Abstract:
A composite gas diffusion electrode has an electrode body, at least one water-soluble polymeric thickening or gelling agent swellable in an aqueous electrolyte, and a layer of the thickening agent adhering to and covering at least a portion of one of the surfaces of the electrode body. Upon subsequent use in contact with an aqueous electrolyte, the thickening agent swells on the covered surface of the electrode body preventing electrolyte leakage therethrough, preventing drowning of the electrode, reducing loss of any dissolved fuel in the electrolyte, and immobilizing at least partially the electrolyte. Additionally, an electrochemical cell with at least one gas diffusion electrode has the above type of thickening agent covering various portions of the interior structure of the cell. Upon subsequent use in contact with an aqueous electrolyte, the thickening agent swells on covered portions of the interior structure preventing electrolyte leakage therethrough, and immobilizing at least partially the electrolyte.