Cross-Linked Anion Exchange Membranes for AEMFC

The effect of cross-linker and its apparent impact on AEM properties will be the focus of this study. Two different cross-linkers were chosen, one has an amino-ether group and the other, has a trymethylhexadecyl amine group. These two cross-linkers have a fundamental difference, where the amino-ether is more hydrophilic and therefore would improve membrane's conductivity and may prevent membrane’s drying out. The properties and the chemical stability of the membrane with these two cross-linkers were investigated. Swelling measurements were examined at various temperatures for both types of samples. Indeed, water uptake were found to be higher for the amino-ether cross-linker. However, degradation measurements analyzed by Elemental Analysis, indicated that the membrane cross-linked by amino-ether group degraded faster at high temperature and pH conditions. Thus, the ether linkage in the cross-linker has a negative influence on the thermal and alkaline stability of the membrane.