Structure and Dynamics in Ionic-Liquid Derived Materials for Next-Generation Fuel Cells

Research Project, 2013 – 2016

The Project Grant for Junior Researchers will be used to pursue a research program on the development of ionic-liquid derived materials for Fuel Cells. These materials are based on the nano-confinement of ionic liquids into silica and are also known as ionogels. Because ionic liquids are non-volatile and silica can retain a huge volume fraction of liquid, ionogels can exhibit high conductivities at temperatures considerably higher than for conventional proton exchange membranes (PEMs), like Nafion. This is a relevant property since a requirement has been set for PEMs to operate above 120 °C with the aim to facilitate the implementation of the Fuel Cell technology into the transport sector (see footnote 1 in App. A). The development of better performing ionogels, however, requires a deeper understanding of the relation between local structure and proton dynamic. To achieve this understanding on a molecular level, I will use a unique combination of advanced spectroscopic techniques like Raman and infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS), which allow to access the ìm-to-nm length scale. My goal is to succeed with the design of a material where the local structure at the silica/ionic-liquid interface is controlled and such that fast proton transfer is significantly enhanced. To this end I will follow a research plan that will lead me to the ultimate ionogel, prepared from an imidazole-added protic ionic liquid.

Participants

Funding

Related Areas of Advance and Infrastructure

Sustainable development

Driving Forces

More information

Latest update