discloses that activation is performed on each individual unit cell. In this case, the activated unit cells are stacked together to assemble a fuel cell stack. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-7006 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] A first gas flow path is formed in one of the pair of separators. A second gas flow path is formed in the other of the pair of separators. During the process of activating a membrane electrode assembly (MEA), wet gas may be passed through the first gas flow path and the second gas flow path. When the wet gas comes into contact with the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, respectively, moisture is imparted to the anode electrode and the cathode electrode.

[0007] When excessive moisture is applied to the anode or cathode, a liquid film forms on the anode or cathode, a phenomenon known as flooding. Under these conditions, it is difficult for the wet gas to penetrate the electrode catalyst of the anode or cathode, impeding the activation of the electrode catalyst.

[0008] Furthermore, when activation is performed at a high current density, the partial pressure of the activation gas decreases and the partial pressure of water vapor increases, especially near the gas outlet of the second gas flow path. This makes flooding more likely to occur near the gas outlet of the second gas flow path. To avoid this, for example, the amount of moisture added to the wet gas can be reduced, thereby lowering the relative humidity of the wet gas. However, this reduces the activation efficiency of the MEA.

[0009] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an activation device for activating a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) having an electrolyte membrane sandwiched between an anode electrode and a cathode electrode that constitute a fuel cell, the activation device comprising a pair of jigs arranged on either side of the MEA, each of the pair of jigs having a plurality of gas flow paths and a plurality of heat pipes, the activation device comprising: an activation gas supply unit that supplies activation gas to the plurality of gas flow paths, a heat supply unit that applies heat to the plurality of heat pipes, and a control unit that controls the heat applied from the heat supply unit to the plurality of heat pipes, each of the plurality of gas flow paths having an inlet through which the activation gas flows, a supply port that opens toward the anode electrode or the cathode electrode, and an outlet through which the activation gas flows. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] In a typical activation device, multiple gas flow paths branch from one inlet and converge at one outlet. In contrast, in the present invention, each of the multiple gas flow paths has an inlet and an outlet. That is, the multiple gas flow paths are independent of each other and do not communicate with each other.

[0012] Therefore, one gas flow path has one inlet and one outlet. In this case, the length of one gas flow path is shortened. For the above reasons, a difference in partial pressure between the inlet side and the outlet side of the activated gas flowing through the gas flow path is unlikely to occur. In other words, a decrease in the partial pressure of the activated gas near the outlet and an increase in the partial pressure of water vapor are avoided. This makes it difficult for flooding to occur near the outlet of the gas flow path. As a result, the activated gas easily penetrates the electrode catalyst of each of the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. This allows the electrode catalyst to be sufficiently activated.

[0013] In addition, in the present invention, a heat pipe is used as a means for controlling the temperature of the activated gas. The heat pipe has a high response speed to heat input and output. Therefore, the local temperature (effective dew point temperature) of the activated gas in the gas flow path can be quickly adjusted. This allows the amount of liquid water generated from the activated gas to be appropriately controlled. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic system diagram of an activation system including an activation device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from the first jig shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from the end face of the first jig facing the anode electrode. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from the second jig shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from the end face of the second jig facing the cathode electrode. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from a first jig constituting the activation device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from the end face of the first jig facing the anode electrode. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from a second jig constituting the activation device. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a plan view of the activation device as seen from the end face of the second jig facing the cathode electrode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] 1 is a schematic system diagram of an activation system 30. The activation system 30 includes an activation device 40 according to a first embodiment.

[0016] 1 shows a state in which a membrane electrode assembly 10 is sandwiched between a first jig 42 and a second jig 44 that constitute an activation device 40. First, the membrane electrode assembly 10 will be generally described with reference to FIG. 4. In the following, the membrane electrode assembly may also be referred to as an "MEA."

[0017] The MEA 10 includes an electrolyte membrane 12 made of a solid polymer. An example of the solid polymer is perfluorosulfonic acid. The electrolyte membrane 12 is sandwiched between an anode electrode 14 and a cathode electrode 16. The anode electrode 14 has a first electrode catalyst layer 18 containing an electrode catalyst and a first gas diffusion layer 20 for supplying gas to the first electrode catalyst layer 18. The cathode electrode 16 has a second electrode catalyst layer 22 containing an electrode catalyst and a second gas diffusion layer 24 for supplying gas to the second electrode catalyst layer 22.

[0018] Next, the activation device 40 constituting the activation system 30 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6. As shown in Figure 1, the activation device 40 has a first jig 42 and a second jig 44 that sandwich the MEA 10. The first jig 42 is disposed adjacent to the first gas diffusion layer 20 of the anode electrode 14. The second jig 44 is disposed adjacent to the second gas diffusion layer 24 of the cathode electrode 16.

[0019] Fig. 2 is a plan view of the activation device 40 seen from the first jig 42 shown in Fig. 1, and Fig. 3 is a plan view of the activation device 40 seen from the end face of the first jig 42 facing the anode electrode 14. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Fig. 2.

[0020] 1 to 4, the first jig 42 has two base plates 46a, 46b, a plurality of first flow path members 48, and a plurality of first heat pipes 50. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the first heat pipe 50 is sandwiched between the two base plates 46a, 46b and extends linearly in a predetermined first direction X.

[0021] As shown in Fig. 3, in the first embodiment, the first flow path members 48 and the first heat pipes 50 are arranged alternately. As shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the first flow path members 48 extend linearly in the first direction X, similar to the first heat pipes 50. As shown in Fig. 4, a first gas flow path 52 is formed inside each first flow path member 48. Therefore, in the first embodiment, one of the plurality of first gas flow paths 52 is located between two of the plurality of first heat pipes 50. The plurality of first gas flow paths 52 are independent flow paths and do not communicate with each other.

[0022] 4, the first gas flow channel 52 has a first supply port 54 on the surface facing the anode 14. Therefore, the first wet gas flowing through the first gas flow channel 52 is supplied from the first supply port 54 to the first electrode catalyst layer 18 via the first gas diffusion layer 20.

[0023] A first An side bent portion 56 and a second An side bent portion 58 are continuous with the first gas flow passage 52. A first inlet 60 through which the first wet gas flows in is formed in the first An side bent portion 56. A first outlet 62 through which the first wet gas is discharged is formed in the second An side bent portion 58. The first An side bent portion 56 and the second An side bent portion 58 extend along a second direction Y bent at approximately 90° with respect to the first gas flow passage 52. That is, the first An side bent portion 56 and the second An side bent portion 58 are formed as recesses recessed in a direction away from the first gas flow passage 52.

[0024] A first An side heat storage section 64a, a second An side heat storage section 64b, a third An side heat storage section 64c, and a fourth An side heat storage section 64d are connected to the first gas flow passage 52. In this case, the first An side heat storage section 64a, the second An side heat storage section 64b, the third An side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An side heat storage section 64d each have a recess that starts from the first gas flow passage 52 and is recessed so as to be spaced apart from the first gas flow passage 52. That is, in this case, the first An side heat storage section 64a, the second An side heat storage section 64b, the third An side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An side heat storage section 64d are spaces that extend from the first gas flow passage 52 in the second direction Y. The recessed direction of the first An side heat storage portion 64a, the second An side heat storage portion 64b, the third An side heat storage portion 64c and the fourth An side heat storage portion 64d is the second direction Y, which coincides with the recessed direction of the first An side bent portion 56 and the second An side bent portion 58.

