Membrane electrode unit for electrochemical devices such as fuel cells and operating processes has ionomer membrane having through passage for internal air bleed function

摘要

A membrane electrode unit for electrochemical devices comprises an ionomer membrane (1), at least one gas distribution substrate (4, 5), protective film and at least one catalyst layer (2, 3). The ionomer membrane comprises at least one through passage that enables internal transport of air from the cathode side to the anode side. Independent claims are also included for the following: (A) a fuel cell as above; (B) a fuel cell stack as above; (C) operation of a fuel cell as above.