High Molecular Weight Copolymer Alkaline Fuel Cell Membrane via Miniemulsion Polymerization

A novel copolymer, named QPMBV (quaternized poly (methyl methacrylate-co-butyl acrylate-co-vinyl benzylchloride), PMBV) has been synthesized as the solid alkaline electrolyte in AFC. Miniemulsion polymerization has been used to achieve high molecular weight to enhance mechanical property. GPC (Gel permeation chromatography), H1-NMR (Proton nuclear magnetic resonance), and DSC (Differential scanning calorimetry) techniques were employed to characterize the copolymer. Performance tests were carried out to show the potential of this AEM, as the peak power can reach 25mW/cm2 at the current of 40mA/cm2 in the relative humidity of 80% at 60°.