Abstract: A spring loaded direct oxidation fuel cell assembly reduces the effects of precompression relaxation. A near flat spring and a distribution plate form a spring assembly that is disposed between a membrane electrode assembly and one of the current collectors in the fuel cell. The components are assembled into a fuel cell assembly and are precompressed, and a spring yielding process is performed. While precompression is being applied, a set of pins and a plastic frame are insert molded around the fuel cell assembly to hold the components in place. Subsequently, as the precompression relaxes, the spring assembly forces act to maintain an evenly distributed compression on the MEA, thereby compensating for the loss of precompression. A related method of manufacturing a fuel cell assembly is provided.

Abstract: A fuel cell system having internal pushback of water, with a compact, thermally integrated enthalpy exchanger enabling effective hydration control in a small fuel cell system is provided. The enthalpy exchanger provides for the moisture in the fuel cell effluent to be used to humidify the incoming air stream to allow the fuel cell to be operated at higher temperatures while avoiding dry out. The enthalpy exchanger includes a moisture permeable membrane which collects moisture from the exhaust flow and makes this moisture available to an incoming air stream, thus humidifying the incoming air stream. In addition, the waste heat from the fuel cell reactions is transferred to the incoming air stream. The exhaust stream from the anode can also be used to provide additional moisture and heat to the enthalpy exchanger to be added to the incoming air stream. A water separator is also provided in one embodiment.

Abstract: A fuel cell system having internal pushback of water, with a compact, thermally integrated enthalpy exchanger enabling effective hydration control in a small fuel cell system is provided. The enthalpy exchanger provides for the moisture in the fuel cell effluent to by used to humidify the incoming air stream to allow the fuel cell to be operated at higher temperatures while avoiding dry out. The enthalpy exchanger includes a moisture permeable membrane which collects moisture from the exhaust flow and makes this moisture available to an incoming air stream, thus humidifying the incoming air stream. In addition, the waste heat from the fuel cell reactions is transferred to the incoming air stream. The exhaust stream from the anode can also be used to provide additional moisture and heat to the enthalpy exchanger to be added to the incoming air stream. A water separator is also provided in one embodiment.

Abstract: A spring loaded direct oxidation fuel cell assembly reduces the effects of precompression relaxation. A near flat spring and a distribution plate form a spring assembly that is disposed between a membrane electrode assembly and one of the current collectors in the fuel cell. The components are assembled into a fuel cell assembly and are precompressed, and a spring yielding process is performed. While precompression is being applied, a set of pins and a plastic frame are insert molded around the fuel cell assembly to hold the components in place. Subsequently, as the precompression relaxes, the spring assembly forces act to maintain an evenly distributed compression on the MEA, thereby compensating for the loss of precompression. A related method of manufacturing a fuel cell assembly is provided.