Enhancing durability of polymer electrolyte membrane using cation size selective agents

Radical species generated during proton exchange membrane fuel cell operation considerably limit the achievable durability, particularly for heavy-duty vehicle applications. A promising solution to the problem is the incorporation of radical scavenger additives such as cerium which mitigates chemical attacks on the membrane. However, these additives migrate during fuel cell operation causing a loss in durability and performance due to detrimental interaction with various components of the fuel cell. Here, we study cation size selective agents as a means to immobilize cerium within perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes. We synthesized an organometallic complex of cerium with 15-Crown-5 and investigated the effectiveness of this complex to immobilize cerium. Over 300% increase in cerium retention and an 80% increase in chemical durability were observed owing to the stabilization effect of crown ethers on cerium. Migration under a potential gradient can be eliminated while the complex also contributes to the enhancement in cerium radical scavenging activity. Current challenges with the proposed solution are highlighted and future work is discussed.

Automated summary

Radical species generated during fuel cell operation limit the durability for heavy-duty vehicle applications. Incorporating radical scavenger additives like cerium mitigates chemical attacks, but their migration during operation reduces durability and performance. This study explores cation size selective agents to immobilize cerium within PFSA membranes. An organometallic complex of cerium with 15-Crown-5 significantly improves cerium retention and chemical durability. It also prevents migration and enhances cerium's radical scavenging activity.