Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides a secured anode seal for a fuel cell which includes at least one housing having a base securable to a top frame wherein the frame has a notch and a recess edge facing the base and a cathode secured between the base and the top frame. A boot is secured between the base and the top frame and received in the notch and recessed edge, wherein an electrolyte chamber is formed between the boot and the cathode and a coolant chamber is formed between the boot and the top frame wherein the boot has a plurality of holes therethrough. The invention also includes an anode which has a plurality of integral posts extending through the plurality of holes of the boot wherein each of the plurality of posts has a head for securing the boot to the anode for precluding migration of material between the electrolyte chamber and the coolant chamber. Also provided in the present invention is a backing plate having a plurality of holes therethrough and a ridge extending downwardly therefrom wherein the backing plate holes fit over the plurality of posts and are underneath the head and wherein the ridge contacts the boot to provide a compressive seal therebetween. A collector strap may also be secured between the backing plate and the heads formed by the plurality of posts. In a moving anode configuration, a spring is disposed between the backing plate and the housing to maintain a predetermined distance between the anode and cathode so as to generate a constant supply of electrical power.

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First Claim