Using multiple x-ray characterization tools, researchers showed how chemical and structural changes improve the performance of a novel ion-conducting polymer (ionomer) membrane from 3M Company.
In fuel cells (which generate clean power from hydrogen fuel) and electrolyzers (water-splitting devices that produce hydrogen fuel), positive and negative electrodes are separated by membranes composed of ion-conducting polymers (ionomers). These membranes prevent contact between the electrodes—thus avoiding catastrophic failure—while allowing selective passage of ions to complete the circuit.
Generally, such membranes are based on a class of perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) ionomers with remarkable proton conductivity and stability. Recently, however, companies such as 3M have been developing new ionomers with improved performance. In this work, researchers took a closer look at the structural and chemical properties of these materials at the nanometer scale. The resulting insights provide valuable guidance on design strategies for optimally performing ionomers.
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Image: Resonant x-ray scattering (RXS) and x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) with elemental sensitivity unravel structural features and chemical factors affecting morphology and ion transport in proton-conducting membranes.