The global push for hydrogen as a means to decarbonize energy systems has gained considerable momentum, with several countries launching national hydrogen strategies. Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis (PEMWE) has emerged as a promising method for hydrogen production due to its efficiency, high production rates, compact design, safety, and dynamic operation.
Nafion® 115 membranes, widely used in PEMWE, are valued for their mechanical and thermal stability, high proton conductivity, and favorable swelling behavior. However, their durability is often compromised by chemical degradation and mechanical failure due to hydration and temperature cycles. To address these issues, composite fabrication with carbon-based nanomaterials like graphene oxide (GO) has been explored. GO is particularly advantageous for reinforcing Nafion® membranes due to its electrical insulating properties, chemical stability, high specific surface area, mechanical strength, and ability to form stable aqueous colloids.
This study investigates the influence of GO on the morphological, thermal and mechanical properties of Nafion® 115 membranes. GO was applied via ultrasonic spraying, followed by various annealing treatments. Characterization revealed excellent dispersion of GO flakes, significantly improving wettability and mechanical stability under tension. Enhanced strain levels and tensile loads were observed, particularly at higher annealing temperatures. Thermogravimetric analysis showed increased thermal stability in GO-containing membranes.
GO incorporation increased surface roughness, thereby enhancing surface area. Deposition of the composite layer on the cathode side improved the membrane’s thermo-mechanical properties without impact on its electrochemical performance, despite a 15% increase in membrane thickness. Deposition on the anode side, as well as on both the anode and cathode sides, also improved thermo-mechanical performance. However, this was accompanied by a trade-off, resulting in a decrease in cell electrochemical performance by 9% and 15%, respectively.
Ultimately, this thesis presents the study, design, and characterization of GO-enhanced Nafion® membranes, contributing to the advancement of PEMWE technology by improving membrane durability and performance. These findings pave the way for new applications and further advancements in hydrogen production technologies.
| Date | 14 Aug 2025 |
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| Original language | French |
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| Awarding Institution | - École de technologie supérieure
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| Supervisor | Ricardo Izquierdo (Supervisor) & Samaneh Shahgaldi (Co-supervisor) |
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Ceballos Alvarez, J. C. (Author),
Izquierdo (Supervisor) & Shahgaldi (Co-supervisor),
14 Aug 2025Student thesis: Doctoral thesis › Doctorate in Engineering: Engineering