High Temperature PEM

Technology Marketing SummaryPolymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) have been identified as an attractive electrical power source due to it having a higher efficiency level and being an environmental friendly energy source.  In comparison with other types of fuel cells, PEFCs have a high power density, low weight to power ratio, and utilize a proton exchange membrane (PEM) as its electrolyte.  Some types of membranes that are in use have displayed issues such as reduced conductivity and membranes dehydration at high temperatures. DescriptionSandia National Laboratories has created an improved composition for producing proton exchange membranes for use in fuel cells, electrode casting solutions, and in sulfur dioxide electrolyzers.  This invention features an innovative crosslinked sulfonated poly (phenylene) copolymer composition.  The crosslinked feature will remove the issues that previous types of membranes had and will result in membranes that are tougher, have high termperature capabilities, and have lower SO₂ crossover rates. Benefits

• Crosslinking allow for the density of ionic functional groups to be increased, which means tougher membranes with higher IECs
• Design prevents membranes from changing at higher temperatures
• New material has enhanced water management
• Membranes have high conductivity and efficiency

Applications and Industries

• Chemical Applications
• Transportation and Automotive
• Fuel Cells
• Dialysis Equipment
• Ultrafiltration

Patents and Patent Applications

ID Number	Title and Abstract	Primary Lab	Date
Patent 7,816,482	Epoxy-crosslinked sulfonated poly (phenylene) copolymer proton exchange membranes An epoxy-crosslinked sulfonated poly(phenylene) copolymer composition used as proton exchange membranes, methods of making the same, and their use as proton exchange membranes (PEM) in hydrogen fuel cells, direct methanol fuel cell, in electrode casting solutions and electrodes, and in sulfur dioxide electrolyzers. These improved membranes are tougher, have higher temperature capability, and lower SO.sub.2 crossover rates.	Sandia National Laboratories	10/19/2010 Issued

Technology Status

Technology ID	Development Stage	Availability	Published	Last Updated
US Patent# 7,816,482	Prototype - Sandia estimates this technology at approximately TRL 6. Deliverable prototype testing has been conducted.	Available - Various license and partnering options are available. Please contact the Intellectual Property department to discuss.	09/28/2011	03/19/2013