Alkaline Anion Exchange Membranes for Fuel Cells- A Patent Review

Abstract

Recently, Alkaline Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (APEMFCs) have been attracting worldwide attention mainly due to the prospect of using non–platinum–group metal catalysts. In addition, there is growing evidence that these fuel cells can operate with the presence of carbonate. This mini review will introduce the state–of–the–art in understanding of alkaline anion–exchange membranes (AAEMs) in solid alkaline fuel cells. Ionomers for membrane electrode assembly (MEA) fabrication and the chemistry of the carbonate and bicarbonate forms of the AAEMs are also discussed. Key references to the latest scientific literature and reviews are included, along with a brief overview of directly relevant patents.