Improved High Temperature Polymer Electrolytes for Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cells--Foster-Miller, Inc., 350 Second Avenue, Waltham, MA 02154-1104; (781) 684-4239
Dr. Robert F. Kovar, Principal Investigator
Mr. Adi R. Guzdar, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82585
Amount: $74,999

This project will develop a low cost, high temperature solid polymer electrolyte membrane for use in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells. The proposed membrane will lower cost, improve power density and reduce sensitivity to carbon monoxide in the hydrogen fuel. It may also alleviate water management problems which are limiting the efficiency of present Nafion based fuel cells. The project will produce a thin, peroxide-stable, microcomposite fuel cell membrane consisting of a microporous, high temperature polymer matrix impregnated with an ion-conducting, sulfonated aromatic polyimide polymer. These membranes will be designed with the capability of operating at temperatures up to or above 150°C. The membranes will be catalyzed into membrane/electrode assemblies and evaluated for performance in fuel cell test fixtures at various operating temperatures.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: This new membrane technology will provide a clean, quiet, efficient, lightweight and high density power source useful over a wide range of applications, from portable computers to electric vehicles. In addition, this work could result in a reduction of fuel cell membrane costs by at least an order of magnitude, which would make them cost effective for automotive applications.