Abstract

Blend composite membranes are known as a good alternative to expensive Nafion membrane since they combine the superior properties of their components in a single structure. Herein, poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) - phosphonated polyvinyl alcohol (PPVA) blend membranes (90/10 by mass) were prepared with the solution casting method. Then, nano-TiO2 were added at varying mass ratios (2, 5, 8, 10, and 15%) to improve the performance of the synthesized membranes. Characterization tests namely, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), water uptake capacity, ion exchange capacity (IEC), proton conductivity, dynamic mechanic analysis, open-circuit voltage (OCV) measurements, and performance tests were conducted. PVDF/PPVA membrane containing 8% nano-TiO2 exhibited the highest performance with 382.7 mA/cm2 of current density and 225.4 mW cm−2 of power density. The OCV measurements showed 8.57% voltage decrement at the end of 1000 h. Obtained results show the high potential of TiO2 doped PVDF/PPVA membranes could be considered as a favorable candidate for fuel cells.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.