Abstract: An edge manifold assembly conducts, introduces and receives reactant and coolant streams to and from an electrochemical fuel cell stack. The assembly comprises a plurality of manifold plates. Each of the fuel cells has a single manifold plate or at least three manifold plates attached thereto. Each of the manifold plates has at least one manifold opening formed therein for containing a fluid and at least one channel formed therein for effecting fluid communication between the manifold opening and the fuel cell to which the manifold plate is attached.

Abstract: An edge manifold assembly conducts, introduces and receives reactant and coolant streams to and from an electrochemical fuel cell stack. The assembly comprises a plurality of manifold plates. Each of the fuel cells has a pair of manifold plates attached thereto. Each of the manifold plates has at least one manifold opening formed therein for containing a fluid and at least one channel formed therein for effecting fluid communication between the manifold opening and the fuel cell to which the manifold plate is attached.

Abstract: A laminated fluid flow field assembly for an electrochemical fuel cell comprises a separator layer and a stencil layer. The separator layer is formed of electrically conductive, substantially fluid impermeable sheet material. The stencil layer is formed of electrically conductive sheet material, and has a fluid inlet and at least one opening extending between its major surfaces and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The separator layer and the stencil layer are consolidated along one of their major surfaces. In operation, the separator layer and the stencil layer cooperate to form an open-faced channel for conducting pressurized fluid introduced at the fluid inlet.

Abstract: A membrane electrode and seal assembly for an electrochemical fuel cell comprises first and second layers of porous electrically conductive sheet material, such as carbon fiber paper. The sheet material layers have a solid polymer ion exchange membrane interposed therebetween. The sheet material layers cover and support the membrane over substantially its entire surface area. The sheet material layers are coated with a catalyst to render them electrochemically active, and are bonded together with the membrane to form a consolidated assembly. Openings are formed in the layers of sheet material and the membrane to accommodate the passage of fluids through the assembly. Channels formed in the layers of sheet material generally circumscribe the openings and the electrochemically active region of the sheet material. Solid preformed gaskets are disposed in the channels. The gasketing technique can also be applied to the membrane and seal assemblies of the humidification portion of fuel cell stacks.