Safe and Green Modified Ostrich Eggshell Membranes as Dual Functional Fuel Cell Membranes

Abstract

Two new natural-based membranes were prepared on the basis of modification of hierarchical interwoven ostrich eggshell membranes (OESMs). The modified OESMs were employed for both proton- and anion-exchange applications. For proton exchange, the surface of OESM was grafted by in situ polymerization of allyl sulfate in aqueous media. The modified membrane shows a good proton conductivity value of around 48 mS cm–1 in acidic solution. Also, OESM was quaternized, and hydroxide showed an acceptable conductivity in 1 M NaOH (about 40 mS cm–1).