Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide In fuel cells, hydrocarbon proton exchange membranes (HC PEMs) suffer from insufficient chemical stability caused by oxidative aging, hampering their commercial viability. Using sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) as a model HC PEM, we conduct a first-of-its-kind systematic screening of relevant antioxidants, combining ex situ Fenton tests and in situ fuel cell tests. Ionic additives based on cerium, as well as phosphonic-acid-derived (12-phosphonododecyl)phosphonic acid (PDPA), are found to significantly increase membrane lifetime. While ionic additives impart a performance penalty, PDPA proves to be not only an effective antioxidant but also benign regarding cell performance, revealing its potential for use in HC PEMs.
Source: ACS Applied Energy Materials
Authors: Zongyi Han, Victor Prely, Michael Yandrasits, Hong Ren, William Bangay, Torben Saatkamp, Lorenz Gubler
Institutions: Paul Scherrer Institute, Johnson Matthey (United Kingdom)
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,500
Funder: Johnson Matthey
Award: G3954245420
OpenAlex ID: W7127268538