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Thesis
Transport in fuel cell ion exchange membranes: molecular mechanisms and mathematical modeling
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Dec 2011
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-3898
Abstract
Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are promising as high-efficiency energy conversion devices, but the need for expensive noble metal catalysts such as Pt has hindered commercialization. An alternative is the alkaline membrane fuel cell (AMFC), which intrinsically possesses faster kinetics at the cathode, enabling noble metals to be replaced by Co, Ag, Fe, or Ni. In order to compete with PEMFCs (i.e. achieve 1.0 W/cm2 power density), AMFCs require improved membranes. In particular, membranes must achieve conductivities of ~0.1 S/cm and be thermally, chemically, and mechanically stable. The membrane mass transport phenomena governing conduction should be clearly understood in order to efficiently develop new materials. In particular, there is need for an improved, molecularlevel understanding of the relationship between membrane water content and membrane conductivity, as well as an elucidation of the kinetic mechanism causing membrane carbonation. The dependency of conductivity on membrane water content is explored using Fourier Transform Infrared Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy with twodimensional correlation techniques, and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The particular role that specific water cluster states play during transport is elucidated, and the transient behavior associated with membrane carbonation is explored.
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Details
- Title
- Transport in fuel cell ion exchange membranes
- Creators
- Erich J. Mace - DU
- Contributors
- Yossef A. Elabd (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Chemical (and Biological) Engineering [Historical]; College of Engineering (1970-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 3898; 991014632701504721