Synthesis and characterization of polymer anion exchange membranes for fuel cell applications

Abstract

While proton exchange membranes in fuel cells have been the primary focus in polymer based fuel cells, anion exchange membranes have the potential to dramatically lower the cost of fuel cells by utilizing non-noble catalysts and a variety of fuel sources. Historically, anion exchange membranes have suffered from low conductivity, chemical instability of the cation in alkali solutions, and mechanical instability over the lifetime of the membrane. In our research we will functionalize perfluorocarbon polymers with a variety of quaternary ammonium cations and test their stability and conductivity potential. In-plane conductivity tests will be performed in a multi-channel potentiostat under temperature and humidity control. Various film preparation techniques will be explored and morphologies will be verified by both microscopy and scattering. The goal of the project is to obtain fundamental understanding of cations and processing, which will lead to the development of robust anion exchange membranes.