Polybenzimidazoles (PBIs) are well known for their excellent thermal and oxidative stability. For close to thirty years, PBI membranes have been investigated for application in high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs). In order to achieve sufficient electrochemical performance, membranes must display high ionic conductivity at elevated temperatures. Membrane candidates must also have satisfactory mechanical properties for practical application in HT-PEMFCs, and to provide low performance degradation at long lifetimes. Although PBIs with various backbone chemistries have been developed utilizing different methods, a trade-off between mechanical properties and electrochemical performance remains a pressing issue. In this talk, the development of a new method to fabricate PBI membranes will be introduced. This novel method is able to overcome the long-standing trade-off between performance and durability. Critical ex-situ membrane properties, including tensile, creep, ionic conductivity and acid doping levels, will be discussed. Operation in HT-PEMFC devices will also be presented. The new PBI technique is not just advantageous in terms of performance; the novel method provides a facile route to produce PBI films with minimal processing steps and without the use of organic solvents. This talk will address the practical fabrication and implementation of PBI membranes in HT-PEMFCs through a novel technique that provides sufficient electrochemical performance and demonstrated durability.

Design of polybenzimidazole (PBI) membranes with practical application & improved performance in electrochemical devices

ACS Fall 2021

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