Carrier for electrically heated catalyst and exhaust gas purification device

文档序号：1426417 发布日期：2020-03-17 浏览：22次中文

阅读说明：本技术 电加热型催化剂用载体及废气净化装置 (Carrier for electrically heated catalyst and exhaust gas purification device ) 是由高濑尚哉于 2019-08-20 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明提供电加热型催化剂用载体、以及使用了该电加热型催化剂用载体的废气净化装置,该电加热型催化剂用载体减弱了蜂窝结构体与金属电极部的电接触不均而使得通电性能稳定。一种电加热型催化剂用载体,其具备：蜂窝结构体,该蜂窝结构体具有区划形成多个隔室的间隔壁,该隔室从一个底面至另一个底面而形成流体的流路；以及一对金属电极部,该一对金属电极部配置成隔着所述蜂窝结构体的中心而对置,其中,所述一对金属电极部的一方或双方具有至少一个突起部,该突起部向所述蜂窝结构体侧突出而与所述蜂窝结构体抵接。(The invention provides an electrically heated catalyst support which reduces uneven electrical contact between a honeycomb structure and a metal electrode portion and stabilizes the energization performance, and an exhaust gas purification apparatus using the electrically heated catalyst support. An electrically heated catalyst support comprising: a honeycomb structure having partition walls that partition a plurality of cells that form fluid channels from one bottom surface to another bottom surface; and a pair of metal electrode portions arranged to face each other with the center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween, wherein one or both of the pair of metal electrode portions has at least one protruding portion protruding toward the honeycomb structure and coming into contact with the honeycomb structure.)

1. An electrically heated catalyst support comprising:

a honeycomb structure having partition walls that partition a plurality of cells that form fluid channels from one bottom surface to another bottom surface; and

a pair of metal electrode portions arranged to face each other with the center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween,

the electrically heated catalyst support is characterized in that,

one or both of the pair of metal electrode portions has at least one protruding portion protruding toward the honeycomb structure and coming into contact with the honeycomb structure.

2. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to claim 1,

the electrically heated catalyst support further comprises a pair of electrode layers on the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure,

the pair of electrode layers are arranged so as to face each other with the center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween, and have a recess for accommodating the protrusion of the metal electrode portion.

3. The electrically heated catalyst support according to claim 1 or 2,

the metal electrode part is in a comb shape.

4. The electrically heated catalyst support according to claim 1 or 2,

the metal electrode portion includes: a plate-like main body portion; and a plurality of tabs protruding from the main body portion, wherein the protruding portion of the metal electrode portion is disposed on the tabs.

5. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to claim 4,

a shortest length A from a starting point of the tongue piece protruding from the main body portion to a portion where the protruding degree of the tongue piece is largest, and a minimum value B of a width in a direction orthogonal to a direction protruding from the main body portion in a surface of the tongue piece satisfy a relationship of 1 ≦ A/B ≦ 10.

6. The electrically heated catalyst support according to claim 4 or 5,

the tongue piece has: a neck portion; and a head portion having a width greater than the width of the neck portion, the length L1 of the neck portion and the length L2 of the head portion satisfying a relationship of 1. ltoreq. L1/L2. ltoreq.10.

7. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to any one of claims 4 to 6,

the tongue piece has more than 2 bending parts.

8. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to any one of claims 4 to 7,

the body portion has a plurality of apertures.

9. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to any one of claims 1 to 8,

the metal electrode part is made of iron alloy, nickel alloy or cobalt alloy.

10. An electrically heated catalyst support comprising:

a honeycomb structure having partition walls that partition a plurality of cells that form fluid channels from one bottom surface to another bottom surface;

a pair of electrode layers formed on side surfaces of the honeycomb structure and arranged to face each other with a center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween; and

a pair of metal electrode portions arranged to face each other with the center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween,

one or both of the pair of electrode layers has at least one protruding portion protruding toward the metal electrode portion and coming into contact with the metal electrode portion.

11. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to claim 10,

the metal electrode portion has a recess portion that accommodates the protrusion portion of the electrode layer.

12. The electrically heated catalyst support according to claim 10 or 11,

the metal electrode part is in a comb shape.

13. The electrically heated catalyst support according to claim 10 or 11,

the metal electrode portion includes: a plate-like main body portion; and a plurality of tabs protruding from the main body portion, the protruding portion of the electrode layer being in contact with the tabs.

14. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to claim 13,

15. The electrically heated catalyst support according to claim 13 or 14,

16. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to any one of claims 13 to 15,

the tongue piece has more than 2 bending parts.

17. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to any one of claims 13 to 16,

the body portion has a plurality of apertures.

18. The carrier for an electrically heated catalyst according to any one of claims 10 to 17,

the metal electrode part is made of iron alloy, nickel alloy or cobalt alloy.

19. An exhaust gas purifying apparatus, characterized in that,

the exhaust gas purification device is provided with:

the electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of claims 1 to 18, which is provided in the middle of an exhaust gas flow passage through which exhaust gas from an engine flows; and

and a cylindrical metal member that houses the electrically heated catalyst support.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an electrically heated catalyst support and an exhaust gas purification device. In particular, the present invention relates to an electrically heated catalyst support comprising: a honeycomb structure; and a pair of metal electrode portions arranged to face each other with the center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween, wherein the electrically heated catalyst support reduces variation in electrical contact between the honeycomb structure and the metal electrode portions, and stabilizes the electrical conduction performance.

Background

Conventionally, a catalyst-carrying member of a honeycomb structure made of cordierite or silicon carbide has been used for the treatment of harmful substances in exhaust gas discharged from an automobile engine (see patent document 1). Such a honeycomb structure generally has a columnar honeycomb structure having partition walls in which a plurality of cells constituting a flow path of exhaust gas are formed and extending from one bottom surface to the other bottom surface.

When exhaust gas is treated with a catalyst supported on a honeycomb structure, the catalyst needs to be raised to a predetermined temperature, but conventionally, at the time of engine start, the catalyst temperature is low, and therefore, there has been a problem that exhaust gas cannot be sufficiently purified. Therefore, a system called an Electrically Heated Catalyst (EHC) has been developed in which electrodes are disposed on a honeycomb structure made of conductive ceramics, and the honeycomb structure itself is heated by energization to raise the catalyst supported on the honeycomb structure to an activation temperature before or at the time of engine start.

