Efficient energy generation that limits greenhouse gas emission is one of the grand challenges of the 21st century. The Energy Information Administration indicates that U.S. demand for energy continues to rise at a rate faster than its population growth. Full penetration of efficient hydrogen fuel cell vehicles into the transportation sector could significantly reduce the projected U.S. dependence on petroleum products. Environmental benefits of fuel cells are equally attractive, and fuel cells will play a major role in reducing urban air pollution and mitigating climate change.
The proton exhange membrane is the heart of the fuel cell and serves to block reagent gases and electrons while permitting protonic cations to pass. We are developing proton exchange membranes that have stable nanostructured order that provide pathways for protons to travel from the anode to the cathode. Our studies involve sulfonated polyimide membranes that require water, and heterocyle derived membranes that have liquid crystalline character.
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