Researchers have discovered a way to produce ultra-strong film-like membranes that could extend the durability of decarbonization technologies.
University of Queensland chemical engineers are using complex construction techniques to produce ultra-thin membranes that improve the reliability, efficiency and longevity of key clean energy systems.
Dr. Wang Juyuan and Professor Zhang Xiwang From UQ Faculty of Chemical Engineering The membranes that transport ions in fuel cells, batteries, and electrolyzers are often not strong enough to withstand harsh operating conditions, he said.
“However, strengthening these films usually means sacrificing valuable electrochemical qualities, which affects the performance of the devices in which they are used,” Dr. Wang said.
“Our study shows that there is no need to make such compromises.”
Dr. Wang and Professor Zhang used a “nanoconfinement polymerization strategy” to control chemical bonding reactions within small nanoscale channels.
“In such a small space, there is no room for the polymer to grow in a disorderly manner,” Zhang said.
“Because they are forced to pack neatly and tightly, the membrane becomes very dense and very strong, making it excellent for passing target ions quickly and efficiently.”
(Photo courtesy of the University of Queensland)
The membrane has approximately twice the tensile strength of conventional products while maintaining superior flexibility and can withstand 100,000 bends while maintaining mechanical integrity.
Importantly, the researchers say this manufacturing method can also be applied to other thin-film technologies.
“The conductivity and selectivity of the new membrane exceeds both commercially available membranes and membranes reported in the literature, and the ion exchange capacity is about 20 percent higher,” said Dr. Wang.
Dr. Wang said the next step will be to encourage research into how nanochannel polymerization strategies can be adapted for scalable production.
“Fine-tuning how these small films are made has the potential to improve the efficiency, output, and operational stability of many electrochemical devices for decarbonization,” said Dr. Wang.
The research content is published In natural synthesis.
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