However, when the EHC is energized and heated, thermal strain is generated due to a difference in linear expansion coefficient between the metal material constituting the surface electrode and the wiring and the ceramic material constituting the carrier. Therefore, a member also having a stress buffering function that does not cause thermal strain caused by the difference in linear expansion coefficient to be applied to the EHC carrier is sought.

Patent document 1 discloses, as one of the measures, the following measures: the wiring for supplying power from the outside to a pair of surface electrodes extending in the axial direction of the surface of the carrier is formed in a comb-tooth shape, and is fixed at a plurality of points on the same comb tooth by spraying, and a bent portion is provided between the plurality of points, whereby thermal strain (thermal stress) caused by the difference in linear expansion coefficient between the wiring made of metal and the carrier made of ceramic is relaxed.

Disclosure of Invention

However, due to the restriction of the processing accuracy of the honeycomb structure, the electrical contact between the honeycomb structure and the metal electrode portion may be insufficient. For example, in the case where the honeycomb structure has a cylindrical shape, if the roundness is insufficient due to the restriction of the processing accuracy, a gap is formed between the metal electrode portion and the metal electrode portion that is manufactured on the premise that the honeycomb structure is perfectly round. Even if it is intended to weld the metal electrode portion to the honeycomb structure, the contact area between the honeycomb structure and the metal electrode portion may be insufficient due to the influence of the gap, or the side surface of the honeycomb structure may be damaged due to local heating. Therefore, the contact area between the honeycomb structure and the metal electrode portion may vary for each individual body, and the energization performance may be unstable.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an electrically heated catalyst support in which uneven electrical contact between a honeycomb structure and a metal electrode portion is reduced and the electrical conduction performance is stabilized, and an exhaust gas purification apparatus using the electrically heated catalyst support.

The inventors of the present invention have conducted intensive studies and, as a result, found that: the above problem can be solved by providing a protrusion on the honeycomb structure or the metal electrode portion to secure a contact point between the honeycomb structure and the metal electrode portion, thereby reducing unevenness in electrical contact and stabilizing the electrical conduction performance. That is, the present invention is defined as follows.

(1) An electrically heated catalyst support comprising:

a honeycomb structure having partition walls that partition a plurality of cells that form fluid channels from one bottom surface to another bottom surface; and

a pair of metal electrode portions arranged to face each other with the center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween,

the electrically heated catalyst support is characterized in that,

one or both of the pair of metal electrode portions has at least one protruding portion protruding toward the honeycomb structure and coming into contact with the honeycomb structure.

(2) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (1),

the electrically heated catalyst support further comprises a pair of electrode layers on the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure,

(3) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (1) or (2),

the metal electrode part is in a comb shape.

(4) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (1) or (2),

(5) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (4), wherein,

(6) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (4) or (5),

(7) The electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of (4) to (6),

the tongue piece has more than 2 bending parts.

(8) The electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of (4) to (7),

the body portion has a plurality of apertures.

(9) The electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of (1) to (8),

the metal electrode part is made of iron alloy, nickel alloy or cobalt alloy.

(10) An electrically heated catalyst support comprising:

a honeycomb structure having partition walls that partition a plurality of cells that form fluid channels from one bottom surface to another bottom surface;

a pair of electrode layers formed on side surfaces of the honeycomb structure and arranged to face each other with a center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween; and

a pair of metal electrode portions arranged to face each other with the center of the honeycomb structure interposed therebetween,

one or both of the pair of electrode layers has at least one protruding portion protruding toward the metal electrode portion and coming into contact with the metal electrode portion.

(11) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (10), wherein,

the metal electrode portion has a recess portion that accommodates the protrusion portion of the electrode layer.

(12) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (10) or (11), wherein,

the metal electrode part is in a comb shape.

(13) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (10) or (11), wherein,

(14) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (13), wherein the catalyst support is a catalyst support,

(15) The electrically heated catalyst support according to (13) or (14), wherein,

(16) The electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of (13) to (15), wherein the catalyst support is a catalyst support,

the tongue piece has more than 2 bending parts.

(17) The electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of (13) to (16), wherein,

the body portion has a plurality of apertures.

(18) The electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of (10) to (17), wherein the catalyst support is a catalyst support,

the metal electrode part is made of iron alloy, nickel alloy or cobalt alloy.

(19) An exhaust gas purifying apparatus, characterized in that,

the exhaust gas purification device is provided with:

(1) the electrically heated catalyst support according to any one of (1) to (18), which is provided in the middle of an exhaust gas flow passage through which exhaust gas from an engine flows; and

and a cylindrical metal member that houses the electrically heated catalyst support.

Effects of the invention

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electrically heated catalyst support in which the variation in electrical contact between a honeycomb structure and a metal electrode portion is reduced and the electrical conduction performance is stabilized, and an exhaust gas purification apparatus using the electrically heated catalyst support.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a honeycomb structure according to the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a sectional view of a honeycomb structure in an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a center angle of an electrode layer in one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the metal electrode portion in one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing the metal electrode portion 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing a metal electrode portion 1A according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing a metal electrode portion 1B according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing a metal electrode portion 1C according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9(a), 9(B), 9(C), and 9(D) are views showing the planar form of each of the metal electrode portions 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D, respectively.

Fig. 10(a), 10(b), and 10(c) are views showing the planar form of each of the metal electrode portions 7E, 7F, and 7G.

Fig. 11 is a view showing the shape of the tongue piece.

Fig. 12 is a view showing a bent portion of the tongue piece.

Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a gap between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structural body 10.

Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an embodiment in which the metal electrode portion 1 is provided with the protrusion 4.

Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an embodiment in which the electrode layer 101a (101b) is provided with the protruding portion 4.

Fig. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the shape of the protrusion 4.

Description of the reference numerals

10 … honeycomb, 11 … partition walls, 12 … cells, 1A, 1B, 1C, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F, 7G … metal electrode portions (tabs), 101A, 101B … electrode layers, 2 … body portions, 3, 13, 23, 33 … tabs, 3a, 13a, 23a, 33a … rising portions, 3B, 13B, 23F, 33C … flat portions, 20 … sheets, 4 … protrusions, 5 … recesses.

