Description:
<jats:p> Anionic exchange membrane fuel cell is a promising new technology which potentially meets the challenges faced by other low-temperature fuel cells like Proton-exchange membranes. Anionic exchange membrane can be operated with non-noble catalyst. To design a robust material which is hydroxide conductive, chemically stable and mechanically strong is the biggest challenge to make this technology commercial. This research focuses on the characterization of a novel anionic exchange membrane with PTFE backbone. The experimental ion-exchange capacity of this polymer is 0.9 mmol/gm. The conductivity of this membrane was measured in its chloride form. We observed the highest value of 0.039 S/cm conductivity at 80 <jats:sup>0</jats:sup>C and 95%RH. The polymer also shows water uptake of 11 % and λ value of 6.8 at 60 <jats:sup>0</jats:sup>C and 95% RH. The small-angle x-ray scattering analysis of this membrane shows the polymer’s ionomer peak and we understand that the swelling of the polymer is higher at higher temperature. From this analysis, this material can be expected to exhibit higher hydroxide conductivities and good mechanical stability and hence this polymer is a promising candidate for anionic exchange membranes. </jats:p>
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<jats:bold>Keywords:</jats:bold> Anionic exchange membrane, PTFE backbone</jats:p>
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<jats:p>Figure 1</jats:p>
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