Process for producing a membrane electrode assembly for fuel cells

US6998149B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• UMICORE AG & CO. KG · DE

Inventors

• Joachim Köhler · Ortenburg, DE
• Karl-Anton Starz · Rodenbach, DE
• Sandra Wittpahl · Obertshausen, DE
• Manfred Diehl · Frankfurt am Main, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 10, 2001
• Grant date: Feb 14, 2006
• Expiry date: Sep 30, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02P70/50
• WIPO field: Electrical machinery, apparatus, energy
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A process for producing a membrane electrode assembly for fuel cells containing a polymer electrolyte membrane having a first and a second surface parallel to each other. The first surface forms a firm composite with a first catalyst layer and a first water repellent gas distribution layer and said second surface form a firm composite with a second catalyst layer and a second water repellent gas distribution layer. The catalyst layers are prepared by using inks containing electrocatalysts, one or more solvents, proton-conducting ionomer and optionally water repelling agents and pore-forming agents. In the process the two catalyst layers are applied to or contacted with the respective surfaces of the polymer electrolyte membrane successively, wherein during the application or contacting process to one surface always the opposite surface of the membrane is supported.