초록 ▼

An improved membrane electrode assembly ("MEA") comprises coextensive ion exchange membrane and electrode layers and a resilient fluid impermeable integral seal comprising a sealant material impregnated into the porous electrode layers in the sealing regions. The integral seal preferably circumscrib

An improved membrane electrode assembly ("MEA") comprises coextensive ion exchange membrane and electrode layers and a resilient fluid impermeable integral seal comprising a sealant material impregnated into the porous electrode layers in the sealing regions. The integral seal preferably circumscribes the electrochemically active area of the MEA. The integral seal preferably also extends laterally beyond the edge of the MEA. An integral seal may also be provided around any openings, such as external manifold openings formed outside the MEA. Preferably, the uncured sealant material is a flow processable elastomer applied using an 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 raised ribs and cross-ribs provide compartmentalized seals that provide improved protection against fluid leaks.

대표청구항 ▼

1. An improved membrane electrode assembly for an electrochemical fuel cell, said membrane electrode assembly comprising:(a) a first porous electrode layer; (b) a second porous electrode layer; (c) an ion exchange membrane interposed between said first and second porous electrode layers wherein said

1. An improved membrane electrode assembly for an electrochemical fuel cell, said membrane electrode assembly comprising:(a) a first porous electrode layer; (b) a second porous electrode layer; (c) an ion exchange membrane interposed between said first and second porous electrode layers wherein said first and second electrode layers and said membrane are coextensive; (d) an electrocatalyst disposed at the interface between said ion exchange membrane and each of said first and second porous electrode layers, thereby defining an electrochemically active area on each of said first and second electrode layers; and (e) a resilient fluid impermeable integral seal that is integral with said membrane electrode assembly, said seal comprising a fluid impermeable sealant material impregnated into said first and second porous electrode layers in sealing regions thereof and extending laterally beyond said membrane and said electrode layers to an external region, wherein said sealing regions comprise regions that circumscribe said electrochemically active area, and wherein said external region comprises regions that circumscribe external manifold openings therein.