Water electrolysis cells and water electrolysis devices

Abstract

To provide an electrochemical cell and an electrolytic device which are less likely to cause a failure even when a large surface pressure is applied.SOLUTION: An electrochemical cell of the present disclosure comprises an ion exchange membrane, a cathode catalyst layer arranged on one side of the ion exchange membrane, an anode catalyst layer arranged on the other side of the ion exchange membrane opposite to one side, and a ceramic particle-containing layer arranged on at least one of between the cathode catalyst layer and the ion exchange membrane and between the anode catalyst layer and the ion exchange membrane.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to water electrolysis cells and water electrolytic devices.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) including a layer structure in which two macroporous carbon-based backing layers, an ionomer layer (ion exchange membrane) disposed between the two macroporous carbon-based backing layers, and a catalyst layer (electrode catalyst layer), a barrier layer, and a microporous layer are disposed in this order from the side of the ionomer layer between these macroporous carbon-based backing layers and the ionomer layer. The catalyst layer is joined to both surfaces of the ionomer layer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in the field of electrochemical cells provided with a membrane electrode assembly, the surface of the electrode catalyst layer in contact with the ion exchange membrane may be formed rough. For this reason, there may be a sparse presence of portions where the electrode catalyst layer is in close contact with the ion exchange membrane and portions where it is not in close contact. In order to suppress the concentration of contact resistance in the portions in close contact, a surface pressure may be applied to the ion exchange membrane from the side of the electrode catalyst layer. However, in this case, depending on the magnitude of the applied surface pressure, problems such as damage to the ion exchange membrane may occur due to the roughness of the surface of the electrode catalyst layer. ​​This disclosure was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and is less likely to cause defects even when a large surface pressure is applied. water electrolysis Cells and water The objective is to provide an electrolytic device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the disclosure relating to this disclosure water electrolysis The cell comprises an ion exchange membrane, a cathode catalyst layer disposed on one side of the ion exchange membrane, an anode catalyst layer disposed on the other side opposite to the ion exchange membrane, and a ceramic particle-containing layer disposed on at least one of the spaces between the cathode catalyst layer and the ion exchange membrane, and between the anode catalyst layer and the ion exchange membrane, wherein the ion exchange membrane has a first surface in contact with the ceramic particle-containing layer. The aforementioned ceramic particle-containing layer comprises ceramic particles, a polymer binder, and voids. The cathode catalyst layer or the anode catalyst layer has a second surface in contact with the ceramic particle-containing layer, the second surface is rougher than the first surface, the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer is greater than the maximum surface roughness height of the second surface, and a pressing mechanism is provided to apply a predetermined surface pressure between the cathode catalyst layer or the anode catalyst layer and the ion exchange membrane, with the ceramic particle-containing layer sandwiched in between. Preparation picture, When the predetermined surface pressure is adjusted to a value higher than the surface pressure at which the ion exchange membrane malfunctions, in the same configuration except that the ceramic particle-containing layer is absent, a short circuit due to damage to the ion exchange membrane does not occur.

[0007] Regarding this disclosure water The electrolytic device comprises an electrolytic cell, which is the electrochemical cell described above; an electrolyte supply unit, which supplies an electrolyte to the electrolytic cell; and a power supply unit, which applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, malfunctions are less likely to occur even when a large surface pressure is applied. water electrolysis Cells and water We can provide an electrolytic device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1]It is a schematic configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of an electrolysis device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] It is a diagram schematically showing an electrochemical cell according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] It is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of a ceramic particle-containing layer according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] It is an exploded perspective view schematically showing an electrochemical cell according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] It is a cross-sectional view showing an electrochemical cell according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] It is a diagram (cross-sectional view) for explaining a pressing mechanism according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] It is a cross-sectional view showing a method for manufacturing a membrane electrode assembly according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] It is a cross-sectional view showing a method for manufacturing a membrane electrode assembly according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view showing a method for manufacturing a membrane electrode assembly according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing in a comparative manner the relationship between surface pressure and contact resistance when there is and when there is no ceramic particle-containing layer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [[ID= 29]] [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing in a comparative manner the relationship between current density and cell voltage when there is and when there is no ceramic particle-containing layer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, an electrolysis device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a method for manufacturing a membrane electrode assembly 43 included in the electrolysis device 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to configurations having the same or similar functions. In this specification, "opposing" means that two members overlap when viewed in a certain direction, and may include the case where another member (for example, another layer) exists between the two members.

[0011] First, refer to FIG. 5 to define the Z direction, X direction, and Y direction. The Z direction is the direction from the first separator 41 to the second separator 42 described later (the left - right direction in FIG. 5). Also, the Z direction is the stacking direction when the ion - exchange membrane 50, the ceramic - particle - containing layer 51, the cathode catalyst layer 54, the cathode current collector 55, the anode catalyst layer 56, and the anode current collector 57 of the membrane - electrode assembly 43 described later form a layer structure. The X direction is a direction that intersects (for example, is orthogonal to) the Z direction, and is the direction from the central portion C of the membrane - electrode assembly 43 to one end of the membrane - electrode assembly 43 (the up - down direction in FIG. 5). The Y direction is a direction that intersects (for example, is orthogonal to) the Z direction and the X direction, and is, for example, the depth direction of the paper surface in FIG. 5. The "area" in this specification means the area when viewed in the Z direction (that is, the area extending in the X direction and the Y direction). Also, the "outer dimension" in this specification means the outer dimension when viewed in the Z direction. That is, the "outer dimension" and the "area" may substantially mean the same thing and may be read mutually as appropriate.

[0012] <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of the electrolyzer 1 of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the electrolyzer 1 is a device (electrolysis device) that generates hydrogen (H2) by electrolyzing water (H2O) contained in an electrolytic solution. Note that the electrolyzer 1 is not limited to a configuration that electrolyzes water to generate hydrogen. For example, it may be a device that electrolyzes an electrolytic solution for the purpose of generating and purifying organic and inorganic substances contained in the electrolytic solution, or concentrating a predetermined substance. Also, in this embodiment, the electrolyzer 1 is, for example, an anion - exchange - membrane (AEM) type device. However, the electrolyzer 1 is not limited to the anion - exchange - membrane type, and may be a proton - exchange - membrane (PEM) type device, a fuel cell, a CO2 electrolytic reduction device, a salt electrolysis device, a chemical product electrolytic synthesis device, or the like. The electrolyzer 1 includes, for example, a cell stack 10, an electrolytic - solution supply unit 20, and a power supply unit 30.

[0013] (Cell Stack) The cell stack 10 is an assembly of multiple electrochemical cells 11. The cell stack 10 is formed, for example, by arranging multiple electrochemical cells 11 in one direction. Each electrochemical cell 11 includes a cathode chamber Sa and an anode chamber Sb. The electrochemical cells 11 will be described in detail later.

[0014] (Electrolyte supply section) The electrolyte supply unit 20 is a supply unit that supplies electrolyte to each electrochemical cell 11. The electrolyte is, for example, pure water or an alkaline aqueous solution. In this embodiment, an aqueous potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution is used as the alkaline aqueous solution. The electrolyte supply unit 20 includes a cathode-side supply unit 20a and an anode-side supply unit 20b.

[0015] The cathode-side supply unit 20a is a supply unit that supplies electrolyte to the cathode chamber Sa of each electrochemical cell 11. The cathode-side supply unit 20a includes, for example, a hydrogen-liquid-gas separator 21, a first pump 22, a hydrogen recovery unit 23, a first electrolyte supply unit 24, and piping lines L1 and L2. In a cell stack 10 in which multiple electrochemical cells 11 are stacked, for example, piping lines L1 and L2 are connected to a piping structure within the electrochemical cell 11 called a manifold, which connects each electrochemical cell 11 to the others. Electrolyte is supplied on the piping line L1 side, and the electrolyte and generated hydrogen are discharged on the piping line L2 side.

[0016] The hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 stores the electrolyte. The supply port of the hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 is connected to the cathode chamber Sa of the electrochemical cell 11 via the piping line L1. The first pump 22 is installed in the middle of the piping line L1 and sends the electrolyte stored in the hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 toward the cathode chamber Sa of the electrochemical cell 11.

[0017] The return port of the hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 is connected to the cathode chamber Sa of the electrochemical cell 11 via piping line L2. Electrolyte containing hydrogen generated in the electrochemical cell 11 flows into the hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 from the electrochemical cell 11. The hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 has a vapor-liquid separation unit that separates the hydrogen contained in the electrolyte. The hydrogen separated from the electrolyte by the hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 is recovered by the hydrogen recovery unit 23. Electrolyte is replenished into the hydrogen vapor-liquid separator 21 from the first electrolyte supply unit 24.

