Fabrication Processes and Characterization Proceduresof Anion Exchange Membranes

This chapter summarizes the main fabrication processes of anion-exchange membranes (AEMs), exposes the main challenges related to them, and discusses the characterization procedures to determine their properties. Different fabrication processes are reviewed and compared in terms of cost, durability, and performance targets, as well as easy preparation (one-pot routes), and scalability criteria. The preparation of ion solvating, cationic, blend, hybrid, and fiber AEMs membranes is envisaged. Also, this chapter discusses the characterization procedures employed to measure properties like anionic conductivity, permeability, chemical and mechanical resistance, surface morphology, chemical composition, swelling and sorption of water, alkali solutions, and alcohols in the case of direct alcohol AEM fuel cells. Electrochemical performance tests are considered a main aspect, and durability tests as well.