Synthesis and Chacterization of Novel Polybenzimidazoles and High-Solids Meta-Polybenzimidazoles

<p>Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells are one of the most promising alternative power devices available due to their multiple applications as well as their clean and efficient operation. PEM fuel cells that operate at high temperatures (> 120oC) have advantages over low temperature PEM fuel cell systems such as faster electrode kinetics, increased tolerance to gas impurities, simplified water management systems, and utilization of generated heat. One of the most promising candidates for high temperature PEM fuels cells is polybenzimidzoles (PBIs), which have excellent thermal stability and proton conductivity. Recently, a new process was developed to produce polybenzimidazole gel membranes for use in high temperature PEM fuel cell systems, which uses polyphosphoric acid (PPA) as both the polycondensation agent and the casting solvent. This one-pot process, called the 'PPA Process', allows for the synthesis of high molecular weight polymer membranes with high acid-loading levels and good mechanical properties.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Campus Access Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Year

2011

Author dc:creator

• Frankel, Jessica Sara

Contributors dc:contributor

• Brian C Benicewicz

• Chemistry
• Physical Sciences and Mathematics
• Fuel cell
• PBI
• Polybenzimidazole

Statement dc:rights

• © 2011, Jessica Sara Frankel

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/etd/681

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarcommons.sc.edu:etd-1682