High-performance radiation grafted anion-exchange membranes for fuel cell applications: Effects of irradiation conditions on ETFE-based membranes properties

Anion-exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) are rapidly gaining visibility in the clean energy research field due to their high power output and potential to significantly reduce materials costs. However, despite the high performances obtained, in-operando stability still presents a major obstacle for this technology. The durability issues are usually attributed to the core component of the AEMFCs - the anion-exchange membrane (AEM). An easy and simple way to produce these AEMs is through radiation grafting. Radiation-induced processes involve changes in the intrinsic properties of the polymer that can promote both crosslinking and chain scissioning, which may directly affect the mechanical properties and durability of AEMs. This study presents a comprehensive report of the effects of irradiation on the final properties of electron-beam grafted ETFE-AEMs. The results strongly suggest that low absorbed doses (<40 kGy) and an inert atmosphere (N2) should be used during the irradiation process in order to obtain better backbone stability and, consequently, AEMFC durability, considering ETFE-based AEMs.