Ionic liquid/polybenzimidazole/SiO2 composite membranes for medium temperature operating

Abstract

Fuel cells (FC) with proton exchange membranes (PEMs) are seen as an alternative energy source due to their efficiency, power density, low emissions, and reliable energy supply. Proton exchange membranes based on polybenzimidazole have shown potential for operating at high and medium temperatures to enhance FCs performance. New composite membranes made from m-PBI and diethylammonium mesylate [DEAH/MsO] ionic liquid were prepared trough a solution casting method. Silica nanopowder (SiO₂) was used as an inorganic filler at varying concentrations (0.5–20 wt%). The ionic liquid content in the membranes ranged from 1 to 2.5 mol per mole of PBI monomer units. Our study is focused on the thermal properties, such as thermal stability and phase transition temperatures, morphology, conductivity, and electrochemical stability of the membranes. The influence of the inorganic filler on these properties was also discussed.