[0018] On the other hand, the anode-side supply unit 20b is a supply unit that supplies electrolyte to the anode chamber Sb of each electrochemical cell 11. The anode-side supply unit 20b includes, for example, an oxygen vapor-liquid separator 26, a second pump 27, an oxygen recovery unit 28, a second electrolyte supply unit 29, and piping lines L3 and L4. In a cell stack 10 in which multiple electrochemical cells 11 are stacked, for example, piping lines L3 and L4 are connected to a piping structure within the electrochemical cell 11 called a manifold, which connects each electrochemical cell 11 to the others. Electrolyte is supplied on the piping line L3 side, and the electrolyte and generated oxygen are discharged on the piping line L4 side.

[0019] The oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 stores the electrolyte. The supply port of the oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 is connected to the anode chamber Sb of the electrochemical cell 11 via the piping line L3. The second pump 27 is installed in the middle of the piping line L3 and sends the electrolyte stored in the oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 towards the anode chamber Sb of the electrochemical cell 11.

[0020] The return port of the oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 is connected to the anode chamber Sb of the electrochemical cell 11 via piping line L4. Electrolyte containing oxygen (O2) generated in the electrochemical cell 11 flows into the oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 from the electrochemical cell 11. The oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 has a gas-liquid separation unit that separates the oxygen contained in the electrolyte. The oxygen separated from the electrolyte by the oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 is recovered by the oxygen recovery unit 28. Electrolyte is replenished into the oxygen-gas-liquid separator 26 from the second electrolyte supply unit 29.

[0021] (Power supply part) The power supply unit 30 is a DC power supply device that applies voltage to the electrochemical cell 11. The power supply unit 30 applies the DC voltage necessary for the electrolysis of the electrolyte between the anode 48 and cathode 47 (see Figure 2) of the electrochemical cell 11. In a cell stack 10 in which multiple electrochemical cells 11 are stacked, for example, wires from the power supply unit 30 are connected to the electrodes at both ends of the cell stack 10, and the necessary voltage is applied in multiples of the required DC current and the number of stacking stages, thereby supplying the necessary power. In this embodiment, the following equation (i) holds true. (Electrification current required for one electrochemical cell 11 (A)) × (Electrification voltage required for one electrochemical cell 11 (V)) × (Number of stacked electrochemical cells 11) = Power supplied (W) …(i)

[0022] (Configuration of an electrochemical cell) Next, the electrochemical cell 11 will be explained in detail. The electrochemical cell 11 is a device that uses electrical energy input from an external source to induce a chemical reaction (electrolysis) in an electrolyte to produce a specific substance (a desired substance), or a device that generates electrical energy to be output externally by causing a chemical reaction in an electrolyte.

[0023] In this embodiment, the electrochemical cell 11 is an electrolytic cell (water electrolytic cell) that generates hydrogen by causing the electrolysis of water contained in an electrolyte solution using electrical energy input from an external source. However, the electrochemical cell 11 is not limited to an electrolytic cell that generates hydrogen by electrolyzing water, and may be a different type of device, such as one that electrolytically reduces carbon dioxide (CO2), or a fuel cell, a salt electrolytic device, a chemical product electrolytic synthesis device, etc.

[0024] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrochemical cell 11. The electrochemical cell 11 includes, for example, a first separator 41, a second separator 42, and a membrane electrode assembly 43.

[0025] (First separator) The first separator 41 is a component that defines one side of the housing space S of the electrochemical cell 11. The housing space S is a space that includes the cathode chamber Sa and the anode chamber Sb, which will be described later. The first separator 41 is, for example, a rectangular plate and is formed from a metal material such as stainless steel, titanium, or nickel, or from a conductive carbon plate or a conductive carbon plate sealed with molded resin. The first separator 41 is subjected to a negative voltage from the power supply unit 30, for example, via the first current collector 61 (see Figures 4 and 6), which will be described later.

[0026] The first separator 41 has a first separator end 41e1 (e.g., a lower end) and a second separator end 41e2 (e.g., an upper end) located on the opposite side from the first separator end 41e1. The piping line L1 described above is connected to the first separator end 41e1 of the first separator 41. The piping line L2 described above is connected to the second separator end 41e2 of the first separator 41.

[0027] The first separator 41 has a first inner surface 41a facing the cathode chamber Sa, which will be described later. A first channel FP1 is formed in the first inner surface 41a through which the electrolyte supplied from the piping line L1 flows. The first channel FP1 is, for example, a groove provided so as to be recessed from the first inner surface 41a. The electrolyte that has flowed through the first channel FP1 is discharged to the outside of the electrochemical cell 11 through the piping line L2.

[0028] It should be noted that the structures shown in Figure 2 (for example, the electrolyte flow path structure) are merely illustrative and do not limit the content of this embodiment. For example, various flow path structures can be used depending on the size and purpose of the device, the operating environment, etc. The same applies to the structures shown in other figures.

[0029] (Second separator) The second separator 42 is positioned with a harbor space S between it and at least a portion of the first separator 41, and is a member that defines the other side of the harbor space S. The second separator 42 is, for example, a rectangular plate and is formed from a metal material such as stainless steel, titanium, or nickel, or from a conductive carbon plate or a conductive carbon plate sealed with molded resin. A positive voltage is applied to the second separator 42 from the power supply unit 30 via the second current collector 62 (see Figures 4 and 6), which will be described later. The first separator 41 and the second separator 42, which are included in the same electrochemical cell 11, form the electrolytic cell 40 of the electrochemical cell 11 as a pair of separators.

[0030] The second separator 42 has a first separator end 42e1 (e.g., a lower end) and a second separator end 42e2 (e.g., an upper end) located on the opposite side from the first separator end 42e1. The piping line L3 described above is connected to the first separator end 42e1 of the second separator 42. The piping line L4 described above is connected to the second separator end 42e2 of the second separator 42.

[0031] The second separator 42 has a second inner surface 42a facing the anode chamber Sb, which will be described later. A second channel FP2 is formed in the second inner surface 42a through which the electrolyte supplied from the piping line L3 flows. The second channel FP2 is, for example, a groove provided so as to be recessed from the second inner surface 42a. The electrolyte that has flowed through the second channel FP2 is discharged to the outside of the electrochemical cell 11 through the piping line L4.

[0032] For the sake of explanation, this description assumes that the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41 has a channel groove (first channel FP1), and the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42 has a channel groove (second channel FP2). However, for example, the first separator 41 of the electrochemical cell 11 included in the cell stack 10 (see Figure 1) may be a bipolar plate having a similar channel groove (first channel FP1, shown as a dashed line in Figure 2) on the surface 41b opposite to the first inner surface 41a, in addition to the first inner surface 41a. Similarly, the second separator 42 of the electrochemical cell 11 included in the cell stack 10 may be a bipolar plate having a similar channel groove (second channel FP2, shown as a dashed line in Figure 2) on the surface 42b opposite to the second inner surface 42a, in addition to the second inner surface 42a. The flow grooves provided on both sides of the first separator 41 and both sides of the second separator 42 may differ in shape and arrangement from one another.

[0033] (Configuration of the membrane electrode assembly) The membrane electrode assembly 43 (MEA) is a structure assembled from an ion exchange membrane, a catalyst, and a power supply. The membrane electrode assembly 43 is positioned between the first separator 41 and the second separator 42 and is located in the containment space S. The membrane electrode assembly 43 includes, for example, an ion exchange membrane 50, a ceramic particle-containing layer 51, a cathode catalyst layer 54, a cathode power supply 55, an anode catalyst layer 56, and an anode power supply 57.

[0034] (Ion exchange membrane) The ion exchange membrane 50 is a membrane that selectively allows ions to pass through. The ion exchange membrane 50 is, for example, a solid polymer electrolyte membrane. The ion exchange membrane 50 is, for example, a hydroxide ion (OH) - ) is a conductive anion exchange membrane (AEM). However, the ion exchange membrane 50 is not limited to the above example, and may be a different type, such as a proton exchange membrane (PEM).

[0035] The ion exchange membrane 50 is, for example, a rectangular sheet and is flexible. The external dimensions of the ion exchange membrane 50 are smaller than the external dimensions of the first separator 41 or the second separator 42. The ion exchange membrane 50 is positioned between the first separator 41 and the second separator 42 and is located in the aforementioned containment space S. The ion exchange membrane 50 contains a first polymer having a predetermined molecular skeleton and a predetermined first molecular weight. In this specification, "molecular skeleton" means, for example, the three-dimensional continuous and three-dimensional positional relationship between molecules (or atoms) contained in the polymer (first polymer and the second polymer described later). More specifically, in this specification, the molecular skeleton means the chemical composition and atomic arrangement of the polymer backbone and side chains, as well as ion exchange groups.

