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UNIVERSITY OF BUCHAREST
FACULTY OF PHYSICS Guest
2025-08-21 0:30 |
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Conference: Bucharest University Faculty of Physics 2025 Meeting
Section: Physics and Technology of Renewable and Alternative Energy Sources
Title:
Chitosan-based ion exchange membranes for fuel cells
Authors:
Maria ELISEI , Adriana-Elena BĂLAN
Affiliation:
University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics, 405 Atomiștilor str., PO Box MG-38, Bucharest-Măgurele, Romania
E-mail
maria.elisei@s.unibuc.ro
Keywords:
chitosan, fuel cells, proton exchange membranes, ionic conductivity
Abstract:
Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that convert the chemical energy of fuels into electricity by using proton exchange membranes (PEMs), which selectively conduct protons while blocking gases and electrons. Nafion, a widely used perfluorinated sulfonic acid membrane, is known for its excellent proton conductivity, mechanical strength, and chemical stability. However, its high cost, environmental concerns, and degradation at high temperatures limit its broader applicability. In recent years, the biopolymer chitosan has emerged as a promising alternative material for PEMs in various types of fuel cells. Chitosan-based PEMs offer advantages such as low cost, biodegradability, and eco-friendliness. Despite their relatively low ionic conductivity, doping with conductive materials or incorporating functional groups can enhance their performance. In this study, we developed and characterized chitosan-based PEMs with the aim of enhancing their ionic conductivity. Specifically, the membranes were altered by using sulfonation and cross-linking with sulfuric acid, glutaraldehyde and citric acid. Then, we cast the suspensions on glass plates and allowed the solvent to evaporate. The structure and properties of the films were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
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