Oxygen- and proton-transporting open framework ionomer for medium-temperature fuel cells

Jianwei Yang, Hengyu Xu, Jie Li, Ke Gong, Feiyu Yue, Xianghao Han, Ke Wu, Pengpeng Shao, Qingling Fu, Yuhao Zhu, Wenli Xu, Xin Huang, Jing Xie, Fengchao Wang, Wenxiu Yang, Teng Zhang, Zengshi Xu, Xiao Feng, Bo Wang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Medium-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (MT PEMFCs) operating at 100° to 120°C have improved kinetics, simplified thermal and water management, and broadened fuel tolerance compared with low-temperature PEMFCs. However, high temperatures lead to Nafion ionomer dehydration and exacerbate gas transportation limitations. Inspired by osmolytes found in hyperthermophiles, we developed α-aminoketone-linked covalent organic framework (COF) ionomers, interwoven with Nafion, to act as "breathable" proton conductors. This approach leverages synergistic hydrogen bonding to retain water, enhancing hydration and proton transport while reducing oxygen transport resistance. For commercial Pt/C, the MT PEMFCs achieved peak and rated power densities of 18.1 and 9.5 Watts per milligram of Pt at the cathode at 105°C fueled with H2 and air, marking increases of 101 and 187%, respectively, compared with cells lacking the COF.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1115-1120
Number of pages6
JournalScience
Volume385
Issue number6713
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 Sept 2024

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