[0036] The ion exchange membrane 50 has a first exchange membrane surface 50a facing the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41, and a second exchange membrane surface 50b located on the opposite side of the first exchange membrane surface 50a. The second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50 faces the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42. Both the first exchange membrane surface 50a and the second exchange membrane surface 50b are examples of the "first surface". In the containment space S, a cathode chamber Sa is defined between the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50 and the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41. Also in the containment space S, an anode chamber Sb is defined between the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50 and the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42.

[0037] In the cathode chamber Sa, when a voltage is applied to the electrochemical cell 11, the chemical reaction shown in (Chemical Formula 1) below occurs, and hydrogen is generated from the electrolyte. In this specification, "XX is generated" may also include cases where other substances are generated simultaneously with the generation of XX. The hydroxide ions generated in the cathode chamber Sa move from the cathode chamber Sa to the anode chamber Sb through the membrane electrode assembly 43. 2H2O + 2e - →H2+2OH - …(C1)

[0038] In the anode chamber Sb, when a voltage is applied to the electrochemical cell 11, the chemical reaction shown in (Chemical Formula 2) below occurs, and oxygen is generated from the electrolyte. 2OH - → 1 / 2O2 + H2O + 2e - …(Case 2)

[0039] As a result, the chemical reaction shown in (Chemical Formula 3) below occurs when viewed as a whole in the electrochemical cell 11. H2O→H2+1 / 2O2…(Chem.3)

[0040] The ion exchange membrane 50, as an example of a membrane with relatively high ionic conductivity, may contain a polystyrene-based or tetraphenyl-based composition in its main chain and an imidazolium group or a quaternary ammonium group in its side chain. Alternatively, the ion exchange membrane 50 may contain a polysulfone-based or bromobutylstyrene-based composition as an example of a membrane with relatively high oxidation resistance.

[0041] (Ceramic particle-containing layer) The ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is a layer provided on both sides of the ion exchange membrane 50 (first exchange membrane surface 50a and second exchange membrane surface 50b). Hydroxide ions can pass through the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. As shown in Figure 3, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 (the first layer 52 and second layer 53 described later) contains ceramic particles Cs and non-ceramic particles Ad. In this embodiment, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is composed of these ceramic particles Cs and non-ceramic particles Ad. The ceramic particles Cs and non-ceramic particles Ad in the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 are present in a predetermined ratio (mass ratio or volume ratio). The ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is also formed with a predetermined thickness (T shown in Figure 3). In this embodiment, the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is, for example, 3 μm or more and 10 μm or less. Furthermore, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 contains voids Ga through which the electrolyte can pass.

[0042] The ceramic particles Cs have insulating properties. The ceramic particles Cs include one or more of the following: aluminum oxide (alumina: Al2O3), silica (SiO2), zirconium oxide (zirconia: ZrO2), yttrium oxide (Y2O3), silicon nitride (Si3N4), silicon carbide (SiC), etc. In this embodiment, the particle size of the ceramic particles Cs is 1 μm or more and 10 μm or less. When an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution is used as the electrolyte, it is desirable that the ceramic particles Cs include one or more of the following: aluminum oxide (alumina), silicon nitride, silicon carbide, etc.

[0043] The non-ceramic particles Ad include, for example, one or more of the following: polymer binders, ionomers, etc. In this embodiment, the non-ceramic particles Ad include both polymer binders and ionomers. The polymer binder functions as a binder for the ceramic particles Cs. That is, the polymer binder binds the ceramic particles Cs to each other. In this embodiment, for example, a fluorine-based binder can be used as the polymer binder. Examples of fluorine-based binders include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF), tetrafluoroethylene / perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer (PFA), tetrafluoroethylene / hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP), and tetrafluoroethylene / ethylene copolymer (ETFE). Furthermore, any polymer binder that has the effect of binding ceramic particles together is acceptable, and non-fluorine-based binders can also be used as polymer binders.

[0044] An ionomer is an ion exchange resin component used to reduce the overall electrical resistance of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. Ionomers include cationic polymers with quaternary ammonium groups introduced into an aromatic polymer backbone, such as Diaza (bicyclo-octane) polyethersulfone, poly[(p-terphenyl-4,4'-diyl)(N,N-dimethyl-piperidinium-bicarbonate-4,4-diyl)-co-(p-terphenyl-4,4'-diyl)(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-phenylethylidene-diyl)], or poly[(p-terphenyl-4,4'-diyl)(N,N-dimethyl-piperidinium-bicarbonate-4,4-diyl)]. Anionic polymers with anionic functional groups such as sulfonic acid groups or carboxylic acid groups introduced into a fluorine-based polymer backbone can also be used as ionomers. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ionomer includes a second polymer having a smaller molecular weight than the first polymer contained in the ion exchange membrane 50, and having the same molecular skeleton as the first polymer. The second polymer has a predetermined second molecular weight, which is smaller than the first molecular weight. The relationship between the molecular weight of the second polymer and the molecular weight of the first polymer is not limited to the above, and the molecular weight of the second polymer may be the same as that of the second polymer, or the molecular weight of the second polymer may be greater than that of the first polymer. In this embodiment, the entire ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is insulating.

[0045] Returning to Figure 2, in this embodiment, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 has a first layer 52 located in the cathode chamber Sa and in contact with the first exchange surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50, and a second layer 53 located in the anode chamber Sb and in contact with the second exchange surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50. That is, the first layer 52 and the second layer 53 sandwich the ion exchange membrane 50 from both sides. In this specification, the side of the ion exchange membrane 50 on which the first layer 52 is provided (the left side in Figure 2) is referred to as "one side," and the side opposite to the one side (the right side in Figure 2) is referred to as "the other side." Therefore, the first layer 52 is located on one side of the ion exchange membrane 50, and the second layer 53 is located on the other side of the ion exchange membrane 50. As will be described later, both the first layer 52 and the second layer 53 are coating layers formed by coating the ion exchange membrane 50. The first layer 52 and the second layer 53 are, for example, rectangular sheets. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the first layer 52 and the second layer 53 are the same as or smaller than the external dimensions of the ion exchange membrane 50. However, the external dimensions of the first layer 52 and the second layer 53 are larger than the external dimensions of the cathode power supply 55 and anode power supply 57, which are subjected to surface pressure (pressure in the stacking direction) as described later.

[0046] (Cathode catalyst layer) The cathode catalyst layer 54 is a layer (electrode catalyst layer) that promotes the chemical reaction in the cathode chamber Sa described above. The cathode catalyst layer 54 is, for example, a rectangular sheet. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the cathode catalyst layer 54 are formed to be, for example, the same size as the first layer 52. The cathode catalyst layer 54 is placed in the cathode chamber Sa and is provided over the entire area of ​​the first layer 52 from the side opposite to the ion exchange membrane 50. Therefore, the cathode catalyst layer 54 is located on one side of the ion exchange membrane 50. The cathode catalyst layer 54 has a first cathode catalyst surface 54a that is in contact with the entire area of ​​the first layer 52 and a second cathode catalyst surface 54b that faces the opposite side from the first cathode catalyst surface 54a. That is, the first layer 52 is in contact with the first cathode catalyst surface 54a of the cathode catalyst layer 54. The first cathode catalyst surface 54a is formed to be rougher than the first exchange membrane surface 50a and the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50. The first cathode catalyst surface 54a is an example of a "second surface". The cathode power supply 55, described later, is connected to the entire area of ​​the second cathode catalyst surface 54b. The cathode catalyst layer 54 receives a negative voltage from the power supply unit 30 via the first separator 41 and the cathode power supply 55 and functions as part of the cathode 47 of the electrochemical cell 11.

[0047] The material of the cathode catalyst layer 54 can be any material that promotes the chemical reaction in the cathode chamber Sa described above, and various materials are available. For example, the cathode catalyst layer 54 contains one or more of nickel, nickel alloy, cerium oxide, lanthanum oxide, or platinum. In this specification, "〇〇 oxide" may include other materials other than 〇〇 and oxygen. In addition to the materials described above, the cathode catalyst layer 54 may also contain other materials such as carbon.

[0048] (Cathode feeder) The cathode power supply unit 55 is an electrical connection part that transmits the voltage applied to the first separator 41 to the cathode catalyst layer 54. The cathode power supply unit 55 is located in the cathode chamber Sa. The cathode power supply unit 55 is located between the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41 and the cathode catalyst layer 54, and is in contact with both the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41 and the cathode catalyst layer 54. That is, the cathode catalyst layer 54 is formed on the surface of the cathode power supply unit 55 facing the ion exchange membrane 50 side. For the sake of explanation, the surface on the cathode power supply unit 55 where the cathode catalyst layer 54 is formed will be referred to as the "cathode surface 55a". The cathode surface 55a and the second cathode catalyst surface 54b of the cathode catalyst layer 54 are in contact.

