Preparation and characterization of MWCNT-g-poly (aniline-co-DABSA)/ Nafion® nanocomposite membranes for direct methanol fuel cells

Abstract

Multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-g-poly (aniline-co-2,5- diaminobenzenesulfonic acid) (DABSA) reinforced Nafion® nanocomposite membranes were prepared and characterized for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The nanocomposite membranes with approximately 90 μm thickness were prepared by the water assisted solution casting method. To evaluate the properties of nanocomposite membranes for DMFC applications, the nanocomposite membranes were characterized by methanol and water uptake, thermal stability, and ion exchange capacity (IEC). Furthermore, oxidative stability measurements in terms of the hydrogen peroxide decomposition rate that represent the oxidative stability of the membranes were examined. The methanol uptake values of the nanocomposite membranes were dramatically decreased compared to the cast Nafion® membranes. The IEC values of the nanocomposite membranes were increased about 30% compared to the cast Nafion® membrane.