Abstract
We have synthesized a novel composite membrane composed of hydrophilic oligomer-g-carbon nanotube (CNT) and sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) (sPAES) for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Hydrophilic oligomer-g-CNT is made by linking sPAES hydrophilic oligomers of either 3 k, 7 k, or 15 k molecular weight to CNTs. Hydrophilic oligomers allow better dispersion of CNTs in the polymer matrix, and the well dispersed CNTs act as a reinforcing agent in the membrane. The sulfonic acid groups on the hydrophilic oligomer-g-CNT form effective water transport channels which can hold more water under low humidity conditions. Therefore, the developed composite membrane shows proton conductivity enhancement of 40% compared to the pristine membrane at 80 °C and 50% relative humidity (RH) condition. Single cell performances and mechanical properties are also improved in the composite membrane. Especially, current density of the composite membrane prepared with 1 wt% hydrophilic oligomer (15 k)-g-CNT shows an 86% increase compared to that of the pristine membrane at 0.6 V, 80 °C, and 50% RH condition.
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Sung, I.H., Yu, D.M., Yoon, Y.J. et al. Preparation and properties of sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone)/hydrophilic oligomer-g-CNT composite membranes for PEMFC. Macromol. Res. 21, 1138–1144 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13233-013-1136-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13233-013-1136-0