Proton exchange membrane (PEM) based fuel cells are the power system of choice for many applications including electric vehicles, but they require complex water recirculation and humidification systems for effective operation. Three anion exchange membranes identified in preliminary experiments conducted at ElectroChem form the basis for the proposed development of novel anion exchange membrane (AEM) based fuel cells. The membranes are OH ion conductive, chemically stable in hot caustic, and are not fouled by CO2. It is anticipated that AEM fuel cells will have all the advantages of PEM fuel cells, namely, no free electrolyte-associated materials problems, high power densities, and good reliability. AEM's are expected to have favorable water transport properties and would eliminate some of the problems related to water management, resulting in system simplification. It is further anticipated that the advantages of alkaline electrolytes-- rapid oxygen reduction kinetics and the possible use of non- noble metal electrocatalysts--will be maintained without the problem of CO2 intolerance. The result should be a simple, compact, and efficient power system for terrestrial and space power applications.