Detailed Description

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various changes, modifications, and improvements can be made based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

(1. Honeycomb structure)

Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a honeycomb structure according to the present invention. For example, the honeycomb structure 10 has: a porous partition wall 11 that partitions a plurality of cells 12, the plurality of cells 12 constituting a fluid flow path and extending from an inlet end face, which is an end face on a fluid inlet side, to an outlet end face, which is an end face on a fluid outlet side; and a side surface located at the outermost periphery. The number, arrangement, shape, and the like of the compartments 12 and the thickness, and the like, of the partition walls 11 are not limited, and can be appropriately designed as needed.

The material of the honeycomb structure 10 is not particularly limited as long as it has conductivity, and metal, ceramic, or the like can be used. In particular, from the viewpoint of achieving both heat resistance and electrical conductivity, the material of the honeycomb structure 10 preferably includes a silicon-silicon carbide composite material or silicon carbide as a main component, and more preferably a silicon-silicon carbide composite material or silicon carbide. Tantalum silicide (TaSi) may also be added₂) Chromium silicide (CrSi)₂) In order to reduce the resistivity of the honeycomb structure. The honeycomb structure 10 mainly contains a silicon-silicon carbide composite material: the honeycomb structure 10 contains 90 mass% or more (total mass) of the silicon-silicon carbide composite material in the entire honeycomb structure. Here, the silicon-silicon carbide composite material contains silicon carbide particles as an aggregate andin the silicon of the bonding material for bonding the silicon carbide particles, it is preferable that the plurality of silicon carbide particles form pores between the silicon carbide particles and are bonded to each other by the silicon. In addition, the honeycomb structure 10 mainly containing silicon carbide means: the honeycomb structure 10 contains 90 mass% or more (total mass) of silicon carbide in the entire honeycomb structure.

The resistivity of the honeycomb structure 10 is not particularly limited as long as it is appropriately set according to the applied voltage, and may be set to 0.001 Ω · cm to 200 Ω · cm, for example. When used at a high voltage of 64V or more, the voltage may be set to 2. omega. cm to 200. omega. cm, typically 5. omega. cm to 100. omega. cm. In the case of using a low voltage lower than 64V, the voltage may be set to 0.001. omega. cm to 2. omega. cm, typically 0.001. omega. cm to 1. omega. cm, and more typically 0.01. omega. cm to 1. omega. cm.

The porosity of the partition walls 11 of the honeycomb structure 10 is preferably 35% to 60%, more preferably 35% to 45%. If the porosity is 35% or more, the strain during firing is not excessively increased, and this is more preferable. If the porosity is 60% or less, the strength of the honeycomb structure can be maintained. The porosity is a value measured by a mercury porosimeter.

The average pore diameter of the cell walls 11 of the honeycomb structure 10 is preferably 2 to 15 μm, and more preferably 4 to 8 μm. If the average pore diameter is 2 μm or more, the resistivity is not excessively increased, and is more preferable. If the average pore diameter is 15 μm or less, the resistivity is not excessively decreased, and is more preferable. The average pore diameter is a value measured by a mercury porosimeter.

The shape of the cell 12 in a cross section orthogonal to the flow path direction of the cell 12 is not limited, but is preferably a quadrangle, a hexagon, an octagon, or a combination of these shapes. Among them, square and hexagonal shapes are preferable. By forming the cell shape in the above-described shape, the pressure loss when the exhaust gas flows through the honeycomb structure 10 is reduced, and the purification performance of the catalyst is excellent.

The outer shape of the honeycomb structure 10 is not particularly limited as long as it is columnar, and may be, for example, columnar with a circular bottom surface (columnar shape)A columnar shape having an elliptical bottom surface, a columnar shape having a polygonal bottom surface (e.g., a quadrangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, and an octagon), and the like. In addition, the size of the honeycomb structure 10 is preferably 2000mm in area of the bottom surface from the viewpoint of improving heat resistance (preventing cracks from occurring in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral side wall)²～20000mm²More preferably 4000mm²～10000mm². From the viewpoint of improving heat resistance (preventing cracks parallel to the central axial direction from occurring in the outer peripheral sidewall), the axial length of the honeycomb structure 10 is preferably 50mm to 200mm, and more preferably 75mm to 150 mm.

Further, by supporting the catalyst on the honeycomb structure 10, the honeycomb structure 10 can be used as a catalyst support.

The honeycomb structure can be produced by a known honeycomb structure production method. For example, first, a metal silicon powder (metal silicon), a binder, a surfactant, a pore former, water, and the like are added to a silicon carbide powder (silicon carbide) to prepare a molding material. The mass of the metal silicon powder is preferably 10 to 40% by mass based on the total mass of the silicon carbide powder and the mass of the metal silicon powder. The average particle diameter of the silicon carbide particles in the silicon carbide powder is preferably 3 to 50 μm, and more preferably 3 to 40 μm. The average particle diameter of the metal silicon particles in the metal silicon powder is preferably 2 to 35 μm. The average particle diameter of the silicon carbide particles and the metal silicon particles is: an arithmetic average particle diameter on a volume basis when the frequency distribution of particle sizes is measured by a laser diffraction method. The silicon carbide particles are fine particles of silicon carbide constituting the silicon carbide powder, and the metal silicon particles are fine particles of metal silicon constituting the metal silicon powder. The above description is of the formulation of the molding material when the material of the honeycomb structure is a silicon-silicon carbide composite material, and when the material of the honeycomb structure is silicon carbide, no metal silicon is added.

Examples of the binder include methyl cellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, hydroxypropoxy cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, and polyvinyl alcohol. Of these binders, it is preferable to use both methylcellulose and hydroxypropyloxycellulose. The content of the binder is preferably 2.0 to 10.0 parts by mass, when the total mass of the silicon carbide powder and the metal silicon powder is 100 parts by mass.

The content of water is preferably 20 to 60 parts by mass, when the total mass of the silicon carbide powder and the metal silicon powder is 100 parts by mass.

