Multilayer Coating System, in Particular for Application to a Fuel Cell, and Fuel Cell with Such a Coating System

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

This invention presents a multi-layer coating system designed especially for fuel cells. The coating includes a first catalyst layer that extracts hydrogen from hydrogen carrier compounds such as alcohols, and a special barrier layer that blocks these carriers but allows the released hydrogen gas to pass through. This ensures that only pure hydrogen reaches the fuel cell's active membrane, improving efficiency and stability.

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

• Retrofitting existing polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells to operate with hydrogen carriers such as liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) or secondary alcohols (like isopropanol).
• Designing new fuel cell systems that safely and efficiently extract and utilize hydrogen from chemical storage materials.
• Portable or decentralized hydrogen energy solutions where safe and convenient hydrogen storage is needed.
• Automotive or stationary power applications using alternative, safe hydrogen storage media to power fuel cells.
• Hydrogen recharging or transfer systems utilizing direct conversion of carrier materials on demand.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Improves the performance and stability of fuel cells when operating with non-gaseous hydrogen sources or carriers.
• Selective permeability ensures that only hydrogen gas, and not unwanted carrier materials, enters the fuel cell, minimizing contamination and degradation of the membrane.
• Enables safe and efficient use of liquid hydrogen carriers (easier to store and handle than hydrogen gas), broadening the practical uses of fuel cells.
• Suitable for both retrofitting existing fuel cells or integrating into new designs, increasing flexibility and market applicability.
• The modular nature (e.g., possibility for add-on modules or removable layers) facilitates easy maintenance and upgrading of fuel cell systems.
• Additive manufacturing compatibility allows tailored production with optimized material gradients for better performance.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a multi-layered coating system (2) which is in particular used for attachment to a fuel cell (1), said coating system comprising a first catalyst layer having a first catalyst material for dehydrating a hydrogen carrier material and a barrier layer which is impermeable to the hydrogen carrier material.