Novel Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) for Fuel Cell Application

40394 November 18, 1996 Lynntech, Inc. Due to their high power density for both stationary or mobile applications, fuel cells employing solid polymer electrolytes have promising applications ranging from portable power sources to electric vehicles to commercial buildings. In a fuel cell, a solid polymer electrolyte should function as an acid electrolyte, act as a separator of the fuel from oxygen or air, and be stable under fuel cell operating conditions for an extended time interval. However, conventional solid polymer electrolytes have several drawbacks: (1) high methanol permeability; (2) low temperature operation, resulting in low catalyst activity at the anode electrode; (3) high electrosmotic drag number requiring intensive humidification and precise temperature control in order for the membrane to have high conductivity (especially at high current density); and (4) a water management requirement to prevent flooding of the cathode electrode. This project will develop a new generation of solid polymer electrolytes by modifying available proton exchange membranes. Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee: Fuel cells based upon these membranes should be promising candidates for applications ranging from portable power sources to electric vehicles to commercial building applications, and should also satisfy all military applications.