As the surfactant, ethylene glycol, dextrin, fatty acid soap, polyhydric alcohol, and the like can be used. The surfactant may be used alone in 1 kind, or may be used in combination with 2 or more kinds. The content of the surfactant is preferably 0.1 to 2.0 parts by mass when the total mass of the silicon carbide powder and the metal silicon powder is 100 parts by mass.

The pore-forming material is not particularly limited as long as pores are formed after firing, and examples thereof include graphite, starch, a foaming resin, a water-absorbent resin, and silica gel. The content of the pore former is preferably 0.5 to 10.0 parts by mass, based on 100 parts by mass of the total mass of the silicon carbide powder and the metal silicon powder. The average particle diameter of the pore-forming material is preferably 10 to 30 μm. It is preferable that the average particle diameter of the pore-forming material is 10 μm or more because pores can be sufficiently formed. It is more preferable that the average particle diameter of the pore-forming material is 30 μm or less because the die is less likely to be clogged during molding. The average particle size of the pore-forming material is: an arithmetic average particle diameter on a volume basis when the frequency distribution of particle sizes is measured by a laser diffraction method. When the pore-forming material is a water-absorbent resin, the average particle diameter of the pore-forming material is the average particle diameter after water absorption.

Next, the obtained molding material was kneaded to form a billet, and then the billet was extrusion-molded to produce a honeycomb structure. In the extrusion molding, a die having a desired overall shape, cell shape, partition wall thickness, cell density, or the like may be used. Next, the obtained honeycomb structure is preferably dried. In the case where the center axial length of the honeycomb structure is not a desired length, both bottom portions of the honeycomb structure may be cut to form a desired length.

Next, the dried honeycomb body is fired to produce a honeycomb structure. Preferably, calcination is performed before firing to remove the binder and the like. Preferably, the calcination is performed at a temperature of 400 to 500 ℃ for 0.5 to 20 hours in an atmospheric atmosphere. The method of the calcination and the firing is not particularly limited, and firing may be performed using an electric furnace, a gas furnace, or the like. Preferably, the firing conditions are heating at 1400 to 1500 ℃ for 1 to 20 hours in an inert atmosphere such as nitrogen or argon. Further, it is preferable to perform oxidation treatment at a temperature of 1200 to 1350 ℃ for 1 to 10 hours after firing in order to improve durability.

(2. electrode layer)

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the electrically heated catalyst support of the present embodiment has a pair of electrode layers 101a and 101b disposed on the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure 10, and each of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is formed in a band shape extending in the direction in which the cells 12 of the honeycomb structure 10 extend. In addition, in a cross section of the honeycomb structure 10 orthogonal to the direction in which the cells 12 extend, the pair of electrode layers 101a, 101b are arranged such that: opposed to each other with the center of the honeycomb structure 10 interposed therebetween. The pair of electrode layers 101a and 101b are not essential in the present invention, but according to this structure, when a voltage is applied to the honeycomb structure 10, a drift current of a current flowing in the honeycomb structure 10 can be suppressed, and unevenness of a temperature distribution in the honeycomb structure 10 can be suppressed, which is preferable.

The electrode layers 101a and 101b are formed of a material having conductivity. The electrode layers 101a and 101b are preferably formed using silicon carbide particles and silicon as main components, and more preferably using silicon carbide particles and silicon as raw materials in addition to impurities usually contained. Here, "silicon carbide particles and silicon as main components" means: the total mass of the silicon carbide particles and the silicon is 90 mass% or more of the mass of the entire electrode layer. By thus making the electrode layers 101a and 101b mainly composed of silicon carbide particles and silicon, the components of the electrode layers 101a and 101b and the components of the honeycomb structure 10 are the same or similar (in the case where the honeycomb structure is made of silicon carbide). Therefore, the thermal expansion coefficients of the electrode layers 101a and 101b and the honeycomb structure are the same or close to each other. Further, since the materials are the same or similar, the bonding strength between the electrode layers 101a and 101b and the honeycomb structure 10 is also improved. Therefore, even if thermal stress acts on the honeycomb structure, it is possible to prevent the electrode layers 101a and 101b from peeling off from the honeycomb structure 10 and prevent the joint portions of the electrode layers 101a and 101b and the honeycomb structure 10 from being damaged.

Further, in a cross section orthogonal to the direction in which the cells 12 extend, the center angle α of each of the electrode layers 101a, 101b is preferably 60 ° to 120 °, and the center angle α of one of the electrode layers 101a, 101b is preferably 0.8 times to 1.2 times, and more preferably 1.0 times (the same size) as the center angle α of the other of the electrode layers 101a, 101 b.

The central angle α is an angle formed by straight lines connecting both ends of the electrode layers 101a and 101b and the center O of the honeycomb structure in a cross section perpendicular to the direction in which the cells 12 extend (see fig. 3), and in fig. 3, the central angles α of the pair of electrode layers 101a and 101b are the same in magnitude.

In the honeycomb structure 10 of the present embodiment, the resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is preferably lower than the resistivity of the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure 10. The resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is more preferably 0.1% to 10%, particularly preferably 0.5% to 5%, of the resistivity of the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure 10. If the ratio is 0.1% or more, a voltage is applied to the electrode layers 101a and 101 b. The amount of current flowing through the "end portion of the metal electrode portion" in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is not excessively increased, and the occurrence of an uneven current flowing through the honeycomb structure 10 is easily suppressed. Further, the honeycomb structure 10 easily generates heat uniformly. If the voltage is 10% or less, the amount of current flowing in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is not excessively reduced when a voltage is applied to the electrode layers 101a and 101b, and the occurrence of a drift in the current flowing through the honeycomb structure 10 is easily suppressed. Further, the honeycomb structure 10 easily generates heat uniformly.

The thickness of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is preferably 0.01mm to 5mm, and more preferably 0.01mm to 3 mm. By setting the above range, uniform heat generation of the honeycomb structure can be facilitated. If the thickness of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 0.01mm or more, the resistivity is not excessively increased, and uniform heat generation is facilitated. If the thickness of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 5mm or less, breakage at the time of assembly can be suppressed.