[0025] The number of heat storage units provided in the first gas flow path 52 is not particularly limited to four as shown in the illustrated example. Providing a heat storage unit in the first gas flow path 52 is not essential.

[0026] The volumes of the first An side heat storage section 64a, the second An side heat storage section 64b, the third An side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An side heat storage section 64d increase in the order of the first An side heat storage section 64a, the second An side heat storage section 64b, the third An side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An side heat storage section 64d. Therefore, the second An side heat storage section 64b captures a larger amount of the first humid gas than the first An side heat storage section 64a. The third An side heat storage section 64c captures a larger amount of the first humid gas than the second An side heat storage section 64b, and the fourth An side heat storage section 64d captures a larger amount of the first humid gas than the third An side heat storage section 64c. In this way, the first An side heat storage section 64a, the second An side heat storage section 64b, the third An side heat storage section 64c and the fourth An side heat storage section 64d are arranged so that their volumes increase from the first inlet 60 towards the first outlet 62.

[0027] A first input manifold 68 is connected to all of the first inlets 60 via pipe joints 66. The first wet gas supplied from the first wet gas supply source (see FIG. 1) is distributed by the first input manifold 68 and flows into the first gas flow passages 52 via the individual first inlets 60 and the first An side bend portions 56. A first output manifold 69 is connected to all of the first outlets 62 via pipe joints 66. The first wet gas that has flowed through the individual first gas flow passages 52 is collected in the first output manifold 69 and is, for example, discharged to the atmosphere or recovered in the first wet gas supply source.

[0028] While the first moist gas flows through the first gas flow path 52, a portion of the first moist gas is captured by the first An-side heat storage section 64a, the second An-side heat storage section 64b, the third An-side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage section 64d. Since the temperature of the first moist gas is approximately several tens of degrees Celsius to several hundred degrees Celsius, the first An-side heat storage section 64a, the second An-side heat storage section 64b, the third An-side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage section 64d capture the first moist gas and thereby store heat. Since the volumes of the first An-side heat storage section 64a, the second An-side heat storage section 64b, the third An-side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage section 64d increase in this order, the heat storage capacities of the first An-side heat storage section 64a, the second An-side heat storage section 64b, the third An-side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage section 64d increase in this order.

[0029] 1 to 4, a first heat supplying unit 70 made up of a heater, a Peltier element, or the like is connected to the first heat pipe 50. The first heat supplying unit 70 applies heat to the first heat pipe 50.

[0030] 2, each first flow path member 48 is provided with a first electrical terminal 72 and a second electrical terminal 74 near the first inlet 60 and the first outlet 62, respectively. In addition, the first jig 42 is provided with a first connection terminal 76.

[0031] Fig. 5 is a plan view of the activation device 40 seen from the second jig 44 shown in Fig. 1, and Fig. 6 is a plan view of the activation device 40 seen from the end face of the second jig 44 facing the cathode electrode 16. As can be seen from Figs. 4 to 6, the second jig 44 has the same configuration as the first jig 42.

[0032] 1 and 4 to 6, the second jig 44 has two base plates 46c, 46d, a plurality of second flow path members 80, and a plurality of second heat pipes 82. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the second heat pipes 82 are sandwiched between the two base plates 46c, 46d and extend linearly in the first direction X, similar to the first heat pipes 50 and the first flow path members 48.

[0033] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, in the first embodiment, the second flow path members 80 and the second heat pipes 82 are arranged alternately. As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the second flow path members 80 and the second heat pipes 82 extend linearly in the first direction X, similar to the first gas flow path 52 and the first heat pipes 50. As shown in Figure 6, a second gas flow path 84 is formed inside each second flow path member 80. Therefore, in the first embodiment, one of the plurality of second gas flow paths 84 is located between two of the plurality of second heat pipes 82. The plurality of second gas flow paths 84 are independent flow paths and do not communicate with each other.

[0034] 6, the second gas flow channel 84 has a second supply port 86 on the surface facing the cathode 16. Therefore, the second wet gas flowing through the second gas flow channel 84 is supplied from the second supply port 86 to the second electrode catalyst layer 22 via the second gas diffusion layer 24.

[0035] A first Ca-side bent portion 88 and a second Ca-side bent portion 90 are connected to the second gas flow passage 84. A second inlet 92 is formed in the first Ca-side bent portion 88 for allowing the second wet gas to flow into the second gas flow passage 84. A second outlet 94 is formed in the second Ca-side bent portion 90 for discharging the second wet gas from the second gas flow passage 84. The first Ca-side bent portion 88 and the second Ca-side bent portion 90 extend along a second direction Y bent at approximately 90° with respect to the second gas flow passage 84. That is, the first Ca-side bent portion 88 and the second Ca-side bent portion 90 are formed as recesses recessed in a direction away from the second gas flow passage 84.

[0036] A first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, a second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, a third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and a fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d are connected to the second gas flow passage 84. In this case, the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d each have a recess that starts from the second gas flow passage 84 and is recessed so as to be spaced apart from the second gas flow passage 84. That is, in this case, the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d are spaces that extend from the second gas flow passage 84 in the second direction Y. The recessed direction of the first Ca side heat storage portion 96a, the second Ca side heat storage portion 96b, the third Ca side heat storage portion 96c and the fourth Ca side heat storage portion 96d is the second direction Y, which coincides with the recessed direction of the first Ca side bending portion 88 and the second Ca side bending portion 90.

[0037] The number of heat storage units provided in the second gas flow path 84 is not particularly limited to four as shown in the illustrated example. Providing a heat storage unit in the second gas flow path 84 is not essential.

[0038] The volumes of the first Ca side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca side heat storage section 96d increase in the order of the first Ca side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca side heat storage section 96d. Therefore, the second Ca side heat storage section 96b captures a larger amount of the second humid gas than the first Ca side heat storage section 96a. The third Ca side heat storage section 96c captures a larger amount of the second humid gas than the second Ca side heat storage section 96b, and the fourth Ca side heat storage section 96d captures a larger amount of the second humid gas than the third Ca side heat storage section 96c. In this manner, the first Ca side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca side heat storage section 96c and the fourth Ca side heat storage section 96d are arranged so that their volumes increase from the second inlet 92 towards the second outlet 94.

[0039] A second input manifold 98 is connected to all of the second inlets 92 via pipe joints 66. The second wet gas supplied from the second wet gas supply source (see FIG. 1) is distributed by the second input manifold 98 and flows into the second gas flow passages 84 via the individual second inlets 92 and the first Ca-side bend portion 88. A second output manifold 100 is connected to all of the second outlets 94 via pipe joints 66. The second wet gas that has flowed through the individual second gas flow passages 84 is collected in the second output manifold 100 and is, for example, discharged to the atmosphere or recovered in the second wet gas supply source.