[0049] The cathode power supply 55 has a structure through which electrolyte and gas can pass. The cathode power supply 55 is formed from, for example, a metal mesh structure, a sintered body, fibers, a mesh structure of conductive carbon fibers, a nonwoven fabric, etc. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the cathode power supply 55 are smaller than the external dimensions of the cathode catalyst layer 54. In this embodiment, the cathode 47 of the electrochemical cell 11 is formed by the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the cathode power supply 55.

[0050] (Anode catalyst layer) The anode catalyst layer 56 is a layer (electrode catalyst layer) that promotes the chemical reaction in the anode chamber Sb described above. The anode catalyst layer 56 is, for example, in the shape of a rectangular sheet. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the anode catalyst layer 56 are formed to be, for example, the same size as the second layer 53. The anode catalyst layer 56 is placed in the anode chamber Sb and is provided over the entire area of ​​the second layer 53 from the side opposite to the ion exchange membrane 50. Therefore, the anode catalyst layer 56 is located on the other side of the ion exchange membrane 50. The anode catalyst layer 56 has a first anode catalyst surface 56a that is in contact with the entire area of ​​the second layer 53 and a second anode catalyst surface 56b that faces the opposite side from the first anode catalyst surface 56a. That is, the second layer 53 is in contact with the first anode catalyst surface 56a of the anode catalyst layer 56. The first anode catalyst surface 56a is formed to be rougher than the first exchange membrane surface 50a and the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50. The first anode catalyst surface 56a is an example of the "second surface". The anode power supply 57, described later, is connected to the entire area of ​​the second anode catalyst surface 56b. A positive voltage is applied to the anode catalyst layer 56 from the power supply unit 30 via the second separator 42 and the anode power supply 57, and it functions as part of the anode 48 of the electrochemical cell 11. In this embodiment, the anode catalyst layer 56 is formed to the same thickness as the cathode catalyst layer 54.

[0051] The material of the anode catalyst layer 56 can be any material that promotes the chemical reaction in the anode chamber Sb as described above, and various materials are available. For example, the anode catalyst layer 56 contains one or more of the following: nickel, nickel alloy, nickel oxide, copper oxide, iridium oxide, niobium oxide, lead oxide, or bismuth oxide. As described above, "XX oxide" in this specification may include other materials other than XX and oxygen. For example, "nickel oxide" may include other materials such as iron (Fe) or cobalt (Co) in addition to nickel and oxygen. Similarly, "copper oxide" may include other materials such as cobalt in addition to copper (Cu) and oxygen. "Iridium oxide" may include other materials such as ruthenium (Ru) in addition to iridium (Ir) and oxygen. "Lead oxide" may include other materials such as ruthenium in addition to lead (Pb) and oxygen. "Bismuth oxide" may include other materials such as ruthenium in addition to bismuth (Bi) and oxygen. In addition to the materials described above, the anode catalyst layer 56 may also contain other materials, such as carbon.

[0052] Therefore, the ceramic particle-containing layers 51 (first layer 52 and second layer 53) described above are provided separately from the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the cathode catalyst layer 54, and between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the anode catalyst layer 56, and together with the ion exchange membrane 50, the cathode catalyst layer 54, and the anode catalyst layer 56, they form a layer structure (5 layers). That is, there are interface surfaces between the first layer 52 and the cathode catalyst layer 54, and between the second layer 53 and the anode catalyst layer 56. Similarly, there are interface surfaces between the first layer 52 and the ion exchange membrane 50, and between the second layer 53 and the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0053] (Anode power supply) The anode power supply unit 57 is an electrical connection part that transmits the voltage applied to the second separator 42 to the anode catalyst layer 56. The anode power supply unit 57 is located in the anode chamber Sb. The anode power supply unit 57 is located between the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42 and the anode catalyst layer 56, and is in contact with both the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42 and the anode catalyst layer 56. That is, the anode catalyst layer 56 is formed on the surface of the anode power supply unit 57 facing the ion exchange membrane 50 side. For the sake of explanation, the surface on the anode power supply unit 57 on which the anode catalyst layer 56 is formed will be referred to as the "anode surface 57a". The anode surface 57a and the second anode catalyst surface 56b of the anode catalyst layer 56 are in contact.

[0054] The anode power supply 57 has a structure through which electrolyte and gas can pass. The anode power supply 57 is formed from, for example, a metal mesh structure, a sintered body, fibers, a mesh structure of conductive carbon fibers, a nonwoven fabric, etc. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the anode power supply 57 are smaller than the external dimensions of the anode catalyst layer 56. In this embodiment, the anode 48 of the electrochemical cell 11 is formed by the anode catalyst layer 56 and the anode power supply 57.

[0055] Figure 4 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the electrochemical cell 11. In addition to the configuration described above, the electrochemical cell 11 further includes, for example, a first current collector 61, a second current collector 62, a first insulator 63, a second insulator 64, a first insulating material 65, a second insulating material 66, a first end flange 67, and a second end flange 68. Note that the support portion 70, sealing portion 80, and pressing mechanism 90, which will be described later, are not shown in Figure 4.

[0056] (First current collector) The first current collector 61 is an electrical connection part that transmits the negative voltage applied from the power supply unit 30 to the first separator 41. The first current collector 61 is a metal plate member (for example, a copper plate). The first current collector 61 contacts the first separator 41 from the side opposite to the housing space S of the electrochemical cell 11 and is electrically connected to the first separator 41. The negative voltage necessary for electrolysis in the electrochemical cell 11 is applied to the first current collector 61 from the power supply unit 30. The first current collector 61 may be shared by two adjacent electrochemical cells 11 in the cell stack 10.

[0057] (Second current collector) The second current collector 62 is an electrical connection part that transmits the positive voltage applied from the power supply unit 30 to the second separator 42. The second current collector 62 is a metal plate member (for example, a copper plate). The second current collector 62 contacts the second separator 42 from the side opposite to the housing space S of the electrochemical cell 11 and is electrically connected to the second separator 42. The positive voltage necessary for electrolysis in the electrochemical cell 11 is applied to the second current collector 62 from the power supply unit 30. The second current collector 62 may be shared by two adjacent electrochemical cells 11 in the cell stack 10.

[0058] (First insulator) The first insulator 63 is a member that insulates the outer periphery of the first separator 41 from the outer periphery of the second separator 42. The first insulator 63 is a frame-shaped sheet member that is slightly larger than the outer shape of the first layer 52, the cathode catalyst layer 54, and the cathode power supply 55. The first insulator 63 is attached to the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41 and covers the edges of the first inner surface 41a (see Figures 5 and 6). The material of the first insulator 63 is not particularly limited as long as it is an insulating material, for example, a sheet-like resin such as PTFE.

[0059] (Second insulator) The second insulator 64, like the first insulator 63, is a member that insulates the outer periphery of the first separator 41 from the outer periphery of the second separator 42. The second insulator 64 is a frame-shaped sheet member that is slightly larger than the outer shape of the second layer 53, the anode catalyst layer 56, and the anode power supply 57. The second insulator 64 is attached to the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42 and covers the end of the second inner surface 42a (see Figures 5 and 6). The material of the second insulator 64 is not particularly limited as long as it is an insulating material, for example, a sheet-like resin such as PTFE. In addition, the first insulator 63 and the second insulator 64 may be an integrated insulator.

[0060] (First insulating material) The first insulating material 65 is located between the first current collector 61 and the first end flange 67. The external dimensions of the first insulating material 65 are, for example, the same as or larger than the external dimensions of the first current collector 61.

[0061] (Second insulating material) The second insulating material 66 is located between the second current collector 62 and the second end flange 68. The external dimensions of the second insulating material 66 are, for example, the same as or larger than the external dimensions of the second current collector 62.

[0062] (First end flange) The first end flange 67 is located on the opposite side of the housing space S of the electrochemical cell 11 from the first insulating material 65. The first end flange 67 is formed from, for example, a metal plate member (e.g., stainless steel plate). The external dimensions of the first end flange 67 are, for example, larger than the external dimensions of the first insulating material 65.

[0063] (Second end flange) The second end flange 68 is located on the opposite side of the housing space S of the electrochemical cell 11 from the second insulating material 66. The second end flange 68 is formed from, for example, a metal plate member (e.g., stainless steel plate). The external dimensions of the second end flange 68 are, for example, larger than the external dimensions of the second insulating material 66.

[0064] Note that the electrochemical cell 11 is not limited to the configuration described above. For example, if the cell stack 10 is composed of multiple electrochemical cells 11 arranged in a row, two adjacent electrochemical cells 11 may share a bipolar plate, either a first separator 41 or a second separator 42. In this case, there may be no current collector (first current collector 61 or second current collector 62), insulator (first insulator 63 or second insulator 64), insulating material (first insulating material 65 or second insulating material 66), or end flange (first end flange 67 or second end flange 68) between the two adjacent electrochemical cells 11.

