Dual-Layer Anode Diffusion Structure for Water-Gas Flow Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stacking devices for water electrolysis stacks and fuel cells face limitations due to the specific structure of the anode diffusion layer, leading to reduced hydrogen production, thermal failures, and high production costs, primarily due to rapid heating and corrosion issues.
Innovation Solution
A stacking device with a dual-layer anode diffusion layer featuring perpendicular conveying channels that allow independent yet fluid-connected pathways for water and gas flow, enhancing hydrogen production and reducing thermal stress and corrosion by improving fluid distribution and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional single-layer anode diffusion layer is used, then the structure is simple, but water supply is insufficient and oxygen gas removal is blocked leading to reduced hydrogen production
Solution Approach 1:
The anode diffusion layer is divided into multiple layers (first anode diffusion layer and second anode diffusion layer) with different pore sizes and functions. The first layer has larger pores for efficient oxygen gas removal, while the second layer has smaller pores for controlled water supply, resolving the contradiction between productivity and structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the diffusion layer structure by stacking multiple layers with different orientations and pore characteristics. This multi-dimensional approach enables simultaneous optimization of water supply and gas removal pathways, improving hydrogen production without excessive complexity
2Productivity
If the anode diffusion layer structure is optimized for better conveying, then hydrogen production improves, but thermal fractures and corrosion occur due to rapid heating
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the anode diffusion layer into multiple layers with graduated pore sizes, the patent creates a thermal buffer zone that slows heat transmission to the catalyst coating film. This segmentation maintains high hydrogen production while preventing thermal fractures through progressive heat dissipation
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer structure acts as a pre-designed thermal cushion between the heat-generating catalyst layer and the external environment. This cushioning structure prevents sudden thermal shocks that cause fractures, while still allowing efficient gas and water transport for high productivity
3Reliability
If expensive coatings are applied to suppress acid corrosion, then component protection improves, but production costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material properties to different layers of the anode diffusion layer. The first layer uses materials optimized for gas permeability, while the second layer uses materials with inherent corrosion resistance suitable for the acidic environment near the catalyst, achieving localized optimization without expensive universal coatings
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer anode diffusion layer employs composite material construction where each layer is made from materials specifically selected for its function. This composite approach provides built-in corrosion resistance in the acidic environment while maintaining cost-effectiveness through targeted material selection rather than expensive protective coatings
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution improves hydrogen production capacity and energy efficiency while reducing costs by minimizing thermal failures and corrosion, thus optimizing the performance of water electrolysis stacks and fuel cells.
Implementation Method 1
the anode diffusion layer being formed from a porous medium material to introduce water into a proton exchange membrane
Implementation Method 2
to introduce air (containing oxygen gas) and hydrogen gas into the proton exchange membrane for a hydration reaction
Implementation Method 3
introduce water into a proton exchange membrane of the catalyst coating film for a water electrolysis reaction
Data Source
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AI summary
A stacking device for a water electrolysis stack or a fuel cell, comprising at least one stacking unit. Each stacking unit comprises a catalyst coating film, a cathode assembly, and an anode assembly; the cathode assembly and the anode assembly are each arranged on two opposite sides of the catalyst coating film; the anode assembly comprises an anode diffusion layer, and the anode diffusion layer comprises a first diffusion layer and a second diffusion layer stacked on top of each other along the thickness direction of the stacking unit; the first diffusion layer and the second diffusion layer are configured to allow a fluid to flow through them into and out of the catalyst coating film.A plurality of first conveying channels and a plurality of second conveying channels are formed between the first and second diffusion layers. The plurality of first and second conveying channels extend in a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the stacking unit, and the plurality of second conveying channels are located closer to the first diffusion layer relative to the plurality of first conveying channels. A water electrolysis stack and a fuel cell, comprising the stacking device, are also provided.