[0040] While the second moist gas flows through the second gas flow passage 84, a portion of the second moist gas is captured by the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d. Since the temperature of the second moist gas is approximately several tens of degrees Celsius to several hundred degrees Celsius, the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d capture the second moist gas and thereby store heat. Since the volumes of the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d increase in this order, the heat storage capacities increase in the order of the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d.

[0041] 1 and 4 to 6, a second heat supplying unit 102 such as a heater or a Peltier element is connected to the second heat pipe 82. The second heat supplying unit 102 applies heat to the second heat pipe 82.

[0042] 6, each second flow path member 80 is provided with a third electrical terminal 104 and a fourth electrical terminal 106 near the second inlet 92 and the second outlet 94, respectively. In addition, the second jig 44 is provided with a second connection terminal 108.

[0043] In this embodiment, the flow direction of the activated gas (first wet gas described later) flowing through the first gas flow passage 52 is the same as the flow direction of the activated gas (second wet gas described later) flowing through the second gas flow passage 84. However, the flow direction of the activated gas flowing through the first gas flow passage 52 and the flow direction of the activated gas flowing through the second gas flow passage 84 may be opposite to each other or may be different directions.

[0044] Returning to FIG. 1 , the activation system 30 includes a first gas line 110. One end of the first gas line 110 is connected to a hydrogen gas supply unit 112 and a nitrogen gas supply unit 114 via a first three-way valve 116. The hydrogen gas supply unit 112 is, for example, a hydrogen gas tank. The nitrogen gas supply unit 114 is, for example, a nitrogen gas tank. A first humidifier 118 is provided on the first gas line 110. The hydrogen gas supply unit 112 and the first humidifier 118 form a first moist gas supply unit, and the hydrogen gas to which moisture has been added in the first humidifier 118 is a first moist gas serving as a first activated gas.

[0045] The other end of the first gas line 110 is connected to the first input manifold 68. The first wet gas (wet hydrogen gas) that flows from the other end of the first gas line 110 into the first input manifold 68 flows through the first gas flow path 52 formed in the first jig 42.

[0046] The activation system 30 includes a second gas line 120. One end of the second gas line 120 is connected to the first output manifold 69. The other end of the second gas line 120 is connected to a first exhaust line 124 via a first exhaust valve 122. The excess first wet gas that has flowed through the first gas flow path 52 is discharged from the first exhaust line 124 via the first output manifold 69, the second gas line 120, and the first exhaust valve 122. Alternatively, a recovery device (not shown) may be provided in the first exhaust line 124 to recover the first wet gas.

[0047] The activation system 30 includes a third gas line 130. A nitrogen gas supply unit 132 and an oxidizing gas supply unit 134 are connected to one end of the third gas line 130 via a second three-way valve 136. The nitrogen gas supply unit 132 is, for example, a nitrogen gas tank as described above. Nitrogen gas is supplied as an inert second gas. In this embodiment, the nitrogen gas supply unit 114 connected to the first gas line 110 and the nitrogen gas supply unit 132 connected to the third gas line 130 are provided separately. However, one nitrogen gas supply unit may be connected to both the first gas line 110 and the third gas line 130.

[0048] The oxidizing gas supply unit 134 is, for example, a compressor that compresses atmospheric air. Alternatively, the oxidizing gas supply unit 134 may be an oxygen gas cylinder. A second humidifier 138 is provided in the third gas line 130. The oxidizing gas supply unit 134 and the second humidifier 138 constitute a second humid gas supply unit. The oxidizing gas to which moisture has been added in the second humidifier 138 is a second humid gas serving as a second activated gas.

[0049] The other end of the third gas line 130 is connected to the second input manifold 98. The second wet gas (wet oxidant gas) that flows from the other end of the third gas line 130 into the second input manifold 98 flows through the second gas flow passage 84 formed in the second jig 44.

[0050] The activation system 30 includes a fourth gas line 140. One end of the fourth gas line 140 is connected to the second output manifold 100. The other end of the fourth gas line 140 is connected to a second exhaust line 144 via a second exhaust valve 142. The second wet gas that has flowed through the second gas flow passage 84 passes through the second output manifold 100, the fourth gas line 140, and the second exhaust valve 142, and is then discharged from the second exhaust line 144. Alternatively, a recovery device (not shown) may be provided in the second exhaust line 144 to recover the second wet gas.

[0051] The activation system 30 includes an electrical parameter detection unit 150 and a control unit 154. The electrical parameter detection unit 150 includes, for example, an inlet-side voltage measurement device 156 and an outlet-side voltage measurement device 158. The inlet-side voltage measurement device 156 is electrically connected to the first electrical terminal 72 and the third electrical terminal 104. The inlet-side voltage measurement device 156 detects the voltage on the first inlet 60 and the second inlet 92 sides of the MEA 10. Hereinafter, the local voltage of the MEA 10 determined by the inlet-side voltage measurement device 156 will be referred to as the inlet-side voltage for convenience. The outlet-side voltage measurement device 158 is electrically connected to the second electrical terminal 74 and the fourth electrical terminal 106. The outlet-side voltage measurement device 158 detects the voltage on the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 94 sides of the MEA 10. Hereinafter, the local voltage of the MEA 10 determined by the outlet-side voltage measurement device 158 will be referred to as the outlet-side voltage for convenience.

[0052] The electrical parameter detection unit 150 may be a resistance measurement device, a current measurement device, or an impedance measurement device, or may include all of these measurement devices.

[0053] The activation system 30 further includes a pressure parameter detection unit 160. The pressure parameter detection unit 160 includes an anode differential pressure gauge 162 and a cathode differential pressure gauge 164.

[0054] The anode differential pressure gauge 162 detects the differential pressure between the gas pressure in the first gas line 110 and the gas pressure in the second gas line 120. This differential pressure is equal to the differential pressure between the inlet of the first gas flow path 52 to the anode electrode 14 and the outlet of the first gas flow path 52 from the anode electrode 14. The cathode differential pressure gauge 164 detects the differential pressure between the gas pressure in the third gas line 130 and the gas pressure in the fourth gas line 140. This differential pressure is equal to the differential pressure between the inlet of the second gas flow path 84 to the cathode electrode 16 and the outlet of the second gas flow path 84 from the cathode electrode 16.

[0055] The control unit 154 is electrically connected to the inlet-side voltage measuring device 156, the outlet-side voltage measuring device 158, the first heat supply unit 70, the second heat supply unit 102, the anode differential pressure gauge 162, and the cathode differential pressure gauge 164. Information relating to the inlet-side voltage and the outlet-side voltage measured by the electrical parameter detection unit 150 is transmitted to the control unit 154 as an information signal. Information signals relating to the gas differential pressures measured by the anode differential pressure gauge 162 and the cathode differential pressure gauge 164, respectively, are also input to the control unit 154.