[0065] (Structure of the outer periphery of an electrochemical cell) Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrochemical cell 11. In this embodiment, the external dimensions of the ion exchange membrane 50 are larger than the external dimensions of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 (first layer 52 and second layer 53), the cathode catalyst layer 54, and the cathode power supply 55. In other words, the area of ​​the ion exchange membrane 50 is larger than the area of ​​the ceramic particle-containing layer 51, the cathode catalyst layer 54, and the cathode power supply 55. The ion exchange membrane 50 protrudes outward (towards the outer periphery) from the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the cathode power supply 55 in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z direction) of the membrane electrode assembly 43 (e.g., the X or Y direction). In this specification, “outward” or “outer periphery” means the side away from the central part C of the membrane electrode assembly 43 in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z direction) of the membrane electrode assembly 43 (e.g., the X or Y direction).

[0066] As shown in Figure 5, the electrochemical cell 11 further includes, in addition to the above-described configuration, a support portion 70 and a sealing portion 80. The support portion 70 is a member that supports the membrane electrode assembly 43 inside the electrochemical cell 11 (specifically, between the first separator 41 and the second separator 42). The sealing portion 80 is a member that closes the accommodation space S between the first separator 41 and the second separator 42 from the outer periphery. The support portion 70 and the sealing portion 80 will be described below.

[0067] (Support part) The support portion 70 is positioned between the first separator 41 and the second separator 42. The support portion 70 is located inside (on the inner circumference side) of the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50 and supports the ion exchange membrane 50. In this specification, "outer edge 50e" means the edge away from the central part C of the membrane electrode assembly 43 in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction (Z direction) of the membrane electrode assembly 43 (for example, the X direction or Y direction). Also, in this specification, "inside" or "inner circumference side" means the inside (closer to the central part C) when viewed from the central part C of the membrane electrode assembly 43. In this embodiment, the support portion 70 includes, for example, a first support portion 71 and a second support portion 72. The first support portion 71 is the support portion on the cathode 47 side. The first support portion 71 is positioned between the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41 and the second cathode catalyst surface 54b of the cathode catalyst layer 54. The first support portion 71 is located inside (on the inner circumference side) of the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50. The first support portion 71 is sandwiched between the first inner surface 41a (or first insulator 63) and the second cathode catalyst surface 54b at a position outside (on the outer circumference side) of the cathode power supply 55, and supports the ion exchange membrane 50 with respect to the first inner surface 41a. The first support portion 71 is annular (e.g., frame-shaped) along the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50, and is formed as an annular shape that is slightly smaller than the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50. The second support portion 72 is a support portion on the anode 48 side. The second support portion 72 is located between the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42 and the second anode catalyst surface 56b of the anode catalyst layer 56. The second support portion 72 is located inside (on the inner circumference side) of the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50. The second support portion 72 is positioned outside (on the outer periphery) of the anode power supply body 57, sandwiched between the second inner surface 42a and the second anode catalyst surface 56b, and supports the ion exchange membrane 50 with respect to the second inner surface 42a. The second support portion 72 is annular (for example, frame-shaped) along the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50, and is formed as an annular shape that is slightly smaller than the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0068] (Sealing part) The sealing portion 80 is positioned between the first separator 41 and the second separator 42. The sealing portion 80 is located outside (on the outer periphery side) of the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50 and seals the housing space S of the electrochemical cell 11. In this embodiment, the sealing portion 80 includes a first sealing portion 81 and a second sealing portion 82. However, the first sealing portion 81 and the second sealing portion 82 may be formed integrally. That is, the first sealing portion 81 and the second sealing portion 82 may be a single component. Also, the sealing portion 80 may be formed integrally with at least one of the first insulator 63 and the second insulator 64 described above. The first sealing portion 81 is the sealing portion on the cathode 47 side. The first sealing portion 81 is located outside (on the outer periphery side) of the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50. The first sealing portion 81 is sandwiched between the first inner surface 41a of the first separator 41 and the second sealing portion 82, sealing a portion of the outer periphery of the containment space S. In this embodiment, the first sealing portion 81 is sandwiched between the first insulator 63 attached to the first inner surface 41a and the second sealing portion 82. The first sealing portion 81 is annular (for example, frame-shaped) along the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50, and is formed as an annular shape that is slightly larger than the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50. The second sealing portion 82 is the sealing portion on the anode 48 side. The second sealing portion 82 is located outside the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50. The second sealing portion 82 is sandwiched between the second inner surface 42a of the second separator 42 and the first sealing portion 81, sealing a portion of the outer periphery of the containment space S. In this embodiment, the second sealing portion 82 is sandwiched between the second insulator 64 attached to the second inner surface 42a and the first sealing portion 81. The second sealing portion 82 is annular (for example, frame-shaped) along the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50, and is formed as an annular shape that is slightly larger than the outer edge 50e of the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0069] In addition to the configuration described above, the electrochemical cell 11 further includes, for example, a pressing mechanism 90. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the pressing mechanism 90. In Figure 6, in addition to the configuration shown in Figure 5, a first current collector 61, a second current collector 62, a first insulating material 65, a second insulating material 66, a first end flange 67, a second end flange 68, and the pressing mechanism 90 are further illustrated.

[0070] (Pressing mechanism) The pressing mechanism 90 includes, for example, a first part 91 and a second part 92. In this embodiment, for example, the first part 91 is a bolt without a head (such as a stud bolt), and the second part 92 is a nut that can be screwed onto the first part 91. The first part 91 and the second part 92 are formed from a material such as metal.

[0071] As shown in Figure 6, in this embodiment, the first end flange 67, the first insulating material 65, the second insulating material 66, and the second end flange 68 each have holes formed through them in the direction in which they are stacked (Z direction, hereinafter referred to as the "stacking direction"). The holes formed in each overlap with each other in the stacking direction (left-right direction in Figure 6), forming through holes 11h that extend in the stacking direction. In this embodiment, multiple (for example, three or more) through holes 11h are arranged at intervals from each other along the frame shape of the first insulator 63, the second insulator 64, the support portion 70 (first support portion 71 and second support portion 72), and the sealing portion 80 (first sealing portion 81 and second sealing portion 82). Note that in Figure 6, only two through holes 11h are shown for illustrative purposes. That is, the electrochemical cell 11 includes multiple pressing mechanisms 90.

[0072] The first component 91 is inserted through each of the aforementioned insertion holes 11h. In this embodiment, two second components 92 are screwed onto each first component 91 inserted through each insertion hole 11h. Of the two second components 92 screwed onto the first component 91, one second component 92 abuts against the first end flange 67 from the side opposite to the first insulating material 65. On the other hand, of the two second components 92 screwed onto the first component 91, the other second component 92 abuts against the second end flange 68 from the side opposite to the second insulating material 66. That is, the two second components 92 screwed onto each first component 91 apply surface pressure in the stacking direction to each element of the electrochemical cell 11 positioned between the first end flange 67 and the second end flange 68 via the first end flange 67 and the second end flange 68.

[0073] Therefore, the multiple pressing mechanisms 90 apply a predetermined surface pressure (arrow Ps shown in Figure 6) between the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56, which sandwich the ceramic particle-containing layer 51, and the ion exchange membrane 50. The magnitude of this predetermined surface pressure is adjusted, for example, by the tightening torque of the second component 92. In this embodiment, the pressing force in the stacking direction of the two second components 92 screwed into the first component 91 is adjusted to be equal for each pressing mechanism 90.

[0074] (Method for manufacturing a membrane electrode assembly) Next, a method for manufacturing the membrane electrode assembly 43 will be described. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the manufacturing method of the membrane electrode assembly 43 in this embodiment.

[0075] First, as shown in Figure 7(a), a first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is provided on the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50. The first layer 52 is formed, for example, by applying (coating) a material for forming the first layer 52 to the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50, and then pressing the applied material for forming the first layer 52 and the ion exchange membrane 50 under a predetermined temperature and pressure. The "material for forming the first layer 52" here is a slurry formed by mixing the aforementioned ceramic particles Cs, non-ceramic particles Ad (polymer binder and ionomer), and a predetermined solvent. By pressing under a predetermined temperature and pressure, the solvent evaporates from the slurry applied on the first exchange membrane surface 50a (the slurry dries). As a result, the first layer 52 as a coating layer is formed on the first exchange membrane surface 50a. In other words, the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50 is in contact with the first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. Similarly, a second layer 53 is provided on the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50. The second layer 53 is formed, for example, by applying (coating) a material for forming the second layer 53 to the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50, and then pressing the applied material for forming the second layer 53 and the ion exchange membrane 50 under a predetermined temperature and pressure. The "material for forming the second layer 53" here is the same slurry as the material for forming the first layer 52. By pressing under a predetermined temperature and pressure, the solvent evaporates from the slurry applied on the second exchange membrane surface 50b (the slurry dries). As a result, the second layer 53 is formed on the second exchange membrane surface 50b as a coating layer. In other words, the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50 is in contact with the second layer 53 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. The application of the material for forming the first layer 52 and the material for forming the second layer 53 can be appropriately selected from methods such as coating, CVD, electroless plating, a method using catalyst ink, or a spray application method. The order in which the first layer 52 and the second layer 53 are provided on the ion exchange membrane 50 is not limited.

