Grantee Research Project Results
Investigation of High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
EPA Grant Number: U915836Title: Investigation of High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Investigators: Adjemian, Kevork T.
Institution: Princeton University
EPA Project Officer: Packard, Benjamin H
Project Period: September 1, 2000 through September 1, 2002
Project Amount: $102,000
RFA: STAR Graduate Fellowships (2000) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Fellowship - Chemistry and Materials Science , Academic Fellowships , Safer Chemicals
Objective:
The objective of the research study is to investigate and develop a next generation of high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs).
Approach:
The state-of-the-art electrolyte (Nafion (R)) has been modified in a variety of different ways and studied within a PEMFC. These modifications included varying the electrolyte's thickness and acid content to understand their role in water management, and doping the electrolyte with various hydrating inorganic compounds. These inorganic compounds consist of silicon oxide via sol-gel impregnation, silica particles, alumina particles, titania particles and aluminosilicate particles. By studying these different metal oxides, a theory can be developed based on the dopent's particle size, surface area, and pKa. All methods of membrane preparation produced a uniform, even distribution of the dopants within the nanopores of the electrolyte.
Expected Results:
The goal of this research is the development of membranes for PEMFCs that can operate above 100°C.
Supplemental Keywords:
proton exchange membrane fuel cells, Nafion, proton conductivity., Sustainable Industry/Business, RFA, Scientific Discipline, Technology for Sustainable Environment, Chemical Engineering, Sustainable Environment, Environmental Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry and Materials Science, New/Innovative technologies, Environmental Engineering, Nafion, proton exhange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), proton conductivity, high temperature, fuel cells, fuel cellProgress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.