Sulfonated Polyether Ether Ketone and Organosilica Layered Nanofiller for Sustainable Proton Exchange Membranes Fuel Cells (PEMFCs)

The ease and low environmental impact of its preparation, the reduced fuel crossover, cost, make sulfonated polyether ether ketone (sPEEK) a potential candidate to replace Nafion ionomer in proton exchange membrane cells (PEMFCs). In this study, sPEEK was used as polymer matrix for preparation nanocomposite electrolyte membranes by dispersing an organo-silica layered material properly functionalized anchoring high phosphonated (PO3H) ionic groups (nominated PSLM). sPEEK-PSLM were prepared solution intercalation method transport properties investigated NMR (diffusometry-PFG relaxometry-T1) EIS spectroscopies, whereas mechanical studied dynamic analysis (DMA). presence organosilica nanoplatelets remarkably improved strength, water retention capacity at temperatures, transport, particular under harsh operative conditions (above 100 °C 20–30% RH), usually required PEMFCs applications.