A Novel PTFE-Reinforced Multilayer Self-Humidifying Composite Membrane for PEM Fuel Cells

摘要

A novel polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-reinforced multilayer self-humidifying composite membrane is developed. The membrane is composed of Nafion-impregnated porous PTFE composite as the central layer and nanosized SiO_2 supported Pt catalyst imbedded into Nation as the two side layers. The proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells employing the self-humidifying membrane (20 mu m thick) under dry H_2/O_2 gave a peak power density of 0.95 W/cm~2 and an open-circuit voltage of 1.032 V. The good membrane performance is attributed to hygroscopic Pt-SiO_2 catalyst at the two side layers, which results in enhanced anode side self-humidification function and decreased cathode polarization.