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AssigneeBallard Power Systems Inc.
InventorsRussell H. Barton, Peter R. Gibb, Joel A. Ronne, Henry H. Voss
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An improved membrane electrode assembly ("MEA") comprises coextensive ion exchange membrane and electrode layers and a resilient fluid impermeable integral seal made by impregnating a sealing material into the porous electrode layers in the sealing regions. The integral seal preferably circumscribes the electrochemically active area of the MEA. In addition, the integral seal preferably extends laterally beyond the edge of the MEA, enveloping the peripheral region including the side edge of the MEA. The uncured sealant material is preferably a flow processable elastomer that is applied to the MEA using a vacuum injection molding process. In preferred embodiments, the seal has a plurality of spaced, parallel raised ribs with cross-ribs extending therebetween at spaced intervals. The parallel raised ribs and cross-ribs provide compartmentalized seals that provide improved protection against fluid leaks.
An improved membrane electrode assembly for an electrochemical fuel cell, said membrane electrode assembly comprising:
A method of making a membrane electrode assembly with resilient integral seals for use in an electrochemical fuel cell, said method comprising the sequential steps of:
A method of making a membrane electrode assembly with resilient integral seals for use in an electrochemical fuel cell, wherein said membrane electrode assembly is made from a multi-layer material comprising an ion exchange membrane interposed between two electrode layers and an electrocatalyst disposed on interfacing surfaces between said membrane and said first and second electrode layers;
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.