Utilization of Nafion®/conducting polymer composite in the PEM type fuel cells

The present study focuses on the problem of using conducting polymers (CPs) in proton exchange membrane fuel cell technology. It covers the electrocatalytic properties of the CP/Pt composite, permeability of the CP film for H-2, fixation of the compact CP film on the top of the Nafion (R) membrane and first results of its utilization in a fuel cell. The present results did not confirm a previously reported increase in CP/Pt composite electrocatalytic activity when compared to the commercially available carbon supported catalysts. The main reason seems to be the very low permeability of the compact CP film for the fuel. This may be an advantage with respect to the minimization of fuel cross-over, which is a serious problem in the direct methanol fuel cell. On the other hand, it represents a serious danger in water management of the fuel cell. This fact has been recognized and alternative solutions are presented.