JP2003051333A - Power generation components - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Problem] To apply a fuel cell to a portable power supply,
Provided is a power generation member used for a power supply system having high power density and high utilization efficiency of energy resources. A power generation member includes a fuel pack in which a fuel for power generation is sealed, and a power generation module for generating electric energy based on the fuel for power generation supplied from the fuel pack. Be composed. Power generation module 2
0, a steam reforming reactor (fuel reformer) 23b for converting the fuel for power generation into a mixed gas containing hydrogen gas as one of the main components, and a monoxide contained in the mixed gas. An aqueous shift reactor 23c, which is a carbon monoxide removing means for removing carbon gas, and a selective oxidation reactor 23d, which is another carbon monoxide removing means, are provided. Also,
The fuel pack 10 is provided with carbon dioxide adsorbing means 12 for adsorbing carbon dioxide gas from the mixed gas.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a power generation member used in a power supply system, and more particularly to a power generation member used in a portable power supply system with high energy utilization efficiency.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, various chemical batteries have been used in all fields for consumer use and industrial use. For example, primary batteries such as alkaline batteries and manganese batteries are widely used in watches, cameras, toys, portable audio equipment, etc.
Not only in Japan, but also from a global point of view, the production volume is the largest, and it is cheap and easily available.

On the other hand, secondary batteries such as nickel-cadmium storage batteries, nickel-hydrogen storage batteries, and lithium-ion batteries have been widely used in mobile phones and personal digital assistants (PD).
A), it is widely used in portable devices such as digital video cameras and digital still cameras, and has the advantage of being economical because it can be repeatedly charged and discharged. Further, among secondary batteries, a lead storage battery is used as a power source for starting a vehicle or a ship, an emergency power source in industrial facilities or medical facilities, and the like.

By the way, in recent years, with the increasing interest in environmental problems and energy problems, the above-mentioned problems concerning disposal of chemical batteries after use and problems of energy conversion efficiency have been highlighted. In particular, in the case of the primary battery, as described above, the product price is low and it is easily available, and many devices are used as a power source, and basically, the battery capacity cannot be recovered once discharged. Since it can be used only once (so-called disposable), the amount of waste per year reaches several million tons. Here, there is also a statistical data that the ratio of the entire chemical cells recovered by recycling is only about 20%, and the remaining 80% is dumped or landfilled in the natural world. There is concern about environmental destruction due to heavy metals such as mercury and indium contained in uncollected batteries, and deterioration of aesthetics of the natural environment.

Further, when the above-mentioned chemical battery is verified from the viewpoint of the utilization efficiency of energy resources, the primary battery is produced by using approximately 300 times as much energy as the dischargeable energy, so that the energy utilization efficiency is 1%. Less than On the other hand, even if it is a rechargeable battery that can be repeatedly charged and discharged and is economically efficient, when it is charged from a household power source (outlet), energy is consumed due to power generation efficiency and transmission loss at the power station. Since the efficiency drops to about 12%, it cannot be said that the effective use of energy resources is necessarily achieved.

Therefore, in recent years, a so-called fuel cell, which has little influence on the environment and can realize an extremely high energy use efficiency of about 30 to 40%, has attracted attention, and is used as a drive power source for vehicles and household use. Research and development for practical use are being actively conducted for the purpose of applying the above to a cogeneration system or the like, or for the purpose of substituting the above-mentioned chemical battery. The specific configuration of the fuel cell will be described in detail in the detailed description of the invention.

[0007]

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention] However, in the future,
In order to reduce the size and weight of members for power generation with high energy utilization efficiency such as fuel cells, and to apply them as portable or portable portable power sources, for example, as an alternative (compatible product) to the above-mentioned chemical battery, There's a problem.

Specifically, in a power generation system in which hydrogen is released from an alloy that stores hydrogen and power is generated by this hydrogen, the power generation capacity (power density) and energy per unit volume of the hydrogen storage alloy are low. was there. In addition, the conventional fuel direct power generation system that directly supplies the organic chemical fuel to the fuel cell has low power density and output,
There was a problem.

On the other hand, a fuel reforming power generation system for supplying hydrogen to a fuel cell from a fuel reformer that produces hydrogen from an organic chemical fuel such as methanol or methane gas is a hydrogen storage alloy type power generation system or a direct fuel power generation system. Compared with the system, there is an advantage that the amount of energy per unit volume of the fuel container is high. However, in the power generation system of the fuel reforming system in which the steam fuel reformer and the oxygen-hydrogen fuel cell are combined, the advantages of both cannot be fully utilized in the total power density and energy utilization efficiency.

That is, in the organic chemical fuel, by-products such as carbon dioxide gas are generated in addition to hydrogen gas by the fuel reformer, and the mixed gas containing hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide gas as main components is simply supplied to the fuel cell. If supplied, the concentration of hydrogen gas that contributes to power generation is low, so there is a problem in that power generation efficiency decreases. Further, the mixed gas contains a small amount of carbon monoxide gas as a by-product, and this carbon monoxide gas has a problem that it has a great adverse effect on the characteristics of the fuel cell.

Further, in consideration of the volume of the steam fuel reformer itself, the conventionally known power generation system cannot obtain a sufficient power density to be used as a portable or portable portable power source. .

Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a power generation member which can obtain a sufficient power density and energy utilization efficiency at a low cost when the power generation member using a fuel cell is applied as a portable power source. The purpose is to provide.

[0013]

A power-generating member according to the present invention comprises: (a) a fuel sealing portion provided with a fuel container in which a power-generating fuel having a liquid or gas containing hydrogen is sealed;
Reforming means for converting the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel sealing portion into a first gas containing hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide gas as main components, and hydrogen gas contained in the first gas are used. A fuel cell that generates electric energy by means of a power generation module, and (c) at least one or more of a connecting portion that connects the fuel sealing portion to the power generating module in a replaceable manner. The carbon dioxide gas contained in the first gas delivered from the quality means is selectively absorbed, and the second gas having a carbon dioxide concentration lower than that of the first gas is delivered to the fuel cell side. And a carbon dioxide absorption means for the purpose.

That is, in the power supply system, the power generation fuel containing hydrogen filled and filled in the fuel filling portion is first mixed with hydrogen (H ₂ ) -carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) mixed gas (first Gas). This first gas is
Carbon dioxide gas is absorbed and removed by the carbon dioxide absorption means to become a second gas containing hydrogen gas as a main component, and this second gas is supplied to a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell (fuel cell). Since the second gas has a high hydrogen gas concentration, the power generation efficiency of this fuel cell is greatly improved as compared with the case where the power generation member has no carbon dioxide absorbing means. Therefore, this fuel cell can be applied as a portable or portable portable power source that has high power density and energy utilization efficiency and is easy to control. In addition, the by-products are retained in the fuel sealing portion, the power generation module, or the connection portion,
Since the discharge or leakage to the outside of the power generation member is suppressed,
It is possible to prevent a malfunction or deterioration of the device due to by-products.

Here, the carbon dioxide absorbing means is harmless even after the adsorption of carbon dioxide, and even if it is discarded as it is in the natural world,
It may be composed of a carbon dioxide absorbent that does not give a burden to the environment. As a result, even if this carbon dioxide absorbing means is disposed of in the natural environment as it is after use, it does not cause the destruction or pollution of the natural environment.

Further, since the fuel sealing portion is configured to be detachable from and replaceable with respect to the power generation module, the power generation fuel sealed in the fuel sealing portion is exhausted (or less). In this case, the fuel enclosure can be removed from the power generation module and replaced with a new fuel enclosure, so that the fuel enclosure can be conveniently used as if it were a general-purpose chemical cell.

In addition to the above, the carbon dioxide absorption means is arranged in the fuel sealing portion, and a path for sending the first gas sent from the reforming means to the connecting portion from the power generation module to the fuel sealing portion. And a path for delivering the second gas delivered from the carbon dioxide absorbing means from the fuel sealing portion to the power generation module.

As a result, the upper limit of the carbon dioxide adsorption amount is reached at the same time (or the carbon dioxide adsorption capacity is reached, by replacing the fuel encapsulation unit that has run out of (or has run out of) the fuel for power generation with a new fuel encapsulation unit. Carbon dioxide absorption means can be replaced.

Further, the carbon dioxide absorbing means has calcium oxide (CaO) or calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ) as a carbon dioxide absorbent which selectively absorbs carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ). May be

As a result, the carbon dioxide adsorbing means can be manufactured at an extremely low cost, and carbon dioxide can be easily absorbed and removed. Further, even if the carbon dioxide absorption means is used and then dumped into the natural world, it does not destroy or pollute the natural environment.

Further, the carbon dioxide absorption means is supposed to chemically absorb carbon dioxide by an exothermic reaction, and the conversion of the fuel for power generation into the first gas in the reforming means requires heating. The heat generated by the carbon dioxide absorption means may be supplied to the reforming means.

That is, in the member for power generation according to the present invention,
The reaction heat generated by the absorption of carbon dioxide may be used for the first gas generation in the reforming means. As a result, the energy consumption of the power generation member itself can be reduced, so that the substantial output and energy utilization efficiency of the entire power generation member can be significantly improved.

Further, the conversion of the power-generating fuel into the first gas in the reforming means comprises a reaction for generating hydrogen gas and a reaction for converting carbon monoxide generated together with the reaction into carbon dioxide. During the reaction, carbon dioxide gas may be absorbed by the carbon dioxide absorbing means.

