CytroCell@Nafion: Enhanced Proton Exchange Membranes

We investigate the use of lemon CytroCell nanocellulose as a new biobased filler for Nafion-based proton exchange membranes. Pristine and composite membranes are prepared via casting and solvent evaporation technique. CytroCell is added up to 20 wt.% with respect to the polymer in a hydroalcoholic solution of Nafion perfluorosulfonic acid ionomer. Composite CytroCell@Nafion membranes are homogeneous on a molecular scale and showed enhanced proton conductivity with optimal performance for the composite membrane embedding 10 wt.% CytroCell. The composite membranes also showed improved flexibility and ductility compared to Nafion pristine membranes. Should stability of the new membranes be confirmed during prolonged PEM electrolyzer or H2 fuel cell operation, these findings open the route to the development of enhanced PEM membranes of broad applicability.