Nafion-based composite electrolytes for proton exchange membrane fuel cells operating above 120 °C with titania nanoparticles and nanotubes as fillers

Nafion/titania-based fillers composites are prepared by casting and tested in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) operating at elevated temperatures (130 °C). Three types of titania-based fillers are studied: nanoparticles with nearly spherical shape, mesoporous particles with high surface...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of power sources 2011-02, Vol.196 (3), p.1061-1068
Main Authors: Matos, B.R., Santiago, E.I., Rey, J.F.Q., Ferlauto, A.S., Traversa, E., Linardi, M., Fonseca, F.C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Composite
Direct energy conversion and energy accumulation
Electrical engineering. Electrical power engineering
Electrical power engineering
Electrochemical conversion: primary and secondary batteries, fuel cells
Electrolytes
Energy
Energy. Thermal use of fuels
Equipments for energy generation and conversion: thermal, electrical, mechanical energy, etc
Exact sciences and technology
Fillers
Fuel cells
Materials
Nafion
Nanoparticles
Nanotubes
PEM fuel cell
Surface area
Titanates
Titania
Titanium dioxide
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Summary:Nafion/titania-based fillers composites are prepared by casting and tested in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) operating at elevated temperatures (130 °C). Three types of titania-based fillers are studied: nanoparticles with nearly spherical shape, mesoporous particles with high surface area, and hydrogen titanate nanotubes. Properties of composites related to PEMFC operation, such as water absorption/retention and proton conductivity, are determined and correlated with microstructural data obtained by small-angle X-ray scattering. The addition of titanate nanotubes changes more markedly the physical properties of the composite electrolytes as compared to titanium oxide nanoparticles with different surface area, a feature probably related to the intrinsic hydration and proton conductivity of the nanotubes. Polarization curves of H 2/O 2 PEMFCs using composite electrolytes indicate that composite electrolytes contribute to a significant boost of H 2/O 2 PEMFC performance at 130 °C.
ISSN:0378-7753
1873-2755
DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2010.08.025