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Recent scientific findings have revolutionized the understanding of how water facilitates the movement of charged ions through a vital component in clean energy technologies, potentially enhancing the efficiency and durability of these devices.
Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are integral to various green technologies, including fuel cells and electrolyzers. Historically, researchers believed that for optimal performance, AEMs required substantial amounts of freely available water, as detailed in a report from the University of Chicago explained.
Although water is crucial for ion flow in AEMs, excessive water can hinder their functionality in low-humidity settings and may lead to structural degradation over time due to swelling and stretching.
Using advanced two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy in tandem with computer modeling, researchers from the University of Chicago and New York University have gained insights into the rapid dynamics of water in these membranes.
“This research challenges the longstanding belief that excess free water is required for swift ion transport in energy membranes. Instead, it’s the configuration of the water network that is significant,” noted Paul Nealey, a senior author of the study.
The study revealed that when water molecules are integrated into an AEM, they create a hydrogen-bonding network. This configuration allows ions to move more effectively with just layers of water encapsulating them rather than an overwhelming presence of free water.
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“Our observations indicate that enhanced ionic conductivity and effective ion transport can occur even with lower moisture levels due to the well-organized water network, which allows rapid adjustments in water molecule orientation,” added Ge Sun, a graduate student at UChicago and co-first author of the research.
AEMs contain positively charged particles that direct negatively charged ions through the membrane while repelling similarly charged ones.
This charge segregation can facilitate various reactions, such as generating clean hydrogen from water or transforming chemical energy into electricity within fuel cells.
Flow batteries, which are essential for grid-scale energy storage systems, also rely on these ion exchanges, and improved efficiency could enhance battery performance. This advancement is crucial for strengthening our sustainable energy infrastructure while decreasing dependency on polluting fuels.
Additionally, technologies like desalination and wastewater treatment plants could see enhancements in ion transfer efficiency, thereby improving access to potable water.
“This study lays out a molecular-level framework for optimizing energy-efficient membranes, moving us closer to more effective fuel cells, enhanced batteries, and sustainable energy storage options,” conveyed Juan de Pablo, a senior author and former UChicago professor now at NYU, explained.
Source
tech.yahoo.com