Graphene-Based Materials as Proton-Conducting Membranes for Electrochemical Technologies

The membrane is a vital element in proton exchange membrane fuel cells, influencing the transport phenomena, durability, and overall performance. Due to the rapid advancement of novel membranes (such as graphene-based membranes), a thorough understanding of the properties of these new materials is essential. Graphene-based membranes, particularly graphene oxide (GO), offer a promising alternative for electrochemical applications thanks to their remarkable conductivity and the potential for further modification. This review explores recent strategies for the functionalization of GO with various substrates, emphasizing the effect of the introduced functionalities and their electrochemical performance. The impact of these modifications on the electrochemical performance of GO is discussed, highlighting how they can enhance proton transfer kinetics, improve conductivity, and provide specific functionalities for targeted applications. Ultimately, the current challenges and future directions in the field of functionalized GO are addressed, focusing on achieving even more precise control over functionalities to advance next-generation electrochemical devices.