U.S. patent application number 11/300510 was filed with the patent office on 2006-07-27 for constituting part for fuel battery.
This patent application is currently assigned to NOK CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Tomohiro Inoue, Yuichi Kuroki.
Application Number | 20060166076 11/300510 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26604333 |
Filed Date | 2006-07-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060166076 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kuroki; Yuichi ; et
al. |
July 27, 2006 |
Constituting part for fuel battery
Abstract
In order to reduce an assembling man hour of the constituting
part for the fuel battery and prevent wrinkles from being generated
in an electrolyte membrane, in a constituting part for a fuel
battery having electrodes with catalyst in both pole sides of an
electrolyte membrane and provided with gas diffusion layers for
promoting diffusion of gas in both outer sides thereof, an
integrated product between the gas diffusion layers and the gasket,
the gas diffusion layers being made of a carbon fiber or the like
and impregnated with a rubber, and forming gaskets is bonded to an
integrated product of the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes
with catalyst by using a hot press.
Inventors: |
Kuroki; Yuichi;
(Fujisawa-shi, JP) ; Inoue; Tomohiro;
(Fujisawa-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JACOBSON HOLMAN PLLC
400 SEVENTH STREET N.W.
SUITE 600
WASHINGTON
DC
20004
US
|
Assignee: |
NOK CORPORATION
|
Family ID: |
26604333 |
Appl. No.: |
11/300510 |
Filed: |
December 15, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10380465 |
Mar 19, 2003 |
|
|
|
PCT/JP01/04316 |
May 23, 2001 |
|
|
|
11300510 |
Dec 15, 2005 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
429/482 ;
277/650; 429/492; 429/510; 429/532; 429/534 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01M 8/0284 20130101;
Y02P 70/50 20151101; H01M 4/96 20130101; H01M 8/0234 20130101; H01M
4/8605 20130101; Y02E 60/50 20130101; H01M 8/1004 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
429/044 ;
429/035; 277/650 |
International
Class: |
H01M 4/96 20060101
H01M004/96; H01M 4/94 20060101 H01M004/94; H01M 2/08 20060101
H01M002/08; F16J 15/10 20060101 F16J015/10 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 21, 2000 |
JP |
2000-353852 |
Dec 5, 2000 |
JP |
2000-369647 |
Claims
1. A constituting part for a fuel battery comprising: electrodes
with catalyst provided in both pole sides of an electrolyte
membrane; and gas diffusion layers for promoting diffusion of gas,
the gas diffusion layers being provided in both outer sides
thereof, characterized in that the gas diffusion layers formed by a
carbon fiber or the like and a gasket are bonded to an integrated
product of the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with
catalyst.
2. A constituting part for a fuel battery comprising: electrodes
with catalyst provided in both pole sides of an electrolyte
membrane; and gas diffusion layers for promoting diffusion of gas,
the gas diffusion layers being provided in both outer sides
thereof, characterized in that an integrated product of the gas
diffusion layers and the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers being
made of a carbon fiber or the like and impregnated with a rubber
and forming a gasket, is bonded to an integrated product of the
electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with catalyst.
3. (canceled)
4. The constituting part for a fuel battery as claimed in claim 2,
characterized in that the integrated product is bonded by using a
hot press.
5. The constituting part for a fuel battery as claimed in claim 1,
characterized in that the electrolyte membrane is made of a high
polymer electrolyte.
6. The constituting part for a fuel battery as claimed in claim 1,
characterized in that the rubber is a liquid rubber.
7-17. (canceled)
Description
[0001] This is a divisional application of application Ser. No.
10/380,465, filed Mar. 19, 2003, which was a nationalization of
PCT/JP01/04316, filed May 23, 2001 and published in Japanese.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to a constituting part for a
fuel battery forming an assembly of constituting elements for the
fuel battery.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The fuel battery has a separator (collector electrode)
constituted by a carbon plate or the like, an electrode with
catalyst (catalyst layer) carrying a Pt catalyst and an electrolyte
membrane (ion exchange membrane), for reacting a gas, a gas
diffusion layer (GDL) made of a carbon fiber or the like for
promoting a diffusion of gas, and a gasket (seal) for sealing the
gas or are frigerant, as main constituting elements.
[0004] However, in the prior art, since the structure is made such
that these constituting elements are sequentially assembled at a
time of assembling into the fuel battery, there is a problem that a
lot of labor and time are required for the assembly, in particular,
in order to assemble the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes
with catalyst, positioning is necessary because the position is
hard to be fixed.
[0005] In this case, with respect to the assembly of the
electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with catalyst, at present,
there has been developed a method of connecting both of them by
using a hot press (refer to Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication
No. 2000-223134), and it is accordingly possible to utilize a
reaction electrode portion (MEA) corresponding to an integrated
product of the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with
catalyst as a single constituting element.
[0006] However, even when the electrolyte membrane and the
electrodes with catalyst are integrally formed as mentioned above,
it is necessary to insert the gasket between the separator and the
electrolyte membrane at a time of assembling them. Accordingly, in.
conventional, the gaskets are assembled so as to hold the
electrolyte membrane from both sides of the electrolyte membrane,
however, since it is hard to position the electrolyte membrane,
there is a problem that wrinkles are generated in the electrolyte
membrane at a time of assembling.
[0007] Further, there has been developed a structure in which the
gasket is integrally formed with the separator in the side of the
electrolyte membrane (refer to Japanese Unexamined Patent
Publication No. 2000-133288), however, even in the separator with
gasket of this kind, there is the same problem in the case of
holding the electrolyte membrane.
[0008] Further, in general, the fuel battery system is an
expensive, in particular, the reaction electrode portion is an
expensive part, and therefore a cost saving thereof is required.
According to NEDO report in 1999 (New Energy Industrial Technology
Comprehensive Development Commission Research Result Report in
1999, Search Concerning Standard Tool for Developing Solid Polymer
Type Fuel Battery: Table 2. 2-1 Cost Comparison of Standard Tool at
Mass Production), the reaction electrode portion is most
expensive.
[0009] The present invention is made by taking the points mentioned
above into consideration, and an object of the present invention is
to provide a constituting part for a fuel battery which can reduce
an assembling man hour of the constituting part for the fuel
battery, and can prevent wrinkles from being generated in an
electrolyte membrane.