When carbon monoxide is mixed as a by-product in the hydrogen gas supplied to the fuel cell, the catalyst of the fuel electrode of the fuel cell is poisoned and the power generation characteristics of the fuel cell are adversely affected.
Therefore, if this reforming means converts this carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide, poisoning of the fuel electrode is avoided, and the output of the power generation member and the energy utilization efficiency are greatly improved. Further, if carbon dioxide is absorbed between the reaction for generating the hydrogen and the reaction for converting the carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, the carbon monoxide can be efficiently converted, and thus the output of the power generation member and The energy utilization efficiency is improved and the reforming means can be simplified. Since the carbon dioxide concentration of the second gas is extremely low when carbon monoxide is converted to carbon dioxide after absorbing carbon dioxide from the first gas, this carbon dioxide should reduce the power generation efficiency of the fuel cell. There is no.

[0025] Further, there is provided an emission recovery means having a selective emission absorbent that selectively absorbs at least water among the exhausts emitted from the fuel cell, and the selective emission absorbent is calcium oxide. The calcium oxide absorbs water by reacting with water to form calcium hydroxide, and the calcium hydroxide may be used as the carbon dioxide absorbent of the carbon dioxide absorbing means.

That is, hydrogen gas (H₂) And oxygen gas (O
₂) Electrochemical reaction to generate at the air electrode of the fuel cell.
Water (H₂O) is the oxidation recovery means
Water recovered by reacting with lucium (CaO)
Calcium oxide (Ca (OH) ₂). This calcium hydroxide
Sium as a carbon dioxide absorbent for carbon dioxide absorption means
Used.

By recovering the above-mentioned water with calcium oxide, the effluent recovery means can be manufactured simply and inexpensively. Also, by reusing the selective emission absorbent as a carbon dioxide absorbent, the entire power generation system can be made compact.

Further provided is an effluent holding means for holding the water with a water absorbent which selectively absorbs the water collected and sent out by the effluent collecting means, the calcium hydroxide of the carbon dioxide absorbing means One gas is brought into contact with the carbon dioxide gas and calcium hydroxide to react with each other to generate calcium carbonate and water, and the water is sent together with the second gas to the discharge holding means, and the discharge is performed. The object holding means may absorb water and send the second gas to the fuel cell.

That is, when the first gas is introduced into the carbon dioxide absorbing means, the first gas becomes a mixture of the second gas containing hydrogen gas as a main component and water, and the mixture is discharged by the discharge holding means. Is removed of water and only the second gas is delivered to the fuel cell. Here, the water generated upon absorption of carbon dioxide is derived from the water generated at the air electrode of the fuel cell, as described above.

According to this, the water generated at the air electrode of the fuel cell is passed through the emission recovery means and the carbon dioxide absorption means,
Finally, it is held by the emission holding means connected to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell. Thus, by reliably holding the water, it is possible to prevent the water from leaking to the outside of the power generation member.

In addition to this, the exhaust gas holding means, the exhaust gas recovery means, the carbon dioxide absorbing means, and the fuel container are arranged in the fuel sealing portion in order so that the volume can be changed. The fuel container has a delivery unit that delivers fuel to the reforming unit of the power generation module, and the carbon dioxide absorption unit is disposed adjacent to the fuel container,
Further, the carbon dioxide absorption means includes a calcium hydroxide layer, a mixed gas introduction part for introducing the first gas delivered from the reforming means to the calcium hydroxide layer, and calcium hydroxide and carbon dioxide gas. It has a water / hydrogen gas derivation part for deriving water and a second gas generated when reacting, and the emission recovery means is arranged adjacent to the calcium hydroxide layer of the carbon dioxide absorption means, Further, the discharge recovery means has a calcium oxide layer arranged so as to be adjacent to the calcium hydroxide layer, and a water introducing section for introducing water discharged from the fuel cell into the calcium oxide layer. ,
The discharge holding means is arranged adjacent to the discharge collecting means, and the discharge holding means includes the water absorbent,
The water absorbent has a water / hydrogen gas introduction part for introducing water and a second gas delivered from the water / hydrogen gas derivation part, and expands when the discharge holding means absorbs water. The discharge recovery means and the carbon dioxide absorption means are pushed toward the fuel container side to assist the fuel delivery from the fuel container, and the unreacted region of the calcium oxide layer is pushed out toward the water introducing part side, An unreacted region of calcium hydroxide may be extruded toward the mixed gas introduction part side.

That is, since the discharge holding means absorbs water and expands, the calcium oxide layer of the discharge collecting means and the calcium hydroxide layer of the carbon dioxide absorbing means are pushed out to the fuel container side. The container is pressed. As a result, the power generation fuel filled and sealed in the fuel container is effectively delivered to the power generation module through the delivery unit.

Calcium oxide (CaO) on the side of the calcium hydroxide layer of the discharge part recovery means absorbs water (H ₂ O) introduced from the water introduction part and calcium hydroxide (CaO).
After changing to (OH) ₂ ), the waste recovery means expands and is promptly pushed out to the calcium hydroxide layer of the carbon dioxide absorption means. As a result, the calcium oxide of the waste collection means can be efficiently used for water collection, and
Calcium hydroxide produced by water recovery can be efficiently transferred to the carbon dioxide adsorbing means.

Further, the first gas is calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ) at the end of the calcium hydroxide layer on the fuel container side.
Carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ) can be removed by touching. Further, the calcium carbonate (CaCO ₃ ) generated by the adsorption of carbon dioxide gas is pushed out toward the fuel container side by the expansion of the emission recovery means and presses the fuel container. As a result, the calcium hydroxide pre-filled in the carbon dioxide absorption means and the calcium hydroxide generated by the emission recovery means can be efficiently used for absorbing and removing carbon dioxide gas.

Further, by providing a water / hydrogen gas outlet for deriving the water and the second gas produced by removing carbon dioxide on the same straight line as the mixed gas inlet and at the shortest distance, Without the gas diffusing into the fuel enclosure
Carbon dioxide can be removed efficiently.

Further, the absorption of water may be an exothermic reaction, and the generated heat may be used to prevent the passage of water discharged from the fuel cell from freezing.

As a result, it is possible to prevent the water passage from freezing without increasing the energy consumed by the power generation system itself, so that the energy consumed by the power generation system itself can be suppressed, and the output of the power generation system and the energy utilization efficiency. Can be further improved.

[0038]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of a power-generating member used in a power supply system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment including a power-generating member according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the power generation member according to the present embodiment is roughly classified into a fuel pack (fuel filling portion) 10 in which a power generation fuel (fuel) and the like are filled, and is detachable from the fuel pack 10. It is composed of a power generation module 20 and the like that are connected and generate (generate) electric energy using the fuel supplied from the fuel pack 10. The fuel pack 10 includes a fuel container 11, carbon dioxide absorbing means 12, and emission holding means 1.
3, the connection portion 14 and the like are provided. In addition, the power generation module 20 includes a fuel cell 21, an operation control unit 22, a reforming unit 23, an air control unit 24, an auxiliary power supply unit 25, an emission recovery unit 26, and the like.

Each configuration will be specifically described below. (A) Fuel Pack (Fuel Filling Unit) 10 The fuel container 11 is filled and filled with a fuel having a liquid (or liquefied) compound or a gas compound containing hydrogen in its composition, such as methanol and butane, and water. And a highly-sealed fuel storage container, wherein the power generation module 20
In contrast, it has a structure that is detachably coupled. The fuel for power generation enclosed in the fuel container 11 is the fuel pack 10.
Only in a state in which is connected to the power generation module 20, the predetermined supply amount necessary for generating the electric energy output to the load 34 by the fuel cell 21 is taken in via the reforming means 23.

The carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 is hydrogen (H ₂ ) -carbon dioxide (C) produced by the chemical conversion of the fuel introduced from the fuel container 11 by the reforming means 23 described later.
Only the carbon dioxide gas is selectively removed from the O ₂ ) mixed gas (first gas). Specifically, only when the fuel pack 10 is connected to the power generation module 20, the first gas generated in the reforming means 23 is introduced, and carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) is removed from this first gas. The second gas containing hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) extracted as a main component is delivered to the fuel cell 21.

The carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 is filled with a carbon dioxide absorbent. As the carbon dioxide absorbent, while selectively adsorbing only carbon dioxide from the hydrogen-carbon dioxide mixed gas generated in the reforming means 23,
Use a substance that absorbs carbon dioxide and changes into a substance that does not generate harmful substances or environmental pollutants even if it is dumped, landfilled, or incinerated in the natural world.

Examples of the carbon dioxide absorbent include calcium oxide (CaO) or calcium hydroxide (C
a (OH) ₂ ) is used. These substances selectively remove carbon dioxide from the mixed gas by the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (1) or (2). CaO + CO ₂ → CaCO ₃・ ・ ・ (1) Ca (OH) ₂ + CO ₂ → CaCO ₃ + H ₂ O ・ ・ ・ (2)

Calcium oxide (CaO) and calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ) are extremely inexpensive substances. In addition, the carbon dioxide absorption means using these substances, when adsorbing carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ),
Does not require conditions such as high pressure. Therefore, by using these substances as the carbon dioxide absorbent, the fuel pack 10 according to the present embodiment can be manufactured extremely inexpensively and compactly.

Calcium carbonate (CaCO ₃ ) produced by the reactions shown in the reaction chemical formulas (1) and (2) is a substance harmless to the human body and the natural environment, and is discarded, landfilled, or incinerated in the natural world. Even if it does not generate harmful substances. Therefore, the fuel pack 10 including the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 having calcium oxide or calcium hydroxide can be treated after use without adversely affecting the environment.

Since the reactions represented by the reaction chemical formulas (1) and (2) are exothermic reactions, the carbon dioxide absorption means 12
May have a structure for supplying the heat generated by the adsorption of carbon dioxide to the reforming means 23 and the like described later. Thereby, the energy use efficiency of the power generation member according to the present embodiment can be further enhanced.

