Polymer anion exchange membranes (AEMs) represent a technology with the potential to push forward the commercialization of low temperature fuel cells. The alkaline environment allows for use of inexpensive and robust catalysts, and the polymer cation prevents the formation of carbonate crystals which are detrimental to fuel cell operation. However, sufficient conductivities have not yet been obtained in crosslinked AEMs currently developed. One unexplored strategy towards improving the conductivity of AEMs is to control the polymer morphology of the crosslinked membranes. The first crosslinked polymer AEMs with controlled, phase segregated morphologies have been synthesized, and characterized via small-angle X-ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy. The effects of the morphology on the ion conductivity and mechanical properties of the AEMs will be discussed

Phase separated, crosslinked anion exchange membranes for high performance fuel cells

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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