An electron-beam-grafted ETFE alkaline anion-exchange membrane in metal-cation-free solid-state alkaline fuel cells

A novel, physically strong, quaternary-ammonium-functionalised radiation-grafted ETFE alkaline anion-exchange membrane (AAEM) has been developed for application in fuel cells without undesirable addition of M+OH− into the anode fuel stream, thereby facilitating stable performances and long term operational lifetimes. A promising H2/O2 fuel cell peak power performance of 130 mW cm−2 was obtained for an alkaline membrane electrode assembly, while a maximum power density of 8.5 mW cm−2 was obtained in a metal-cation-free methanol/O2 fuel cell. Mass transport phenomena in the electrodes and inadequate interface between the membrane and electrodes were identified as the major limiters of power performance; the need for electrode architectures to be optimised for alkaline membrane fuel cells was identified.