A review of the application of polyvinyl alcohol membranes for fuel cells

Fuel cells have emerged as alternative energy conversion and portable devices because of their highly efficient production of electrical energy, as well as high-power density. However, some issues regarding the ion-exchange membranes, such as high cost and high fuel crossover dehydration of Nafion membrane, have greatly limited the commercialization of fuel cells. Exploring proper alternatives of Nafion membranes is highly imperative for realizing the practical applications of fuel cells. Herein, in this review, we have summarized the recent progress achieved in the fabrication of advanced polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based membranes as alternative ion-exchange membranes for fuel cells. By highlighting the advantageous merits of PVA-based polymer membranes, including low fuel crossover and permeability, good ion conductivity, excellent mechanical, chemical, and thermal stability, we have systematically illustrated the great promise of PVA membranes for the applications in the fuel cells. Besides, some representative examples are manifested to further demonstrate the potential applications of PVA membranes in fuel cells. Finally, some challenging issues are also discussed in the review to provide guidance for the future endeavors.