Multi-layer seal for electrochemical devices
AssigneeBattelle Memorial Institute
InventorsYeong-Shyung Chou, Kerry D. Meinhardt, Jeffry W. Stevenson
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Multi-layer seals are provided that find advantageous use for reducing leakage of gases between adjacent components of electrochemical devices. Multi-layer seals of the invention include a gasket body defining first and second opposing surfaces and a compliant interlayer positioned adjacent each of the first and second surfaces. Also provided are methods for making and using the multi-layer seals, and electrochemical devices including said seals.
Claims48
An electrochemical device, comprising:
- a plurality of components, said components forming at least one boundary between diverse gaseous streams and defining at least one junction therebetween;
- a multi-layer seal positioned at the junction, the seal composed of a gasket body disposed between two compliant interlayers, wherein each compliant interlayer is positioned between the gasket body and one of said components;
- and
- a compression member for exerting a compressive force to the components and the seal.
A multi-layer seal for sealing a junction between adjacent components of an electrochemical device, said seal comprising:
- a gasket body defining first and second opposing surfaces;
- a first compliant interlayer positioned adjacent the first surface;
- and
- a second compliant interlayer positioned adjacent the second surface.
A method for making a multi-layer seal, comprising:
- providing a gasket body defining first and second generally flat opposing surfaces;
- and
- applying a compliant material to said first and second surfaces to form first and second compliant interlayers.
A method for sealing a junction between adjacent ceramic or metallic components of an electrochemical device, comprising:
- positioning between the adjacent components a multi-layer seal composed of a gasket body disposed between a first compliant interlayer and a second compliant interlayer, wherein each of the first and second compliant interlayers is positioned between the gasket body and one of the components;
- and
- applying a compressive force to the components and the seal.
A solid oxide fuel cell assembly for electrochemically reacting a fuel gas with a flowing oxidant gas at an elevated temperature to produce a DC output voltage, said solid oxide fuel cell comprising:
- a plurality of generally planar integral fuel cell units, each unit comprising a layer of ceramic ion conducting electrolyte disposed between a conductive anode layer and a conductive cathode layer, wherein said units are arranged one on another along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to said planar units to form a fuel cell stack;
- a multi-layer non-conducting seal disposed between the anode layer and the cathode layer of adjacent fuel cell units, wherein the seal is composed of a gasket body disposed between two compliant interlayers;
- and
- a compression member for exerting a compressive force along the longitudinal axis.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.