As shown in fig. 1, the electrode layers 101a and 101b of the honeycomb structure 10 of the present embodiment extend in the direction in which the cells 12 of the honeycomb structure 10 extend, and are formed in a band shape extending between both end portions (between both end surfaces). Thus, the honeycomb structure 10 of the present embodiment is configured such that: the pair of electrode layers 101a and 101b extend between both ends of the honeycomb structure 10. Thus, when a voltage is applied between the pair of electrode layers 101a and 101b, the bias current of the current in the axial direction of the honeycomb structure (i.e., the direction in which the cells 12 extend) can be more effectively suppressed. Here, "the electrode layers 101a and 101b are formed (disposed) between both end portions of the honeycomb structure 10" means the following case. That is, it means: one end of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is in contact with one end (one end surface) of the honeycomb structural body 10, and the other end of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is in contact with the other end (the other end surface) of the honeycomb structural body 10.

On the other hand, a state in which at least one end of the electrode layers 101a and 101b in the "direction in which the cells 12 of the honeycomb structural body 10 extend" is not in contact with an end (end face) of the honeycomb structural body 10 (does not reach the end (end face) of the honeycomb structural body 10) is also a preferable mode. This can improve the thermal shock resistance of the honeycomb structure.

In the honeycomb structure 10 of the present embodiment, for example, as shown in fig. 1 and 2, the electrode layers 101a and 101b are formed in a shape in which a planar rectangular member is bent along the outer periphery of a cylindrical shape. Here, the shape when the electrode layers 101a and 101b that are bent are deformed into a planar member that is not bent is referred to as the "planar shape" of the electrode layers 101a and 101 b. As described above, the "planar shape" of the electrode layers 101a and 101b shown in fig. 1 to 3 is a rectangle. Further, the "outer peripheral shape of the electrode layer" means: "outer peripheral shape in planar shape of electrode layer".

In the honeycomb structure 10 of the present embodiment, the outer peripheral shape of the strip-shaped electrode layer may be a shape in which the corners of a rectangle are curved. By forming the honeycomb structure in the above shape, the thermal shock resistance of the honeycomb structure can be improved. In addition, it is also preferable that the outer peripheral shape of the strip-shaped electrode layer is formed in a shape in which corners of a rectangle are chamfered into a straight line. By forming the honeycomb structure in the above shape, the thermal shock resistance of the honeycomb structure can be improved.

In the honeycomb structure 10 of the present embodiment, the length of the current path is preferably 1.6 times or less the diameter of the honeycomb structure in the cross section perpendicular to the cell extending direction. If the ratio is 1.6 or less, excessive consumption of energy can be suppressed. Here, the "current path" refers to a path through which a current flows. In addition, "the length of the current path" means: a length of 0.5 times a length of an "outer periphery" through which a current flows in a "cross section orthogonal to a direction in which the cells extend" of the honeycomb structure. This means that: the maximum length in the "path through which current flows" in the "cross section orthogonal to the direction in which the cells extend" of the honeycomb structure. "length of current path" means: the value obtained by measurement along the surface of the irregularities or the inside of the slits when the irregularities are formed on the outer periphery or when the slits open to the outer periphery are formed in the honeycomb structure. Therefore, for example, in the case where the honeycomb structure is formed with slits that are open at the outer periphery, the "length of the current path" is extended by a length that is approximately 2 times the depth of the slits.

The resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is preferably 0.1 Ω cm to 100 Ω cm, and more preferably 0.1 Ω cm to 50 Ω cm. By setting the specific resistance of the electrode layers 101a and 101b to the above range, the pair of electrode layers 101a and 101b effectively function as electrodes in a pipe through which high-temperature exhaust gas flows. If the resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 0.1 Ω cm or more, the temperature rise of the honeycomb portion near both ends of the electrode layers 101a and 101b can be suppressed in the cross section orthogonal to the cell extending direction. If the resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 100 Ω cm or less, it is possible to suppress the difficulty in flowing current. The resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is a value at 400 ℃.

The porosity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is preferably 30% to 60%, more preferably 30% to 55%. By setting the porosity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b to the above range, appropriate resistivity can be achieved. If the porosity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 30% or more, deformation during production is easily suppressed. If the porosity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 60% or less, an excessive increase in resistivity can be suppressed. The porosity is a value measured by a mercury porosimeter.

The average pore diameter of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is preferably 5 to 45 μm, and more preferably 7 to 40 μm. By setting the average pore diameter of the electrode layers 101a and 101b to the above range, appropriate resistivity can be achieved. If the average pore diameter of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 5 μm or more, an excessive increase in resistivity can be suppressed. If the average pore diameter of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 45 μm or less, the strength of the electrode layers 101a and 101b can be sufficiently secured to suppress breakage. The average pore diameter is a value measured by a mercury porosimeter.

When the main component of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is the "silicon-silicon carbide composite material", the average particle diameter of the silicon carbide particles contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is preferably 10 μm to 60 μm, and more preferably 20 μm to 60 μm. By setting the average particle diameter of the silicon carbide particles contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b to the above range, the resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b can be controlled to be in the range of 0.1 Ω cm to 100 Ω cm. If the average particle diameter of the silicon carbide particles contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 10 μm or more, the resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b can be easily controlled to fall within the above range. If the average particle diameter of the silicon carbide particles contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 60 μm or less, the strength of the electrode layers 101a and 101b can be sufficiently ensured to suppress breakage. The average particle diameter of the silicon carbide particles contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is a value measured by a laser diffraction method.

When the main component of the electrode layers 101a and 101b is the "silicon-silicon carbide composite material", the ratio of the mass of silicon contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b to the "total mass of the silicon carbide particles and the silicon" contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is preferably 20 to 40% by mass. More preferably 25 to 35% by mass. By setting the ratio of the mass of silicon to the "total mass of the silicon carbide particles and the silicon" contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b to the above range, the resistivity of the electrode layers 101a and 101b can be set to a range of 0.1 Ω cm to 100 Ω cm. If the ratio of the mass of silicon to the "total mass of the silicon carbide particles and the mass of silicon" contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 20 mass% or more, the resistivity can be easily controlled to fall within the above range, and if the ratio of the mass of silicon to the "total mass of the silicon carbide particles and the mass of silicon" contained in the electrode layers 101a and 101b is 40 mass% or less, the deformation during the production can be easily suppressed.