[0056] As will be described later, power generation aging is performed in this embodiment. For this purpose, an external load 170 is electrically connected to the MEA 10 via the first connection terminal 76 and the second connection terminal 108.

[0057] The activation device 40 according to the first embodiment is basically configured as described above. Next, the effects of the activation device 40 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0058] When activating MEA 10, first, a worker clamps MEA 10, before it is assembled into a unit cell, between first jig 42 and second jig 44. Next, the worker connects first input manifold 68 to first inlet 60 and first output manifold 69 to first outlet 62. Similarly, the worker connects second input manifold 98 to second inlet 92 and second output manifold 100 to second outlet 94.

[0059] In this state, the operator issues a command signal to "start activation" to the control unit 154. Based on this command signal, the control unit 154 first replaces the air in the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84 with wet nitrogen gas.

[0060] The control unit 154, which has received the command signal, operates the first three-way valve 116 in a direction that connects the nitrogen gas supply unit 114 to the first gas line 110. The control unit 154 also operates the second three-way valve 136 in a direction that connects the nitrogen gas supply unit 132 to the third gas line 130. The control unit 154 also opens the first exhaust valve 122 and the second exhaust valve 142.

[0061] Nitrogen gas supplied from the nitrogen gas supply unit 114 passes through the first humidifier 118 to become wet nitrogen gas, and then flows through the first gas line 110. The wet nitrogen gas passes through the first input manifold 68, the first inlet 60 of the first jig 42, and the first An side bend 56, before flowing into the first gas flow passage 52. While the wet nitrogen gas flows through the first gas flow passage 52, a portion of the wet nitrogen gas passes through the first gas diffusion layer 20 of the anode 14 and reaches the first electrode catalyst layer 18. This imparts moisture to the anode 14 and the electrolyte membrane 12. The wet nitrogen gas that has flowed through the first gas flow passage 52 flows through the second An side bend 58, the first outlet 62, and the first output manifold 69 into the second gas line 120. The wet nitrogen gas then passes through the first exhaust valve 122 and is discharged from the first exhaust line 124.

[0062] Nitrogen gas supplied from the nitrogen gas supply unit 132 passes through the second humidifier 138 to become wet nitrogen gas, and then flows through the third gas line 130. The wet nitrogen gas passes through the second input manifold 98, the second inlet 92 of the second jig 44, and the first Ca-side bend 88, before flowing into the second gas flow passage 84. While the wet nitrogen gas flows through the second gas flow passage 84, a portion of the wet nitrogen gas passes through the second gas diffusion layer 24 of the cathode electrode 16 and reaches the second electrode catalyst layer 22. This imparts moisture to the cathode electrode 16 and the electrolyte membrane 12. After flowing through the second gas flow passage 84, the wet nitrogen gas flows through the second Ca-side bend 90, the second outlet 94, and the second output manifold 100 and flows into the fourth gas line 140. The wet nitrogen gas then passes through the second exhaust valve 142 and is discharged from the second exhaust line 144.

[0063] As a result, air is discharged from the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84 and replaced with wet nitrogen gas. After a predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 154 operates the first three-way valve 116 in a direction that connects the hydrogen gas supply unit 112 to the first gas line 110.

[0064] The hydrogen gas supplied from the hydrogen gas supply unit 112 passes through the first humidifier 118 to become wet hydrogen gas (first wet gas). The wet gas then passes through the first input manifold 68, the first inlet 60 of the first jig 42, and the first An side bend 56, before flowing into the first gas flow passage 52. While the first wet gas flows through the first gas flow passage 52, a portion of the first wet gas passes through the first gas diffusion layer 20 of the anode 14 and reaches the first electrode catalyst layer 18. This allows moisture to be continuously added to the anode 14 and the electrolyte membrane 12. The excess first wet gas that flows through the first gas flow passage 52 passes through the second An side bend 58, the first outlet 62, and the first output manifold 69, then passes through the first exhaust valve 122 and is discharged from the first exhaust line 124. This first wet gas may be collected by a collection mechanism (not shown).

[0065] While the first moist gas flows through the first gas flow passage 52, another portion of the first moist gas enters the first An-side heat storage section 64a, the second An-side heat storage section 64b, the third An-side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage section 64d, respectively. Since the temperature of the first moist gas is several tens of degrees Celsius to several hundred degrees Celsius, as the first moist gas enters, the first An-side heat storage section 64a, the second An-side heat storage section 64b, the third An-side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage section 64d store heat, respectively. As described above, the heat storage capacities increase in the order of the first An-side heat storage section 64a, the second An-side heat storage section 64b, the third An-side heat storage section 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage section 64d. The first wet gas that has entered the first An side heat storage section 64a, the second An side heat storage section 64b, the third An side heat storage section 64c and the fourth An side heat storage section 64d temporarily stays inside these heat storage sections.

[0066] The control unit 154 also switches the second three-way valve 136 to disconnect the nitrogen gas supply unit 132 from the third gas line 130 and connect the oxidant gas supply unit 134 to the third gas line 130. This allows an oxidant gas (typically compressed air) containing oxygen to be supplied. The oxidant gas passes through the second humidifier 138 to become a moist oxidant gas (second moist gas). The moist gas then flows through the second input manifold 98, the second inlet 92 of the second jig 44, and the first Ca-side bend 88 into the second gas flow passage 84. While the second moist gas flows through the second gas flow passage 84, a portion of the second moist gas reaches the second electrode catalyst layer 22 via the second gas diffusion layer 24 of the cathode electrode 16. Therefore, the addition of moisture to the cathode electrode 16 and the electrolyte membrane 12 continues. The excess second wet gas that has flowed through the second gas flow passage 84 flows into the fourth gas line 140 via the second Ca-side bend 90, the second outlet 94, and the second output manifold 100. Thereafter, the second wet gas passes through the second exhaust valve 142 and is discharged from the second exhaust line 144.

[0067] While the second moist gas flows through the second gas flow passage 84, another portion of the second moist gas individually enters the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d. Since the temperature of the second moist gas is several tens of degrees Celsius to several hundred degrees Celsius, as the second moist gas enters, the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d store heat, respectively. As described above, the heat storage capacities increase in the order of the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d. The second wet gas that has entered the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d temporarily stays inside these heat storage sections.

[0068] In this case, hydrogen is ionized in the first electrode catalyst layer 18 of the anode electrode 14 to generate protons and electrons. The protons are conducted within the electrolyte membrane 12 and reach the second electrode catalyst layer 22 of the cathode electrode 16. The electrons reach the second electrode catalyst layer 22 of the cathode electrode 16 via the external load 170. In the second electrode catalyst layer 22, oxygen, protons, and electrons chemically combine to generate water.

[0069] The electrochemical reaction described above is an exothermic reaction. That is, the MEA 10 heats up. When this heat is transferred to the first humid gas and the second humid gas, the temperatures of the first humid gas and the second humid gas rise. At this time, the first heat pipe 50 removes heat from the first humid gas. Similarly, the second heat pipe 82 removes heat from the second humid gas. In this way, the first heat pipe 50 and the second heat pipe 82 normally cool the first humid gas and the second humid gas, respectively.