[0010] Further, another object is to provide a constituting part
for a fuel battery which can reduce an assembling man-hour by
previously integrating respective parts constituting a cell in a
stack for a fuel battery, and in addition thereto, another object
is to provide a constituting part for a fuel battery which can
reduce a part cost by reducing a plan area of a reaction electrode
portion corresponding to a comparatively expensive part.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In order to achieve the object mentioned above, in
accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is
provided a constituting part for a fuel battery comprising:
[0012] electrodes with catalyst provided in both pole sides of an
electrolyte membrane; and
[0013] gas diffusion layers for promoting diffusion of gas, the gas
diffusion layers being provided in both outer sides thereof,
[0014] characterized in that the gas diffusion layers formed by a
carbon fiber or the like and gaskets are bonded to an integrated
product of the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with
catalyst.
[0015] Further, in accordance with a second aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
comprising:
[0016] electrodes with catalyst provided in both pole sides of an
electrolyte membrane; and
[0017] gas diffusion layers for promoting diffusion of gas, the gas
diffusion layers being provided in both outer sides thereof,
[0018] characterized in that an integrated product of the gas
diffusion layers and the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers being
made of a carbon fiber or the like and impregnated with a rubber,
and forming a gaskets, is bonded to an integrated product of the
electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with catalyst.
[0019] Further, in accordance with a third aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
comprising:
[0020] electrodes doubling as gas diffusion layers provided in both
sides of an electrolyte membrane,
[0021] characterized in that an integrated product of the gas
diffusion layers and the gaskets is bonded to the electrolyte
membrane, the gas diffusion layer being impregnated with a rubber
and forming gaskets.
[0022] Further, in accordance with a fourth aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
as recited in any one of the second and third aspects mentioned
above, characterized in that the integrated product is bonded by
using a hot press.
[0023] Further, in accordance with a fifth aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
as recited in any one of the first to fourth aspects mentioned
above, characterized in that the electrolyte membrane is made of a
high polymer electrolyte.
[0024] Further, in accordance with a sixth aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
as recited in any one of the first to fourth aspects mentioned
above, characterized in that the rubber is a liquid rubber.
[0025] Further, in accordance with a seventh-aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery, characterized in that a reaction electrode portion, gas
diffusion layers and gaskets are integrated.
[0026] Further, in accordance with an eighth aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
as recited in the seventh aspect mentioned above, characterized in
that frames made of a resin film are fixed to an outer periphery of
the reaction electrode portion so as to expand a plane area.
[0027] Further, in accordance with a ninth aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
as recited in the eighth aspect mentioned above, characterized in
that the reaction electrode portion, the frames, the gaskets and
the gas diffusion layers are integrated by fixing the frames to the
reaction electrode portion, covering the frames by a rubber and
impregnating the gas diffusion layers with a part of the
rubber.
[0028] Further, in accordance with a tenth aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery, characterized in that a reaction electrode portion and a
gaskets are integrated on the assumption that a gas diffusion
layers are not included in constituting parts of a cell.
[0029] Further, in accordance with an eleventh aspect of the
present invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery as recited in the tenth aspect mentioned above,
characterized in that frames made of a resin film are fixed to an
outer periphery of the reaction electrode portion so as to expand a
plane area.
[0030] Further, in accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present
invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel battery
as recited in the eleventh aspect mentioned above, characterized in
that the reaction electrode portion, the frames and the gaskets are
integrated by fixing the frames to the reaction electrode portion
and impregnating with a rubber so as to cover the frame.
[0031] Further, in accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the
present invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery as recited in any one of the ninth aspect and the twelfth
aspect mentioned above, characterized in that the outer periphery
of the reaction electrode portion and the frames are coated by a
rubber.
[0032] Further, in accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the
present invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery as recited in any one of the ninth aspect and the twelfth
aspect mentioned above, characterized in that the reaction
electrode portion and the frames are connected by charging a rubber
into through holes provided in the reaction electrode portion and
the frames.
[0033] Further, in accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the
present invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery as recited in the ninth aspect mentioned above,
characterized in that the reaction electrode portion, the frames,
the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers and separators are integrated
by also impregnating the separators with a rubber.
[0034] Further, in accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the
present invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery as recited in the twelfth aspect mentioned above,
characterized in that the reaction electrode portion, the frames,
the gaskets and a separators are integrated by also impregnating
the separators with a rubber.
[0035] Further, in accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the
present invention, there is provided a constituting part for a fuel
battery as recited in any one of the fifteenth aspect and the
sixteenth aspect mentioned above, characterized in that a gas seal
made of a material excellent in a gas impermeability rather than
the gasket is provided in an outer periphery of the gaskets.
[0036] When the gas diffusion layers formed by the carbon fiber or
the like and the gaskets are bonded to the integrated product of
the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with catalyst, as in
the constituting part for the fuel battery in accordance with the
first aspect of the present invention provided with the structure
mentioned above, or when the integrated product of the gas
diffusion layers and the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers being
made of the carbon fiber or the like and impregnated with the
rubber, and forming the gaskets is bonded to the integrated product
of the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes with catalyst, as in
the constituting part for the fuel battery in accordance with the
second aspect of the present invention, these parts are previously
integrated, so that it is possible to reduce steps of assembling
these parts with each other at a time of assembling of the fuel
battery. Further, since the electrolyte membrane is included in
these parts and the electrolyte membrane is previously integrated
with the other parts, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from being
generated in the electrolyte membrane at a time of assembling.
[0037] Further, as in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the third aspect of the present invention provided
with the structure mentioned above, in the constituting part for
the fuel battery provided with the electrodes doubling as the gas
diffusion layers in both sides of the electrolyte membrane, when
the integrated product of the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets,
the gas diffusion layers being impregnated with the rubber and
forming the gaskets, is bonded to the electrolyte membrane, these
parts are also previously integrated, so that it is possible to
reduce steps of assembling these parts with each other at a time of
assembling of the fuel battery. Further, since the electrolyte
membrane is included in these parts and the electrolyte membrane is
previously integrated with the other parts, it is possible to
prevent wrinkles from being generated in the electrolyte membrane
at a time of assembling.