(3. Metal electrode part)

As shown in fig. 4, the honeycomb structure 10 is in contact with the pair of metal electrode portions 1, 1 via the electrode layers 101a, 101 b. The metal electrode portions 1, 1 are arranged such that: opposed to each other with the center of the honeycomb structure 10 interposed therebetween. Here, each of the metal electrode portions 1 and 1 may be comb-shaped (fig. 4(a) and 4(b)), or may include a plate-shaped main body portion 2 and a plurality of tongue pieces 3 (2 in the figure) protruding from the main body portion (fig. 4(c) and 4 (d)).

When the metal electrode portion 1 has a comb-like shape, as shown in fig. 4(a), the branches having a comb-like shape preferably extend along the outer peripheral shape of the honeycomb structure. In the figure, the metal electrode portion 1 is electrically contacted to the honeycomb structure 10 via the electrode layers 101a and 101 b. The number of the comb-teeth-shaped branches is 3 in the plan view (fig. 4(b)) of the electrode layer 101a on the arrangement side, but the number may be appropriately changed according to the electrical conduction performance requirements between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10. The length and width of each branch may be changed as appropriate.

When the metal electrode portion 1 includes the main body portion 2 and the tab 3, a part of the tab 3 is in contact with the honeycomb structure 10 (in the figure, is in electrical contact with the honeycomb structure 10 through the electrode layers 101a and 101 b). Thus, when a voltage is applied to the metal electrode portion 1 via the electrode layers 101a and 101b, the honeycomb structure 10 can be heated by joule heat by energization.

The honeycomb structure 10 can be preferably used as a heater by electrically contacting the metal electrode portion 1 with the honeycomb structure 10. The voltage to be applied is preferably 12V to 900V, more preferably 64V to 600V, and the voltage to be applied can be changed as appropriate.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing the metal electrode portion 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The metal electrode portion 1 includes a plate-shaped main body portion 2. A plurality of tongues 3 are regularly arranged from the main body portion 2 towards the upper side in the drawing. Each tongue piece 3 includes: a rising portion 3a rising from the main body portion 2; and a flat portion 3b protruding in the lateral direction from the rising portion 3 a. Each tongue 3 is joined to the main body portion 2 by one sheet 20 at its root.

In this example, the tongue piece 3 is formed by cutting the body portion 2, and therefore, a through hole having substantially the same shape and size as the tongue piece 3 is formed. The flat portion 3b faces and contacts the upper electrode layers 101a, 101 b.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing a metal electrode portion 1A according to another embodiment of the present invention. The metal electrode portion 1A includes a flat plate-shaped main body portion 2. The plurality of tongues 13 are regularly arranged from the main body portion 2 toward the upper side in the drawing. Each tongue piece 13 includes: a rising portion 13a rising from the main body portion 2; a flat portion 13b protruding in the lateral direction from the rising portion 13 a; and a depressed portion 13c extending from the flat portion 13b toward the through hole side. The flat portion 13b faces and contacts the electrode layers 101a, 101b of the honeycomb structure body. Each tongue 13 is joined to the main portion 2 by one sheet 20 at its root.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing a metal electrode portion 1B according to still another embodiment of the present invention. The metal electrode portion 1B includes a flat plate-shaped main body portion 2. The plurality of tongues 23 are regularly arranged from the main body portion 2 toward the upper side in the drawing. Each tongue piece 23 includes: a rising portion 23a rising from the main body portion 2; and a plurality of bent portions 23b, 23c, 23d, 23e and a flat portion 23f continuous with the rising portion 23 a. The flat portion 23f faces and contacts the electrode layers 101a, 101b of the honeycomb structure body. Each tongue 23 is joined to the main portion 2 by one sheet 20 at its root.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing a metal electrode portion 1C according to still another embodiment of the present invention. The metal electrode portion 1C includes a flat plate-shaped main body portion 2. The plurality of tongues 33 are regularly arranged from the main body portion 2 toward the upper side in the drawing. Each tongue piece 33 includes: a rising portion 33a rising from the main body portion 2; a curved portion 33b continuous with the rising portion 33 a; and a flat portion 33c continuous with respect to the curved portion 33 b. The flat portion 33c faces and contacts the electrode layers 101a, 101b of the honeycomb structure body. Each tongue 33 is joined to the main portion 2 by one sheet 20 at its root.

The shape of the main body 2 is not particularly limited as long as it is plate-shaped, and may be flat plate-shaped or curved plate-shaped (see fig. 4 (d)). When the main body 2 has a curved plate shape, the curved surface preferably conforms to the side surface of the honeycomb structure 10. That is, the distance between the main body portion 2 and the honeycomb structural body 10 is preferably constant.

The planar shape of the tongue is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in fig. 9(a) and 9(B), the tongue pieces 7A and 7B may be rectangular. As shown in fig. 9(C), the tongue piece 7C may have an arc shape. As shown in fig. 9(D), the tongue piece 7D may be oblong.

In addition, as shown in fig. 10(a), the tongue piece 7E may have a polygonal shape. In addition, as shown in fig. 10(b), the tongue piece 7F may have a trapezoidal shape. Further, as shown in fig. 10(c), the tongue piece 7G may have a star shape. The tongue may take a variety of other different shapes.

The size of the tongue is not particularly limited. In order to increase the ventilation and the deformation margin, the height of the tongue piece is preferably 0.3mm or more, and more preferably 1.0mm or more. On the other hand, if the height of the tongue is too high, the gas utilization efficiency is lowered, and therefore, the height of the tongue is preferably 5.0mm or less. The height of the tongue means: the largest of the perpendicular distances from each portion of the tongue to the body portion.

