DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pintauro, Peter N.; Ballengee, Jason; Brodt, Matthew

In one aspect of the present invention, a method of fabricating a fuel cell membrane-electrode-assembly (MEA) having an anode electrode, a cathode electrode, and a membrane disposed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, includes fabricating each of the anode electrode, the cathode electrode, and the membrane separately by electrospinning; and placing the membrane between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode, and pressing then together to form the fuel cell MEA.

Fabrication Process of Silicone-based Dielectric Elastomer Actuators

PubMed Central

Rosset, Samuel; Araromi, Oluwaseun A.; Schlatter, Samuel; Shea, Herbert R.

2016-01-01

This contribution demonstrates the fabrication process of dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs). DETs are stretchable capacitors consisting of an elastomeric dielectric membrane sandwiched between two compliant electrodes. The large actuation strains of these transducers when used as actuators (over 300% area strain) and their soft and compliant nature has been exploited for a wide range of applications, including electrically tunable optics, haptic feedback devices, wave-energy harvesting, deformable cell-culture devices, compliant grippers, and propulsion of a bio-inspired fish-like airship. In most cases, DETs are made with a commercial proprietary acrylic elastomer and with hand-applied electrodes of carbon powder or carbon grease. This combination leads to non-reproducible and slow actuators exhibiting viscoelastic creep and a short lifetime. We present here a complete process flow for the reproducible fabrication of DETs based on thin elastomeric silicone films, including casting of thin silicone membranes, membrane release and prestretching, patterning of robust compliant electrodes, assembly and testing. The membranes are cast on flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates coated with a water-soluble sacrificial layer for ease of release. The electrodes consist of carbon black particles dispersed into a silicone matrix and patterned using a stamping technique, which leads to precisely-defined compliant electrodes that present a high adhesion to the dielectric membrane on which they are applied. PMID:26863283

Aqueous-Processed, High-Capacity Electrodes for Membrane Capacitive Deionization.

PubMed

Jain, Amit; Kim, Jun; Owoseni, Oluwaseye M; Weathers, Cierra; Caña, Daniel; Zuo, Kuichang; Walker, W Shane; Li, Qilin; Verduzco, Rafael

2018-05-15

Membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) is a low-cost technology for desalination. Typically, MCDI electrodes are fabricated using a slurry of nanoparticles in an organic solvent along with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymeric binder. Recent studies of the environmental impact of CDI have pointed to the organic solvents used in the fabrication of CDI electrodes as key contributors to the overall environmental impact of the technology. Here, we report a scalable, aqueous processing approach to prepare MCDI electrodes using water-soluble polymer poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) as a binder and ion-exchange polymer. Electrodes are prepared by depositing aqueous slurry of activated carbon and PVA binder followed by coating with a thin layer of PVA-based cation- or anion-exchange polymer. When coated with ion-exchange layers, the PVA-bound electrodes exhibit salt adsorption capacities up to 14.4 mg/g and charge efficiencies up to 86.3%, higher than typically achieved for activated carbon electrodes with a hydrophobic polymer binder and ion-exchange membranes (5-13 mg/g). Furthermore, when paired with low-resistance commercial ion-exchange membranes, salt adsorption capacities exceed 18 mg/g. Our overall approach demonstrates a simple, environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and scalable method for the fabrication of high-capacity MCDI electrodes.

An Effective Design of Electrically Conducting Thin-Film Composite (TFC) Membranes for Bio and Organic Fouling Control in Forward Osmosis (FO).

PubMed

Liu, Qing; Qiu, Guanglei; Zhou, Zhengzhong; Li, Jingguo; Amy, Gary Lee; Xie, Jianping; Lee, Jim Yang

2016-10-04

The organic foulants and bacteria in secondary wastewater treatment can seriously impair the membrane performance in a water treatment plant. The embedded electrode approach using an externally applied potential to repel organic foulants and inhibit bacterial adhesion can effectively reduce the frequency of membrane replacement. Electrode embedment in membranes is often carried out by dispensing a conductor (e.g., carbon nanotubes, or CNTs) in the membrane substrate, which gives rise to two problems: the leaching-out of the conductor and a percolation-limited membrane conductivity that results in an added energy cost. This study presents a facile method for the embedment of a continuous electrode in thin-film composite (TFC) forward osmosis (FO) membranes. Specifically, a conducting porous carbon paper is used as the understructure for the formation of a membrane substrate by the classical phase inversion process. The carbon paper and the membrane substrate polymer form an interpenetrating structure with good stability and low electrical resistance (only about 1Ω/□). The membrane-electrode assembly was deployed as the cathode of an electrochemical cell, and showed good resistance to organic and microbial fouling with the imposition of a 2.0 V DC voltage. The carbon paper-based FO TFC membranes also possess good mechanical stability for practical use.

