The effect of ultrasound on Nafion® Polymer in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs)

Momand, Haroon (2013). The effect of ultrasound on Nafion® Polymer in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate whether there is a limiting parameter (time, frequency, power) in ultrasonic treatment that ensures Nafion®’s functionality in the PEMFC. Sonication of Nafion® solutions over various periods of times revealed a steady decrease in viscosity however, at a minimum irradiation time and a fixed ultrasonic frequency an increase in the viscosity of Nafion® polymer was observed. This was attributed to the fact that scission of polymer bonds caused by ultrasound (i.e. depolymerisation) supplies new chain carriers for polymerisation. Under carefully chosen conditions, it was possible to initiate polymerization reactions using ultrasound.

Various analytical methods were used such as Rheology to measure viscosity, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Spectroscopic method GC MS to elucidate any changes in Nafion® structure, chemical and physical properties following ultrasound irradiation.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):