Polypyrrole and polyaniline-based membranes for fuel cell devices: A review

Due to the hydrophobic nature of the fluorocarbon backbone, Nafion membranes are the most preferred for high H+ conductivity. However, the limitations of this membrane include a higher price, pH splitting, and bio-fouling, which has prompted researchers to search for a better membrane. Polymer electrolyte membranes for fuel cells can be constructed using conducting polymers such as polyaniline (PANI) and polypyrrol (PPy). The conductivity of these membranes may be increased by doping techniques, resulting in composite conducting polymer membranes, and researchers are now involved in exploring this new possibility. A detailed discussion of conducting polymers, especially PANI and PPy, as well as their applications as polymer electrolyte membrane components, is provided in this review. For practical DMFC applications, they are also examined in terms of their influence on methanol crossover, H+-conductivity, gas diffusion, and thermal stability of composite membranes.

Automated summary

Due to the hydrophobic nature of the fluorocarbon backbone, Nafion membranes are preferred for high H+ conductivity. However, they are limited by a higher price, pH splitting, and bio-fouling, leading researchers to search for better alternatives. Conducting polymers like polyaniline and polypyrrol can be used as electrolyte membranes for fuel cells, and their conductivity can be enhanced through doping techniques. This review provides a detailed discussion on these conducting polymers and their applications, particularly in composite membranes, and evaluates their effects on methanol crossover, H+-conductivity, gas diffusion, and thermal stability for practical DMFC applications.