| 摘要 |
A fuel cell stack assembly comprises an aligned series of multifunction strata (panels) 12 alternating with and interposed between a mating series of electrochemically active strata. In a proton exchange membrane (PEM)-type fuel cell stack, the electrochemically active fuel cell strata include membrane electrode assembly (MEA) strata. The multi-function panels provide structural integrity and electric circuit continuity within the stack. Each multi-function stratum comprises an open spring conductive layer 34, such as an undulate or corrugated layer, sandwiched between a pair of relatively rigid conductive layer 32,36 that isolate the open spring layer from the reactant gases. The layers of the multi-function stratum together constitute a distributed spring array exerting a compressive force acting in the stack dimension, each open spring layer bearing compressively against the rigid conductive sheets between which it is sandwiched. This distributed spring array facilitates the maintenance of dimensional integrity within the stack, permitting an external manifold to be provided for the supply and exhaust of reactant gases to and from the stack. The spaces provided between the open spring elements serve as conduits for cooling air, so that cooling air may flow over the corrugations to cool the stack. A simple economical frame structure and associated cover plates and separator bars for the fuel cell stack form and enclose separate plena for the supply and exhaust of reactant gases for the fuel cells in the stack. |
