Monopolar, bipolar and/or hybrid memberane cell

Claim 1

A filter press electrolyzer comprising bulkheads, at least one electrolytic cell having an anode electrode assembly and a cathode electrode assembly and an ion-exchange membrane resiliently engaged therebetween, said electrode assemblies having electrode active areas and back plates of electrically conductive material forming at least a portion of an electrolyte compartment, said cell including sealing means and means for introducing and removing fluids and electrical energy, wherein (a) said back plates of the electrode assemblies are formed of electrically conductive material, (b) said electrical energy is passed between two adjacent back plates of adjacent cells and between the back plate of an end cell and a bulkhead via current distributor members through mechanical contact joints involving only low pressure connection, said contact joints being at least substantially as large as the dimensions of the electrode active areas, and being separated from cell electrolyte by the back plates and being located outside the adjacent cells, and (c) at least some of said electrode assemblies include spring compression members extending between said back plates and the active electrode areas, and wherein (d) said current distributor members protrude past the side of adjacent cells on at least one side and provide structural support for said cells.