Permeant transport properties and cell performance of potassium hydroxide doped poly(vinyl alcohol)/fumed silica nanocomposites

▶ Fumed silica nano-particles promote water diffusivity and ionic conductivity. ▶ Methanol permeability is suppressed in fumed silica-containing membrane. ▶ Fuel cell performance is improved for electrolytes with fumed silica. ▶Cell performance depends on electrolyte's properties and operating condition.