Discharge holding means (discharge holding means) 13
Of the by-products generated and emitted when electric energy is generated in the power generation module 20 described later,
Only the specific component or substance separated and collected by the discharge collection means 26 is held. Specifically, as will be described later, water (H ₂ O) generated when electric energy is generated by an electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell 21 of the power generation module 20 only when the fuel pack 10 is coupled to the power generation module 20. ) Or, in some cases, a very small amount of nitrogen oxides (N
Ox), sulfur oxides (SOx) and other by-products (specific components or substances), or part of these leaks or is discharged to the outside of the emission holding means 13 (or the fuel pack 10). It is configured to hold irreversibly so as not to.

Here, since water (H ₂ O) is a liquid under normal temperature and pressure, means for increasing the atmospheric pressure of the discharge holding means 13 and the fuel pack 10 to liquefy it is not particularly necessary. However, the vaporization points of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx), which may be generated when electric energy is generated by applying fuel such as gasoline, are much lower than normal temperature at normal pressure. When there is a large amount of these by-product gases and there is a risk that the amount of the by-product gas that is not completely dissolved in the collected water in the discharge holding means 13 may exceed the volume of the discharge holding means 13, the discharge holding means 13 and By raising the atmospheric pressure in the exhaust gas recovery means 26, these by-product gases are liquefied and the volume of the by-product is reduced, whereby the exhaust gas holding means 1
Store in 3.

Therefore, as a constitution applied to the discharge holding means 13, a water absorbent (for example, an absorbent polymer) is used so that the above-mentioned specific component or substance can be irreversibly absorbed, adsorbed and fixed, fixed and the like. ) And a check valve are preferably provided.

The connecting portion 14 has a structure for detachably connecting the fuel pack 10 and the power generation module 20. Further, the connecting portion 14 supplies the fuel for power generation from the fuel pack 10 to the power generation module 20 and the power generation module 20 only when the fuel pack 10 and the power generation module 20 are coupled to each other via the connection portion 14. From the fuel pack 10, a specific component of a by-product generated along with the generation of electric energy is discharged from the fuel pack 10, and gas is exchanged between the fuel pack 10 and the power generation module 20. Specifically, for example, a delivery port 14A, a water introduction section 14B, and a mixed gas introduction section 15A, which will be described later, provided on the fuel pack 10 side.
By applying a configuration in which the water / hydrogen gas outlet 15B is irreversibly or reversibly sealed, and the sealing is released (broken) with the connection of the power generation module 20, power generation is performed. Before coupling with the module 20, or
It is possible to prevent leakage of fuel and waste at the time of releasing the coupling during use, and it is possible to realize a safer member for power generation. The delivery port 14A is connected to a delivery pipe (not shown) inserted in the fuel pack 10,
When 0 is attached to the power generation module 20, it tries to deliver the fuel to the operation control unit 22 and the sub power supply unit 25 through the delivery pipe and the delivery port 14A due to the capillary phenomenon, but when the fuel cell 21 is not driven, the operation control is performed. The valve of the part 22 is closed, and the fuel is supplied only to the sub power supply part 25. Then, the monitoring unit 17 detects a potential that is displaced with the shift of the load 34 from the standby (OFF) state to the state in which the main function is activated through the positive electrode and the negative electrode of the power supply system, and outputs the activation signal to the operation controller 22. When transmitted, the operation control unit 22 is activated by the electric power of the sub power supply unit 25 to open the valve of the outlet port 14A to supply the fuel, and the reforming unit 23.
It is set to start the delivery of a predetermined amount of fuel to.

Incidentally, the fuel container 11, the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12, the discharge holding means 13, the delivery port 14A, the water introducing section 1
Specific configurations and operations of 4B, the mixed gas introduction unit 15A, and the hydrogen delivery port 15B will be described later.

As a specific outer shape of the above-mentioned fuel pack 10, for example, a sheet-shaped one as shown in FIG. 2 is wound into a roll. In this case, as will be described later, it becomes easy to form the power-generating member to have substantially the same outer shape as a general-purpose chemical battery. The outer shape of the fuel pack 10 according to the present invention is not limited to the above shape.

Here, the fuel pack 10 contains organic chlorine compounds (dioxins; polychlorinated dibenzoparadioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans) and hydrogen chloride even if they are artificially heated / incinerated or treated with chemicals / chemicals. It may be composed of a material in which generation of harmful substances such as gas and heavy metal and environmental pollutants is small or suppressed.

As the power-generating fuel used in the power-generating member according to the present embodiment, at least the fuel pack 10 in which the power-generating fuel is enclosed is dumped or landfilled in the natural world to be discharged into the atmosphere or Even if it leaks into soil or water, it does not become a pollutant to the natural environment, and the fuel cell 21 of the power generation module 20 described later is used.
In, a fuel that can generate electric energy with high energy conversion efficiency, specifically, methanol,
Liquid compounds consisting of alcohols such as ethanol and butanol, dimethyl ether, isobutane, natural gas (L
A hydrocarbon gas such as PG) or a gas compound such as hydrogen gas can be favorably applied.

According to the fuel pack 10 and the fuel for power generation having such a configuration, the by-product generated when the electric power is generated in the power generation member according to the present embodiment is provided in the fuel pack 10. Discharge holding means 13
Since it is irreversibly held in the environment, even if a by-product (NOx, SOx, H ₂ O, etc.) harmful to the natural environment or the device to which the power generation member is connected is generated, Since the by-products are not emitted to the outside of the power generation member, environmental pollution such as air pollution and global warming,
It is possible to suppress the deterioration of electronic components and the occurrence of contact failure due to the leakage of the device.

(B) Power Generation Module 20 FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a structural example of the reforming means 23 applied to the power generation module according to this embodiment, and FIG.
It is a schematic block diagram which shows the structural example of the fuel cell 21 applied to the electric power generation module 20 which concerns on this embodiment. The power generation module 20, as shown in FIG. 1, is in a standby state (off state).
The auxiliary power supply unit 25 that supplies standby power to the load 34, and a potential that is driven by the power of the auxiliary power supply unit 25 and is displaced by the user turning on the start switch of the load 34 via the positive and negative electrodes of the power supply system Monitoring means 17 for detecting by
When the load 34 shifts from the standby state to the activated state and receives the activation signal transmitted from the monitoring means 17, the valve between the delivery port 14A is opened and the fuel is supplied from the fuel pack 10 for reforming. The operation control unit 22 that starts supplying a predetermined amount of fuel to the means 23 and a part of the electric power from the auxiliary power supply unit 25, and the active catalyst adhered to the surface of the operation control unit 22 and the cross section in the direction orthogonal to the extending direction. Both vertical and horizontal length is 5
The heater has a meandering shape of 00 μm or less, a flow path through which vaporized fuel is conducted, and a heater for overheating the fuel in the flow path by the electric power supplied from the operation control unit 22. Using the reforming means 23 for supplying the hydrogen reformed from the fuel and the carbon dioxide produced as a by-product to the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12, and the hydrogen gas supplied from the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 of the fuel pack 10. A fuel cell 21 that generates and outputs electrical energy as a drive power source (voltage / current) to at least the load 34 connected to the power generation member by an electrochemical reaction,
The air control unit 24 that takes in air required for the electrochemical reaction of the power generation fuel from the atmosphere and supplies it to the fuel cell 21 and the like, and a specific component of a by-product generated when electric energy is generated in the fuel cell 21 or Exhaust material collecting means 26 that irreversibly collects and holds only the substance in the exhaust material holding means 13 provided in the fuel pack 10.

The operation control unit 22 is operated, for example, by electric energy (operation power supply) generated by the sub power supply unit 25, and is driven by the monitoring means 17 to drive the load 34 connected to the power supply system according to this embodiment. Based on information (load drive information) regarding the fuel cell 2 to be described later.
The power generation state of 1 is controlled. Specifically, when the signal for activating the load 34 is detected while the fuel cell 21 is not driven, electric power for heating the heater inside the reforming means 23 is supplied to the reforming means 23. At the same time, the valve between the delivery port 14A is opened so that the fuel from the fuel container 11 is automatically supplied by the capillary phenomenon.
A predetermined amount of fuel is sprayed and supplied to the reforming means 23. In addition, the operation control unit 22 loads the load 34 when the user presses the drive stop switch while the fuel cell 21 is being driven.
Receives a stop signal output by the monitoring means 17 when the potential change caused by the change from the drive state to the standby state is detected, and the supply of fuel and electric power to the reforming means 23 is stopped.

On the other hand, when the monitoring means 17 detects a change in the driving state of the load 34 while the fuel cell 21 is being driven, the fuel cell 21 and the reforming means 23 are connected to the fuel cell 21 from the fuel cell 21. The monitoring means 17 operates an operation control signal for adjusting the amount of electric energy generated (power generation amount) in the fuel cell 21 so that the electric energy supplied to the load has an appropriate value corresponding to the driving state of the load. Output to the control unit 22.

Here, the information on the driving state of the load 34 such as the command detected by the operation control unit 22 (load driving information) means the driving state (starting / fluctuation) from the peripheral device (load 34) side. It may be a specific information signal output in response to it, or in a configuration such as a general-purpose chemical battery that is electrically connected to a load only by a positive (+) pole and a negative (-) pole, For example, in a standby state described later, by constantly supplying a monitor voltage to a load via a positive (+) pole and a negative (-) pole and constantly monitoring the fluctuation,
It may be one that detects a change in load.

The sub-power supply unit 25 constantly and autonomously generates a predetermined electric energy by an electrochemical reaction using the mixed liquid supplied from the fuel pack 10, and monitors the load 34 in a standby (OFF) state. Outputs monitoring power to the means 17 and supplies standby power to the load 34,
Then, when the load 34 tries to start, in addition, electric power for driving the fuel cell 21, the operation control unit 22, the reforming unit 23, and the air control unit 24 is supplied.