[0070] In this embodiment, information signals relating to the inlet voltage and outlet voltage of the MEA 10 are constantly transmitted to the control unit 154. When the control unit 154 recognizes that the voltage difference between the inlet voltage and the outlet voltage has reached a predetermined upper limit based on an increase in humidity inside the MEA 10, it determines that "the humidification state of the MEA 10 is at the appropriate upper limit."

[0071] The control unit 154 further receives as input the differential pressure measured by the anode differential pressure gauge 162 and the differential pressure measured by the cathode differential pressure gauge 164. As described above, the differential pressure measured by the anode differential pressure gauge 162 is equal to the differential pressure between the inlet to the anode electrode 14 in the first gas flow path 52 and the outlet from the anode electrode 14 in the first gas flow path 52. The differential pressure measured by the cathode differential pressure gauge 164 is equal to the differential pressure between the inlet to the cathode electrode 16 in the second gas flow path 84 and the outlet from the cathode electrode 16 in the second gas flow path 84. If either differential pressure reaches a predetermined upper limit, the control unit 154 also determines that "the humidification state of the MEA 10 is at the appropriate upper limit."

[0072] Having made the above-described determination, the control unit 154 increases the temperatures of the first heat pipe 50 and the second heat pipe 82. Specifically, the control unit 154 increases the heat generation amounts of the first heat supply unit 70 and the second heat supply unit 102, thereby increasing the amount of heat transferred from the first heat supply unit 70 to the first heat pipe 50 and the amount of heat transferred from the second heat supply unit 102 to the second heat pipe 82.

[0073] This control increases the amount of heat imparted to the first humid gas from the first heat pipe 50. Similarly, the amount of heat imparted to the second humid gas from the second heat pipe 82 increases. Therefore, the effective dew point temperatures of the first humid gas and the second humid gas increase. As a result, condensation is less likely to occur in the first humid gas and the second humid gas. This gradually reduces the amount of liquid water in each of the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84. As the amount of liquid water decreases, the voltage difference between the inlet voltage and the outlet voltage decreases.

[0074] Here, the substantial dew point temperature of the first moist gas is the local dew point temperature of the first moist gas at each location in the first gas flow path 52. The substantial dew point temperature of the first moist gas is determined by the amount of heat imparted to the first moist gas from the first heat pipe 50. Similarly, the substantial dew point temperature of the second moist gas is the local dew point temperature of the second moist gas at each location in the second gas flow path 84. The substantial dew point temperature of the second moist gas is determined by the amount of heat imparted to the second moist gas from the second heat pipe 82.

[0075] If the amount of liquid water in each of the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84 is excessively reduced, there is a concern that the electrolyte membrane 12 will dry out. Therefore, when the voltage difference between the inlet side voltage and the outlet side voltage reaches a predetermined lower limit, the control unit 154 determines that "the humidification state of the MEA 10 is at the appropriate lower limit." Note that the control unit 154 also makes the same determination as above when the pressure difference between the first gas line 110 and the second gas line 120 reaches a predetermined lower limit.

[0076] Having made the above-described determination, the control unit 154 reduces the temperatures of the first heat pipe 50 and the second heat pipe 82. Specifically, the control unit 154 reduces the amount of heat generated by the first heat supply unit 70 and the second heat supply unit 102, thereby reducing the amount of heat transferred from the first heat supply unit 70 to the first heat pipe 50 and the amount of heat transferred from the second heat supply unit 102 to the second heat pipe 82.

[0077] This control reduces the amount of heat imparted to the first humid gas from the first heat pipe 50. Similarly, the amount of heat imparted to the second humid gas from the second heat pipe 82 reduces. Therefore, the effective dew point temperatures of the first humid gas and the second humid gas decrease. As a result, condensation is more likely to occur in the first humid gas and the second humid gas. This gradually increases the amount of liquid water in each of the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84. As the amount of liquid water increases, the voltage difference between the inlet side voltage and the outlet side voltage increases. Furthermore, the pressure difference between the first gas line 110 and the second gas line 120 increases.

[0078] The first heat pipe 50 and the second heat pipe 82 have a high response speed to the application or cessation of heat. Therefore, when heat is applied from the first heat supply unit 70 to the first heat pipe 50, the temperature of the first humid gas in the first gas flow path 52 rises quickly. Similarly, when heat is applied from the second heat supply unit 102 to the second heat pipe 82, the temperature of the second humid gas in the second gas flow path 84 rises quickly. Conversely, when the application of heat from the first heat supply unit 70 to the first heat pipe 50 is stopped, the temperature of the first humid gas in the first gas flow path 52 drops quickly. Similarly, when the application of heat from the second heat supply unit 102 to the second heat pipe 82 is stopped, the temperature of the second humid gas in the second gas flow path 84 drops quickly.

[0079] In this manner, the temperatures of the first and second wet gases are quickly adjusted. That is, the temperatures of the first and second wet gases can be maintained substantially constant. Therefore, the amount of liquid water in each of the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84 can be maintained at an appropriate level, thereby preventing flooding. As a result, a sufficient amount of the first wet gas reaches the first electrode catalyst layer 18 of the anode electrode 14, and a sufficient amount of the second wet gas reaches the second electrode catalyst layer 22 of the cathode electrode 16. This allows the MEA 10 to be sufficiently activated.

[0080] Moreover, the activation device 40 according to the first embodiment has a plurality of first gas flow paths 52 and a plurality of second gas flow paths 84. Therefore, the flow path length of each of the first gas flow paths 52 and each of the second gas flow paths 84 is short. Therefore, in the first gas flow path 52, a difference in partial pressure of the first wet gas is unlikely to occur between the first inlet 60 and the first outlet 62. Similarly, in the second gas flow path 84, a difference in partial pressure of the second wet gas is unlikely to occur between the second inlet 92 and the second outlet 94.

[0081] In addition, a first An-side heat storage unit 64a, a second An-side heat storage unit 64b, a third An-side heat storage unit 64c, and a fourth An-side heat storage unit 64d are formed in the first gas flow path 52. Heat is stored in the first An-side heat storage unit 64a, the second An-side heat storage unit 64b, the third An-side heat storage unit 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage unit 64d as the first moist gas enters these heat storage units. That is, heat is transferred to the first moist gas from the first An-side heat storage unit 64a, the second An-side heat storage unit 64b, the third An-side heat storage unit 64c, and the fourth An-side heat storage unit 64d. Moreover, the heat storage capacity of these heat storage units increases with increasing proximity to the first outlet 62. That is, a larger amount of heat is imparted to the first moist gas with increasing proximity to the first outlet 62.

[0082] Thus, in the first embodiment, a larger amount of heat is imparted to the first moist gas as the first moist gas approaches the first outlet 62. Therefore, a decrease in the substantial dew point temperature at the first outlet 62 is avoided.

