Abstract
Abstract3D‐branched proton exchange membranes (PEMs) were synthesized using molecular structural design of the rigid–flexible hybrid backbone. The 3D rigid–flexible hybrid PEM shows 20 % higher conductivity than the wholly rigid version with almost the same ion exchange capacity. Significant benefits for simultaneously improving water retention and dimensional stability were also demonstrated. The best measured conductivity of the three synthesized 3D rigid–flexible hybrid structural PEMs was 0.162 S cm−1, which is higher than that of the Nafion 117 membrane at 80 °C. An air‐breathing direct methanol fuel cell assembled with the 3D‐branched PEM displayed superior performance, exhibiting 12 % higher power density than the device assembled using a commercial Nafion membrane with 4 M methanol supplied.
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