Here, the method of generating electric energy in the sub-power supply unit 25 is, for example, a direct fuel type fuel cell in which the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel container 11 is directly supplied to the internal power generation cells to generate power. In addition to the mechanical energy conversion action of rotating the turbine (generator) to generate electric energy by using the filling pressure when the power generation fuel enclosed in the fuel container 11 is vaporized, , A solar battery, a bio battery, a seismic power generator, etc. in a power generation module to generate electric energy by these, and a part of the electric energy generated by a fuel cell 21 described later is a rechargeable battery. It may be one that has been stored in an electric energy storage means such as a capacitor or a capacitor, and always discharges (discharges) electric energy constantly and independently.

As shown in FIG. 3, the reforming means 23 heats the fuel vaporizer 23a for vaporizing the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel container 11 and the power generation fuel vaporized by the fuel vaporizer 23a with a heater. And a steam reforming reactor (fuel reformer) 23b that converts hydrogen (H ₂ ) -carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) mixed gas (first gas) into a mixed gas and a small amount of by-products. And an aqueous shift reactor 23c and a selective oxidation reactor 23d for converting carbon monoxide gas (CO) into carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ).

The fuel vaporizer 23a heats and vaporizes the fuel introduced from the fuel container 11 and sends it to the steam reforming reactor 23b which will be described later. The fuel vaporizer 23a has a structure for efficiently introducing reaction heat in a heater, an aqueous shift reactor 23c, a selective oxidation reactor 23d, a carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 or the like, which will be described later, in order to vaporize the fuel efficiently. It has a heat insulating structure that does not leak heat to the outside.

The steam reforming reactor 23b is used for the fuel container 11
To convert the power generation fuel introduced through the fuel vaporizer 23a into hydrogen (H ₂ ) gas. Specifically, for example,
Alcohol-based liquid fuel such as methanol (CH ₃ O
H) is an equimolar amount of water (H ₂ O) with respect to methanol.
In a state of being uniformly mixed, the fuel is supplied from the fuel container 11 to the steam reforming reactor 23b through the fuel / fuel vaporizer 23a, and this mixture is converted into the chemical reaction formula (3) in the steam reforming reactor 23b. It is converted to the first gas by the reaction shown. CH ₃ OH + H ₂ O → 3H ₂ + CO ₂ ... (3)

The steam reforming reactor 23b has a vertical cross section for reforming methanol and water, which is orthogonal to the traveling direction.
It is a microreactor consisting of a narrow channel having a lateral length of 500 μm or less, and a well-known catalyst for efficiently carrying out the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (3) is carried on the surface of the channel. Further, since the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (3) is an endothermic reaction, the steam reforming reactor 23b efficiently advances the heat from the heater or the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 to be described later in order to efficiently proceed this reaction. It has a structure to be introduced and a heat insulating structure that does not leak this heat to the outside.

Reaction generated by the reaction shown in the chemical formula (3)
Carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂) Is above after conversion
It is adsorbed and removed by the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12. Also,
Trace amount of by-products due to the reaction not shown in chemical formula (3)
The carbon monoxide gas (CO) generated as
Aqueous shift reactor 23c as a carbon dioxide removing means and selection
It is removed by the oxidation reactor 23d.

The aqueous shift reactor 23c, which is one of the means for removing carbon monoxide, has a small amount of by-products contained in the mixed gas containing hydrogen and carbon dioxide as the main components introduced from the steam reforming reactor 23b. In order to remove carbon monoxide gas (CO) that adversely affects the power generation characteristics of the fuel cell 21, which will be described later, the carbon monoxide gas is reacted with hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) and carbon dioxide gas by the reaction shown in the reaction formula (4). Convert to (CO ₂ ). A well-known catalyst for efficiently carrying out the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (4) is carried inside the aqueous shift reactor 23c. In addition, reaction chemical formula (4)
Since the reaction shown in (1) is an exothermic reaction, a heat radiating means (not shown) for discharging the reaction heat is provided in the aqueous shift reactor 23c.
To install. CO + H ₂ O → H ₂ + CO ₂ ... (4)

In the water (H ₂ O) required for the reaction of the reaction chemical formula (4), among the water supplied from the fuel container 11 as the fuel for power generation, the water remaining after the reaction in the steam reforming reactor 23b is If the amount of water is adequate, but the amount of this water is not sufficient for the carbon monoxide gas in the mixed gas, a structure for supplying the insufficient amount of water to the aqueous shift reactor 23c may be added. Further, the aqueous shift reactor 23c has a chemical formula (4)
Instead of discharging the heat generated by the reaction of (3) from the heat radiating means, the heat may be supplied to the fuel vaporizer 23a and the steam reforming reactor 23b.

The selective oxidation reactor 23d, which is another means for removing carbon monoxide, converts carbon monoxide gas (CO) into carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) gas by the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (5). As a result, carbon monoxide (C) which could not be completely removed from the mixed gas by the aqueous shift reactor 23c was obtained.
O) gas is removed to reduce the concentration of carbon monoxide gas in the mixed gas to a region where the power generation characteristics of the fuel cell 21 are not adversely affected. 2CO + O ₂ → 2CO ₂ (5)

Inside the selective oxidation reactor 23d, only the carbon monoxide gas (CO) is consumed without consuming the hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) contained in the mixed gas introduced from the aqueous shift reactor 23c. A well-known catalyst for selectively oxidizing by the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (5) is supported.

The oxygen (O ₂ ) gas required for the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (5) is the oxygen gas derived from the atmosphere which is contained in the mixed gas introduced from the aqueous shift reactor 23c in a trace amount. When the oxygen gas is less than the carbon monoxide gas in the mixed gas, a structure for taking in the insufficient oxygen gas from the air control unit 24 or the like described later may be added to the selective oxidation reactor 23d. Further, the selective oxidation reactor 23d may supply the heat generated by the reaction of the chemical formula (5) to the fuel vaporizer 23a and the steam reforming reactor 23b instead of discharging the heat from the heat radiating means.

The operation controller 22 controls the fuel container 1 to supply the fuel cell 21 with an amount of fuel, water or the like corresponding to the amount of hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) required for the fuel cell 21 to generate and output a predetermined electric energy.
The control is performed to supply hydrogen from the fuel cell 1 to the reforming means 23, convert it into hydrogen gas, and supply it to the fuel electrode 31 of the fuel cell 21 (FIG. 4) described later.

The air controller 24 controls the amount of oxygen gas (O ₂ ) supplied to the air electrode 32 of the fuel cell 21. By controlling the amount of hydrogen (H ₂ ) gas and oxygen gas (O ₂ ) supplied to the fuel cell 21 by the operation controller 22 and the air controller 24, the progress of the electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell 21 is controlled. , Electric energy generation (power generation)
Is controlled.

Here, the air control unit 24 controls the fuel cell 21.
If the air (atmosphere) corresponding to the maximum oxygen consumption per unit time in
The oxygen gas may be set to be constantly supplied during driving (steady state) without controlling the amount of oxygen gas supplied to the air electrode 32. That is, the progress state of the electrochemical reaction is controlled only by the operation control unit 22 and a vent hole is provided in place of the air control unit 24 so that the amount of air used for the electrochemical reaction in the fuel cell 21 is equal to or more than the maximum consumption amount. It may be configured so as to be constantly supplied through this vent hole.

The fuel cell 21 is a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell, and as shown in FIG.
Between the fuel electrode (cathode) 31 made of a carbon electrode having catalyst particles such as ruthenium alloy attached thereto, the air electrode (anode) 32 made of a carbon electrode having catalyst particles such as platinum attached thereto, and between the fuel electrode 31 and the air electrode 32. And a well-known ionic conductive film (exchange film) 33 in the form of a film interposed between Here, the fuel electrode 31 is supplied with the second gas containing hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) extracted through the above-mentioned reforming means 23 and carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 as a main component, while
By supplying oxygen gas (O ₂ ) in the atmosphere to the air electrode 32, an electrochemical reaction proceeds to generate power,
The load 34 is supplied with electric energy that serves as a predetermined drive power source (voltage / current).

Specifically, when hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) is supplied to the fuel electrode 31, as shown in the following chemical reaction formula (6), hydrogen ions in which electrons (e ⁻ ) are separated by the catalyst are (Proton; H ⁺ ) is generated and permeates to the air electrode 32 through the ion conductive film 33, and at the same time, electrons (e ⁻ ) are taken out by the carbon electrode forming the fuel electrode 31 and the load 34
Is supplied to. ^{_{3H 2 → 6H + + 6e -}} ··· (6)

On the other hand, when air is supplied to the air electrode 32,
As shown in the chemical reaction formula (7), a load 3 is applied by the above catalyst.
Electrons (e ⁻ ) that have passed through 4 and hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) that have passed through the ion conductive film 33 react with oxygen gas (O ₂ ) gas in the air to generate water (H ₂ O). 6H ⁺ + 3 / 2O ₂ + 6e ⁻ → 3H ₂ O (7)

Such a series of electrochemical reactions (equations (6) and (7)) proceed in a relatively low temperature environment of about 60 to 80 ° C. Although not described in the above reaction formulas (6) and (7), as by-products, in addition to water, a small amount of nitrogen present in the fuel, nitrogen oxides (NOx) produced from sulfur components, and Sulfur oxides (SOx) may occur.

The driving power (voltage / current) supplied to the load 34 by the above-described electrochemical reaction depends on the amount of hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) supplied to the fuel electrode 31 of the fuel cell 21. . Therefore, by the operation control unit 22,
By controlling the amount of hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) supplied to the fuel electrode 31 of the fuel cell 21, the electric energy supplied to the load can be arbitrarily adjusted.

The emission recovery means 26 includes at least one kind of by-products generated in the above-mentioned reforming means 23 and the fuel cell 21 in association with a series of chemical reactions for generating electric power energy. Or more,
The fuel pack 10 is prepared by separating a specific component or substance.
It is sent to the discharge holding means 13 provided in the.

