Abstract
Mass transport in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is critical to their efficiency and energy output, especially the transfer of protons and water that occurs in the PEM. Here, we describe designing and fabricating a novel composite PEM based on perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) and polyethyleneimine functionalized with methylphosphonic acid (PEIMPA), with the aim of constructing efficient mass transfer pathways using long-range acid–base pairs. Improvements in water absorption/retention, proton conductivity, and single-cell performance resulted from these long-range transfer pathways, as the acid–base pairs and abundant water-retaining groups in the membrane enhanced the connectivity of the hydrophilic zone, forming new proton and water transport pathways. These improvements in water and proton transport also gave the PFSA/PEIMPA composite membranes higher reversal tolerance. Their excellent physical and chemical properties make these membranes promising candidates for PEMFC applications by reducing dependency on water content, enhancing fuel cell performance at low relative humidity, and improving the fuel cell’s tolerance toward reversal.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
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.