[0083] Similarly, the heat stored in the first Ca-side heat storage section 96a, the second Ca-side heat storage section 96b, the third Ca-side heat storage section 96c, and the fourth Ca-side heat storage section 96d is transferred to the second wet gas flowing through the second gas flow passage 84. The heat storage capacities of these heat storage sections increase with increasing proximity to the second outlet 94, and therefore a larger amount of heat is imparted to the second wet gas as the second wet gas approaches the second outlet 94. This also prevents the substantial dew-point temperature at the second outlet 94 from decreasing.

[0084] For the reasons described above, even if the amount of heat imparted from the first heat pipe 50 or the second heat pipe 82 in the first gas flow path 52 or the second gas flow path 84 is rapidly reduced, a decrease in the substantial dew point temperature is avoided, particularly near the first outlet 62 and near the second outlet 94. This prevents flooding from occurring in the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84. That is, according to the first embodiment, it is easy to prevent flooding.

[0085] In this embodiment, heat storage units (gas temperature heat storage structures) are provided in the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84, and the heat storage capacities of the heat storage units increase with increasing proximity to the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 94. Therefore, in the first gas flow path 52, the dew point temperature increases from the first inlet 60 to the first outlet 62. In the second gas flow path 84, the dew point temperature increases from the second inlet 92 to the second outlet 94. That is, in the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84, a positive gradient is formed in the effective dew point temperature from the upstream to the downstream of the activated gas. Therefore, when the effective dew point temperature of the first wet gas decreases in the first gas flow path 52 or when the effective dew point temperature of the second wet gas decreases in the second gas flow path 84, condensed water (liquid water) is suppressed from being generated throughout the first gas flow path 52 or the second gas flow path 84.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the substantial dew-point temperature in the first gas flow path 52 is highest near the first outlet 62, and the substantial dew-point temperature in the second gas flow path 84 is highest near the second outlet 94. Therefore, condensation is less likely to occur in the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 94. This prevents the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 94 from being blocked by condensed water. Therefore, condensed water generated midway through the first gas flow path 52 and midway through the second gas flow path 84 can be quickly discharged from the first outlet 62 and the second outlet 94.

[0087] After the activation of MEA 10 is completed in the above manner, the control unit 154 controls the first three-way valve 116 to cut off communication between the hydrogen gas supply unit 112 and the first gas line 110 and to connect the nitrogen gas supply unit 114 and the first gas line 110. The control unit 154 also controls the second three-way valve 136 to cut off communication between the third gas line 130 and the oxidant gas supply unit 134 and to connect the third gas line 130 and the nitrogen gas supply unit 132.

[0088] In this state, nitrogen gas is supplied from the nitrogen gas supply unit 114 to the first gas flow path 52, and from the nitrogen gas supply unit 132 to the second gas flow path 84. The nitrogen gas becomes wet nitrogen gas and is supplied to the anode electrode 14 and the cathode electrode 16. The wet nitrogen gas passes through the second gas line 120 and the fourth gas line 140 and is exhausted from the first exhaust valve 122 and the second exhaust valve 142, respectively. As a result, the first gas flow path 52 and the second gas flow path 84 are replaced with wet nitrogen gas.

[0089] The first jig 42 is fabricated, for example, by sandwiching the first heat pipe 50 between base plates 46a and 46b, placing the first flow path member 48 on base plate 46b, and performing roll bonding. Similarly, the second jig 44 is fabricated by sandwiching the second heat pipe 82 between base plates 46c and 46d, placing the second flow path member 80 on base plate 46d, and performing roll bonding.

[0090] Instead of using the first flow path member 48 and the second flow path member 80, it is also possible to form a first gas flow path 52 between the base plates 46a and 46b and a second gas flow path 84 between the base plates 46c and 46d.

[0091] Next, an activation device 200 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 11. Note that the same components as those shown in Figures 1 to 6 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0092] Fig. 7 is a plan view of the activation device 200 as seen from a first jig 202 constituting the activation device 200, Fig. 8 is a plan view of the activation device 200 as seen from an end face of the first jig 202 facing the anode electrode 14, Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in Fig. 7, Fig. 10 is a plan view of the activation device 200 as seen from a second jig 204 constituting the activation device 200, and Fig. 11 is a plan view of the activation device 200 as seen from an end face of the second jig 204 facing the cathode electrode 16.

[0093] 9, the activation device 200 has a first jig 202 and a second jig 204 that sandwich the MEA 10. The first jig 202 is disposed adjacent to the first gas diffusion layer 20 of the anode electrode 14. The second jig 204 is disposed adjacent to the second gas diffusion layer 24 of the cathode electrode 16.

[0094] 8 and 9, in the second embodiment, a plurality of (three in the second embodiment) first flow path members 210 are arranged between two first heat pipes 50. The three first flow path members 210 are aligned linearly along the first direction X, which is the extension direction of the first heat pipes 50. As shown in FIG. 9, a first gas flow path 212 is formed inside each first flow path member 210. Therefore, in the second embodiment, a plurality of (two or more) first gas flow paths 212 are located between two of the plurality of first heat pipes 50.

[0095] 8, the first gas flow channel 212 has a first supply port 214 on the surface facing the anode 14. Therefore, the first wet gas flowing through the first gas flow channel 212 is supplied from the first supply port 214 to the first electrode catalyst layer 18 via the first gas diffusion layer 20.

[0096] A first An side bent portion 56 and a second An side bent portion 58 are continuous with the first gas flow passage 212. A first inlet 60 through which the first wet gas flows in is formed in the first An side bent portion 56. A first outlet 62 through which the first wet gas flows out is formed in the second An side bent portion 58. The first An side bent portion 56 and the second An side bent portion 58 are formed as a first bent portion and a second bent portion, respectively, which are recessed in a direction away from the first gas flow passage 212.

[0097] A first input manifold 216 is connected to all of the first inlets 60 via pipe joints 66. The first wet gas supplied from the first wet gas supply source is distributed by the first input manifold 216 and flows into the first flow path member 210 via each of the first inlets 60 and the first An side bend portion 56. A first output manifold 218 is connected to all of the first outlets 62 via pipe joints 66. The first wet gas that has flowed through each of the first gas flow paths 212 is collected in the first output manifold 218 and is, for example, discharged to the atmosphere or recovered in the first wet gas supply source (see FIG. 1 ).

[0098] 9 and 11, in the second embodiment, a plurality of (three in the second embodiment) second flow path members 220 are arranged between two second heat pipes 82. The three second flow path members 220 are aligned linearly along the first direction X, which is the extension direction of the second heat pipes 82. As shown in FIG. 9, a second gas flow path 222 is formed inside each second flow path member 220. Therefore, in the second embodiment, a plurality of (two or more) second gas flow paths 222 are located between two of the plurality of second heat pipes 82.

[0099] 9, the second gas flow channel 222 has a second supply port 224 on the surface facing the cathode electrode 16. Therefore, the second wet gas flowing through the second gas flow channel 222 is supplied from the second supply port 224 to the second electrode catalyst layer 22 via the second gas diffusion layer 24.