Specifically, in the power generation member according to this embodiment, the hydrogen gas is accompanied by the steam reforming reaction (chemical reaction formula (3)) in the steam reforming reactor 23b of the reforming means 23. Carbon dioxide gas (C
O ₂ ) and water (H ₂ O) generated along with the electrochemical reaction (chemical reaction formulas (6) and (7)) in the fuel cell 21 along with the generation of electrical energy, It is discharged from the fuel cell 21. However, since most of the carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) is adsorbed and removed by the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 provided in the fuel pack 10 without being introduced into the fuel cell 21 from the reforming means 23, water ( H ₂ O) and the like are collected by the discharge collecting means 26, sent to the discharge holding means 13, and held irreversibly.

Here, the electrochemical reaction (chemical reaction formulas (6) and (7)) in the fuel cell 21 is generally from room temperature to 90.
Since the process proceeds at about ° C, the water (H ₂ O) produced in the fuel cell 21 is discharged in a state of substantially water vapor (gas). Therefore, the discharge recovery means 26 liquefies only water (H ₂ O) by cooling or pressurizing the steam discharged from the fuel cell 21, and separates and recovers it from other components. It should be noted that the emission recovery means 26 may be provided inside the fuel pack 10 instead of inside the power generation module 20.

As described above, according to the power generation member of this embodiment, first, the fuel pack 10 to the power generation module 20 are removed.
The fuel supplied to is converted into the first gas in the steam reforming reactor 23b. Next, a small amount of carbon monoxide gas (CO) contained in the first gas as an impurity is converted into carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ) in the aqueous shift reactor 23c and the selective oxidation reactor 23d and removed. . Further, this mixed gas is introduced by the carbon dioxide absorption means 12, the carbon dioxide gas is absorbed and removed to become the second gas, and the fuel cell 2
1 is supplied.

The second gas finally supplied to the fuel cell is hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) having an extremely high concentration. Therefore, the power generation efficiency of the fuel cell 21 is improved as compared with the conventional power generation member in which the first gas is directly supplied to the fuel cell, so that the power density and the energy use efficiency are high, and the power source is applicable as a portable power source. A power generation member used in the system can be provided. Moreover, since the concentration of the carbon monoxide gas that acts as a catalyst poison on the catalyst of the fuel electrode 31 of the fuel cell 21 is extremely low in the second gas, the power generation efficiency of the fuel cell 21 can be further improved. Furthermore, since the carbon dioxide absorption means 12, the aqueous shift reactor 23c, and the selective oxidation reactor 23d do not require high-temperature and high-pressure operating conditions, the power generation member according to the present embodiment can be manufactured inexpensively and compactly. can do.

Further, at least two components of by-products generated when the power generation module 20 generates electric energy, such as carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) and water (H ₂ O), are contained in the fuel pack 10. By being held by the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 and the emission holding means 13 provided, the by-products are irreversibly held in the fuel pack 10 and the discharge or leakage to the outside of the power generation member is suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent pollution of the natural environment due to by-products (carbon dioxide) and global warming. Further, even when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx) are produced, they may be collected in the discharge holding means 13 different from water (H ₂ O).

In addition to the above, in the power generation member according to the present embodiment, the electric energy that becomes a predetermined drive power source is determined in accordance with the drive state (load drive information) of the load (device) 34 connected to the power generation member. Since it is possible to control the supply of power, the stop control, and the adjustment of the amount of generated electric energy, it is possible to efficiently consume the fuel for power generation of the fuel cell 21. Therefore, it is possible to provide a power generation member for a power supply system that has extremely high energy utilization efficiency while achieving predetermined electrical characteristics.

In the member for power generation according to the present embodiment, as will be described later, the member for power generation (power generation module) according to the present embodiment has been standardized by applying semiconductor control technology to reduce the size and weight. By configuring it to have the same shape as a general-purpose chemical battery, it is possible to achieve high compatibility with a general-purpose chemical battery in terms of both external shape and electrical characteristics (voltage / current characteristics). Can be more easily spread in the battery market.
As a result, it is possible to easily disseminate power generation members that use fuel cells in place of existing chemical cells that have many problems in terms of environmental issues and energy utilization efficiency, while suppressing the impact on the environment. , High energy utilization efficiency can be realized.

Next, the specific structure of the fuel pack 10 according to this embodiment and the relationship between the respective constituent elements will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the fuel container 11, the emission holding means 13, and the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 of the fuel pack 10 according to this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 5 (a), the fuel pack 10 according to the present embodiment has a constant volume and is made of a polymer material (plastic) having the above-described decomposability. For example, hydrogen (H ₂ ) − which is provided so as to be isolated from the fuel container 11 filled with a power generation fuel such as methanol, and which is generated by converting the power generation fuel by the reforming means 23. Carbon dioxide (CO ₂ )
Of the mixed gas, carbon dioxide absorption means 12 filled with a carbon dioxide absorbent for selectively adsorbing and removing carbon dioxide, and by-products such as water delivered from the emission recovery means 26 (specific Component or substance)
As will be described later, an emission holding means 13 which is a bag-shaped body for relatively varying the volume of the fuel container 11, and a delivery port 14A for supplying the power generation fuel enclosed in the fuel container 11 to the operation control unit 22. , The mixed gas introducing section 15A which is a path for introducing the first gas generated by the reforming means 23 into the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12, and the hydrogen gas (H ₂ after removing carbon dioxide from the first gas). ) As a main component (second gas) to the fuel cell 21 for delivering hydrogen to the fuel cell 21, and the byproduct discharged from the exhaust recovery means 26 to the exhaust retention means 13. Water introduction part 1 for taking in
4B, and is comprised.

Here, the outlet 14A and the water inlet 14B
In any of the above, a check valve is provided so that the power generation fuel can be supplied and the by-products can be taken in only when the fuel pack 10 is coupled to the power generation module 20.
As a result, when the fuel pack 10 is removed from the power generation module 20, the power generation fuel sealed in the fuel container 11 and the by-products held in the emission holding means 13 are outside the fuel pack 10. There is no leakage. Instead of providing the check valve function in the water introducing portion 14B, the discharge holding means 13 may have a structure filled with an absorbing (water absorbing) polymer or the like.

In the fuel pack 10 having such a structure, the power generation fuel sealed in the fuel container 11 is supplied to the power generation module 20 (fuel cell 21) through the outlet port 14A so that a predetermined electric energy can be obtained. Is performed, and only a specific component or substance (for example, water) among the by-products generated by the generation of electric energy is recovered by the emission recovery means 26, and the water introduction part is generated. It is taken in and held by the discharge holding means 13 via 14B.

As a result, the volume of the fuel for power generation enclosed in the fuel container 11 is reduced, and the volume of the specific component or substance retained in the emission retaining means 13 is relatively increased. At this time, by applying a configuration in which the absorbent holding means 13 is filled with an absorbent polymer or the like as a water absorbent, it has a larger volume than the substantial volume of the by-products recovered and taken in. Thus, the volume of the discharge holding means 13 can be controlled.

Therefore, the relationship between the space occupied by the fuel container 11 and the space occupied by the exhaust gas holding means 13 simply increases or decreases with the generation (power generation) operation of electric energy in the power generation module 20. Rather, depending on the amount of by-products held in the discharge holding means 13,
As shown in FIG. 5B, by applying an internal pressure to the discharge holding means 13 at a predetermined pressure, the power generation fuel enclosed in the fuel container 11 is pressurized. The power generation fuel can be properly supplied, and as shown in FIG. 5C, the power generation fuel enclosed in the fuel container 11 can be almost completely removed by the by-product held by the emission holding means 13. Can be supplied until completely gone.

Here, the above reaction chemical formulas (3), (6),
And (7), 1 mol of methanol (CH₃OH) and
And 1 mol of water (H₂O) 3 mol of water (H₂O)
Water is produced, but 1 mol of methanol (C
H₃OH) is 40.56 cm ³While 1 mol
Water (H₂O) is 18.02 cm³Therefore, the fuel content
The methanol enclosed in the container 11 in the initial state is Mcm.³When
Then, the liquid fuel (methanol (CH
₃OH) and water (H₂The volume occupied by (mixture with O)) is 1.
444 Mcm³Becomes

Then, all the methanol (CH ₃ O
When H) reacts, the volume of water (H ₂ O), which is a by-product, becomes 1.333 Mcm ³ , and the liquid fuel in the initial state (a mixture of methanol (CH ₃ OH) and water (H ₂ O)) Since the volume ratio is about 92.31%, when most of the volume of the by-product is water, as the by-product is generated, the volume of the space occupied by the fuel container 11 of the fuel pack 10 and the emission retention. Since the sum of the volumes of the space occupied by the means 13 is reduced, it is not necessary to previously provide a space for the by-product in which the liquid fuel does not enter. Therefore, in the initial state, the fuel container 11
Most of them can be filled with liquid fuel.

Next, another configuration example of the reforming means 23 applied to the power generation module according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a second configuration example of the reforming means 23 according to this embodiment. Here, description will be given with reference to the configuration of the power supply system including the above-described power generation member (FIG. 1).

In the above reforming means 23, the first gas generated in the steam reforming reactor (fuel reformer) 23b is the carbon monoxide removing means, ie, the aqueous shift reactor 23c and the selective oxidation reactor 23d. And is introduced into the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 installed in the fuel pack 10. On the other hand, in the second configuration example, the steam reforming reactor 23b
The first gas generated in the first step is the carbon dioxide absorption means 12
Is introduced into and is absorbed and removed as a second gas. The second gas is returned to the reforming means 23, and a small amount of carbon monoxide gas (CO) is converted and removed in the aqueous shift reactor 23c and the selective oxidation reactor 23d which are carbon monoxide removing means. Then, it is delivered to the fuel cell 21.

