Investigation of the Hydration Dynamics of Various Types of Proton Exchange Membranes

• Published in: Polymer science. Series A, Chemistry, physics Vol. 66; no. 4; pp. 533 - 542
• Main Authors: Pelageikina, A. O., Krasnova, A. O., Kastsova, A. G., Nechitailov, A. A., Glebova, N. V., Ivanova, A. A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Moscow Pleiades Publishing 01.08.2024; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Differential thermal analysis; Hydration; Ionomers; Membrane structures; Membranes; Moisture content; Polymer Membranes; Polymer Sciences; Protons; Spectrum analysis; Water absorption
• ISSN: 0965-545X; 1555-6107
• DOI: 10.1134/S0965545X24601394

Proton-conducting membranes are widely used in various electrochemical systems. The content and state of water in membranes have a significant impact on their properties. Therefore, studies of the interaction of membranes with water are relevant and are the subject of many works in the scientific literature. This paper presents data obtained by studying the dynamics and characteristics of water saturation in three types of membranes consisting of ionomers with a long side chain (Nafion and MF-4SK) and a short side chain (Aquivion). The dynamics of hydration were studied using electron spectroscopy in the near ultraviolet and visible regions, differential thermal analysis, and gravimetry. It has been shown that the process of hydration of different membranes occurs in distinct ways, although it has common patterns, the main one of which is the presence of two-stage hydration: 1. rapid water absorption and 2. slow rearrangement of the membrane structure. The values of equilibrium water content in air-dry membranes and their specific moisture capacity are provided.