Importance

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Abstract

A fundamental problem which exists in fuel cells having an electrolyte that conducts oxygen ions, hydroxide ions or protons, is that of moistening air of combustion gases for preventing the electrolyte from drying out or thinning and thus preventing defective operation of the fuel cell during air operation. The construction and financial cost, in particular, for moistening of the air is of concern in such a device. In a low-temperature fuel cell, in particular a PEM fuel cell, and a method for moistening the electrolyte of the fuel cell, according to the invention, that disadvantage is avoided by providing that exhaust gas which occurs on the cathode side of the fuel cell is at least partially recirculated into the cathode of the fuel cell. Consequently, the water content of the electrolyte can be set within wide limits by simple adjustment of the recirculated exhaust-gas quantity. Therefore, economical use of the PEM fuel cell becomes possible. The invention can be used in principle for all fuel cells having an electrolyte which conducts oxygen ions, hydroxide ions or protons.

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First Claim