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Abstract

The purpose of invention is to extend the edge of an electrochemical cell with a laminated plastic structure to give it strength and rigidity for sealing and support. The invention applies to polymer exchange membrane fuel cells and electrochemical compressors. In the present invention the electrolyte membrane is surrounded with a plastic spacer having a thickness closely matched to that of the membrane. A thin, plastic film is bonded with an adjesive layer to both sides of the two elements so that the film and adhesive bridge the gap between the spacer and membrane. The resulting composite membrane has the properties of conventional ion exchange membranes in its electochemically active region, while possessing the favorable mechanical properties of plastic laminates in the surrounding frame area. The adhesive layer bonds the assembly together and also provides a gas tight seal around the edge of the membrane. Porous electrodes with plastic frames are bonded to the composite membrane. The use of this type of structure permits the construction of a rigid cell frame which can be made the same thickness as the membrane electrode package. The structural strength which is thereby imparted to this unitized cell simplifies sealing of the cell.

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First Claim