Characterization of polymer electrolytes for fuel cell applications

Conference · Tue Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1992

OSTI ID:10176777

Zawodzinski, Jr, T A; Springer, T E; Uribe, F; Gottesfeld, S

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
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

30 DIRECT ENERGY CONVERSION
300503
ADSORPTION
DIFFUSION
ELECTROPHORESIS
FUEL CELLS
HYDRATION
IONIC CONDUCTIVITY
MATERIALS, COMPONENTS, AND AUXILIARIES
MEMBRANE TRANSPORT
MEMBRANES
POLYMERS
SOLID ELECTROLYTES
SULFONIC ACIDS
WATER