Increasing the service life of polymer electrolyte fuel cells with a nanodispersed ionomer

Protons (subatomic particles) can be transferred from the anode to the cathode through the ionomer membrane in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC). Scientists can extend proton pathways by impregnating the ionomer (type of polymer) into the electrodes to achieve improved proton transfer efficiency. Since the impregnated ionomer can mechanically bind catalysts within the electrode, they are known as a binder. In a new report on Science Advances, Chi-Yeong Ahn and a research team introduced a simple approach to use a supercritical fluid and prepare a homogenous nanoscale dispersion of binder material in aqueous alcohol. The preparation showed high dispersion character, crystallinity and proton conductivity for high performance and durable applications in a PEFC cathode electrode.