Polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) are the most promising candidates for electric vehicles and portable electrical power sources because they have high energy densities and high conversion efficiency, and they are environmentally benign. A crucial part of the PEFC is the proton exchange membrane.  Currently, transport of protons across the membrane is restricted to 80°C since transport requires water.  In this project we are developing a “dry” fuel cell membrane, where transport is based on of the movement on proton transporting groups. For this membrane the mechanical and physical properties of the membrane material have to be optimized.<br/>The membranes consist of a mixture of fluorinated linear block-copolymers and branched polymers with varying amounts of proton transporting groups.  The synthesis and characterization of all polymers will be reported.  Mixtures with varying amounts of branched polymer will be prepared.  A membrane preparation protocol has been developed and initial membrane characterization data will be presented as well. Additionally, varied concentration of the branched polymer will be introduced into the fluorinated linear chain and a set of characterization parameters obtained. A proton transporting group, imidazole will then be attached to each branched polymer membrane and the proton conductivity tested and compared to the model compound containing no imidazole moiety.<br/>

Optimization of the mechanical and physical properties of a polymer fuel cell membrane

2019 Spring National Meeting

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