Performance of functionalized graphene oxide with organic radical scavengers in proton exchange membranes

Abstract

Membrane chemical durability plays an important role in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Traditional organic free radical scavengers are difficult to fix in the membrane, weakening the membrane performance. In this work, a diazonium salt reaction is used to prepare the benzoic acid-functionalized graphene oxide (BAF–GO) as the bi-functional filler, and the corresponding composite membrane is prepared. Through the experimental analysis of Fenton reagent accelerated degradation, proton conductivity and thermal stability of the membrane, the results reveal that chemical durability and proton conductivity of the membrane are greatly improved. At the same time, quantum chemical calculation is adopted to study the ability of BAF–GO to react with hydroxyl radicals. It is demonstrated that BAF–GO can react with hydroxyl radicals. Grafting organic radical scavengers onto the surface of GO as the fillers can effectively improve the membrane durability and proton conductivity.