Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) provide a method of producing clean energy through the oxidation and reduction of hydrogen and oxygen gas, with H<sub>2</sub>O emitted as the only by-product. The electrons of the oxidized hydrogen ions travel through a wire to perform work, while the hydrogen ions (protons) migrate to the cathode through a membrane that is impermeable to electrons. Currently the most commonly used proton transport membranes are made of Nafion, a fluorinated ion conducting polymer. However, Nafion’s limitations include its high cost, sensitivity to hydration, and its degradation at higher temperatures.<br/>As an alternative to Nafion, this research has created a fuel cell membrane using inexpensive and widely available cellulose filter paper as a scaffold to support Resorcinol bis(diphenylphosphate) (RDP), an oligomeric phosphate ester flame retardant which possesses high heat stability. The combination of RDP on cellulose filter papers, when tested on the fuel cell, enabled significant power output. To further enhance proton conduction, cellulose filters were treated with phosphoric acid, citric acid, and sulfuric acid, respectively, before the application of RDP, and then tested on a hydrogen fuel cell at temperatures ranging from 30°C to 90°C; amplified power output was exhibited even at higher temperatures. The interrelationship between RDP and the cellulose filter was examined by scanning electron microscopy, displaying the RDP distribution among the cellulose fibers. Ion exchange was conducted on each type of treated membrane. This work represents an easily fabricated yet novel approach for creating a new generation of cost-effective, thermally stable proton-conducting membranes for PEMFCs.

Development of a nafion-free proton transport cellulose membrane for the proton exchange membrane fuel cell

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.