REGENERATIVE FUEL CELL COMBINED WITH AN ELECTROLYSIS CELL

摘要

A regenerative fuel cell assembly is provided in which a fuel cell is integrated with an electrolysis cell. In a preferred embodiment the fuel cell assembly and electrolysis cell assembly are spaced apart and have their hydrogen electrodes in facing relationship; a water transport matrix is disposed in the space between the hydrogen electrodes, and a water storage matrix is disposed adjacent the oxygen electrode of the fuel cell. During operation of the fuel cell the water storage matrix holds the water produced by the fuel cell; during electrolysis cell operation the water in the water storage matrix passes to the water transport matrix which carries it to the electrolysis cell where it is consumed.