Triblock copolymer ionomer membranes Part II. Structure characterization and its effects on transport properties and direct methanol fuel cell performance

摘要: Abstract In this study, the morphology, transport properties, selectivity, and direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) performance of a triblock copolymer ionomer, sulfonated poly(styrene–isobutylene–styrene) (S-SIBS), were investigated. The structure S-SIBS membranes, ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 meq/g, was characterized using small-angle X-ray scattering revealed lamellar morphology with preferred orientation in plane membrane. Subsequently, proton conductivity measured normal membrane over 10 times lower than when , compared only 2.5 difference between two techniques Nafion 117. When resulting selectivities (i.e. conductivity/methanol permeability) membranes are similar A previous study [J. Membrane Sci. 217 (2003) 227] reports 5–10 higher 117 conductivities . addition, DMFC (1.0 meq/g) that These significant differences properties respect polymer provide new insights into designing oriented nanostructures electrolyte for enhanced applications.