CHARACTERIZATION AND FABRICATION OF PROTON EXCHANGE MEMBRANE FOR GREEN HYDROGEN GENERATION

Abstract

In this study, the initial step involved the synthesis of a proton exchange membrane (sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK)). Subsequently, the performance of the SPEEK polymer was enhanced by incorporating sulphonated Zr-MOF808.With the increase in the content of sulphonated Zr-MOF nanoparticles, the suitable sulfonating site (fixed negative charges) in SPEEK polymer will increase. This was accomplished by probe sonication of Sulphonated Zr-MOF808 at various weight percentages (1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% polymer) in a solvent, followed by the subsequent mixing of SPEEK polymer. After well mixed, the membrane was casted and the sample was prepared for testing as per the testing requirements. Characterization of SPEEK polymer and nano-composite polymer (SZM/SPEEK) was conducted including Water Uptake %, Membrane Swelling%, TGA, Tensile Strength, Membrane Conductivity, Ion Exchange Capacity (IEC), Current-Voltage (I-V) relations, Contact Angle, FESEM and Viscosity. As per the characterization, results, and discussions, there was an enhancement of the -SO3H active sites within the membrane, which helps in enhancing the H+ path in the membrane. The proton conductivity of the membrane rises by 0.0065 S/cm2 on an average value, a decrease in the slope of the Current-Voltage graph and an increase in the Ion Exchange Capacity of the membrane by 0.6 meq per gram of polymer, suggested that an increase in sulphonation sites in the membrane. Control water uptake and hydrophilicity of the membrane are also achieved in a good manner. There is also an improvement in the strength of the membrane as per the tensile graph. The Nano-Particles are well dispersed in the membrane solution which was concluded from the viscosity graph as it shows Newtonian behavior and has a constant viscosity. The thermal stability of the membrane decreased as the nanoparticles decomposed before the decomposition of the SPEEK polymer.