Hydrodynamic transport and flow channel passage structures associated
with fuel cell electrode structures and fuel cell electrode stack assemblies, as
well as to methods relating thereto, are disclosed. More specifically, the present
invention is directed to a novel fluid delivery and removal channel passage structures
integrally associated with electrode structures adapted for use within a fuel cell
system. In one embodiment, the fluid delivery and removal channel passage structure
comprises: a fluid delivery channel disposed across a first face of a silicon-based
electrode structure; a fluid removal channel disposed across a second face of the
silicon-based electrode structure (wherein the second face opposes the first face);
and a porous bulk matrix fluid transport layer interposed between the fluid delivery
channel and the fluid removal channel, wherein the porous bulk matrix fluid transport
layer is adapted to hydrodynamically flow a gas or liquid therethrough, and wherein
the porous bulk matrix fluid transport layer is in fluid communication with the
fluid delivery and the fluid removal channels.
