US 2026/0121095 A1 · Advanced Ion Exchange Membranes And Applications Thereof

Abstract

Improved performance ion exchange membranes for use in PEM, AEM and DMFC fuel cells, buffered fuel cells, hydrolysis, other applications comprise a molecular matrix of homopolymers, di-monomer, heteropolymers, copolymers, or block-polymers of fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon compounds combined with (i) skeletal support grid to improve durability, handling, reduce membrane swelling, and sequester dopants and nanoparticles from leakage; (ii) microporous membrane formed using a sacrificial filler process enhancing conductivity and limiting fuel crossover; (iii) hetero-ionomeric matrix of two-or-more membrane-bound acids e.g. sulphonic and phosphonic acid expanding usable range; (iv) permanent fillers enhancing conductivity and porosity including nanoparticles, metal-oxides, zeolites, silicates, GOs, CNTs, MOFs, POSS, and others; (v) ionic liquid doping to enhance membrane conductivity; (vi) membrane nanocoating preventing H2O2 diffusion; and/or (vii) catalytic nanocoating with metals, metal-oxides, and MOFs preventing atmospheric toxin catalyst poisoning. Combined with a heterogenous GDL, the IEM is integrated into iBFC power blade and energy bank applications.

Claims21

Dependent claims

An ion exchange membrane comprising an electrically conductive polymer matrix capable of conducting either cations or anions but not both;

where the polymer contains a hydrophobic polymeric backbone providing structure and mechanical support to the membrane;
where hydrophilic functional groups are attached either directly onto the backbone or indirectly at the terminus of a sidechain pendant molecule bonded or grafted onto the polymer mainchain;
where the functional groups comprise a membrane bound acid or base readily ionized into an immobile anionic or cationic ionomer, by which mobile charged ions such as protons, hydronium, or hydroxide ions may attach and detach to facilitate hopping conduction through the polymeric matrix;
where the membrane contains a skeletal matrix of inert pillars circumscribing and subdividing the conductive ionomeric membrane into panes;
and
where the skeletal matrix chemically bonds to the panes of conductive ionomeric polymers forming a unitary ion conduction membrane having both mechanical strength and electrical conductivity.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Advanced Ion Exchange Membranes And Applications Thereof

Life of this patent

Advanced Ion Exchange Membranes And Applications Thereof

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims21