Researcher(s)
- Jason Grumbine, Chemical Engineering, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Mukund Kabra, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware
Abstract
Nafion is a polyelectrolyte fluorocarbon polymer utilized in fuel cells as a proton exchange membrane. Nafion has exceptional thermal stability, mechanical stability, and conductivity. This study examines the morphology of dilute Nafion (0.1 – 1 wt %) with changes in concentration and solvent type. Varying these factors through experimentation allows for the identification of which dispersions produce the highest conductivity for fuel cell membrane performance and longevity. Experimentation was performed by conducting dynamic light scattering (DLS) and static light scattering (SLS) experiments at 20°C to analyze the impact of salt, concentration, and solvent on morphology. DLS data identifies potential aggregate formation and size distribution of particle populations. SLS data determines the molar mass and second virial coefficient through Zimm plot analysis. This data is compared to better understand Nafion morphology and inform which factors in dispersions most significantly impact conductivity for fuel cell performance.