[0038] For the bonding of the integrated product mentioned above,
it is preferable to employ a thermo compression bonding means given
by the hot press (the fourth aspect), and it is preferable that a
structure made of the high polymer electrolyte is used for the
electrolyte membrane (the fifth aspect).
[0039] Further, for the rubber used in the present invention, there
can be listed up a saturated type rubber such as a butyl rubber, an
ethylene propylene rubber, a fluorine-contained rubber, a silicone
rubber, an acrylic rubber, a fluoro silicon rubber, a fluoro
acrylic rubber, a nitrile hydride rubber and the like, or the same
group of liquid type rubbers, and among them, the liquid type
rubber is particularly preferable in view of sealing property since
it is excellent in an impregnating ability into the gas diffusion
layer or the electrode doubling as the gas diffusion layer, and it
is excellent in an adhesion to the electrolyte membrane even when
the pressure and the temperature of the hot press are low, or the
like (the sixth aspect).
[0040] In this case, in connection with the invention in accordance
with the first aspect to the sixth aspect mentioned above, the
following technical matters are contained in the present
application.
[0041] That is, the present application proposes the following
technical matters in order to achieve the object mentioned
above.
[0042] {circle around (1)} A product in which the gas diffusion
layers formed by the carbon fiber or the like and the gaskets are
bonded to the integrated product (MEA) of the electrolyte membrane
and the catalyst electrodes, in the fuel battery having the
catalyst electrodes in both pole sides of the electrolyte membrane,
and provided with the gas diffusion layers for promoting diffusion
of gas in both outer sides thereof.
[0043] {circle around (2)} A bonded body of the MEA, the gas
diffusion layers and the gaskets in which the integrated product of
the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers
being made of the carbon fiber or the like and impregnated with a
rubber, and forming the gaskets, is bonded to the integrated
product (MEA) of the electrolyte membrane and the catalyst
electrodes, in the fuel battery having the catalyst electrodes in
both pole sides of the electrolyte membrane, and provided with the
gas diffusion layers for promoting diffusion of gas in both outer
sides thereof.
[0044] {circle around (3)} A bonded body of the MEA, the gas
diffusion layers and the gaskets in which the integral product of
the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers
being made of the carbon fiber or the like and impregnated with a
rubber, and forming the gaskets is bonded to the integrated product
(MEA) of the electrolyte membrane and the catalyst electrodes by
using the hot press, in the fuel battery having the catalyst
electrodes in both pole sides of the electrolyte membrane, and
provided with the gas diffusion layers for promoting diffusion of
gas in both outer sides thereof.
[0045] {circle around (4)} A product in which the integrated
product of the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets, the gas
diffusion layers being impregnated with the rubber, and forming the
gasket, is bonded to the electrolyte membrane, in the fuel battery
provided with the electrodes doubling as the gas diffusion layers
provided in both sides of the electrolyte membrane.
[0046] {circle around (5)} A product in which the integrated
product of the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets, the gas
diffusion layers being impregnated with the rubber and forming the
gaskets, is bonded to the electrolyte membrane by using the hot
press, in the fuel battery provided with the electrodes doubling as
the gas diffusion layers provided in both sides of the electrolyte
membrane.
[0047] {circle around (6)} A bonding element part of the fuel
battery characterized in that the electrolyte membrane is made of
the high polymer electrolyte, in the items {circle around (1)} to
{circle around (5)}.
[0048] The proposed matter mentioned above proposes the "product in
which the MEA (the bonded product of the electrolyte membrane and
the catalyst electrode or the electrodes with the catalyst), the
gas diffusion layers and the gaskets are integrated", and further,
on the assumption of the type in which the catalyst electrode or
the electrode with the catalyst is not included as a single
constituting element, there is proposed the "product in which the
electrolyte membrane, the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets are
integrated". In accordance with one manufacturing method for
manufacturing the integrated product mentioned above, the
integrated product of the gas diffusion layer and the gasket formed
by impregnating with the rubber into the gas diffusion layer is
pressure connected to the electrolyte membrane by using the hot
press.
[0049] In this case, in the case of pressure connecting the
integrated product of the gas diffusion layer and the gasket to the
MEA, the integrated product of the gas diffusion layer and the
gasket is pressure connected to the portion corresponding to the
outer peripheral portion of the electrode in the MEA in which the
electrolyte membrane is exposed, by using the hot press.
[0050] Further, in the case of pressure connecting the integrated
product of the gas diffusion layer and the gasket doubling as the
electrode to the electrolyte membrane, a whole of the portion being
in contact with the electrolyte membrane is pressure connected.
[0051] Further, by integrating the MEA, the gas diffusion layer and
the gasket in the manner mentioned above, or by integrating the
electrolyte membrane, the gas diffusion layer and the gasket, it is
possible to reduce a man hour at a time of assembling of the fuel
battery, and it is possible to resolve a problem concerning a
displacement between the membrane and the seal portion.
[0052] Further, as in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the seventh aspect of the present invention
provided with the structure mentioned above, when the reaction
electrode portion, the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets are
integrated, these parts are previously integrated, so that it is
possible to reduce an assembling man hour, and further, as in the
constituting part for the fuel battery in accordance with the
eighth aspect of the present invention, when the frames made of the
resin film are fixed to the outer periphery of the reaction
electrode portion so as to expand the plan area, it is possible to
reduce the plan area of the reaction electrode portion at a degree
at which the frames are added, so that a rate at which the reaction
electrode portion corresponding to an expensive part is used is
reduced, and it is accordingly possible to reduce the part cost. In
this case, in order to integrate the reaction electrode portion,
the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets, as described in the ninth
aspect, it is preferable that the reaction electrode portion, the
frames, the gaskets and the gas diffusion layers are integrated by
fixing the frames to the reaction electrode portion, covering the
frames by the rubber and impregnating the gas diffusion layers with
the part of the rubber.
[0053] Further, as in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the tenth aspect of the present invention provided
with the structure mentioned above, when the reaction electrode
portion and the gaskets are integrated, these parts are previously
integrated, so that it is possible to reduce an assembling man
hour, and as in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the eleventh aspect of the present invention, when
the frames made of the resin film are fixed to the outer periphery
of the reaction electrode portion so as to expand a plan area, it
is possible to reduce the plan area of the reaction electrode
portion at a degree at which the frame is added, so that a rate at
which the reaction electrode portion corresponding to an expensive
part is used is reduced, and it is accordingly possible to reduce
the part cost. In this case, in order to integrate the re-action
electrode portion and the gasket, as described in the twelfth
aspect, it is preferable that the reaction electrode portion, the
frames and the gasket are integrated by fixing the frames to the
reaction electrode portion and impregnating with the rubber so as
to cover the frames.
[0054] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the thirteenth aspect of the present invention,
since the reaction electrode portion and the outer periphery of the
frames are coated by the rubber, it is possible to restrict the gas
generated in the inner portion of the cell from leaking from the
reaction electrode portion and the outer periphery of the frame to
the external, and in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the fourteenth aspect of the present invention,
since the reaction electrode portion and the frames are connected
by charging the rubber into through holes provided in the reaction
electrode portion and the. frames, it is possible to firmly fasten
the reaction electrode portion and the frames.
[0055] Further, in accordance with the fifteenth aspect of the
present invention, in the constituting part for the fuel battery as
recited in the ninth aspect mentioned above, since the reaction
electrode portion, the frames, the gaskets, the gas diffusion
layers and the separators are integrated by also impregnating the
separators with the rubber, it is possible to integrate the parts
group including the separators, and further in accordance with the
sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the constituting part
for the fuel battery as recited in the twelfth aspect mentioned
above, since the reaction electrode portion, the frames, the
gaskets and the separators are integrated by also impregnating the
separators with the rubber, it is also possible to integrate the
parts group including the separators.
[0056] Further, in accordance with the seventeenth aspect of the
present invention, in the constituting part for the fuel battery as
recited in the fifteenth aspect or the sixteenth aspect mentioned
above, since the gas seal made of the material excellent in the gas
impermeability rather than the gasket is provided in the outer
periphery of the gaskets, it is possible to prevent the gas from
leaking to the external for the sake of the gas seal, even when the
gas impermeability of the cell seal portion is not good enough.
[0057] In this case, the impregnation means a penetration into a
porous portion in the GSL or the electrode, or a penetration into
rugged portions of the surface or voids in the resin film or the
separator. Further, the resin film may be porous, and the resin
film and the separator may be roughened on the surface.
[0058] In connection with the present invention in accordance with
the seventh aspect-to the seventeenth aspect, the following
technical matters are included in the present application.
[0059] That is, one constituting part for the fuel battery proposed
by the present application is characterized in that the MEA
(electrolyte membrane+reaction electrodes), the gas diffusion
layers (GDL) and the gaskets are integrated for achieving the
object mentioned above, and the area of the expensive MEA is
reduced.
[0060] Further, the following technical matters are included.
[0061] {circle around (1)} A cell seal for a fuel battery in which
the MEA, the GDL's and the gaskets are integrated.
[0062] {circle around (2)} A structure characterized in that frames
of a resin film such as a polyimide (PI), a polyamide imide, a
polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), a polyethylene terephthalate (PET),
a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or the like is provided in an
outer periphery of the MEA, for the purpose of achieving a cost
saving of the MEA.
[0063] {circle around (3)} A shape in which the MEA and the resin
frame outer periphery are coated with the rubber, for improving a
gas leak property.
[0064] {circle around (4)} A structure in which a through hole is
provided and connection is made by the rubber at a time of molding,
for improving a fastening force between the resin frame and the
MEA.
[0065] {circle around (5)} A structure in which integrally forming
is made including the GDL by using the liquid rubber.
[0066] {circle around (6)} A structure in which the separators are
further integrated and a rubber having an improved gas permeability
is provided in the outer periphery or a latex covers the outer
periphery, in the case that the gas permeability of the cell seal
portion is insufficient.
[0067] In the above item {circle around (2)}, since the MEA is
expensive, the other portions than the power generating portions in
the separators are formed by the resin frames made of the PI, the
PEN, the PET or the like which are thermally compression bonded to
the MEA, in place of the MEA. The structure is made such that the
through hole is provided from the resin frames in the MEA
sandwiched by the resin frames, and the rubber passes there
through, thereby holding even when the thermo compression bonded
portion is peeled off at a time of using (the item {circle around
(4)} mentioned above).
[0068] Further, in the case of using the GDL's in conjunction
therewith, they are integrated by inserting the MEA with the resin
frames and the GDL's into the molding die, and molding with the
liquid rubber (the item {circle around (5)} mentioned above). Since
the rubber is impregnated, there is no gas leak from the GDL's to
the outer periphery, however, since there is a risk that the gas
leaks from the outer periphery of the MEA with the resin frames,
there is formed a shape in which the rubber surrounds the outer
periphery of the MEA with the resin frames at a time of molding
(the item {circle around (3)} mentioned above).
[0069] Further, the silicone rubber, the ethylene propylene rubber,
the butyl rubber, the fluorine-contained rubber or the like is used
for the liquid rubber, however, in the case that there is a problem
concerning the gas permeability in these rubber materials; the
outer peripheral portion is coated with the rubber having an
improved gas permeability integrally with the separators (the item
{circle around (6)} mentioned above). The structure in this case
includes the case of forming with the rubber to coat, and the case
of applying the latex.
[0070] In accordance with the structure mentioned above, the
following function and effects can be achieved.
[0071] {circle around (1)} Since the MEA, the GDL's and the gaskets
are integrated, the number of parts to be assembled is reduced from
five parts to one part, so that it is possible to widely reduce an
assembling man hour.
[0072] {circle around (2)} Since the area of the MEA to be used is
widely reduced by employing the MEA with the resin frames, a cost
saving can be achieved. In an example of a commercially available
test stack, they are of the MEA is reduced at about 30 to 50%.
[0073] {circle around (3)} The displacement of the MEA is not
generated by fixing the MEA to the resin frames via the through
hole.
[0074] {circle around (4)} An air leak from the outer periphery is
not generated even when the thermo compression bonding between the
MEA and the resin frame is insufficient, since the outer periphery
is covered by the rubber.
[0075] {circle around (5)} Since the MEA integrated cell seal is
sandwiched by the separators and the rubber is formed in the outer
periphery, the gas permeation to the outer portion is reduced by
the rubber thickness.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0076] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a constituting part for a fuel
battery in accordance with a first embodiment of the present
invention;
[0077] FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross sectional view along a line A-A
in FIG. 1;
[0078] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of a main portion showing
an assembling state of the constituting part for the fuel
battery;
[0079] FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a main portion of a
constituting part for a fuel battery in accordance with a second
embodiment of the present invention;
[0080] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a main portion showing
an assembling state of the constituting part for the fuel
battery;
[0081] FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of a main portion of a
constituting part for a fuel battery in accordance with a third
embodiment of the present invention; and
[0082] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a main portion showing a
constituting part for a fuel battery in accordance with a fifth
embodiment of the present invention.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0083] Next, a description will be given of embodiments in
accordance with the present invention with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
First Embodiment
[0084] FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a constituting part 1 for a fuel
battery in accordance with a first embodiment of the present
invention, and an enlarged cross sectional view along a line A-A
thereof is shown in FIG. 2. Further, FIG. 3 shows a cross sectional
view of an assembling state of the constituting part 1 for the fuel
battery, and reference numerals 10 and 11 in FIG. 3 denote
separators combined with the fuel battery constituting part 1.
[0085] The fuel battery constituting part 1 in accordance with the
embodiment mentioned above is structured as follows.
[0086] That is, at first, a reaction electrode portion (MEA:
Membrane Electrode Assembly) 2 corresponding to an integrated
product of an electrolyte membrane 3 and electrodes with catalyst 4
and 5 is provided, the electrodes with catalyst 4 and 5 being fixed
respectively to each of both pole sides or both surfaces of the
electrolyte membrane 3 made of a solid high polymer and provided
with a predetermined plan shape, and gas diffusion layers 6 and 7
made of a carbon fiber, and gaskets 8 and 9 made of a rubber cured
material are respectively bonded to each of both surfaces of the
reaction electrode portion 2.
[0087] In the reaction electrode portion 2 mentioned above, a
peripheral edge portion 3a of the electrolyte membrane 3 protrudes
in the plane direction beyond peripheral edge portions 4a and 5a of
the electrodes with catalyst 4 and 5, the upper gas diffusion layer
6 is arranged in the upper side of the electrode with catalyst 4 in
the upper side in the drawing and the upper side of the peripheral
edge portion 3a of the electrolyte membrane 3, and the lower gas
diffusion layer 7 is arranged in the lower side of the electrode
with catalyst 5 in the lower side in the drawing and the lower side
of the peripheral edge portion 3a of the electrolyte membrane 3.
Further, the upper gasket 8 is arranged in the upper side of the
peripheral edge portion 3a of the electrolyte membrane 3, and the
lower gasket 9 is arranged in the lower side of the peripheral edge
portion 3a of the electrolyte membrane 3.
[0088] A combination of the gas diffusion layer 6 in the upper side
in the drawing and the gasket 8, and a combination of the gas
diffusion layer 7 in the lower side in the drawing and the gasket 9
are respectively integrated by impregnating the gas diffusion
layers 6 and 7 with a part of the rubber corresponding to the
molding material of the gaskets 8 and 9 at a time of molding the
gaskets 8 and 9, and these integrated products are bonded to an
upper surface or a lower surface of the peripheral edge portion 3a
of the electrolyte membrane 3 by a thermo compression bonding means
with a hot press. Accordingly, the fuel battery constituting part 1
mentioned above is the integrally formed product of the electrolyte
membrane 3, the electrodes with catalyst 4 and 5, the gas diffusion
layers 6 and 7, and the gaskets 8 and 9, and the integrally formed
product is inserted and held between a pair of separators 10 and 11
in a non-bonding manner as shown in FIG. 3. Groove-shaped recess
portions 10a and 11a for positioning the gaskets 8 and 9 so as to
pressure contact them are provided in the separators 10 and 11.
[0089] In the fuel battery constituting part 1 having the structure
mentioned above, since the electrolyte membrane 3, the electrodes
with catalyst 4 and 5, the gas diffusion layers 6 and 7, and the
gaskets 8 and 9 are integrally formed in the manner mentioned
above, it is possible to reduce steps of assembling these parts
with each other at a time of assembling of the fuel battery.
[0090] Further, since the electrolyte membrane 3 is included in
these parts, and the electrolyte membrane 3 is kept in a flat shape
by the other parts, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from being
generated at a time of assembling the electrolyte membrane 3.
[0091] Further, since a part of the rubber forming the gaskets 8
and 9 is impregnated into the gas diffusion layers 6 and 7, whereby
the gaskets 8 and 9 and the gas diffusion layers 6 and 7 are
integrated, the gaskets 8 and 9 and the gas diffusion layers 6 and
7 have a structure in which they closely contact with each other.
Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a space constituting a short
cut flow passage for the gas from being formed between the gaskets
8 and 9 and the gas diffusion layers 6 and 7.
[0092] Further, since the gaskets 8 and 9 are bonded to the upper
surface and the lower surface of the peripheral edge portion 3a of
the electrolyte membrane 3 by the thermo compression bonding means
with the hot press, the gaskets 8 and 9 and the electrolyte
membrane 3 have a structure in which they closely contact with each
other. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a gas leaking flow
passage from being formed between the gaskets 8 and 9 and the
electrolyte membrane 3.
Second Embodiment
[0093] FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional view of a constituting part 1
for a fuel battery in accordance with a second embodiment of the
present invention. Further, FIG. 5 shows a cross sectional view of
an assembling state of the constituting part 1 for the fuel
battery, and reference numerals 10 and 11 in FIG. 5 denote
separators combined with the fuel battery constituting part 1.
[0094] The fuel battery constituting part 1 in accordance with the
embodiment mentioned above is structured as follows.
[0095] That is, at first, the electrolyte membrane 3 made of the
solid high polymer provided with a predetermined plane shape is
provided, electrodes 14 and 15 doubling as gas diffusion layers 12
and 13 made of a carbon fiber, and the gaskets 8 and 9 made of a
liquid rubber cured material are respectively bonded to each of
both surfaces of the electrolyte membrane 3.
[0096] A combination of the gas diffusion layer 12 and the gasket 8
in the upper side in the drawing, and a combination of the gas
diffusion layer 13 and the gasket 9 in the lower side in the
drawing are respectively integrated by impregnating the gas
diffusion layers 12 and 13 with a part of the rubber corresponding
to the molding material of the gaskets 8 and 9 at a time of molding
the gaskets 8 and 9, and these integrated products are bonded to an
upper surface and a lower surface of the electrolyte membrane 3 by
a thermo compression bonding means with a hot press. Accordingly,
the fuel battery constituting part 1 mentioned above is the
integrally formed product of the electrolyte membrane 3, the
electrodes 14 and 15 doubling as the gas diffusion layers 12 and
13, and the gaskets 8 and 9, and the integrally formed product is
inserted and held between a pair of separators 10 and 11 in a
non-bonding manner as shown in FIG. 5. Groove-shaped recess
portions 10a and 11a for positioning the gaskets 8 and 9 so as to
pressure contact them are provided in the separators 10 and 11.
[0097] In the fuel battery constituting part 1 having the structure
mentioned above, since the electrolyte membrane 3, the electrodes
14 and 15 doubling as the gas diffusion layers 12 and 13, and the
gaskets 8 and 9 are integrally formed in the manner mentioned
above, it is possible to reduce steps of assembling these parts
with each other at a time of assembling of the fuel battery.
[0098] Further, since the electrolyte membrane 3 is included in
these parts, and the electrolyte membrane 3 is kept in a flat shape
by the other parts, it is possible to prevent wrinkles from being
generated at a time of assembling the electrolyte membrane 3.
[0099] Further, since a part of the rubber forming the gaskets 8
and 9 is impregnated into the gas diffusion layers 12 and 13,
whereby the gaskets 8 and 9 and the gas diffusion layers 12 and 13
are integrated, the gaskets 8 and 9 and the gas diffusion layers 12
and 13 have a structure in which they closely contact with each
other. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a space constituting
a short cut flow passage for the gas from being formed between the
gaskets 8 and 9 and the gas diffusion layers 12 and 13.
[0100] Further, since the gaskets 8 and 9 are bonded to the upper
surface and the lower surface of the electrolyte membrane 3 by the
thermo compression bonding means with the hot press, the gaskets 8
and 9 and the electrolyte membrane 3 have a structure in which they
closely contact with each other. Accordingly, it is possible to
prevent a gas leaking flow passage from being formed between the
gaskets 8 and 9 and the electrolyte membrane 3.
Third Embodiment
[0101] FIG. 6 shows a cross section of a constituting part 21 for a
fuel battery (cell seal for the fuel battery) in accordance with a
third embodiment of the present invention, and this fuel battery
constituting part 21 is structured as follows.
[0102] That is, at first, a reaction electrode portion (MEA) 22
integrated by laying electrodes with catalyst (catalyst layers) 24
and 25 on both the upper and lower sides of an electrolyte membrane
(ion exchange membrane) 23 is provided, gas diffusion layers (GDL)
26 and 27 are layered in both the upper and lower sides of the
reaction electrode portion 22 in a non-bonded manner, and
separators 28 and 29 are further layered in both the upper and
lower sides of the gas diffusion layers 26 and 27 in a non-bonded
manner, whereby a laminated body corresponding to 1 cell is
structured.
[0103] A plane area of the reaction electrode portion 22 is formed
to be smaller than the conventional one, and frames 30 and 31 made
of a resin film such as the PI, the PEN, the PET or the like are
fixed to a peripheral edge portion of the reaction electrode
portion 22 in such a manner as to just compensate the reduced
portion. In the peripheral edge portion of the reaction electrode
portion 22, since a peripheral edge portion 23a of the electrolyte
membrane 23 protrudes out in a plane direction beyond peripheral
edge portions 24a and 25a of the electrodes with catalyst 24 and
25, the frames 30 and 31 are respectively layered in both the upper
and lower sides of the peripheral edge portion 23a of the
electrolyte membrane 23, and are respectively thermally compression
bonded to the peripheral edge portion 23a of the electrolyte
membrane 23. The frames 30 and 31 have substantially the same
thickness as that of the electrodes with catalyst 24 and 25.
[0104] Gaskets (seals) 32 and 33 made of a liquid rubber cured
material such as a silicone rubber, an EPDM, an FKM or the like are
respectively provided in the upper side of the frame 30 in the
upper side in the drawing and the lower side of the frame 31 in the
lower side in the drawing (respectively provided in the outer
peripheral sides of the gas diffusion layers 26 and 27, between the
frame 30 in the upper side in the drawing and the separator 28 and
between the frame 31 in the lower side in the drawing and the
separator 29), and the gaskets 32 and 33 are integrated with the
frame 30 and 31 and the gas diffusion layers 26 and 27 due to an
impregnation of a part of the liquid rubber into the frames 30 and
31 and the gas -diffusion layers 26 and 27 with which the gaskets
are in contact. Since the frames 30 and 31 are fixed to the
reaction electrode portion 22 in accordance with the thermo
compression bonding in the manner mentioned above, the reaction
electrode portion 22, the frames 30 and 31, the gaskets 32 and 33
and the gas diffusion layers 26 and 27 are combined and integrated
on the basis of the impregnation mentioned above. The gaskets 32
and 33 closely contact with the separators 28 and 29.
[0105] Further, through holes 34 are provided in the peripheral
edge portion 23a of the electrolyte membrane 23 and the upper and
lower frames 30 and 31 so as to communicate in a vertical
direction, and a part of the liquid rubber is charged into the
through holes 34, whereby the upper and lower gaskets 32 and 33 are
directly integrated. A plurality of through holes 34 are provided
along the peripheral edge of the electrolyte membrane 23 at a
predetermined interval, and, in each of a plurality of through
holes 34, a part of the liquid rubber is charged, and the upper and
lower gaskets 32 and 33 are directly integrated.
[0106] Further, a coating portion 35 is integrally formed in the
upper and lower gaskets 32 and 33 all around the periphery so as to
cover the peripheral edge portion 23a of the electrolyte membrane
23 and the outer periphery of the upper and lower frames 30 and
31.
[0107] In the fuel battery constituting part 21 provided with the
structure mentioned above, since the reaction electrode portion 22,
the frames 30 and 31, the gaskets 32 and 33, and the gas diffusion
layers 26 and 27 are previously combined and integrated in the
manner mentioned above, it is possible to reduce an assembling man
hour at a time of assembling of the cell or the stack, and since
the plane area of the reaction electrode portion 22 is reduced at a
degree at which the frames 30 and 31 are added, a rate at which the
reaction electrode portion 22 corresponding to the expensive part
is used is to be reduced, so that it is possible to reduce a parts
cost.
[0108] Further, since the reaction electrode portion 22 and the
outer periphery of the frames 30 and 31 are coated by the coating
portion 35 integrally formed with the gaskets 32 and 33, it is
possible to prevent the gas generated within the cell from leaking
to the external from the outer periphery of the reaction electrode
portion 22 and the frames 30 and 31, and since the rubber is
charged into the through holes 34 provided in the reaction
electrode portion 22 and the frames 30 and 31, whereby the reaction
electrode portion 22 and the frames 30 and 31 are connected, it is
possible to firmly fasten both of them.
Fourth Embodiment
[0109] In this case, as described above, there is a case that the
gas diffusion layers 26 and 27 are not used in some kinds of the
stack or the cell for the fuel battery, and in this case, the gas
diffusion layers 26 and 27 are omitted from the description of the
third embodiment mentioned above.
Fifth Embodiment
[0110] FIG. 7 shows a cross section of the constituting part 21 for
the fuel battery (cell seal for the fuel battery) in accordance
with a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and this fuel
battery constituting part 21 is structured as follows.
[0111] That is, at first, a reaction electrode portion (MEA) 22
integrated by laying electrodes with catalyst (catalyst layers) 24
and 25 on both the upper and lower sides of an electrolyte membrane
(ion exchange membrane) 23 is provided, gas diffusion layers (GDL)
26 and 27 are layered in both the upper and lower sides of the
reaction electrode portion 22 in a non-bonded manner, and
separators 28 and 29 are further layered in both the upper and
lower sides of the gas diffusion layers 26 and 27 in a non-bonded
manner, whereby a laminated body corresponding to 1 cell is
structured.
[0112] A plane area of the reaction electrode portion 22 is formed
to be smaller than the conventional one, and frames 30 and 31 made
of a resin film such as the PI, the PEN, the PET or the like are
fixed to a peripheral edge portion of the reaction electrode
portion 22 in such a manner as to just compensate the reduced
portion. In the peripheral edge portion of the reaction electrode
portion 22, since a peripheral edge portion 23a of the electrolyte
membrane 23 protrudes out in a plane direction beyond peripheral
edge portions 24a and 25a of the electrodes with catalyst 24 and
25, the frames 30 and 31 are respectively layered in each of both
the upper and lower sides of the peripheral edge portion 23a of the
electrolyte membrane 23, and are respectively thermally compression
bonded to the peripheral edge portion 23a of the electrolyte
membrane 23. The frames 30 and 31 have substantially the same
thickness as that of the electrodes with catalyst 24 and 25.
[0113] Gaskets (seals) 32 and 33 made of a liquid rubber cured
material such as a silicone rubber, an EPDM, an FKM or the like are
respectively provided in the upper side of the frame 30 in the
upper side in the drawing and the lower side of the frame 31 in the
lower side in the drawing (respectively provided in outer
peripheral sides of the gas diffusion layers 26 and 27, between the
frame 30 in the upper side in the drawing and the separator 28 and
between the frame 31 in the lower side in the drawing and the
separator 29), and the gaskets 32 and 33 are integrated with the
frame 30 and 31, the gas diffusion layers 26 and 27 and the
separators 28 and 29 due to an impregnation of a part of the liquid
rubber into the frames 30 and 31, the gas diffusion layers 26 and
27 and the separators 28 and 29 with which the gaskets are in
contact. Since the frames 30 and 31 are fixed to the reaction
electrode portion 22 in accordance with the thermo compression
bonding in the manner mentioned above, the reaction electrode
portion 22, the frames 30 and 31, the gaskets 32 and 33, the gas
diffusion layers 26 and 27 and the separators 28 and 29 are
combined and integrated on the basis of the impregnation mentioned
above.
[0114] Further, through holes 34 are provided in the peripheral
edge portion 23a of the electrolyte membrane 23 and the upper and
lower frames 30 and 31 so as to communicate in a vertical
direction, and a part of the liquid rubber is charged into the
through holes 34, whereby the upper and lower gaskets 32 and 33 are
directly integrated. A plurality of through holes 34 are provided
along the peripheral edge of the electrolyte membrane 23 at a
predetermined interval, and, in each of a plurality of through
holes 34, a part of the liquid rubber is charged, and the upper and
lower gaskets 32 and 33 are directly integrated.
[0115] Further, a coating portion 35 is integrally formed in the
upper and lower gaskets 32 and 33 all around the periphery so as to
cover the peripheral edge portion 23a of the electrolyte membrane
23 and the outer periphery of the upper and lower frames 30 and 31,
and a gas seal 36 formed by a material which is excellent in a gas
impermeability in comparison with the gaskets 32 and 33 is provided
in the outer periphery of the gaskets 32 and 33 including the
coating portion 35 and the upper and lower separators 28 and 29 all
around the periphery.
[0116] In the fuel battery constituting part 21 provided with the
structure mentioned above, since the reaction electrode portion 22,
the frames 30 and 31, the gaskets 32 and 33, the gas diffusion
layers 26 and 27 and the separators 28 and 29 are previously
combined and integrated in the manner mentioned above, it is
possible to reduce an assembling man hour at a time of assembling
of the cell or the stack, and since the plane area of the reaction
electrode portion 22 is reduced at a degree at which the frames 30
and 31 are added, a rate at which the reaction electrode portion 22
corresponding to the expensive part is to be used is reduced, so
that it is possible to reduce a parts cost.
[0117] Further, since the reaction electrode portion 22 and the
outer periphery of the frames 30 and 31 are coated by the coating
portion 35 integrally formed with the gaskets 32 and 33, it is
possible to prevent the gas generated within the cell from leaking
to the external from the outer periphery of the reaction electrode
portion 22 and the frames 30 and 31, and since the rubber is
charged into the through holes 34 provided in the reaction
electrode portion 22 and the frames 30 and 31, whereby the reaction
electrode portion 22 and the frames 30 and 31 are connected, it is
possible to firmly fasten both of them.
