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A polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell assembly has an anode side and a cathode side separated by the membrane and generating electrical current by electrochemical reactions between a fuel gas and an oxidant. The anode side comprises a hydrophobic gas diffusion backing contacting one side of the m

A polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell assembly has an anode side and a cathode side separated by the membrane and generating electrical current by electrochemical reactions between a fuel gas and an oxidant. The anode side comprises a hydrophobic gas diffusion backing contacting one side of the membrane and having hydrophilic areas therein for providing liquid water directly to the one side of the membrane through the hydrophilic areas of the gas diffusion backing. In a preferred embodiment, the hydrophilic areas of the gas diffusion backing are formed by sewing a hydrophilic thread through the backing. Liquid water is distributed over the gas diffusion backing in distribution channels that are separate from the fuel distribution channels.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell assembly having an anode side and a cathode side separated by said membrane and generating electrical current by electrochemical reactions between a fuel gas and an oxidant, wherein said anode side comprises:a distribution plate su

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell assembly having an anode side and a cathode side separated by said membrane and generating electrical current by electrochemical reactions between a fuel gas and an oxidant, wherein said anode side comprises:a distribution plate supplying said fuel gas and liquid water;a hydrophobic gas diffusion backing with one side contacting said distribution plate and another side contacting said membrane; anda hydrophilic wick passing through said hydrophobic gas diffusion backing wherein said liquid water is wicked from said distribution plate to said membrane.