Process for forming integral edge seals in porous gas distribution plates utilizing a vibratory means
AssigneeEngelhard Corporation
InventorsHaim Feigenbaum, Sheldon Pudick
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A process for forming an integral edge seal in a gas distribution plate for use in a fuel cell. A seal layer is formed along an edge of a porous gas distribution plate by impregnating the pores in the layer with a material adapted to provide a seal which is operative dry or when wetted by an electrolyte of a fuel cell. Vibratory energy is supplied to the sealing material during the step of impregnating the pores to provide a more uniform seal throughout the cross section of the plate.
Claims8
Process for producing an integral edge seal in a gas distribution plate for a fuel cell comprising providing a porous gas distribution plate;
- and forming a sealing layer along an edge thereof by impregnating said pores in said layer with a material adapted to provide a seal which is operative dry and when wetted by an electrolyte of said cell, said impregnating step being carried out while vibratory energy is applied to said material whereby said pores in said edge are more uniformly sealed throughout the cross-section of the edge said plate.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.