(Invited) A Stability Study of Alkali Doped PBI Membranes for Alkaline Electrolyzer Cells

Abstract

Polybenzimidazole membranes in a linear, a crosslinked and a thermally cured form were subjected to aging in 6 M aqueous KOH at 85 ºC for periods of up to 176 days. The aged membranes were characterized with respect to weight loss, mechanical properties and ionic conductivity. The area specific conductivity was similar to a commercial Zirfon membrane and suitable for a water electrolyzer. Some chemical degradation was seen during the aging period, but the crosslinked and the cured materials were both integral after 176 days of aging. A simplified electrolyzer test cell was operated successfully.