Supramolecules impregnated proton electrolyte membranes

Recent advances on modification of ‘Nafion’ proton electrolyte membrane via impregnation of supramolecules have been reviewed with emphasis on improved performance of proton conductivity at high fuel cell operation temperatures. The incorporation of supramolecules such as hyperbranched (HB) polyester and ‘Noria’ was found not only to improve oxidative thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical stabilities, but also enhance proton conductivity at elevated temperatures. It may be hypothesized that the incorporated ‘Noria’ supramolecules act like solid proton carriers which in turn improve proton conduction of the impregnated Nafion.

► Successfully incorporated HB polyester into Nafion by swelling and crosslinking. ► Successfully impregnated ‘Noria’ supramolecules as solid proton carriers into Nafion. ► Proton storage capacity was increased in HB and Noria impregnated Nafion. ► High temperature proton conductivity was improved in HB and Noria modified Nafion.