Advanced nano-engineered composite membranes for next generation of alcohol fuel cell sensors

酒精燃料电池传感器（ACFSs）因其在人体呼吸酒精浓度检测方面的巨大潜力而受到广泛关注。与ACFS相关的一个主要技术障碍是，在极端的温度或湿度环境下，由于质子交换膜和催化剂层脱水，传感器的性能会下降。我们解决这一问题的方法是利用酸功能化纳米材料和各种聚合物电解质（PFSA或多孔聚苯并咪唑）开发独特的、具有成本效益的低湿度复合膜。最终目标是为商用燃料电池传感器开发具有优异稳定性的新型复合膜和膜电极组件。

Alcohol fuel cell sensors (ACFSs) have attracted considerable attention due to their great potential in the detection of human breath alcohol concentration. One major technical barrier specifically associated with ACFS is a performance decrease of the sensor due to dehydration of the proton exchange membrane and catalyst layers, which occurs at environmental extremes of temperature or humidity. Our approach to solve this problem is to develop unique, cost-effective, low-humidity composite membranes using acid-functionalized nano-materials with various polymeric electrolytes (PFSA or porous polybenzimidazole). The ultimate goal is to develop novel composite membranes and membrane electrode assemblies with excellent stability for commercial fuel cell sensors. This research will strengthen our partnership with Alcohol Countermeasure Systems Corp., building on our previous NSERC Engage project successfully developing this technology. The results will help enhance the performance and stability of fuel cell sensors, and reduce their cost. They will also expand and enhance the capabilities of the relevant Canadian industry, contributing to the development of a knowledge-based Canadian economy. The research could bring revolutionary advances in fuel cell sensor technology by taking advantage of the most recent progress in nanotechnology. The proposed activities will also train highly qualified personnel who will be critical in the development of next generation technology in Canada and globally.