A part of the tongue piece 3 is in contact with the honeycomb structure 10 (see fig. 4). When an electrode layer is provided on the surface of the honeycomb structure, a part of the tab 3 is in contact with the honeycomb structure 10 via the electrode layer. Thereby, the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 are electrically connected. The contact between a part of the tab 3 and the honeycomb structure 10 is sufficient as long as the electrical connection between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 can be ensured, and the provision of another layer having electrical conductivity between the tab 3 and the honeycomb structure 10 is not hindered. Further, it is not limited to the metal electrode layer having the tab 3, and it is not hindered that another layer having conductivity is further provided substantially between the projection provided on the metal electrode portion and the honeycomb structure 10. The method of fixing the tongue piece 3 is not particularly limited. For example, the tongue pieces 3 may be welded to the side surfaces (or electrode layers provided on the side surfaces) of the honeycomb structure 10, or a fixing layer may be formed by spraying a conductive metal material (for example, NiCr-based material or CoNiCr-based material) from above the tongue pieces 3, and the tongue pieces 3 may be fixed to the side surfaces (or electrode layers provided on the side surfaces) of the honeycomb structure 10.

In this way, the metal electrode portion includes: a plate-like main body portion; and a plurality of tabs protruding from the main body portion, and a part of the tabs is in contact with the honeycomb structure, whereby the plurality of tabs protruding from the main body portion can be individually deformed along the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure, and therefore, even if the shape accuracy of the honeycomb structure is poor, electrical connection can be maintained well. Further, since the respective tabs are deformed to absorb stress caused by a difference in thermal expansion or the like, it is possible to prevent excessive stress from being applied to the contact points and the honeycomb structure.

Further, it is preferable that the shortest length A from the starting point of the tongue piece 3 projecting with respect to the main body portion 2 to the portion where the projecting degree of the tongue piece 3 is the largest and the minimum value B of the width in the direction orthogonal to the direction projecting from the main body portion 2 in the surface of the tongue piece 3 satisfy the relationship of 1. ltoreq. A/B. ltoreq.10 (FIG. 11).

Here, the "portion of the tongue piece that protrudes to the greatest extent" means: the portion having the largest vertical distance L to the main body 2 (see fig. 11 a and 11 b). The "shortest length a to the portion where the projecting degree of the tongue piece is the largest" means: a straight-line distance to a point where the distance from the starting point of the tongue piece 3 protruding from the main body portion 2 of the tongue piece 3 is shortest, among the points where the vertical distance to the main body portion 2 is greatest (see fig. 11(a) and 11 (b)). Fig. 11(a) shows a case a where the tip of the tongue piece 3 is in a flat plate shape parallel to the main body portion 2 in the cross section in the thickness direction of the main body portion 2, and fig. 11(b) shows a case a where the tip of the tongue piece 3 is in a curved surface shape in the cross section in the thickness direction of the main body portion 2.

The "direction of protrusion from the body portion 2" of the tongue 3 means: a direction X (see fig. 11(c) and 11(d)) orthogonal to the flow path direction of the cells 12 of the honeycomb structure along the surface of the tongue 3 from the starting point of the tongue 3 protruding from the main body portion 2, and "a minimum value B of the width in the direction orthogonal to the direction of protruding from the main body portion 2" means: the width of the portion of the surface of the tongue 3 where the width of the tongue 3 is smallest in the direction perpendicular to the direction X (see fig. 11 c and 11 d).

Fig. 11(c) is a plan view of the metal electrode portion 1 in fig. 11(a) and 11(b), and fig. 11(d) is a plan view of the tongue piece 3 in fig. 11(c) when it is developed on a plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the tongue 3 has a neck portion and a head portion, the head portion having a width greater than the width of the neck portion, and the width of the neck portion is constant, and therefore the width of the neck portion is B.

By setting a/B to 1 or more, the plurality of tabs protruding from the main body portion are easily deformed along the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure, and the torsional stress acting on the tabs can be relaxed. Further, by setting a/B to 10 or less, the strength of the tongue can be maintained to a certain degree, fatigue fracture of the tongue can be suppressed, and a width necessary for a large current to flow can be secured.

In addition, it is preferable that the length L1 of the neck portion and the length L2 of the head portion of the tongue piece 3 satisfy the relationship of 1. ltoreq. L1/L2. ltoreq.10 (refer to FIG. 11 (d)). By setting L1/L2 to 1 or more, the plurality of tabs projecting from the main body portion are easily deformed along the side surfaces of the honeycomb structure, and the torsional stress acting on the tabs can be relaxed. Further, by setting L1/L2 to 10 or less, the strength of the tongue piece can be maintained to a certain degree, fatigue fracture of the tongue piece can be suppressed, and a width necessary for a large current to flow can be secured.

The shape of the neck and the head is not limited, and a portion having a small width and a portion having a large width can be distinguished according to the appearance, and they may be referred to as the neck and the head, respectively.

Preferably, the tongue piece 3 has 2 or more bent portions (see fig. 12). Since the tongue pieces 3 have 2 or more bent portions, the contact with the honeycomb structure can be improved by the elastic deformation of the tongue pieces 3, and the stress applied to the honeycomb structure can be adjusted.

In addition, the main body portion of the metal electrode portion 1 preferably has a plurality of holes (see fig. 11 (c)). Thus, when the honeycomb structure generates heat, the heat insulating effect of the conductive connecting member itself can be prevented, the surface-to-back temperature of the metal electrode portion 1 is constant, and the stress applied in the metal electrode portion 1 can be relaxed to prevent the deformation of the main body portion 2. The plurality of holes may be through holes formed by cutting tabs out of 1 metal plate, or may be formed by using, as a main body portion, a breathable material such as a mesh material, a plate material in which ventilation holes are formed, or an expanded alloy.

The metal constituting the metal electrode portion 1 is not limited, and iron, silver, copper, nickel, gold, palladium, silicon, and the like are typical from the viewpoint of availability. The metal electrode portion 1 is preferably an iron alloy, a nickel alloy, or a cobalt alloy. Carbon or ceramic may be used instead of the metal electrode portion. The ceramic is not limited, and examples thereof include ceramics containing at least one of Si, Cr, B, Fe, Co, Ni, Ti, and Ta, such as silicon carbide, chromium silicide, boron carbide, chromium boride, and tantalum silicide. Metals and ceramics may also be combined to form composite materials. The above-described materials can be suitably applied regardless of the shape of the metal electrode portion 1.

