Exploring the development of natural biopolymer (chitosan)-based proton exchange membranes for fuel cells: A review
Fayaz Ahmad Doobi, Fasil Qayoom Mir
Abstract
Fuel cells use proton exchange membranes (PEMs) to transform a chemical energy into electricity. Hydrogen is the most common fuel used in fuel cells. PEMs are selective barriers that only let protons pass through, obstructing gases and other species like electrons. A polymer electrolyte is a substance containing both positively and negatively charged ions and generally used to create PEMs. Nafion is one perfluorinated sulfonic acid membrane, which is the most popular polymer used in PEMs. This substance exhibits great chemical stability, strong mechanical qualities, and high proton conductivity. PEMs have a number of issues, one of which is their propensity to degrade with time, especially at high temperatures and in the presence of pollutants. In order to address this, researchers are looking into new materials and methods to enhance the performance and durability of PEMs, such as adding nanomaterials, coming up with new polymer architectures, and establishing cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. Biopolymer based PEMs such as chitosan have demonstrated great potential to be used in PEMs. They are environmentally friendly and economical. However, the key challenge in using chitosan in fuel cells is their relatively poor ionic conductivity. Researchers have developed various strategies to improve their conductivity, such as doping with conductive materials or incorporating functional groups that enhance charge transfer. Overall, chitosan has shown promise as renewable and sustainable materials for use in fuel cells. The review summarizes the current development and evolution of chitosan-based PEMs.