Characterization of polymer electrolytes for fuel cell applications
We review here our recent work on polymer electrolyte fuel cells emphasizing membrane transport issues. Transport parameters measured at 30{degrees}C for several available perfluorosulfonic acid membranes are compared. The water sorption characteristics, diffusion coefficient of water, electroosmotic drag, and pretonic conductivity were determined for Nafion{reg_sign} 117, Membrane C, and Dow XUS 13204.10 Developmental Fuel Cell Membrane. The diffusion coefficient and conductivity of each of these membranes were determined as functions of membrane water content. Data on water sorption and conductivity are reported for an experimental membrane which is a modified form of Nafion. Contact angle measurements indicate that the surface of a perfluorosulfonic acid membrane exposed to water vapor is quite hydrophobic, even in the presence of saturated water vapor. Modeling of water distribution in PEFC`s based on the uptake and transport data shows that membrane thickness contributes in a nonlinear fashion to performance in PEM fuel cells. Finally, some work currently underway is discussed.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Lab., NM (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- OSTI ID:
- 10176777
- Report Number(s):
- LA-UR-92-2584; CONF-9208133-1; ON: DE92040330
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 1992 satellite meeting on polyme ionics,Goeteborg (Sweden),10-26 Aug 1992; Other Information: PBD: [1992]
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
A comparative study of water uptake by and transport through ionomeric fuel cell membranes
Water transport properties of various fuel cell ionomers