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Abstract

A compact, surface replica fuel cell has a fiber reinforced, porous central membrane and two porous outer membranes. Thin film catalyst and metal electrode materials are deposited on both sides of the central membrane. The electrodes are deposited using a variety of techniques, including ion or light bombardment, etching and vacuum thin film deposition. For compound fuels, two catalysts are deposited. The first catalyst forms the interior surface replica electrode. The second catalyst is positioned on the interior of the pores to scavenge hydrogen before the hydrogen is diffused out of the electrode and electrolyte. A hydrophobic film is deposited over the electrode films to control electrolyte positioning and to strengthen the electrodes. Catalyst surface active area is maximized by separating the catalyst film from the porous, non-electrolyte substrate and filling the voids between the substrate and the catalyst film with an electrolyte. The fuel cell operates by supplying fuel gas to one electrode and an oxidizer gas to the other electrode. The cell may also function as an electrolysis cell for generating reactant gases from the electrolyte. During operation of the present invention, water is captured on cooler outer gas manifold surfaces of the cell and recirculated through electrode vias. Water content is regulated by a coating on the outer porous membranes.

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First Claim