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High-Performance Proton Exchange Membranes for Electrolysis Cells
Title: Dr.
Phone: (520) 546-6944
Email: hhu1@mindspring.com
Title: Dr.
Phone: (520) 546-6944
Email: amsen@mindspring.com
Improvements in performance of the components are needed for polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, which is one of the key technologies for DOEs hydrogen production plan. In particular, high- performance ion-exchange membranes are needed that can withstand significantly higher mechanical loads due to high-pressure operation, while having significantly reduce hydrogen permeability and improved proton conductivity. This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project aims to develop high-performance ion-exchange membranes for PEM electrolyzers based on a ternary material system. Such membranes shall have lower hydrogen permeability and higher proton conductivity than the state-of-the-art commercial membranes. Additionally, the new membrane shall have good water transfer capability, high tensile strength, and high stability under high-pressure electrolyzer operation conditions. The proposed composite ion-exchange membranes will be fabricated by a solution casting process that has been well developed in Amsen for our composite membrane projects. This process is well suited for easy and economical production of multi-component composite membranes with high uniformity. The resultant composite membranes will be systematically characterized in terms of structural and microstructural features, hydrogen permeability, proton conductivity, tensile strength, water uptake/swelling, and dimensional stability. The best composite membranes selected will be evaluated by performance in high-pressure electrolysis operation. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: The outcome of the innovation has the potential of providing DOE with high-performance ion-exchange membranes for PEM electrolyzers as well as fuel cells. This technology will find wide applications in all PEM electrolyzers and PEM fuel cell stacks.
* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *