STTR Phase I: Modification of Ionomer Membranes to Improve Conductivity

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This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project will develop a method for improving the transmembrane conductivity of Nafion. This project proposes to develop a method for modifying the orientation of the conductive channels though which ions traverse in ionomer membranes. Shear forces that occur during membrane manufacture tend to cause orientation of the channels in a direction parallel to the membrane surface. The proposed modification to the membrane manufacturing process would orient these channels in a direction perpendicular to the membrane, and that preferred orientation would result in higher transmembrane transport. The proposed research will have a direct impact on variety of applications in which directional transport is essential. Specifically, this modification method would allow the manufacture of ionomer membranes with improved ionic conductivity in the direction that is most beneficial to reduction of power consumption in electrolyzers (utilized in the manufacture of chlorine and caustic and in the production of hydrogen) and increase in the power output of PEM fuel cells.