GINER INC — Department of Energy SBIR Phase II: 09b

Description

The non-aqueous ionomer dispersion technology has demonstrated great potential to significantly improve the lifetime of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells and electrolyzers. However, further improvements and scale-ups are needed to make this technology commercially viable. The overall objective of this project is to further develop and commercialize non-aqueous ionomer dispersion technology. The ionomer dispersions have been screened via a large library of solvents. It will be integrated with dimension-stabilized membrane (DSM) platform to create more durable membrane and electrode assemblies (MEAs) for PEM fuel cells and electrolyzers. In our Phase II project, we have successfully demonstrated improved durability of fuel cells and electrolyzers using non-aqueous ionomers, via accelerated stress test and real cell tests. This ionomer dispersion technology has been successfully combined with DSM technology to create more durable MEAs. In the Phase II B project, we will further develop this technology in more processable, scalable and profitable ways. We will use a roll-to-roll process to make full-sized MEAs that combine nonaqueous ionomer dispersion and DSMs. We will evaluate these MEAs in more extensive and practical conditions and explore their potential markets.Commercial Applications and Other Benefits The successful completion of this project will improve the durability and performance of PEM fuel cells and electrolyzers, significantly reducing the cost of fuel cell vehicles. This will lead to a widespread deployment of fuel cell vehicles, which will relieve the nation’s heavy dependence on imported oil and reduce air pollutants.