[0076] Next, as shown in Figure 7(b), a cathode catalyst layer 54 is provided on the first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. The cathode catalyst layer 54 is formed, for example, by coating the material of the cathode catalyst layer 54 onto the first layer 52, and then pressing the coated material of the cathode catalyst layer 54, the ion exchange membrane 50, and the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 under predetermined temperatures and pressures. This forms the cathode catalyst layer 54 on the first layer 52. That is, the first cathode catalyst surface 54a of the cathode catalyst layer 54 is in contact with the first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. Similarly, an anode catalyst layer 56 is provided on the second layer 53 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. The anode catalyst layer 56 is formed, for example, by coating the material for the anode catalyst layer 56 onto the second layer 53, and then pressing the coated material for the anode catalyst layer 56, the ion exchange membrane 50, and the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 under predetermined temperatures and pressures. This forms the anode catalyst layer 56 on the second layer 53. That is, the first anode catalyst surface 56a of the anode catalyst layer 56 is in contact with the second layer 53 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. The coating of the materials for the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 can be appropriately selected from methods such as coating, CVD, electroless plating, using catalyst ink, or spray coating. The order in which the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 are provided on the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is not limited. Furthermore, the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 do not necessarily have to be provided after the first layer 52 and second layer 53 are provided in the ion exchange membrane 50. For example, the cathode catalyst layer 54 may be provided on the first layer 52 after only the first layer 52 is provided in the ion exchange membrane 50, or the anode catalyst layer 56 may be provided on the second layer 53 after only the second layer 53 is provided in the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0077] Next, as shown in (c) of Figure 7, the cathode power supply 55 is placed on the second cathode catalyst surface 54b of the cathode catalyst layer 54. Then, with the cathode power supply 55 placed on the cathode catalyst layer 54, it is pressed at a predetermined temperature and pressure, thereby connecting the cathode power supply 55 and the cathode catalyst layer 54 to each other. That is, the cathode surface 55a of the cathode power supply 55 and the second cathode catalyst surface 54b of the cathode catalyst layer 54 come into contact. In this way, the cathode power supply 55 is provided on the cathode catalyst layer 54. Similarly, the anode power supply 57 is placed on the second anode catalyst surface 56b of the anode catalyst layer 56. Then, with the anode power supply 57 placed on the anode catalyst layer 56, it is pressed at a predetermined temperature and pressure, thereby connecting the anode power supply 57 and the anode catalyst layer 56 to each other. In other words, the anode surface 57a of the anode power supply 57 and the second anode catalyst surface 56b of the anode catalyst layer 56 are in contact. This provides the anode power supply 57 to the anode catalyst layer 56. The order of connection between the cathode power supply 55 and the cathode catalyst layer 54, and between the anode power supply 57 and the anode catalyst layer 56, is not limited.

[0078] With the above steps completed, the membrane electrode assembly 43 is finished. The ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is provided separately from the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the cathode catalyst layer 54, and between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the anode catalyst layer 56, and together with the cathode 47 (cathode catalyst layer 54 and cathode power supply 55) and the anode 48 (anode catalyst layer 56 and anode power supply 57), it forms a layered structure.

[0079] (Effects / Actions) As a comparative example, consider the structure of an electrochemical cell 11 in which a cathode catalyst layer 54 and an anode catalyst layer 56 are provided on both sides of an ion exchange membrane 50 (first exchange membrane surface 50a and second exchange membrane surface 50b). Here, if the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 are formed by coating or the like, the surface of the cathode catalyst layer 54 (first cathode catalyst surface 54a) and the surface of the anode catalyst layer 56 (first anode catalyst surface 56a) that are in contact with the ion exchange membrane 50 may be formed roughly. As a result, there may be sparse areas where the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 are in close contact with the ion exchange membrane 50 and areas where they are not. In order to suppress the concentration of contact resistance in the areas where they are in close contact, surface pressure may be applied to the ion exchange membrane 50 from the electrode catalyst layer side. However, depending on the magnitude of the applied surface pressure, damage or other problems may occur to the ion exchange membrane 50 due to the surface roughness (irregularities) of the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56.

[0080] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the electrochemical cell 11 includes a ceramic particle-containing layer 51 disposed between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the cathode catalyst layer 54, and between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the anode catalyst layer 56. With this configuration, even if there are sparse irregularities on the surface of the cathode catalyst layer 54 (first cathode catalyst surface 54a) and the surface of the anode catalyst layer 56 (first anode catalyst surface 56a), when surface pressure is applied, the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 press against the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. In other words, the irregularities of the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 do not directly affect the ion exchange membrane 50. Therefore, even when a large surface pressure is applied, it is possible to avoid damage or other problems to the ion exchange membrane 50. In short, the durability of the electrochemical cell 11 can be improved.

[0081] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the manufacturing method of the membrane electrode assembly 43 in the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the manufacturing method of the membrane electrode assembly 43 differs from the manufacturing method of the membrane electrode assembly 43 described in the first embodiment.

[0082] First, as shown in Figure 8(a), a cathode catalyst layer 54 is provided on the cathode surface 55a of the cathode power supply 55. The cathode catalyst layer 54 is formed, for example, by coating the cathode catalyst layer 54 material onto the cathode surface 55a of the cathode power supply 55, and then pressing the coated cathode catalyst layer 54 material and the cathode power supply 55 under predetermined temperatures and pressures. Similarly, an anode catalyst layer 56 is provided on the anode surface 57a of the anode power supply 57. The anode catalyst layer 56 is formed, for example, by coating the anode catalyst layer 56 material onto the anode surface 57a of the anode power supply 57, and then pressing the coated anode catalyst layer 56 material and the anode power supply 57 under predetermined temperatures and pressures. The materials for the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 can be applied using methods such as coating, CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition), electroless plating, a method using catalyst ink, or a method of applying the catalyst by spraying, as appropriate. The order in which the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 are applied to the cathode power supply 55 and the anode catalyst layer 56 is not limited.

[0083] Next, as shown in Figure 8(b), a first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is provided on the cathode catalyst layer 54. The first layer 52 is formed, for example, by coating the cathode catalyst layer 54 with a material for forming the first layer 52, and then pressing the coated material for forming the first layer 52, the cathode catalyst layer 54, and the cathode power supply 55 under predetermined temperatures and pressures. This forms the first layer 52 on the cathode catalyst layer 54. Similarly, a second layer 53 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is provided on the anode catalyst layer 56. The second layer 53 is formed, for example, by coating the anode catalyst layer 56 with a material for forming the second layer 53, and then pressing the coated material for the second layer 53, the anode catalyst layer 56, and the anode power supply 57 under predetermined temperatures and pressures. This forms the second layer 53 on the anode catalyst layer 56. The application of the material for forming the first layer 52 and the material for forming the second layer 53 may be appropriately selected from methods such as coating, CVD, electroless plating, a method using catalyst ink, or a method of applying the catalyst by spraying. The order in which the first layer 52 is provided on the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the second layer 53 is provided on the anode catalyst layer 56 is not limited.

[0084] Next, as shown in (c) of Figure 8, the first layer 52 formed on the cathode catalyst layer 54 is placed on the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50 and pressed at a predetermined temperature and pressure, thereby connecting the cathode 47 (cathode catalyst layer 54 and cathode power supply 55) and the ion exchange membrane 50 to each other via the first layer 52. Similarly, the second layer 53 formed on the anode catalyst layer 56 is placed on the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50 and pressed at a predetermined temperature and pressure, thereby connecting the anode 48 (anode catalyst layer 56 and anode power supply 57) and the ion exchange membrane 50 to each other via the second layer 53. Note that the order of connection between the cathode 47 and the ion exchange membrane 50 via the first layer 52, and the connection between the anode 48 and the ion exchange membrane 50 via the second layer 53, is not limited.

[0085] The membrane electrode assembly 43 described in the first embodiment can also be completed by the manufacturing method described in this embodiment. According to the method described in this embodiment, it is not necessary to apply a material (slurry) for forming the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 (first layer 52 and second layer 53) to the surface of the ion exchange membrane 50 (first exchange membrane surface 50a and second exchange membrane surface 50b). For this reason, for example, the ion exchange membrane 50 does not flex by absorbing solvents contained in the slurry. Therefore, the manufacturability of the membrane electrode assembly 43 (electrochemical cell 11) can be improved.

