A preliminary investigation on reinforced double layer Nafion membranes for high temperature PEFCs application

Double layer recast Nafion (R) membranes reinforced using a polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) support were developed for PEFCs application at T-cell > 110 degrees C, low humidification and pressure. The investigation of chemical-physical properties suggested a probable interaction between PET and Nafion matrices. Electrochemical tests in a 25 cm(2) H-2/air PEFC between 80 and 140 degrees C were carried using a pure Nafion as a reference. A short time test supplied an average stable current density of about 400 mA cm (2) (0.5 V) for reinforced membrane against an unstable trend of reference. High current densities of 530 mA cm (2) and 330 mA cm (2) (0.6 V) were obtained for N-PET at unusual temperatures (130-140 degrees C). (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.