Microcell electrochemical devices and assemblies, and method of making and using the same

摘要

A fibrous microcell structure that has at least one electrically conductive fibrous element surrounded by a porous membrane separator is disclosed. A first electrolytic layer having an electrically conductive hydrogen- or oxygen-permselective membrane is coated, impregnated or extruded on an inner surface of the porous membrane separator and an electrolyte is disposed in porosity of the porous membrane separator. The structure includes a central lumen including the fibrous element(s) and interstitial volume accommodating flow of feed through the lumen. The porous membrane separator also has an outer surface in contact with an electrocatalyst and at least one electrically conductive fiber.