Layer-by-layer self-assembly of composite polyelectrolyte-nafion membranes for direct methanol fuel cells

A novel composite polyelectrolyte-Nafion membrane is demonstrated that is fabricated using the layer-by-layer self-assembly of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes. A direct methanol fuel cell based on such a membrane is shown to achieve a significant reduction in methanol crossover (see figure) and an increase in power density of 42 %, in comparison to that which uses a pristine Nafion membrane.