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How to improve Nafion with tailor made annealing
Riccardo Narducci1,2, Philippe Knauth3,2, Jean-François Chailan4
1University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Industrial Engineering Via del Politecnico 1 00133 Roma Italy riccardo.narducci@uniroma2.it.
RSC Advances
|May 11, 2022
Summary
A novel annealing method enhances Nafion membrane stability for fuel cells. This process improves mechanical properties and ionic conductivity, crucial for efficient operation.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Nafion membranes are critical for fuel cells but suffer mechanical degradation.
- Layered morphologies reduce fuel cell performance.
- Ionic conductivity is linked to mechanical properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop a tailor-made annealing procedure for Nafion.
- Improve mechanical stability without compromising ionic conductivity.
- Optimize Nafion for intermediate temperature fuel cells.
Main Methods:
- Annealing Nafion at 140°C for 7 days with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO).
- Hydrothermal annealing in liquid water for controlled water uptake.
- Characterization using Ionomer nc Analysis (INCA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA).
Main Results:
- Annealing significantly enhances mechanical stability via crystalline phase formation.
- Layered morphologies are controlled, preventing performance decay.
- Optimized water uptake is achieved through tailored hydrothermal treatment.
Conclusions:
- The developed annealing procedure effectively stabilizes Nafion membranes.
- Stabilized Nafion shows promise for intermediate temperature fuel cells.
- Mechanical stabilization is key for long-term fuel cell durability.
