Method for regeneration of performance in a fuel cell
US7432002B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 2003 |
| Grant date | Oct 7, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 22, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/50
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A process for improved performance in at least one fuel cell, having a loss in power output of at least 5% of an initial power output, wherein the fuel cell comprises a cathode, an anode, an anode chamber, a cathode chamber, a fuel comprising an anolyte that flows through the cell, and a catholyte gas, wherein the fuel cell is connected to an external load, and wherein the process includes the steps of taking the load off the fuel cell; and applying an external electric field from an external power source to the fuel cell to reverse electrochemical reactions until at least 5% of the lost power output is regained. Purging the fuel cell further enhances regeneration of the cell.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.