[0100] A first Ca-side bent portion 88 and a second Ca-side bent portion 90 are connected to the second gas flow passage 222. A second inlet 92 through which the second wet gas flows in is formed in the first Ca-side bent portion 88. A second outlet 94 through which the second wet gas flows out is formed in the second Ca-side bent portion 90. The first Ca-side bent portion 88 and the second Ca-side bent portion 90 are formed as a first bent portion and a second bent portion, respectively, each of which is made of a recess recessed in a direction away from the second gas flow passage 222.

[0101] In this embodiment, the flow direction of the first wet gas flowing through the first gas flow passage 212 is the same as the flow direction of the second wet gas flowing through the second gas flow passage 222. However, the flow direction of the first wet gas flowing through the first gas flow passage 212 and the flow direction of the second wet gas flowing through the second gas flow passage 222 may be opposite to each other or may be different directions.

[0102] A second input manifold 226 is connected to all of the second inlets 92 via pipe joints 66. The second wet gas supplied from the second wet gas supply source is distributed by the second input manifold 226 and flows into the second gas flow passages 222 via the individual second inlets 92 and the first Ca-side bend portion 88. A second output manifold 228 is connected to all of the second outlets 94 via pipe joints 66. The first wet gas that has flowed through the individual second gas flow passages 222 is collected in the second output manifold 228 and is, for example, discharged to the atmosphere or recovered in the second wet gas supply source.

[0103] In the activation device 200 according to the second embodiment, the flow path lengths of each of the first gas flow paths 212 and each of the second gas flow paths 222 are shorter than the flow path lengths of each of the first gas flow paths 52 and each of the second gas flow paths 84 in the activation device 40 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, in each of the first gas flow paths 212, a difference in partial pressure of the first wet gas is less likely to occur between the first inlet 60 and the first outlet 62. Similarly, in each of the second gas flow paths 222, a difference in partial pressure of the second wet gas is less likely to occur between the second inlet 92 and the second outlet 94.

[0104] Therefore, it is more difficult for flooding to occur in the first gas flow path 212 and the second gas flow path 222. That is, according to the second embodiment, it is easier to prevent flooding from occurring.

[0105] In the second embodiment, at least one of the first gas flow path 212 and the second gas flow path 222 may also be provided with a heat storage section.

[0106] The first jig 202 and the second jig 204 can be produced by roll bonding or the like, similarly to the first jig 42 and the second jig 44. Instead of using the first flow path member 210 and the second flow path member 220, it is also possible to form a first gas flow path 212 between the base plates 46a and 46b, and to form a second gas flow path 222 between the base plates 46c and 46d.

[0107] As described above, in this embodiment, an activation device (40) for activating a membrane electrode assembly (10) in which an electrolyte membrane (12) is sandwiched between an anode electrode (14) and a cathode electrode (16) that constitute a fuel cell includes a pair of jigs (42, 44) disposed on both sides of the membrane electrode assembly, each of the pair of jigs having a plurality of gas flow paths (52, 84) and a plurality of heat pipes (50, 82), and the activation device supplies activation gas to the plurality of gas flow paths. an activation device comprising: an activation gas supply unit (112, 134) that supplies heat to the plurality of heat pipes; a heat supply unit (70, 102) that applies heat to the plurality of heat pipes; and a control unit (154) that controls the heat applied from the heat supply unit to the plurality of heat pipes, wherein each of the plurality of gas flow paths has an inlet (60, 92) through which the activation gas flows in, a supply port (54, 86) that opens toward the anode electrode or the cathode electrode, and an outlet (62, 94) through which the activation gas flows out.

[0108] Generally, multiple gas flow paths (anode-side flow path and cathode-side flow path) branch off from a single inlet and converge at a single outlet. In contrast, in this embodiment, each of the multiple gas flow paths has an inlet and an outlet. That is, the multiple gas flow paths are independent of each other and do not communicate with each other.

[0109] Therefore, one gas flow path has one inlet and one outlet. In this case, the length of one gas flow path is shortened. For the above reasons, a difference in partial pressure between the inlet side and the outlet side of the activated gas flowing through the gas flow path is unlikely to occur. In other words, a decrease in the partial pressure of the activated gas near the outlet and an increase in the partial pressure of water vapor are avoided. This makes it difficult for flooding to occur near the outlet of the gas flow path. As a result, the activated gas easily penetrates the electrode catalyst of each of the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. This allows the electrode catalyst to be sufficiently activated.

[0110] This embodiment discloses an activation device in which the plurality of gas flow paths are arranged in parallel to each other.

[0111] This configuration allows the activated gas to be distributed substantially uniformly over the electrode surface of the anode or cathode, thereby enabling the partial pressures of the activated gas and water vapor to be appropriately controlled, thereby enabling the electrode surface to be substantially uniformly humidified while avoiding flooding.

[0112] This embodiment discloses an activation device having heat storage units (64a to 64d, 96a to 96d) provided in each of the plurality of gas flow paths.

[0113] Heat pipes have a high response speed to the application or cessation of heat. Therefore, when the temperature of the activated gas flowing through the gas flow path of an activation device is controlled by a heat pipe, it is expected that the local temperature (effective dew point temperature) of the activated gas will be approximately uniform. In this case, if the amount of heat applied to the activated gas from the heat pipe rapidly decreases, the effective dew point temperature of the activated gas in the gas flow path may decrease simultaneously, resulting in condensation throughout the gas flow path. Due to this phenomenon, flooding is expected to occur despite the high response speed of the heat pipe to heat input and output. In particular, fuel cell stacks installed in large vehicles such as trucks have large MEAs. When activating such MEAs, the flow path length of the gas flow path in the activation device becomes relatively long. If condensation occurs in a gas flow path with a long flow path length, the amount of condensation generated is large, which raises concerns about flooding.

[0114] In contrast, in the embodiment in which a heat storage section is provided, heat from the heat storage section is transferred to the activated gas flowing through the gas flow path. This heat transfer increases the effective dew point temperature of the activated gas. As a result, condensation of water vapor in the gas flow path is further suppressed. Therefore, flooding can be more easily prevented.

[0115] This embodiment discloses an activation device, wherein the heat storage section is one or more recesses recessed from the gas flow path as a starting point so as to be spaced apart from the gas flow path.

[0116] In this case, activated gas enters the recess. Since the activated gas has a temperature of several tens to several hundred degrees Celsius, the heat storage section stores heat. Thus, with this configuration, it is easy to configure the heat storage section.

[0117] This embodiment discloses an activation device in which the heat storage section is two or more recesses that are recessed starting from the gas flow path and spaced apart from the gas flow path, the two or more recesses have different heat storage capacities, and the two or more recesses are arranged within the gas flow path from the inlet to the outlet in the order of recesses with smaller heat storage capacities to recesses with larger heat storage capacities.