[0086] <Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the manufacturing method of the membrane electrode assembly 43 in the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, the manufacturing method of the membrane electrode assembly 43 differs from the manufacturing method of the membrane electrode assembly 43 described in the first and second embodiments.

[0087] First, as shown in Figure 9(a), the first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is provided on the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50. Similarly, the second layer 53 is provided on the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50. The method for providing the first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 on the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50, and the method for providing the second layer 53 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 on the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50, may be the method described in the first embodiment with reference to Figure 7(a).

[0088] Next, as shown in Figure 9(b), a cathode catalyst layer 54 is provided on the cathode surface 55a of the cathode power supply 55. Similarly, an anode catalyst layer 56 is provided on the anode surface 57a of the anode power supply 57. The method for providing the cathode catalyst layer 54 on the cathode surface 55a of the cathode power supply 55 and the method for providing the anode catalyst layer 56 on the anode surface 57a of the anode power supply 57 may be the method described in the second embodiment with reference to Figure 8(a). Furthermore, the order in which the methods shown in Figure 9(a) and Figure 9(b) are executed is not limited.

[0089] Next, as shown in Figure 9(c), the cathode catalyst layer 54 formed on the cathode power supply 55 is pressed at a predetermined temperature and pressure while superimposed on the first layer 52 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 formed on the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50, thereby connecting the cathode 47 (cathode catalyst layer 54 and cathode power supply 55) and the ion exchange membrane 50 to each other via the first layer 52. Similarly, the anode catalyst layer 56 formed on the anode power supply 57 is pressed at a predetermined temperature and pressure while superimposed on the second layer 53 of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 formed on the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50, thereby connecting the anode 48 (anode catalyst layer 56 and anode power supply 57) and the ion exchange membrane 50 to each other via the second layer 53. Furthermore, the order of connection between the cathode 47 and the ion exchange membrane 50 via the first layer 52, and the order of connection between the anode 48 and the ion exchange membrane 50 via the second layer 53, is not limited.

[0090] The film electrode assembly 43 described in the first embodiment can also be completed by the manufacturing method described in this embodiment.

[0091] Figure 10 is a diagram that shows a comparative example of the relationship between surface pressure and contact resistance in the electrochemical cell 11 with and without the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 according to each embodiment described above. In Figure 10, "surface pressure" shown on the horizontal axis refers to the magnitude of the surface pressure acting between the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 and the ion exchange membrane 50 by the pressing mechanism 90. The magnitude of this surface pressure may be measured by the magnitude of the tightening torque described above, or it may be measured by placing, for example, pressure-sensitive paper inside the electrochemical cell 11. In Figure 10, "contact resistance" shown on the vertical axis refers to the magnitude of the contact resistance generated in the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56. Figure 10 shows the results obtained from the inventors' analysis. As shown by the solid curve in Figure 10, the contact resistance of the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 decreases as the surface pressure acting between them and the ion exchange membrane 50 increases when the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is sandwiched between them (with the ceramic particle-containing layer 51). Also, as shown by the dotted curve in Figure 10, the contact resistance of the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 decreases as the surface pressure acting between them and the ion exchange membrane 50 increases when the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is not sandwiched between them (without the ceramic particle-containing layer 51). However, in the case without the ceramic particle-containing layer 51, it was found that when a surface pressure greater than a certain surface pressure (A shown in Figure 10) is applied, a short circuit occurs due to damage to the ion exchange membrane 50, causing a sharp decrease in contact resistance. Short circuits caused by damage to the ion exchange membrane 50 are an example of "malfunctions occurring in the ion exchange membrane 50". The predetermined surface pressure applied by the pressing mechanism 90 described in the first to third embodiments above is adopted from a range of surface pressures (R shown in Figure 10) that is greater than a certain surface pressure (A) described above. In other words, the predetermined surface pressure described in the embodiments above is adjusted to a value higher than the surface pressure at which malfunctions occur in the ion exchange membrane 50 in the same configuration except that the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is absent.

[0092] Figure 11 is a diagram that shows a comparative relationship between current density and cell voltage in the electrochemical cell 11 according to each embodiment described above, with and without the presence of a ceramic particle-containing layer 51. In Figure 11, "current density" shown on the horizontal axis refers to the current density in the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56. In Figure 11, "cell voltage" shown on the vertical axis refers to the magnitude of the voltage applied to the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56. In other words, Figure 11 is also an IV characteristic showing the relationship between the voltage (V) applied to the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 and the current (I) flowing through the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 in response to the applied voltage. The relationship between current density and cell voltage shown in Figure 11 is, for example, when the pressing mechanism 90 applies a constant surface pressure. Figure 11 is the result obtained from the inventors' analysis. As shown by the solid and dotted curves in Figure 11, the voltage applied to the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 increases as the current density in the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 increases. However, the voltage applied to the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 without the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is higher than the voltage applied to the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 with the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. Therefore, it can be seen that the contact resistance in the cathode catalyst layer 54 and anode catalyst layer 56 is greater in the case without the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 compared to the case with the ceramic particle-containing layer 51.

[0093] <Fourth Embodiment> Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.

[0094] In this embodiment, the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 (first layer 52 and second layer 53) in the electrochemical cell 11 is greater than the maximum height of the surface roughness of the second surface (first cathode catalyst surface 54a of the cathode catalyst layer 54 and first anode catalyst surface 56a of the anode catalyst layer 56). Specifically, the thickness of the first layer 52 (T shown in Figure 3) is greater than the maximum height of the surface roughness of the first cathode catalyst surface 54a. The thickness of the second layer 53 (T shown in Figure 3) is greater than the maximum height of the surface roughness of the first anode catalyst surface 56a. Here, "surface roughness" refers to the surface roughness specified in standards such as JIS B 0601:1994 and JIS B 0031:1994. The maximum height of the surface roughness (Rmax) is, for example, obtained by taking a reference length from the roughness curve in the direction of its mean line, measuring the distance between the peak and trough lines of this sampled portion in the direction of the vertical scaling factor of the roughness curve, and expressing this value in micrometers (μm).

[0095] (Effects / Actions) The inventors found that when the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is greater than the maximum surface roughness height of the second surface, the probability of malfunctions occurring in the ion exchange membrane 50 when the surface pressure applied by the pressing mechanism 90 is increased is lower compared to when the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is less than the maximum surface roughness height of the second surface. Therefore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the effects and functions described in the first embodiment can be realized with higher precision. In other words, by increasing the surface pressure applied by the pressing mechanism 90 and reducing the contact resistance, better IV characteristics of the electrochemical cell 11 can be achieved.

[0096] (Other embodiments) Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to that of the embodiments, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications to the configuration are possible without departing from the gist of this disclosure.

[0097] For example, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may be located only on the cathode catalyst layer 54 side of the ion exchange membrane 50. That is, the second layer 53 may not exist between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the anode catalyst layer 56, and only the first layer 52 may be located between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the cathode catalyst layer 54. In this case, the anode catalyst layer 56 may be surface-pressed to, for example, the second exchange membrane surface 50b of the ion exchange membrane 50. Alternatively, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may be located only on the anode catalyst layer 56 side of the ion exchange membrane 50. That is, the first layer 52 may not exist between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the cathode catalyst layer 54, and only the second layer 53 may be located between the ion exchange membrane 50 and the anode catalyst layer 56. In summary, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may be provided only on one side of the ion exchange membrane 50 (either the first exchange membrane surface 50a or the second exchange membrane surface 50b). In this case, the cathode catalyst layer 54 may be, for example, surface-pressed onto the first exchange membrane surface 50a of the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0098] Furthermore, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 (first layer 52 and second layer 53) does not have to be in contact with the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56. In this case, a layer made of another material, for example, may be interposed between the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 and the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56. Also, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 (first layer 52 and second layer 53) does not have to be in contact with the ion exchange membrane 50 (first exchange membrane surface 50a and second exchange membrane surface 50b). In this case, a layer made of another material, for example, may be interposed between the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 and the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0099] <Note> The electrochemical cell 11 and electrolytic device 1 described in each embodiment can be understood, for example, as follows.

[0100] (1) An electrochemical cell 11 according to the first embodiment comprises an ion exchange membrane 50, a cathode catalyst layer 54 disposed on one side of the ion exchange membrane 50, an anode catalyst layer 56 disposed on the other side opposite to the ion exchange membrane 50, and a ceramic particle-containing layer 51 disposed on at least one side between the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0101] As a result, when surface pressure is applied between the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 and the ion exchange membrane 50, the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 press against the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. In other words, the irregularities of the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 do not directly affect the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0102] (2) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the second embodiment is the electrochemical cell 11 of (1), wherein the electrochemical cell 11 may be an electrolytic cell.

[0103] This allows the above-mentioned effects to be realized within the electrolytic cell. In other words, the durability of the electrolytic cell can be improved.

