PBI-based composite membranes for polymer fuel cells

In the present study poly(2,2-(2,6-pyridin)-5,5-bibenzimidazole) was used for the preparation of novel MEAs for high-temperature polymer fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs). We prepared hybrid materials with two types of silica fillers in order to increase the MEA performances using this polymer. The membranes were characterized in terms of their microstructure and thermal stability. Cell operation tests and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy were used for the characterization of the MEAs. A maximum power density of about 80 mW cm−2 was obtained at 300 mA cm−2 by using an imidazole-modified silica filler. The EIS technique showed that the fillers chiefly help to reduce the charge transfer resistance of the cathodic side. The gas transfer resistance may be neglected with respect to Rct, at least at low current densities.