Fuel Cell and Method for Operating the Same

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a novel type of fuel cell that uses an alkali or alkaline earth metal as the anode and a metallic sulfide or disulfide as the cathode, with a non-aqueous electrolyte between them. The active materials used for the electrodes are themselves conductive, allowing them to serve dual roles as both reactants and conductors, eliminating the need for separate electrode structures or additional catalysts.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Portable power sources for electronics and devices
• Energy storage systems for renewable integration
• Power generation in remote or off-grid locations
• Electric vehicles or backup power supplies
• Specialized applications where traditional fuel cells are unsuitable due to water management issues

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Reduced system complexity and cost since separate electrodes and catalysts are not needed
• Potentially improved fuel cell efficiency due to better conductivity and simplified architecture
• Flexibility in design because the reactive materials serve as both electrodes and conductors
• Ability to use non-aqueous electrolytes broadens possible operating environments and applications
• Possible increased safety compared to traditional fuel cells that rely on gaseous fuels

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a fuel cell comprising an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte arranged therebetween, wherein the anode comprises an alkali or alkaline earth metal, and the cathode comprises a metallic sulfide or disulfide. The method according to the invention for operating the aforementioned fuel cell is characterized in that an alkali or alkaline earth metal is supplied as a reducing agent on the anode side and a metallic sulfide or disulfide is supplied as an oxidizing agent on the cathode side. The supplied operating materials are advantageously themselves electrically conductive and can thus simultaneously assume the function of the electrodes in the fuel cell, provided they are electrically contacted, for example via an adjacently arranged current collector. An additional catalyst is not necessary. As electrolyte, a non-aqueous solvent and optionally a conducting salt are advantageously used.