Macromolecular Research, Vol.21, No.10, 1138-1144, October, 2013
Preparation and properties of sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone)/hydrophilic oligomer-g-CNT composite membranes for PEMFC
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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.
Keywords:carbon nanotube;hydrophilic oligomer;composite membrane;low humidity condition;proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC)
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