[0118] Further, since the gas seal 36 formed by the material which
is excellent in the gas impermeability in comparison with the
gaskets 32 and 33 is provided in the outer periphery of the gaskets
32 and 33 including the coating portion 35 and the separators 28
and 29, it is possible to prevent the gas from leaking to the
external due to the gas seal 36 even when the gas impermeability of
the gaskets 32 and 33 is not good enough.
Sixth Embodiment
[0119] In this case, as described above, there is a case that the
gas diffusion layers 26 and 27 are not used in some kinds of the
stack or the cell for the fuel battery, and in this case, the gas
diffusion layers 26 and 27 are omitted from the description of the
fifth embodiment mentioned above.
EFFECT OF THE INVENTION AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0120] The present invention achieves the following effects.
[0121] That is, at first, in the constituting part for the fuel
battery in accordance with the first aspect of the present
invention provided with the structure mentioned above, since the
structure is made such that the gas diffusion layers formed of the
carbon fiber or the like and the gaskets are bonded to the
integrated product of the electrolyte membrane and the electrodes
with catalyst, in the constituting part for the fuel battery having
the electrodes with catalyst in the both pole sides of the
electrolyte membrane and provided with the gas diffusion layers in
both the outer sides thereof, it is possible to reduce the steps of
assembling these parts with each other at a time of assembling of
the fuel battery. Accordingly, it is possible to make the
assembling operation of the fuel battery easy. Further, since these
parts are integrated, it is possible to improve the sealing
property obtained by the gasket.
[0122] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the second aspect of the present invention provided
with the structure mentioned above, since the structure is made
such that the integrated product of the gas diffusion layers and
the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers being made of the carbon
fiber or the like and impregnated with the rubber, and forming the
gaskets is bonded to the integrated product of the electrolyte
membrane and the electrodes with catalyst, in the constituting part
for the fuel battery having the electrodes with catalyst in both
the pole sides of the electrolyte membrane, and provided with the
gas diffusion layers in both the outer sides thereof, it is
possible to reduce the steps of assembling these parts with each
other at a time of assembling of the fuel battery. Accordingly, it
is possible to make the assembling operation of the fuel battery
easy. Further, since these parts are integrated, it is possible to
improve the sealing property obtained by the gasket.
[0123] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the third aspect of the present invention provided
with the structure mentioned above, since the structure is made
such that the integrated product of the gas diffusion layers and
the gaskets is bonded to the electrolyte membrane the gas diffusion
layers being impregnated with the rubber and forming the gaskets,
in the constituting part for the fuel battery provided with the
electrodes doubling as the gas diffusion layers in both the sides
of the electrolyte membrane, it is possible to reduce the steps of
assembling these parts with each other at a time of assembling of
the fuel battery. Accordingly, it is possible to make the
assembling operation of the fuel battery easy. Further, since these
parts are integrated, it is possible to improve the sealing
property obtained by the gasket.
[0124] Further, each of the inventions in accordance with the
aspects mentioned above is particularly effective by the matters
that the integrated product is bonded by using the hot press (the
fourth aspect), the electrolyte membrane is constituted of the high
polymer electrolyte (the fifth aspect), or the rubber is the liquid
rubber (the sixth aspect).
[0125] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the seventh aspect of the present invention
provided with the structure mentioned above, the reaction electrode
portion, the gas diffusion layers and the gaskets are integrated,
and in the constituting part for the fuel battery in accordance
with the ninth aspect, the reaction electrode portion, the frames,
the gaskets and the gas diffusion layers are integrated by fixing
the frame to the reaction electrode portion, covering the frames by
the rubber and impregnating the gas diffusion layers with a part of
the rubber. Accordingly, in each of the cases, it is possible to
reduce the assembling man hour at a time of assembling of the cell
or the stack. Further, in the constituting part for the fuel
battery in accordance with the eighth aspect, since it is possible
to reduce the plane area of the reaction electrode portion at a
degree at which the frame is added, a rate at which the reaction
electrode portion corresponding to the expensive part is to be used
is reduced, and it is accordingly possible to reduce the part
cost.
[0126] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the tenth aspect, the reaction electrode portion
and the gaskets are integrated, and in the constituting part for
the fuel battery in accordance with the twelfth aspect, the
reaction electrode portion, the frames and the gaskets are
integrated by fixing the frames to the reaction electrode portion
and impregnating with the rubber so as to cover the frames.
Accordingly, in each of the cases, it is possible to reduce the
assembling man hour at a time of assembling of the cell or the
stack. Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the eleventh aspect, since it is possible to reduce
the plane area of the reaction electrode portion at a degree at
which the frame is added, a rate at which the reaction electrode
portion corresponding to the expensive part is used is to be
reduced, and it is accordingly possible to reduce the part
cost.
[0127] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the thirteenth aspect, since the reaction electrode
portion and the outer periphery of the frames are coated by the
rubber, it is possible to restrict the gas generated within the
cell from leaking from the outer periphery of the reaction
electrode portion and the frames to the external, and in the
constituting part for the fuel battery in accordance with the
fourteenth aspect, since the reaction electrode portion and the
frames are connected by charging the rubber into through holes
provided in the reaction electrode portion and the frames, it is
possible to firmly fasten the reaction electrode portion and the
frames.
[0128] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the fifteenth aspect, since the reaction electrode
portion, the frames, the gaskets, the gas diffusion layers and the
separators are integrated by also impregnating the separators with
the rubber, in the constituting part for the fuel battery as
recited in the ninth aspect mentioned above, it is possible to
integrate parts group including the separators, and further in the
constituting part for the fuel battery in accordance with the
sixteenth aspect, since the reaction electrode portion, the frames,
the gaskets and the separators are integrated by also impregnating
the separator with the rubber, in the constituting part for the
fuel battery as recited in the twelfth aspect mentioned above, it
is also possible to integrate the parts group including the
separators.
[0129] Further, in the constituting part for the fuel battery in
accordance with the seventeenth aspect, since the gas seal made of
the material excellent in the gas impermeability rather than the
gasket is provided in the outer periphery of the gaskets, in the
constituting part for the fuel battery as recited in the fifteenth
aspect or the sixteenth aspect mentioned above, it is possible to
prevent the gas from leaking to the external for the sake of the
gas seal, even when the gas impermeability of the gasket is not
good enough.
* * * * *