Preparation of anion-exchange membrane by plasma polymerization and its use in alkaline fuel cells

A 4-vinylpyridine-based anion-exchange membrane was prepared by plasma polymerization. Scanning electron microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the membrane had uniformly thin and highly cross-linked form. The membrane was ca. 10 μm thick and its effective resistance was remarkably lower than that of a commercial membrane. In addition, modification of carbon-supported platinum with the plasma-membrane enhanced hydrogen oxidation at the gas diffusion electrode due to an increase in the triple-phase boundary. Therefore, it is shown that plasma treatment is very useful for improving the performance of alkaline fuel cell using anion-exchange membrane.