Ionic Liquid-Polymer Impregnated Nafion Electrolytes

Abstract

Increased interest in the use of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells at elevated temperature has prompted the exploration of the incorporation of ionic liquids into Nafion membranes. Nation has superior performance characteristics at lower temperatures; however its performance degrades as the membrane loses water at elevated temperatures. The incorporation of ionic liquids may serve several functions including acting as a plastizer or serving to increase the thermal stability of the Nafion composite material. Preliminary results on the conductivity of ionic liquid-Nafion composites at elevated temperatures are reported.