Enhanced Electrochemical Performance via GO-APTS / Nafion Membranes for PEM Fuel Cells and Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries

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Nafion®, is a widely used ion-exchange membrane in PEM Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) and Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (VRFBs). This polymer offers high proton conductivity but suffers from limitations, including vanadium ion crossover in VRFBs and decreased performance under low humidity in PEMFCs. To address these issues, this study explores the incorporation of 3-(aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTS)-functionalised graphene oxide (GO-APTS) into Nafion membranes to enhance hydrophilicity and ion selectivity [1,2]. The GO-APTS was synthesized via covalent functionalization and integrated into Nafion to form mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) with loadings of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 wt.%. Characterization techniques such as Raman confirmed the homogeneous dispersion of GO-APTS within the polymer matrix. In PEMFC applications, the APTS-EGO membranes demonstrated improved water retention and significantly reduced ohmic resistance, achieving a peak power density of 1.33 W cm⁻² at 60 °C and 70% relative humidity, which represents approximately 200% improvement over commercial Nafion 212 under similar conditions [1]. In VRFB testing, the membranes showed a notable 13.7% reduction in vanadium ion permeability at 0.2 wt.% GO-APTS loading, compared to commercial Nafion. Long-term cycling over 200 charge/discharge cycles confirmed reduced capacity fade, maintaining comparable proton conductivity and system resistance while decreasing the thickness of the membrane [2]. This work highlights the dual functionality of GO-APTS modified Nafion membranes, offering a promising route to enhanced efficiency and durability in both fuel cell and flow battery technologies. [1] Parra-Puerta, et al. Enhanced water management using nafion matrix mixed membranes to improve PEM fuel cell performance by the incorporation of covalent functionalized electrochemical exfoliated graphene oxide. (Under review). [2] Elliot Craddock et al. Ultrathin composite Nafion membranes to enhance the efficiency of Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries. (Manuscript in preparation)

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