Novel quaternized polysulfone/ZrO2 composite membranes for solid alkaline fuel cell applications

A novel composite anion exchange membrane, zirconia incorporated quaternized polysulfone (designated as QPSU/ZrO2), is prepared by solution casting method. The characteristic properties of the QPSU/ZrO2 composite polymer membranes are investigated by thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The morphology of the composite membrane is observed by SEM and TEM studies. A study of an alkaline membrane fuel cell (AMFC) operating with hydroxide ion conducting membrane is reported. Evaluation of the fuel cell is performed using membrane electrode assemblies made up of carbon supported platinum (Vulcan XC-72) anode and platinum cathode catalysts and QPSU/ZrO2 composite membrane. Experimental results indicate that the AMFC employing a cheap non-perflourinated (QPSU/ZrO2) composite polymer membrane shows better electrochemical performance. The maximum power density observed is 250 mW/cm2 for QPSU/10% ZrO2 at 60 °C. The QPSU/ZrO2 composite membrane constitutes a good candidate for alkaline membrane fuel cell applications.

► Composite membrane successfully prepared from QPSU and zirconia.
► Thermal stability of the composite membrane was confirmed by TGA.
► SEM and TEM revealed that zirconia were distributed uniformly.
► The prepared composite membrane was tested in in-house fuel cell setup.
► The maximum power density of 10% Zro2 was found to be 140 mWcm−2.