Advanced Composite Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Membranes

Abstract

A new type of reinforced composite perfluorinated polymer electrolyte membrane, GORE-SELECT® (W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.), is characterized and tested for fuel cell applications. Very thin membranes (5 -20 µm thick) are available. The combination of reinforcement and thinness provides high membrane conductances (80 S/cm 2 for a 12 µm thick membrane at 25º C) and improved water distribution in the operating fuel cell without sacrificing longevity or durability. In contrast to non-reinforced perfluorinated membranes, the x-y dimensions of the GORE-SELECT® membranes are relatively unaffected by the hydration state. This feature may be important from the viewpoints of membrane/electrode interface stability and fuel cell manufacturability.