Development of novel membrane structures via radiation induced grafting and electrospinning technique for anion exchange membrane fuel cells

Development and commercialization of fuel cells, as an alternative to fossil fueled engines, are at its highest importance and urgency due to global climate change crisis. Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC) made a huge technological leap with the breakthrough of development of Nafion® membranes however its high catalysts and membrane costs hinders further developments. Anion Exchange Membranes Fuel Cells (AEMFC) doesn't require expansive Pt group catalysts to be efficient which can solve the cost problem, but it is still needed to develop a cheap, durable membrane with high anion conductivity and ion exchange capacity. Membranes with radiation-induced grafted polymers can provide good ion exchange capacity and conductivity while weakens the mechanical robustness. Therefore, we used dual electrospinning technique to fine tune mechanical properties without sacrificing the functionality. We have prepared anion conducting membranes for AEM fuel cells by a dual-electrospinning technique using inert poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) powders and radiation induced grafted PVDF with vinyl benzyl chloride (VBC) with various compositions. The dual fiber-based mats are hot-pressed, aminated and ion exchanged in this order. We have investigated and optimized the grafting levels, mechanical properties and morphologies of the duel electrospun membranes.