Advancements in Fuel Cell Technology: Next-Gen Membranes and Platinum Nanoclusters.

Researchers at Nagoya University in Japan have developed a new ultra-high-density sulfonic acid polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) for fuel cells, which can be used for vehicles and combined heat and power systems. The PEM has an ultrahigh density of sulfonic acid groups, resulting in a proton conductivity of 0.93 S/cm at 80°C under 90%RH, which is six times higher than the conductivity of typical commercially available PEMs such as Nafion or Selemion under the same measurement conditions. This study will contribute to the synthesis and development of next-generation higher-performance PEMs exhibiting a good conductivity of 0.1 S/cm or higher under severe conditions.