According to the reforming means 23 of the second configuration example, most of the carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ) is removed before the first gas is introduced into the carbon monoxide removing means. In the vessel 23c, the reaction accompanied by the generation of carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ) shown in the reaction chemical formula (4) easily proceeds, and the conversion and removal of carbon monoxide gas (CO) are performed more efficiently. be able to. Further, in the case where the concentration of carbon monoxide gas in the mixed gas can be lowered to a region where the power generation characteristics of the fuel cell 21 are not adversely affected by only the aqueous shift reactor 23c of the reforming means 23 of the second configuration example. By omitting the selective oxidation reactor 23d from the reforming means 23, the reforming means 23 can be simplified and downsized.

By the way, in the second embodiment, the carbon dioxide gas generated as a result of the carbon monoxide gas removal is mixed into the second gas and taken into the fuel cell 21. However, in this case, since the concentration of carbon dioxide gas in the second gas is less than 1%, the output and energy efficiency of the power supply system including the power generation member according to the present invention will not be reduced.

The carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 is not limited to being provided in the fuel pack 10, but may be provided in the power generation module 20 or in the connecting portion 14. The connecting portion 14 is not limited to the fuel pack 10 provided in the fuel pack 10, and may be provided in the power generation module 20 or may be provided separately from the fuel pack 10 and the power generation module 20. It may be one.

<Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the power-generating member according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of a power supply system including a power generation member according to the present invention. Here, the same names and reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those of the above-described embodiment, and the description thereof will be simplified or omitted.

The power generation member in this embodiment is roughly classified into a fuel pack (fuel filling portion) in which a power generation fuel is filled.
10 and a power generation module 2 for generating electric energy based on the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel pack 10.
0, and is comprised.

Here, the fuel module 20 has the same structure as that shown in the first embodiment (see FIGS. 1, 3, 4 and 6) except that the fuel recovery means 26 is not provided. Therefore, the description thereof will be omitted.

The fuel pack 10 of the second embodiment is made of a decomposable polymer material (plastic) as in the case of the first embodiment. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the fuel pack 10 includes a fuel container 11, a carbon dioxide absorbing means 12, an emission holding means 13, a connecting portion 14, and an emission collecting means 16. To be done.

FIG. 8A shows the initial state of the fuel pack 10. As shown in FIG. 8A, the fuel container 11 is provided at one end of the fuel pack 10, and mixes fuel for power generation (for example, methanol (CH ₃ OH) and water (H ₂ O) at an equimolar ratio). (For example, a bag-shaped body) in which the delivery port 14A is installed. The fuel container 11 is
The power generation fuel enclosed via the outlet 14A is sent to the power generation module 20. The fuel container 11 changes its volume relative to the delivery of fuel.

The carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 is the reforming means 23.
Carbon dioxide gas is selectively absorbed and removed from the first gas introduced from the exhaust gas holding means 13 as the second gas.
Send to. The carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 is the fuel pack 1.
0 is provided adjacent to the fuel container 11 and is constituted by a calcium hydroxide layer 12A made of calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ) which is a carbon dioxide absorbent. Further, as will be described later, a new calcium carbonate layer 12B is formed on the fuel container 11 side as carbon dioxide is absorbed and removed.

Fuel container 11 of carbon dioxide absorbing means 12
From one side of the power generation module 20 to the fuel pack 10
Mixed gas introduction part 15 which is a route for sending the first gas to
A and a water / hydrogen gas outlet 15B are provided. In addition, the second gas is supplied from the fuel pack 10 to the power generation module 2
The route to send to 0 is water / hydrogen gas outlet 15B, water /
It is composed of a hydrogen gas introducing part 15C, an emission holding means 13, a hydrogen delivery port 15D and the like. Calcium hydroxide, which is a carbon dioxide absorbent, selectively adsorbs only carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ) from the first gas generated by the reforming means 23 in the reaction represented by the chemical reaction formula (2), The mixture is removed and sent as a mixture of the second gas and water from the water / hydrogen gas outlet 15B to the emission recovery means 13 described later. Here, the mixed gas introduction part 15A and the water / hydrogen gas 15B efficiently oxidize the hydrogen gas introduced from the fuel module 20 while being contained in the first gas into the fuel pack 10 without diffusing the hydrogen gas. Absorbs and removes carbon to form an emission holding unit 13
It is installed on the same straight line with the shortest distance so that it can be sent to.

The discharge recovery means 16 separates and recovers water (H ₂ O) among the by-products generated when the fuel cell 21 generates electric energy. Waste collection means 1
6 is a carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 in the fuel pack 10.
And the discharge holding means 13 are provided in a space between the discharge holding means 13 and calcium oxide (Ca).
O) of calcium oxide layer 16A and the like. Calcium oxide, which is a selective effluent absorbent, absorbs water and changes to calcium hydroxide by the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (8). Further, a water introduction section 14B and an exhaust port 14C are provided at one end of the exhaust gas recovery means 16 on the carbon dioxide absorption means side. CaO + H ₂ O → Ca (OH) ₂・ ・ ・ (8)

Here, as described above, calcium oxide (CaO), which is a selective effluent absorbent, reacts with water to change to calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ). further,
This calcium hydroxide is reused as a carbon dioxide absorbent and finally converted to calcium carbonate (CaCO ₃ ). This calcium carbonate is a harmless substance and does not cause environmental damage or pollution even if it is incinerated or disposed of in nature.

Further, since the reactions shown in the reaction chemical formulas (2) and (8) are accompanied by heat generation, the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 adsorbs and removes carbon dioxide gas, and the emission recovery means 16 adsorbs water. , The heat generated upon removal is used for vaporization and fuel reforming reaction in the reforming means 23, and for freezing prevention of a route for transferring water (H ₂ O) generated by a series of reactions in the power generation system. Thus, the energy use efficiency of the power generation member according to this embodiment can be improved.

Further, by using calcium oxide (CaO) and calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ), the fuel pack 10 according to the present embodiment is also similar to the fuel pack 10 according to the first embodiment. It can be manufactured extremely inexpensively and compactly.

The discharge holding means 13 is a bag-like member provided inside the fuel pack 10 adjacent to the discharge collecting means 16. The water / hydrogen gas introduction part 15 is provided in the discharge holding means 13.
C and a hydrogen gas delivery unit 15D are installed. Also,
The water / hydrogen gas inlet 15C is connected to the water / hydrogen gas outlet 15B of the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12. The emission holding means 13 includes a _second gas containing hydrogen (H ₂ ) gas introduced from the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 as a main component and water (H 2
₂ O) mixture is introduced from the water / hydrogen gas introduction part 15C, and water (H ₂ O) is selectively retained from the mixture, and the second gas is supplied from the hydrogen gas delivery part 15D to the fuel cell 21. Send out. The effluent holding means 13 irreversibly holds the water when removing the water, and relatively changes the volume thereof along with the holding of the water. Further, the discharge holding means 13 is filled with, for example, an absorbing (water absorbing) polymer or the like as a water absorbent in order to remove and hold water as described above. At this time, as the water absorbent, as the water is adsorbed and retained, the discharge collecting means 16,
A material capable of appropriately pressing the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 and the fuel container 11 is appropriately selected.

Similar to the first embodiment, the connecting portion 14 has a structure for detachably connecting the fuel pack 10 and the power generation module 20. Further, the connecting portion 14 supplies the fuel for power generation from the fuel pack 10 to the power generation module 20 and the power generation module 20 only when the fuel pack 10 and the power generation module 20 are coupled to each other via the connection portion 14. The water generated by the generation of electric energy is discharged from the fuel pack 10 to the fuel pack 10.
Gas is exchanged between the power generation module 20 and the power generation module 20.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the operation of the power generating member of the second embodiment when generating electric energy will be described. First, the power generation fuel (for example, a mixture of methanol (CH ₃ OH) and water (H ₂ O) mixed at an equimolar ratio) enclosed in the fuel container 11 is supplied from the outlet 14A to the reforming means 23 in the power generation module 20. And is converted into the first gas by the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (3). further,
In the reforming means 23, carbon monoxide gas (CO) contained as a trace amount of by-product is converted and removed from the mixed gas by the reactions shown in the reaction chemical formulas (4) and (5). The first gas discharged from the reforming means 23 is taken into the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 in the fuel pack 10 from the mixed gas introducing section 15A.

Carbon dioxide absorbing means 12 filled with calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ) as a carbon dioxide absorbent
In the inside, carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) is absorbed and removed from the first gas by the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (2) to form a mixture of the second gas and water from the water / hydrogen gas derivation unit 15B. It is sent to the water / hydrogen gas introduction unit 15C and taken into the discharged matter holding means 13.

In the discharge holding means 13, water (H ₂ O) in the above mixture is selectively removed, and hydrogen gas (H ₂ )
The second gas containing as a main component is delivered from the hydrogen gas delivery portion 15D to the fuel electrode 31 of the fuel cell 21.

In the fuel cell 21 in which hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) is supplied to the fuel electrode 31, electric energy is generated according to the reaction chemical formulas (6) and (7) as in the first embodiment. From the air electrode 32, a waste containing water (H ₂ O) as a main component generated along with the generation of electric energy and the air introduced from the air control unit 24 and not involved in the reaction are discharged. From the water introduction part 14B, the discharge recovery means 16
Will be introduced to. The emission recovery means 16 adsorbs and removes water, which is the main component of the waste, by the reaction represented by the reaction chemical formula (8). At this time, calcium oxide (CaO), which is a selective effluent absorbent, is
Change to (OH) ₂ ). Wastes other than water and air are discharged from the exhaust port 14C to the outside of the power generation member.

