Mechanisms of morphology development and water motion in proton exchange membranes

M. A. Hickner

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Two critical parameters of nanophase morphology and water motion are discussed in the design of proton exchange membranes (PEMs). While much has been learned about the function of proton exchange membranes by studying poly(perfluorosulfonic acid) and sulfonated aromatic polymers, new generations of electrolytes for aqueous applications are being developed that push the limits of ion conductivity and small molecule transport rates in water-absorbing polymers. The utility of employing block copolymers has been demonstrated to concentrate and affect long-range connectivity of ionic domains, but the details of how ions arrange in these systems are still to be explored. Examples of block copolymer proton exchange membranes and their usefulness in understanding membrane function will be reviewed. Additionally, water motion in PEMs is critical to achieving sufficient proton conductivity. The relationship between water motion and conductivity can be used to design new materials with insight of the water-polymer interactions in the system.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationPolymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells 10, PEFC 10
Pages51-55
Number of pages5
Edition1 PART 1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2010
Event10th Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Symposium, PEFC 10 - 218th ECS Meeting - Las Vegas, NV, United States
Duration: Oct 10 2010Oct 15 2010

Publication series

NameECS Transactions
Number1 PART 1
Volume33
ISSN (Print)1938-5862
ISSN (Electronic)1938-6737

Other

Other10th Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Symposium, PEFC 10 - 218th ECS Meeting
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityLas Vegas, NV
Period10/10/1010/15/10

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Engineering

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