MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY AND POLYMER ELECTROLYTE FUEL CELL

Organization Name

Inventor(s)

MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY AND POLYMER ELECTROLYTE FUEL CELL - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18638661 titled 'MEMBRANE ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY AND POLYMER ELECTROLYTE FUEL CELL

Simplified Explanation:

The patent application describes a membrane electrode assembly for fuel cells, consisting of a polymer electrolyte membrane with electrode catalyst layers on each side and gas diffusion layers on top of the catalyst layers.

The membrane electrode assembly includes a polymer electrolyte membrane.
A pair of electrode catalyst layers are sandwiched between the polymer electrolyte membrane.
Gas diffusion layers are laminated on each electrode catalyst layer.
The gas diffusion layer comprises a microporous layer and a diffusion substrate layer made of fiber substrate.
The fiber material in the diffusion substrate layer has an average diameter significantly larger than the fibrous substance in the electrode catalyst layer.

Key Features and Innovation:

Unique design of the gas diffusion layer with a microporous layer and a diffusion substrate layer.
Utilization of a polymer electrolyte membrane for enhanced performance.
Optimization of fiber material diameter in the diffusion substrate layer for improved efficiency.

Potential Applications:

Fuel cells for automotive applications.
Portable electronic devices powered by fuel cells.
Stationary power generation systems.

Problems Solved:

Enhanced efficiency and performance of fuel cells.
Improved durability and longevity of membrane electrode assemblies.
Better gas diffusion and reaction kinetics in fuel cells.

Benefits:

Increased energy efficiency.
Extended lifespan of fuel cell systems.
Reduced maintenance and operating costs.

Commercial Applications:

The membrane electrode assembly technology can be applied in various industries such as automotive, electronics, and power generation, leading to more efficient and sustainable energy solutions.

Questions about Membrane Electrode Assembly Technology:

1. How does the unique design of the gas diffusion layer contribute to the overall performance of the fuel cell system? 2. What are the specific advantages of using a polymer electrolyte membrane in the membrane electrode assembly?

Original Abstract Submitted

A membrane electrode assembly includes: a polymer electrolyte membrane; a pair of electrode catalyst layers disposed with the polymer electrolyte membrane therebetween while being in contact with a surface of the polymer electrolyte membrane; and a gas diffusion layer laminated on each of the pair of electrode catalyst layers. The gas diffusion layer includes a microporous layer in contact with the electrode catalyst layer and a diffusion substrate layer made of a fiber substrate. An average fiber diameter of a fiber material contained in the diffusion substrate layer is 10 times or more and 150 times of less of an average fiber diameter of the fibrous substance contained in the electrode catalyst layer.