Fuel cell system with interconnect

摘要

The present invention includes a fuel cell system having a plurality of adjacent electrochemical cells formed of an anode layer, a cathode layer spaced apart from the anode layer, and an electrolyte layer disposed between the anode layer and the cathode layer. The fuel cell system also includes at least one interconnect, the interconnect being structured to conduct free electrons between adjacent electrochemical cells. Each interconnect includes a primary conductor embedded within the electrolyte layer and structured to conduct the free electrons.

主权项

1. A fuel cell system, comprising:
a plurality of electrochemical cells formed of an anode layer, a cathode layer spaced apart from said anode layer in a first direction, and an electrolyte layer disposed between said anode layer and said cathode layer; and an interconnect electrically coupling adjacent electrochemical cells, each interconnect having:
a primary conductor structured to conduct free electrons in a second direction substantially perpendicular to said first direction, said primary conductor comprising a first end, a second end, and a central body extending in said second direction between said first end and said second end, wherein at least a portion of said central body is bounded on each side by electrolyte material in said first direction; andand a pair of auxiliary conductors, each contacting said primary conductor at a respective end thereof and electrically connecting said primary conductor with an anode layer of one electrochemical cell and a cathode layer of another electrochemical cell, respectively.