As described above, due to the restriction of the processing accuracy of the honeycomb structure, the electrical contact between the honeycomb structure and the metal electrode portion may be insufficient. As shown in fig. 13 by way of example, if the honeycomb structure 10 has a cylindrical shape and the roundness is insufficient due to the restriction of the processing accuracy, a gap is formed between the metal electrode portions 1 that are manufactured on the premise that the honeycomb structure 10 is perfectly round (in the figure, a gap is formed between the tongue pieces 3 and the electrode layer 101 a). If the gap exists, the electrical contact between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 may be insufficient, and the stability of the electrical conduction performance may be lowered.

Therefore, the above problem can be solved by providing at least one protrusion protruding toward the honeycomb structure and abutting against the honeycomb structure 10 on one or both of the metal electrode portions 1.

As shown in fig. 14(a), the metal electrode portion 1 has a protrusion 4 protruding toward the honeycomb structure side. In the figure, the protruding portion is provided on the tongue piece 3. Note that, although the drawings show the plurality of tongue pieces 3 as being arranged on a straight line for convenience, it is needless to say that the tongue pieces may be arranged in a curved line in accordance with the outer shape of the honeycomb structure 10 having a cylindrical shape, for example.

The metal electrode portion 1 has the projections 4, and therefore, even if the shape of the honeycomb structure 10 is somewhat irregular, the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 can be reliably brought into contact (see fig. 14 (c)). Therefore, the metal electrode portion 1 can be easily fixed to the honeycomb structure 10 by welding, spraying, or the like, and the desired electrical conduction performance can be achieved and the quality can be stabilized.

In order to ensure more reliable contact between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10, the electrode layer 101a (or 101b) provided on the side surface of the honeycomb structure 10 may be provided with the concave portion 5 for accommodating the protrusion 4 (see fig. 14 (b)). By providing the recess 5 so that the metal electrode portion 1 (the tongue piece 3 in the figure) is in contact with the electrode layer 101a (or 101b) in a fitting manner, a larger contact area can be achieved. This can ensure more reliable electrical contact between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10.

In another embodiment, the aforementioned problem can be solved by providing at least one protrusion protruding toward the metal electrode portion and abutting against the metal electrode portion 1 on one or both of the electrode layers 101a (or 101 b).

As shown in fig. 15(a), the electrode layer 101a (or 101b) has a protrusion 4 protruding toward the metal electrode portion side. Note that, although the drawings show the plurality of tongue pieces 3 as being arranged on a straight line for convenience, it is needless to say that the tongue pieces may be arranged in a curved line in accordance with the outer shape of the honeycomb structure 10 having a cylindrical shape, for example.

The electrode layer 101a (or 101b) has the protrusions 4, and thus the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 can be reliably brought into contact even if the shape of the honeycomb structure 10 is somewhat irregular (see fig. 15 c). Therefore, the metal electrode portion 1 can be easily fixed to the honeycomb structure 10 by welding, spraying, or the like, and desired electrical conduction performance can be achieved.

In order to ensure contact between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10, the metal electrode portion 1 may be provided with a recess 5 for accommodating the protrusion 4 (see fig. 15 b). By providing the recess 5 so that the metal electrode portion 1 (the tongue piece 3 in the figure) is in contact with the electrode layer 101a (or 101b) in a fitting manner, a larger contact area can be achieved. This can ensure more reliable electrical contact between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10.

Although the metal electrode portion 1 has the tongue pieces 3 in the embodiments shown in fig. 14 and 15, the present invention is not limited to the metal electrode portion 1 having a specific shape. Any shape (for example, comb-like shape) capable of generating a gap between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 is included in the scope of the present invention.

However, in the case where the metal electrode portion 1 has a plurality of the tongue pieces 3, it is preferable that each of the tongue pieces 3 has one or more protrusions 4 in order to ensure electrical contact between each of the tongue pieces 3 and the honeycomb structure 10.

The projections 4 may have any shape or material as long as they project toward the honeycomb structure side or the metal electrode portion side to exhibit the above-described function. The method of forming the protrusion 4 may be press working, spray forming, welding forming, or the like, and is not limited to a specific forming method. Further, a tongue piece having a flat plate-like head portion may be formed with a slightly convex protrusion (fig. 16 a), or the tongue piece itself may be bent in a V-shape or the like to form a protrusion (fig. 16 b). In fig. 16, both the slightly convex protrusions and the V-shaped protrusions are provided on the tongue pieces 3 of the metal electrode portions 1, but the slightly convex protrusions or the V-shaped protrusions may be provided at the portions of the electrode layers 101a and 101b of the honeycomb structure 10 that need to be in contact with the metal electrode portions 1.

When the metal electrode portion 1 or the electrode layers 101a and 101b of the honeycomb structure 10 are provided with the slightly convex protrusions, the diameter of the slightly convex protrusions may be appropriately set in accordance with the size of the electrically heated catalyst support, the required energization performance, and the like, but is typically preferably 2mm to 10 mm. The electrical contact between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 is more reliable by setting the diameter of the micro-convex protrusions to 2mm or more, and the size of the protrusions is appropriate by setting the diameter of the micro-convex protrusions to 10mm or less. In the case where the concave portions for accommodating the convex protrusions are provided in the metal electrode portion 1 or the electrode layers 101a and 101b of the honeycomb structure 10, the diameters of the concave portions may be appropriately set so as to match the protrusions, and typically, the diameters of the concave portions are preferably larger than the diameters of the protrusions to be accommodated by 0.2mm to 1.0 mm.

When the metal electrode portion 1 or the electrode layers 101a and 101b of the honeycomb structure 10 are provided with V-shaped protrusions, the angle θ (see fig. 16(b)) of the V-shape is preferably 90 ° to 170 °. By setting the above range, the electrical contact between the metal electrode portion 1 and the honeycomb structure 10 becomes more reliable.

The electrically heated catalyst support of the present invention can be used in an exhaust gas purifying apparatus. That is, another aspect of the present invention is an exhaust gas purification device including: an electrically heated catalyst support according to the present invention, which is provided in the middle of an exhaust gas flow path through which exhaust gas from an engine flows; and a cylindrical metal member that houses the electrically heated catalyst support. As can be understood from the above description: such an exhaust gas purification apparatus can realize a required energization performance, and therefore, can realize a more stable exhaust gas purification function.

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