[0118] In this case, the effective dew-point temperature increases from upstream to downstream in the gas flow path. That is, a positive temperature gradient is formed in the effective dew-point temperature. Therefore, condensation of activated gas becomes less likely from the inlet to the outlet of the gas flow path. For these reasons, simultaneous generation of condensation throughout the entire gas flow path is avoided. Moreover, since the effective dew-point temperature can be increased near the outlet of the gas flow path, generation of condensation at the outlet of the gas flow path is suppressed. Therefore, clogging of the outlet of the gas flow path with condensation is avoided. Therefore, even if condensation of activated gas occurs midway through the gas flow path, the condensation can be quickly discharged from the outlet.

[0119] In particular, during power generation aging, water is generated at the cathode electrode as activation progresses. Therefore, flooding is likely to occur near the outlet of the gas flow path facing the cathode electrode. However, with the above configuration, a large amount of heat can be imparted from the heat storage unit located near the outlet to the activated gas that has flowed through the gas flow path and reached the vicinity of the outlet. This prevents the effective dew point temperature of the activated gas from decreasing near the outlet. This further suppresses flooding.

[0120] This embodiment discloses an activation device in which the gas flow path has a bent portion (56, 58, 88, 90) that is bent so as to be concave toward the concave direction of the one or more recesses, and the inlet or the outlet is formed at the bent portion.

[0121] According to this configuration, the inlet or outlet is recessed in the same direction as the recess (heat storage portion). In other words, in this case, the inlet or outlet and the heat storage portion face in the same direction. This prevents the jig from becoming large. In other words, the jig can be made smaller.

[0122] This embodiment discloses an activation device in which the gas flow path has a first bent portion (56, 88) and a second bent portion (58, 90) that are bent so as to be concave toward the concave direction of the one or more recesses, and the inlet is formed in the first bent portion and the outlet is formed in the second bent portion.

[0123] According to this configuration, the inlet and outlet are recessed in the same direction as the recess (heat storage portion). In other words, in this case, the inlet and outlet and the heat storage portion face in the same direction. This further prevents the jig from becoming large. In other words, the jig can be made even smaller.

[0124] This embodiment discloses an activation device in which, in each of the pair of jigs, two or more of the plurality of gas flow paths (212, 222) are positioned between two of the plurality of heat pipes, and the two or more gas flow paths are aligned in a straight line along the extension direction of the plurality of heat pipes.

[0125] This configuration further shortens the length of the gas flow path. Therefore, the partial pressure difference between the inlet side and the outlet side of the activated gas flowing through the gas flow path is less likely to occur. Therefore, flooding near the outlet of the gas flow path is less likely to occur. This makes it easier to activate the electrode catalyst.

[0126] The present invention is not limited to the above disclosure, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 10...Electrolyte membrane / electrode structure 12...Electrolyte membrane 14...Anode electrode 16...Cathode electrode 18...first electrode catalyst layer 20...first gas diffusion layer 22... Second electrode catalyst layer 24... Second gas diffusion layer 30...Activation system 40, 200...Activation device 42, 202...First jig 44, 204...Second jig 46a to 46d... Base plates 48, 210... First flow path members 50...first heat pipe 52, 212...first gas flow path 54, 214...1st supply port 56...1st An side bending part 58...2nd An side bending part 60...1st entrance 62...1st outlet 64a~64d...An side heat storage section 70...first heat supplying section 80, 220...second flow path member 82... Second heat pipe 84, 222... Second gas flow path 86, 224...2nd supply port 88...1st Ca side bending part 90... Second Ca side bend 92... Second entrance 94...Second outlet 96a~96d...Ca side heat storage section 102... Second heat supply unit 112... Hydrogen gas supply unit 114, 132... Nitrogen gas supply unit 118... First humidifier 134...oxidant gas supply unit 138...second humidifier 150...electrical parameter detection unit 160...pressure parameter detection unit 170...External load

Claims

1. An activation device for activating a membrane electrode assembly having an electrolyte membrane sandwiched between an anode electrode and a cathode electrode that constitute a fuel cell, comprising: a pair of jigs disposed on both sides of the membrane electrode assembly; each of the pair of jigs has a plurality of gas flow paths and a plurality of heat pipes; The activation device includes: an activated gas supply unit that supplies an activated gas to the plurality of gas flow paths; a heat supply unit that applies heat to the plurality of heat pipes; a control unit that controls heat applied from the heat supply unit to the plurality of heat pipes; a heat storage unit provided in each of the plurality of gas flow paths; Equipped with each of the plurality of gas flow paths has an inlet through which the activated gas flows, a supply port that opens toward the anode electrode or the cathode electrode, and an outlet through which the activated gas flows out; The activation device, wherein the heat storage section is one or more recesses recessed from the gas flow path as a starting point so as to be spaced apart from the gas flow path.

2. 2. The activation device according to claim 1, wherein the gas flow path has a bent portion that is bent so as to be recessed in a recessing direction of the one or more recesses, and the inlet or the outlet is formed at the bent portion.

3. 2. The activation device according to claim 1, wherein the gas flow path has a first bent portion and a second bent portion that are bent so as to be concave toward the concave direction of the one or more recesses, and the inlet is formed in the first bent portion, and the outlet is formed in the second bent portion.

4. An activation device for activating an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure in which an electrolyte membrane is sandwiched between an anode electrode and a cathode electrode that constitute a fuel cell, comprising: a pair of jigs disposed on both sides of the membrane electrode assembly; each of the pair of jigs has a plurality of gas flow paths and a plurality of heat pipes; The activation device includes: an activated gas supply unit that supplies an activated gas to the plurality of gas flow paths; a heat supply unit that applies heat to the plurality of heat pipes; a control unit that controls heat applied from the heat supply unit to the plurality of heat pipes; a heat storage unit provided in each of the plurality of gas flow paths; Equipped with each of the plurality of gas flow paths has an inlet through which the activated gas flows, a supply port that opens toward the anode electrode or the cathode electrode, and an outlet through which the activated gas flows out; the heat storage section is two or more recesses recessed from the gas flow path as a starting point so as to be spaced apart from the gas flow path, The heat storage capacities of the two or more recesses are different from each other, The two or more recesses are arranged in the gas flow path from the inlet to the outlet in the order of recesses having smaller heat storage capacities to recesses having larger heat storage capacities.

5. An activation device for activating an electrolyte membrane-electrode structure in which an electrolyte membrane is sandwiched between an anode electrode and a cathode electrode that constitute a fuel cell, comprising: a pair of jigs disposed on both sides of the membrane electrode assembly; each of the pair of jigs has a plurality of gas flow paths and a plurality of heat pipes; The activation device includes: an activated gas supply unit that supplies an activated gas to the plurality of gas flow paths; a heat supply unit that applies heat to the plurality of heat pipes; a control unit that controls heat applied from the heat supply unit to the plurality of heat pipes; Equipped with each of the plurality of gas flow paths has an inlet through which the activated gas flows, a supply port that opens toward the anode electrode or the cathode electrode, and an outlet through which the activated gas flows out; In each of the pair of jigs, two or more of the plurality of gas flow paths are positioned between two of the plurality of heat pipes, and the two or more gas flow paths are arranged in a straight line along the extension direction of the plurality of heat pipes.

6. 6. The activation device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of gas flow paths are arranged in parallel to each other.

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