Organic composite membrane for hydrogen electrochemical conversion devices. (13th November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rico-Zavala, A.; Contreras-Martínez, M.V.; Murillo-Borbonio, I.; Cruz, J.C.; Espinosa-Lagunes, F.I.; Gurrola, M.P.; Arriaga, L.G.; Ledesma-García, J.
• Is Part Of: International journal of hydrogen energy. Volume 45:Number 56(2020)
• Page Start: 32493
• Page End: 32507
• Publication Date: 2020-11-13
• Subjects: Organic composite membranes -- Chitosan polymer -- Electrochemical hydrogen pumping -- Proton exchange membranes -- Hydrogen concentration; Hydrogen as fuel -- Periodicals; Hydrogène (Combustible) -- Périodiques; Hydrogen as fuel; Periodicals; 665.81
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2020.09.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-3199

Abstract

Abstract: In this research work a blend based on sulfonated poly (ether-ether ketone) (SPEEK) and chitosan was synthesized and characterized as ion-exchange membrane. The material was prepared at different ratio of chitosan: 1, 5 and 10% and characterized by several physicochemical and mechanical techniques. Also, water uptake, dimensional changes (swelling), ion exchange capacity (IEC) and proton conductivity ( σ H + ) were evaluated. The best SPEEK|Chitosan membrane ratio (S-CS 10%, according with proton effective mobility) was tested in a proton exchange fuel cell (PEMFC) as activation method at 37.5 °C, 100% RH, 3 bar (abs). Then, electrochemical hydrogen pumping (EHP) was tested, where 1796 mA cm −2 of limit current density at 1 V, 37.5 °C, 100% RH and 1 bar (abs) was measured by linear swept voltammetry at 50 mV s −1, low hydrogen crossover (even one order of magnitude less than commercial Nafion® membrane) and was possible hydrogen pumping at 600 mA cm −2 with 0.15 V for 1 h without any overheating caused by the applied current. Highlights: A blend based on SPEEK and chitosan was evaluated as membrane in PEM systems. The material was prepared at different ratio of chitosan and characterized. The best membrane was evaluated in a PEM fuel cell and compared with Nafion®. Electrochemical hydrogen pumping was tested with low hydrogen crossover. This blend polymer is a potential membrane for PEM-technologies.