The generation of electric energy in the power generation module 20 (fuel cell 21) reduces the volume of the fuel container 11 and increases the volume of the discharge holding means 13. Along with this, as shown in FIG. 8B, the calcium oxide layer 16A and the calcium hydroxide layer 12A.
Is pushed out by the discharge holding means 13 and moves from left to right in FIG.

In parallel with this, in the emission recovery means 16, the selective emission absorbent (calcium oxide (CaO)) at the end on the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 side is used in the fuel cell 21.
One of the components of this waste that comes into contact with the waste sent from
It absorbs and removes water (H ₂ O), which is one of the two, and changes to calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ). This calcium hydroxide is pushed out to the calcium hydroxide layer 12A by the expansion of the discharge holding means 13 and reused as a carbon dioxide absorbent. Further, due to the expansion of the discharge holding means 13, the unreacted region of the calcium oxide layer 16A is pushed out in the vicinity of the water introducing portion 14B, and water is continuously absorbed.

In the carbon dioxide absorbing means 12, the fuel container 1
Carbon dioxide absorbent (calcium hydroxide (Ca
(OH) ₂ )) comes into contact with the first gas introduced from the reforming means 23 and adsorbs and removes carbon dioxide gas (CO ₂ ) to change to calcium carbonate (CaCO ₃ ). ₂ O) is produced. This calcium carbonate (CaC
O ₃ ) forms a calcium carbonate layer 12B and is extruded toward the fuel container 11 side. As a result, the fuel container 11
Is pressurized and the fuel for power generation is delivered to the power generation module 20. At the same time, the unreacted region of the calcium hydroxide layer 12A is the mixed gas introduction part 15A and the water / hydrogen gas derivation part 1
It is extruded in the vicinity of 5B, and carbon dioxide is continuously absorbed and removed. Then, as shown in FIG. 8C, pressurization to the fuel container 11 is continued until the power generation fuel sealed in the fuel container 11 is almost completely exhausted. Further, the water (H ₂ O) is sent to the discharge holding means 13 together with the second gas containing hydrogen gas (H ₂ ) as a main component.

Here, the water (H ₂ O) produced at the air electrode 32 due to the generation of electric energy is first adsorbed by the exhaust gas recovery means 16 to produce calcium hydride (Ca (O 2
H) ₂ )), and becomes water (H ₂ O) again through the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 and finally the fuel electrode 3 of the fuel cell 21.
It is held irreversibly by the discharge holding means 13 connected to 1.

In the fuel cell 21, the liquid is structurally less likely to leak on the fuel electrode 31 side than on the air electrode 32 side that takes in air from the atmosphere. Therefore, by finally holding the water (H ₂ O), which is a by-product of electric energy generation, on the side of the fuel electrode 31, it is possible to more reliably prevent this water from leaking out of the power generation system. .

Further, the discharge holding means 13 adsorbs and retains water.
Emissions collection means 16, carbon dioxide
By pressing the holding portion 12 and the fuel container 11,
As in the first embodiment, the fuel for power generation is appropriately applied from the fuel container 11.
It can be sent to the power generation module 20 and can be selectively
Emission absorbent (calcium oxide (CaO)) is water (H ₂
Carbon dioxide absorbent produced by adsorbing (O)
Cium (Ca (OH)₂)), Properly calcium hydroxide
It can be extruded into layer 12A.

Incidentally, the fuel pack 1 according to the second embodiment.
Similarly to the case of the first embodiment, 0 can also be formed into a roll shape as shown in FIG. 2, and can be applied to a power generation system having substantially the same form as a general-purpose chemical battery described later. This facilitates formation of the power-generating member according to the present embodiment in the same shape as a general-purpose chemical battery or the like, as will be described later.

In addition, in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the reforming means 23 of the power generation module 20 is similar to that shown in FIG.
As shown in, the structure may be such that the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 and the like are interposed between the steam reaction reformer 23b and the aqueous shift reactor 23c. In this case, the steam reforming reactor 23b
Is connected to the carbon dioxide absorption means 12 via the mixed gas introduction part 15A, and the aqueous shift reactor 23c is connected to the emission holding means 13 via the hydrogen gas delivery part 15D. Also in this case, as in the case of the first embodiment, the carbon monoxide gas in the first gas can be efficiently removed and the structure of the reforming means 23 can be simplified.

Next, the external shape to which the power-generating member according to the present invention is applied will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 9
FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a specific example of the outer shape applied to the power-generating member according to the present invention, and FIG. 10 shows the outer shape applied to the power-generating member according to the present invention and a general-purpose chemical battery. It is a schematic block diagram which shows the correspondence with an external shape.

In the member for power generation having the above-mentioned structure, the outer shape in the state where the fuel pack 10 is coupled to the power generation module 20 or in the state where the fuel pack 10 is integrally formed is, for example, as shown in FIG. Cylindrical batteries 71, 72, 73 often used for generalized chemical batteries
And batteries with special shapes (non-cylindrical batteries) 81, 82, 83
In accordance with the standards of (1), the fuel electrode 31 of the fuel cell 21 of the power generation module shown in FIG. 3 is formed while having the same shape and size as any of these.
And the air electrode 32 are electrically configured so as to correspond to the positive (+) electrode and the (−) electrode of each battery shape shown in FIG.

Here, the cylindrical batteries 71, 72, and 73 are often used in commercially available manganese dry batteries, alkaline dry batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium batteries, and the like, and there are many corresponding devices. Shape: Figure 9
(A)) and a button type (Fig.
(B)), and has an outer shape such as a coin type (FIG. 9C) used for a camera, an electronic notebook, or the like.

On the other hand, the non-circular batteries 81, 82, 83 are, in particular, a special shape type (FIG. 9) designed (customized) corresponding to the shape of the equipment used such as a compact camera or a digital still camera. (D)) and a square type (Fig.
(E)), a flat type (FIG. 9 (f)) and the like.

As described above, the power generation module 20 (fuel cell 2) mounted on the power generation member according to the present invention.
1, operation control unit 22, reforming means 23, air control unit 24,
By applying existing semiconductor technology, the sub-power supply unit 25 and the waste collection means 26) can be made into, for example, a microchip on the order of several microns or a microplant. Further, by applying a hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell capable of realizing high energy utilization efficiency as a power generation unit of the power generation module 20, to realize a battery capacity equivalent to (or more than) an existing chemical battery. It is possible to suppress the amount of power generation fuel required for the above to a relatively small amount.

Therefore, in the power generation member according to this embodiment, the existing battery shape shown in FIG. 9 can be favorably realized. For example, as shown in FIGS. External dimensions (for example, length La and diameter D in a state where the pack 10A is coupled to the power generation module 20A).
a) is a general-purpose chemical battery 91 as shown in FIG.
The external dimensions (for example, length Lp and diameter Dp) can be configured to be substantially the same.

As a result, it is possible to supply electric energy having the same or similar electrical characteristics as a general-purpose chemical battery, and to realize a completely compatible power generation member having the same external shape and the same shape and size. Therefore, it can be applied to a device such as an existing form device as an operating power source just like a general-purpose chemical battery. In particular, a structure including a fuel cell as a power generation module is applied, and a means for collecting and holding by-products associated with the generation of electric energy is provided as a fuel pack and is made of the above-described material such as degradable plastic By applying the configuration, it is possible to realize high energy utilization efficiency while suppressing adverse effects on the natural environment and devices, so environmental issues and energy utilization efficiency issues such as dumping and landfilling of existing chemical batteries Can be solved satisfactorily.

The external shapes shown in FIG. 9 are
It is an example of a chemical battery that is commercially available in Japan, or is distributed and sold as an accessory to a device, and shows only a part of a configuration example to which the present invention can be applied. That is, the outer shape applicable to the power generation member according to the present invention is
Other than the above specific examples, for example, the shape of a chemical battery that is distributed and sold all over the world, or a chemical battery that is planned to be put into practical use in a small subject is matched, and further, electrical characteristics are It goes without saying that they can be designed to match.

Although not shown in the above-mentioned embodiment, a remaining amount detecting means for monitoring the amount (remaining amount) of the power generating fuel remaining in the fuel pack 10 is provided, and the power generating fuel The electric energy (particularly, the driving voltage) generated by the fuel cell 21 may be gradually changed (decreased) based on the remaining amount. According to such a configuration, the electric energy (driving voltage) output from the power-generating member according to the present invention can be changed in accordance with the revealing voltage change in the chemical battery, and thus the chemical battery can be operated. You can operate the notification function of the remaining battery level that is standardly installed in various devices that are power sources,
The compatibility with chemical batteries can be further enhanced.

In each of the above embodiments,
The structure that recovers nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx) generated by a chemical reaction using gasoline as a fuel was shown, but the amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx) generated If the amount is very small, or if the power generation module 20 is provided with a catalyst for decomposing or reforming nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx) into non-toxic substances, they are held in the emission holding means 13. Alternatively, the gas may be directly exhausted to the outside of the power generation member.

In this case, the fuel pack 10 (including the emission holding means 13) originally functions in the natural world under a specific environment while having a function as the fuel storage container.
In addition, it is preferable to be made of a material that can be converted into a substance that constitutes nature. That is, the fuel pack 10 is harmless to the natural world due to the action of microorganisms and enzymes in the soil, the irradiation of sunlight, the rainwater, the atmosphere, etc. even when the fuel pack 10 is discarded or landfilled in the natural world. Various decomposition reactions that are converted into substances (originally existing in nature and substances that compose nature, such as water and carbon dioxide), such as biodegradability, photodegradability, and oxidative degradability And has no risk of being decomposed at least in a short period of time by contact with the enclosed fuel, and
A polymer material (plastics) that does not deteriorate the encapsulated fuel so that it cannot be used as a fuel in at least a short period of time and has sufficient strength for external physical adaptability. ).

