Performance of Nafion-TiO2 Hybrids Produced by Sol-Gel Process as Electrolyte for PEMFC Operating at High Temperatures.

Abstract

The fabrication and testing of Nafion-TiO2 hybrid membranes as the electrolyte of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) are reported. A low temperature sol-gel process was used to effectively incorporate the hydrophilic anatase nanoparticles into the Nafion matrix. Fuel cell testing at temperatures up to 130 {degree sign}C revealed that the hybrid membranes exhibit a higher ohmic drop when compared to Nafion. On the other hand, the hybrid membranes show an increased performance with increasing temperature and reduced relative humidity (RH). In addition, it was found that the inorganic phase confers stability to the polymer allowing for the operation at high temperature and reduced RH.