[0104] (3) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the third embodiment is the electrochemical cell 11 of (1) or (2), wherein the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is in contact with the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56 and is also in contact with the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0105] As a result, when surface pressure is applied between the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56 and the ion exchange membrane 50, the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56 directly presses against the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. In other words, the irregularities created on the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56 directly affect the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. Therefore, there is no need to provide any dedicated layer other than the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 to absorb the effects of direct pressing from the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56. As a result, for example, the increase in the overall electrical resistance of the electrochemical cell 11 can be suppressed, and electrolysis in the electrochemical cell 11 can be efficiently achieved.

[0106] (4) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the fourth embodiment is any one of the electrochemical cells 11 from (1) to (3), wherein the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may have insulating properties.

[0107] As a result, even if, for example, a malfunction such as perforation occurs in the ion exchange membrane 50 due to the long-term use of the electrochemical cell 11, the presence of an insulating ceramic particle-containing layer 51 between the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56 suppresses the flow of electricity between the cathode catalyst layer 54 and the anode catalyst layer 56.

[0108] (5) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the fifth embodiment is the electrochemical cell 11 of (3), wherein the ion exchange membrane 50 has a first surface in contact with the ceramic particle-containing layer 51, and the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56 has a second surface in contact with the ceramic particle-containing layer 51, the second surface being rougher than the first surface.

[0109] As a result, even if the roughness of the second surface of the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56 is rougher than that of the first surface of the ion exchange membrane 50, the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 can absorb the effects of surface pressure. Therefore, it is possible to better avoid problems such as damage to the ion exchange membrane 50.

[0110] (6) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the sixth embodiment is the electrochemical cell 11 of (5), wherein the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may be greater than the maximum height of the surface roughness of the second surface.

[0111] The inventors found that when the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is greater than the maximum surface roughness height of the second surface, the probability of malfunction occurring in the ion exchange membrane 50 when the surface pressure is increased is lower compared to when the thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is less than the maximum surface roughness height of the second surface. In other words, the above effect can be realized with higher precision using more specific settings.

[0112] (7) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the seventh embodiment is any one of the electrochemical cells 11 from (1) to (6), wherein the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may contain ceramic particles Cs and a polymer binder.

[0113] As a result, the polymer binder binds the ceramic particles Cs together, thereby improving the retention of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51. Therefore, compared to, for example, a case where a ceramic particle-containing layer 51 without a polymer binder is provided, it is possible to suppress the shedding of ceramic particles Cs from the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 as the electrochemical cell 11 is used over time.

[0114] (8) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the eighth embodiment is any one of the electrochemical cells 11 from (1) to (7), wherein the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may contain ceramic particles Cs and an ionomer.

[0115] As a result, compared to, for example, a case where a ceramic particle-containing layer 51 that does not contain ionomers is provided, ions can more easily pass through the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 from the cathode catalyst layer 54 to the anode catalyst layer 56. In other words, the electrical resistance of the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 can be reduced.

[0116] (9) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the ninth embodiment is the electrochemical cell 11 of (8), wherein the ion exchange membrane 50 contains a first polymer, and the ionomer may contain the same polymer as the first polymer, or a second polymer having the same molecular skeleton as the first polymer.

[0117] As a result, when the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 comes into contact with the ion exchange membrane 50, the chemical compatibility (affinity) with the ion exchange membrane 50 is higher, and the adhesion between the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 and the ion exchange membrane 50 is higher, compared to, for example, when the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is provided without the second polymer.

[0118] (10) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the tenth embodiment is any one of the electrochemical cells 11 from (1) to (9), wherein the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 may be a coating layer containing ceramic particles Cs.

[0119] This results in better manufacturability compared to the case where a ceramic particle-containing layer 51 (for example, a sheet-like material containing ceramic particles Cs) is prepared separately and bonded together.

[0120] (11) The electrochemical cell 11 according to the 11th embodiment is any one of the electrochemical cells 11 from (1) to (10), further comprising a pressing mechanism 90 that applies a predetermined surface pressure between the cathode catalyst layer 54 or the anode catalyst layer 56 with the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 sandwiched between them and the ion exchange membrane 50, wherein the predetermined surface pressure may be adjusted to a value higher than the surface pressure at which a malfunction occurs in the ion exchange membrane 50 in the same configuration except that the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is absent.

[0121] The inventors compared an electrochemical cell 11 comprising a cathode catalyst layer 54 or anode catalyst layer 56 with a ceramic particle-containing layer 51 sandwiched between them and an ion exchange membrane 50, with an electrochemical cell having the same configuration except that the ceramic particle-containing layer 51 is absent. As a result, they found that in the former electrochemical cell 11, as the surface pressure acting between it and the ion exchange membrane 50 increased, the contact resistance of the cathode catalyst layer 54 or anode catalyst layer 56 decreased without any malfunction of the ion exchange membrane 50. In other words, the above effect can be realized with higher precision using more specific settings.

[0122] (12) The electrolytic apparatus 1 according to the twelfth embodiment comprises an electrolytic cell which is one of (1) to (11) electrochemical cells 11, an electrolyte supply unit 20 which supplies an electrolyte to the electrolytic cell, and a power supply unit 30 which applies a voltage to the electrolytic cell. [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 1…Electrolytic device 10…Cell stack 11…Electrochemical cell 11h…Through hole 20…Electrolyte supply unit 20a…Cathode side supply unit 20b…Anode side supply unit 21…Hydrogen vapor-liquid separation device 22…First pump 23…Hydrogen recovery unit 24…First electrolyte supply unit 26…Oxygen vapor-liquid separation device 27…Second pump 28…Oxygen recovery unit 29…Second electrolyte supply unit 30…Power supply unit 40…Electrolytic cell 41…First separator 41a…First inner surface 41b,42b…Surface 41e1…First separator end of first separator 41e2…Second separator end of first separator 42…Second separator 42a…Second inner surface 42e1…First separator end of second separator 42e2…Second separator end of second separator 43…Membrane electrode assembly 47…Cathode 48…Anode 50…Ion exchange membrane 50a…First exchange membrane surface 50b…Second exchange membrane surface 50e…Outer edge 51…Ceramic particle-containing layer 52…First layer 53…Second layer 54…Cathode catalyst layer 54a…First cathode catalyst surface 54b…Second cathode catalyst surface 55…Cathode power supply 55a…Cathode surface 56…Anode catalyst layer 56a…First anode catalyst surface 56b…Second anode catalyst surface 57…Anode power supply 57a…Anode surface 61…First current collector 62…Second current collector 63…First insulator 64…Second insulator 65…First insulating material 66…Second insulating material 67…First end flange 68…Second end flange 70…Support part 71…First support part 72…Second support part 80…Sealing part 81…First sealing part 82…Second sealing part 90…Pressing mechanism 91…First component 92…Second component Ad…Non-ceramic particles C…Central part Cs…Ceramic particles FP1…First flow path FP2…Second flow path L1,L2,L3,L4…Piping lines S…Housing space Sa…Cathode chamber Sb…Anode chamber

Claims

1. Ion exchange membrane and, A cathode catalyst layer positioned on one side of the ion exchange membrane, An anode catalyst layer is positioned on the opposite side of the ion exchange membrane from the aforementioned ion exchange membrane, The system comprises a ceramic particle-containing layer disposed between the cathode catalyst layer and the ion exchange membrane, and between the anode catalyst layer and the ion exchange membrane, The ion exchange membrane has a first surface in contact with the ceramic particle-containing layer, The aforementioned ceramic particle-containing layer comprises ceramic particles, a polymer binder, and voids. The cathode catalyst layer or the anode catalyst layer has a second surface in contact with the ceramic particle-containing layer, The second surface is rougher than the first surface. The thickness of the ceramic particle-containing layer is greater than the maximum height of the surface roughness of the second surface. The system includes a pressing mechanism that applies a predetermined surface pressure between the cathode catalyst layer or the anode catalyst layer, with the ceramic particle-containing layer sandwiched in between, and the ion exchange membrane. When the predetermined surface pressure is adjusted to a value higher than the surface pressure at which a malfunction occurs in the ion exchange membrane, in the same configuration except that the ceramic particle-containing layer is absent, a short circuit due to damage to the ion exchange membrane does not occur. water electrolysis cell.

2. The ceramic particle-containing layer is in contact with the cathode catalyst layer or the anode catalyst layer, and is also in contact with the ion exchange membrane. The water electrolysis cell according to claim 1.

3. The ceramic particle-containing layer has insulating properties. The water electrolysis cell according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned ceramic particle-containing layer is a coating layer containing ceramic particles. The water electrolysis cell according to claim 1.

5. A water electrolysis cell according to claim 1, An electrolyte supply unit that supplies electrolyte to the aforementioned water electrolysis cell, A power supply unit that applies voltage to the water electrolysis cell, A water electrolysis device equipped with this device.

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