Development of Thin, Reinforced PEMFC Membranes through Understanding of Structure-Property-Performance Relationships

The development of reinforced ultra-thin GORE-SELECT® Membranes with a thickness of 5 µm and below is a demanding process. The present paper discusses an approach in understanding "structure-property-performance" relationships using a variety of analytical techniques that yields fundamental knowledge to aid in the development of high performance fuel cell membranes. The synergy of the methods used is providing information in various length scales from microscopic to macroscopic while analyzing proton conductivity and mechanical responses.