Polybenzimidazole‐Based Membranes as a Real Alternative to Nafion for Fuel Cells Operating at Low Temperature

Abstract

Filler up! Composite proton-conducting membranes, based on polybenzimidazole (PBI) and imidazole-derivatized silica are presented. The addition of even small amounts (∼10 wt %) of filler causes an outstanding improvement in the permanent proton conductivity by a factor <103. The preparation of PBI composite membranes with basic functionalities is a promising way to make possible their use in PEMFCs operating around 120 °C, that is, the temperature required for automotive applications. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2089/2008/adma200701767_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.