Properties of PVA membranes for alkaline fuel cells

摘要

Low-temperature alkaline fuel cells are prospective sources of electric energy. They have large benefits in terms of energy efficiency and environmental protection. Fuel-cell technology is currently at the beginning of practical use in mobile and stationary power equipments. Fuel cells operate in contrast to primary cells in continuous mode, thanks to continual supply of fuel and oxidant to the anode and to the cathode. Commercially produced membranes are usually very expensive, thereby increasing the cost of terminal equipment. One of the alternatives to commercial membranes are PVA membranes, which can be suitable for using in low-temperature alkaline fuel cells (1) and also excel with favourable price.