Radiation-grafted anion-exchange membranes: the switch from low- to high-density polyethylene leads to remarkably enhanced fuel cell performance

Herein we detail the development of a new high-density polyethylene-(HDPE)-based radiation-grafted anion-exchange membrane (RG-AEM) that achieves a surprisingly high peak power density and a low in situ degradation rate (with configurations tailored to each). We also show that this new AEM can be successfully paired with an exemplar non-Pt-group cathode. Broader context: A primary motivation for the development of anion-exchange membrane (AEM) fuel cells (AEMFCs) is the broader range of sustainable, non-precious-metal catalysts that are feasible; if costs are lowered enough, AEMFCs would be deployable in a range of stationary power sectors (e.g. back-up and off-grid). However, as the performance of AEMFCs typically drop when Pt-based electrodes are replaced with non-Pt types, it is essential that the highest performing polyelectrolytes are developed, both membranes and ionomers (the latter incorporated to impart ionic conductivity in the electrodes). The findings with the high conductivity AEM reported herein will also be of interest to developers of AEMs for metal–air and redox-flow batteries, electrolysers (both H2O → H2 and CO2 → high-value chemicals and fuels), and salinity gradient power.