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Electrochemical cell comprising a ribbed electrode substrate

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6762887

A ribbed electrode substrate for an electrochemical cell comprises a gas porous substrate having ribs of hydrophilic material extending across one side thereof. The other side of the substrate is substantially flat and may have a catalyst layer disposed thereon. In one embodiment a stack of fuel cells uses electrodes having these ribbed substrates. A flat, gas impermeable plate separates the electrode substrates of adjacent cells, the ribs of each substrate abutting opposite surfaces of the plate forming channels for carrying reactant gas across the cells. Electrolyte is stored in the ribs, which are hydrophilic. The electrolyte in the ribs moves to and from the electrolyte matrix of the cell by capillary action through the substrate. 1 claim.

Assignee:
United Technologies Corp.
Patent Number(s):
US 4115627
OSTI ID:
6762887
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English