Progression from Polyimide to Polyimide Composite in Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell: A Review

This review is designed as a comprehensive source of research on polyimide and polyimide composite-based fuel cell membranes. Polyimide and modified polyimide-based nanocomposite fuel cell membranes have gained research attention due to high operation temperature of ∼150°C. To increase the lifetime of polyimide-based fuel cell, water stability and dimensional stability of hydrated membrane have been studied. Nanofillers such as silica, titania, graphene, carbon nanotube, and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane have been reinforced in polyimide to improve proton conductivity (at low humidity/high temperature) and water stability. Design of new polyimide composite membranes must be focused in future for high water, chemical, and mechanical stability.