Properties of proton-conducting Nafion-type membranes with Nanometer-thick polyaniline surface layers

The study is directed to the improving of proton-conducting Nafion-type membranes for using in fuel cells with direct oxidation of liquid fuels. Nanometer-thick layer of polyaniline (in its conducting emerald-dine form) was deposited onto the membrane surface by in situ polymerization. The structure of the polyaniline layer is studied, as well as the properties of thus modified membranes (electronic and proton conduction, permeability for methanol, thermal stability). A method of platinum catalyst deposition onto the Nafion-modifying polyaniline layer is developed.