Wicking strands for a polymer electrolyte membrane
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United States of America Patent
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Apr 29, 2003
Grant Date -
N/A
app pub date -
Feb 8, 2000
filing date -
Feb 8, 2000
priority date (Note) -
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Abstract
In a hydrogen gas fuel cell a polymer electrolyte membrane, or 'PEM,' is located between two layers composed of a catalyst material such that a sandwich-like assembly is formed. An anode electrode and a cathode electrode, each composed of a thin sheet of porous material that is permeable to liquid and gas, are situated on either side of the sandwich-like assembly such that one surface of each electrode abuts a catalyst layer. The remaining surface of each electrode abuts a conductive nonporous bipolar plate having grooves cut therein. Wicking strands composed of a trilobed fiber are located in between each catalyst layer and the adjacent PEM, and arranged in a repetitive pattern such that the strands do not cross over each other. Each wicking strand abutting the PEM surface facing the anode electrode has one end situated in a reservoir of liquid water. Each wicking strand abutting the PEM surface facing the cathode electrode drains into an exhaust reservoir.
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