Membrane electrode unit for fuel cells and the like
US6815114B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 27, 2002 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 27, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24843
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to a membrane electrode unit for fuel cells. The inventive membrane electrode unit comprises a reinforcing frame that is situated on the periphery and in the area of openings which are placed in the active portion of the membrane electrode unit and provided for guiding material or for installation. Said reinforcing frame is formed by a hot-melt-type adhesive layer that is applied on both sides and is formed by at least one rigid plate. The hot-melt-type adhesive layers which protrude over the outer edge of the membrane electrode unit enter into an intimate bond, due to the effect of pressure and heat, with the rigid plates and with the membrane electrode unit as well as with one another in the projecting area. The hot-melt-type adhesive comprises ionic or strong polar groups which interact with the ionic groups of the polymer electrolyte membrane and which ensure a high degree of adherence between the hot-melt-type adhesive and the membrane electrode unit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.