As described above, the recovery rate of the chemical battery by recycling is only about 20%, and the remaining about 80% is dumped or landfilled in the natural world. It is desirable to use biodegradable plastics as the material for the above, specifically, a polymer material containing a chemically synthesized organic compound synthesized from petroleum-based or plant-based raw materials (polylactic acid, aliphatic polyester). , Copolyester, etc.), microbial-produced biopolyester, and naturally-occurring polymer materials such as starch, cellulose, chitin, chitosan, etc. extracted from plant-based raw materials such as corn and sugar cane. can do.

Further, the fuel pack 10 is made of a decomposable polymer material, and by applying a substance that easily decomposes to a harmless substance existing in nature such as alcohol or hydrocarbon as a power generation material, Even if it is dumped or landfilled in the natural world, or if it is artificially incinerated or treated with chemicals, it pollutes the natural world with air, soil, and water, or produces environmental hormones for the human body. It is possible to significantly suppress adverse effects such as.

[0138]

As described above, the fuel for power generation containing hydrogen filled and filled in the fuel filling portion is first converted into the hydrogen-carbon dioxide mixed gas (first gas) by the reforming means. . The carbon dioxide absorption means reduces the concentration of the carbon dioxide gas into the second gas, and the second gas is supplied to the fuel cell.

Thus, the power generation module (fuel cell)
The power generation efficiency of is greatly improved. Therefore, this fuel cell can be applied as a portable or portable portable power source that has high power density and energy utilization efficiency and is easy to control.

The carbon dioxide absorbing means may be provided inside the fuel sealing portion. As a result, the upper limit of the carbon dioxide adsorption amount was reached at the same time (or the carbon dioxide adsorption capacity was lowered by replacing the fuel encapsulation part where the fuel for power generation was lost (or decreased) with a new fuel encapsulation part) ) The carbon dioxide absorption means can be replaced.

Further, the carbon dioxide absorbing means may have calcium oxide (CaO) or calcium hydroxide (Ca (OH) ₂ ) as a carbon dioxide absorbent that selectively absorbs carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ). Good.

As a result, the carbon dioxide adsorbing means can be manufactured at a very low cost, and carbon dioxide can be easily absorbed and removed. Further, even if the carbon dioxide absorption means is used and then dumped into the natural world, it does not destroy or pollute the natural environment.

Further, the reaction heat generated by the absorption of carbon dioxide may be used for the first gas generation in the reforming means. As a result, the energy consumption of the power generation member itself can be reduced, so that the substantial output and energy utilization efficiency of the entire power generation member can be significantly improved.

Further, the conversion of the power-generating fuel into the first gas in the reforming means comprises a reaction for generating hydrogen gas and a reaction for converting carbon monoxide generated in the above reaction into carbon dioxide. During this period, the carbon dioxide gas may be absorbed by the carbon dioxide absorption means. As a result, the output and energy efficiency of the power generation system can be further improved, and the reforming means can be simplified.

In addition to the above, among the wastes generated in the air electrode of the fuel cell, calcium hydroxide generated by the reaction of water with calcium oxide in the emission recovery means is used to absorb carbon dioxide in the carbon dioxide absorption means. You may use it as an agent. This makes it possible to easily and inexpensively manufacture the waste collection means, and also to make the entire power generation module compact.

Further, by introducing the first gas into the carbon dioxide absorption means, the first gas becomes a mixture of the second gas containing hydrogen gas as a main component and water, and the first gas becomes the emission holding means. Water may be removed from this mixture and only the second gas may be delivered to the fuel cell. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent the water generated by the fuel cell from leaking to the outside of the power generation member.

In addition to this, when the discharge holding means absorbs water and expands, the calcium oxide layer of the discharge collecting means and the calcium hydroxide layer of the carbon dioxide absorbing means are pushed out to the fuel container side. The fuel pack may be pressed.

As a result, the fuel filled and sealed in the fuel container is effectively delivered to the power generation module through the delivery section. Further, the calcium oxide of the discharge part recovery means and the calcium hydroxide of the carbon dioxide absorption means can be efficiently used.

Further, the heat generated upon absorption of water may be used to prevent the passage of water discharged from the fuel cell from freezing. Thereby, the output of the power generation system and the energy use efficiency can be further improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a power supply system including a power generation member according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of an outer shape of a fuel pack applied to the power generating member according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a reforming means applied to the power-generating member according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a configuration example of a fuel cell applied to a power generation member according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the fuel container, the emission holding means, and the carbon dioxide holding unit in the fuel sealing unit applied to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing another embodiment of the reforming means applied to the power-generating member according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of a power supply system including a power generation member according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship among a fuel container, an emission holding means, a carbon dioxide holding portion, and an emission recovery means in a fuel sealing portion applied to the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a specific example of the outer shape applied to the power-generating member according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a correspondence relationship between the outer shape applied to the power-generating member according to the present invention and the outer shape of a general-purpose chemical battery.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 Fuel pack (fuel filling part) 11 Fuel container 12 Carbon dioxide absorption means 13 Discharge holding means 14 Connection 16, 26 Emissions collection means 20 power generation module 21 Fuel cell 23 Reforming means 23a Fuel vaporizer 23b Steam reforming reactor 23c aqueous shift reactor 23d selective oxidation reactor

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) H01M 8/10 H01M 8/10

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A power generation member used in a power generation system for generating power from a power generation fuel, wherein the power generation member includes a fuel container in which the power generation fuel having (a) a liquid or gas containing hydrogen is enclosed. A fuel filling section, (b) a reforming means for converting the power generation fuel supplied from the fuel filling section into a first gas containing hydrogen gas and carbon dioxide gas as main components, and a first gas At least one of a power generation module having a fuel cell for generating electric energy using hydrogen gas contained in (c) a connection part for connecting the fuel sealing part to the power generation module in a replaceable manner. And a second carbon dioxide concentration lower than that of the first gas by selectively absorbing carbon dioxide gas contained in the first gas sent from the reforming means. Power generating member, characterized in that it comprises a carbon dioxide absorbing means for delivering the gas to the fuel cell side. 2. The carbon dioxide absorbing means is provided in one of the fuel sealing portion, the power generation module and the connecting portion, or the power generating member is the fuel sealing portion, the power generation module and A member for power generation, comprising two or more of the connecting parts, and wherein the carbon dioxide absorbing means is provided in two or more of the fuel sealing part, the power generation module and the connecting part. . 3. A path for arranging the carbon dioxide absorption means in the fuel sealing portion, and for sending a first gas sent from the reforming means to the connecting portion from the power generation module to the fuel sealing portion. 2. A path for sending the second gas sent from the carbon dioxide absorbing means from the fuel enclosing section to the power generation module.
Alternatively, the power generation member described in 2. 4. The carbon dioxide absorbing means has calcium oxide or calcium hydroxide as a carbon dioxide absorbent that selectively absorbs carbon dioxide, according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Power generation member. 5. The carbon dioxide absorbing means chemically absorbs carbon dioxide by an exothermic reaction, and conversion of the fuel for power generation into the first gas in the reforming means requires heating. The power generation member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein heat generated by the carbon dioxide absorption means is supplied to the reforming means. 6. The reaction of the fuel for power generation in the reforming means comprises a reaction of generating hydrogen gas and a reaction of converting carbon monoxide generated together with the reaction into carbon dioxide, and during these reactions, The member for power generation according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein carbon dioxide gas is absorbed by the carbon dioxide absorbing means. 7. Emissions recovery means having a selective emissions absorbent that selectively absorbs at least water among the emissions discharged from the fuel cell, wherein the selective emissions absorbent is calcium oxide. 5. The calcium oxide absorbs water by reacting with water to form calcium hydroxide, and the calcium hydroxide is used as the carbon dioxide absorbent of the carbon dioxide absorbing means. The member for power generation described. 8. An effluent holding means for holding water with a water absorbent that selectively absorbs water collected and sent out by said effluent collecting means, wherein One gas is brought into contact with the carbon dioxide gas and calcium hydroxide to react with each other to generate calcium carbonate and water, and the water is sent together with the second gas to the discharge holding means, and the discharge is performed. The member for power generation according to claim 7, wherein the object holding means absorbs water and delivers the second gas to the fuel cell. 9. The exhaust gas holding means, the exhaust gas recovery means, the carbon dioxide absorbing means, and the fuel container are arranged in the fuel sealing section in order so that the volume of each of them can be changed. A carbon dioxide absorption means is disposed adjacent to the fuel container, and the carbon dioxide absorption means comprises a calcium hydroxide layer. , A gas introduction part for introducing the first gas delivered from the reforming means to the calcium hydroxide layer, and water and second gas produced when the calcium hydroxide and carbon dioxide gas react with each other And a water / hydrogen gas derivation unit, the emission recovery means is disposed adjacent to the calcium hydroxide layer of the carbon dioxide absorption means, and the emission recovery means is disposed on the calcium hydroxide layer. A calcium oxide layer disposed so as to be adjacent to each other, and a water introduction part for introducing water discharged from the fuel cell into the calcium oxide layer, and the emission holding means is adjacent to the emission recovery means. And the effluent holding means is provided with the water absorbent,
The water absorbent has a water / hydrogen gas introduction part for introducing water and a second gas delivered from the water / hydrogen gas derivation part, and expands when the discharge holding means absorbs water. The discharge recovery means and the carbon dioxide absorption means are pushed toward the fuel container side to assist the fuel delivery from the fuel container, and the unreacted region of the calcium oxide layer is pushed out toward the water introducing part side, The member for power generation according to claim 8, wherein an unreacted region of calcium hydroxide is extruded toward the gas introduction part side. 10. The method according to claim 7, wherein the absorption of water is an exothermic reaction, and the generated heat is used to prevent freezing of a path of water discharged from the fuel cell. The member for power generation described.