Preparation of PbS Nanoparticles by Phase-Transfer Method and Application to Pb2+-Selective Electrode Based on PVC Membrane

PubMed Central

Song, Weihong; Wu, Chunhui; Yin, Hongzong; Liu, Xiaoyan; Sa, Panpan; Hu, Jinyang

2008-01-01

A novel approach to prepare homogeneous PbS nanoparticles by phase-transfer method was developed. The preparatory conditions were studied in detail, and the nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and UV-vis spectroscopy. Then a novel lead ion-selective electrode of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane based on these lead sulfide nanoparticles was prepared, and the optimum ratio of components in the membrane was determined. The results indicated that the sensor exhibited a wide concentration range of 1.0×10−5 to 1.0×10−2 mol.L−1. The response time of the electrode was about 10 s, and the optimal pH in which the electrode could be used was from 3.0 to 7.0. Selectivity coefficients indicated that the electrode was selective to the primary ion over the interfering ion. The electrode can be used for at least 3 months without any divergence in potential. It was successfully applied to directly determine lead ions in solution and used as an indicator electrode in potentiometric titration of lead ions with EDTA. PMID:19112518

Dimensionless numbers and correlating equations for the analysis of the membrane-gas diffusion electrode assembly in polymer electrolyte fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gyenge, E. L.

The Quraishi-Fahidy method [Can. J. Chem. Eng. 59 (1981) 563] was employed to derive characteristic dimensionless numbers for the membrane-electrolyte, cathode catalyst layer and gas diffuser, respectively, based on the model presented by Bernardi and Verbrugge for polymer electrolyte fuel cells [AIChE J. 37 (1991) 1151]. Monomial correlations among dimensionless numbers were developed and tested against experimental and mathematical modeling results. Dimensionless numbers comparing the bulk and surface-convective ionic conductivities, the electric and viscous forces and the current density and the fixed surface charges, were employed to describe the membrane ohmic drop and its non-linear dependence on current density due to membrane dehydration. The analysis of the catalyst layer yielded electrode kinetic equivalents of the second Damköhler number and Thiele modulus, influencing the penetration depth of the oxygen reduction front based on the pseudohomogeneous film model. The correlating equations for the catalyst layer could describe in a general analytical form, all the possible electrode polarization scenarios such as electrode kinetic control coupled or not with ionic and/or oxygen mass transport limitation. For the gas diffusion-backing layer correlations are presented in terms of the Nusselt number for mass transfer in electrochemical systems. The dimensionless number-based correlating equations for the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) could provide a practical approach to quantify single-cell polarization results obtained under a variety of experimental conditions and to implement them in models of the fuel cell stack.

Methods of conditioning direct methanol fuel cells

DOEpatents

Rice, Cynthia; Ren, Xiaoming; Gottesfeld, Shimshon

2005-11-08

Methods for conditioning the membrane electrode assembly of a direct methanol fuel cell ("DMFC") are disclosed. In a first method, an electrical current of polarity opposite to that used in a functioning direct methanol fuel cell is passed through the anode surface of the membrane electrode assembly. In a second method, methanol is supplied to an anode surface of the membrane electrode assembly, allowed to cross over the polymer electrolyte membrane of the membrane electrode assembly to a cathode surface of the membrane electrode assembly, and an electrical current of polarity opposite to that in a functioning direct methanol fuel cell is drawn through the membrane electrode assembly, wherein methanol is oxidized at the cathode surface of the membrane electrode assembly while the catalyst on the anode surface is reduced. Surface oxides on the direct methanol fuel cell anode catalyst of the membrane electrode assembly are thereby reduced.

Silver(I) ion-selective membrane based on Schiff base-p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene.

PubMed

Mahajan, R K; Kumar, M; Sharma, V; Kaur, I

2001-04-01

A PVC membrane electrode for silver(I) ion based on Schiff base-p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene is reported. The electrode works well over a wide range of concentration (1.0 x 10(-5)-1.0 x 10(-1) mol dm-3) with a Nernstian slope of 59.7 mV per decade. The electrode shows a fast response time of 20 s and operates in the pH range 1.0-5.6. The sensor can be used for more than 6 months without any divergence in the potential. The selectivity of the electrode was studied and it was found that the electrode exhibits good selectivity for silver ion over some alkali, alkaline earth and transition metal ions. The silver ion-selective electrode was used as an indicator electrode for the potentiometric titration of silver ion in solution using a standard solution of sodium chloride; a sharp potential change occurs at the end-point. The applicability of the sensor to silver(I) ion measurement in water samples spiked with silver nitrate is illustrated.

Insertion characteristics and placement of the Mid-Scala electrode array in human temporal bones using detailed cone beam computed tomography.

PubMed

Dietz, Aarno; Gazibegovic, Dzemal; Tervaniemi, Jyrki; Vartiainen, Veli-Matti; Löppönen, Heikki

2016-12-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the insertion results and placement of the new Advanced Bionics HiFocus Mid-Scala (HFms) electrode array, inserted through the round window membrane, in eight fresh human temporal bones using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Pre- and post-insertion CBCT scans were registered to create a 3D reconstruction of the cochlea with the array inserted. With an image fusion technique both the bony edges of the cochlea and the electrode array in situ could accurately be determined, thus enabling to identify the exact position of the electrode array within the scala tympani. Vertical and horizontal scalar location was measured at four points along the cochlea base at an angular insertion depth of 90°, 180° and 270° and at electrode 16, the most basal electrode. Smooth insertion through the round window membrane was possible in all temporal bones. The imaging results showed that there were no dislocations from the scala tympani into the scala vestibule. The HFms electrode was positioned in the middle of the scala along the whole electrode array in three out of the eight bones and in 62 % of the individual locations measured along the base of the cochlea. In only one cochlea a close proximity of the electrode with the basilar membrane was observed, indicating possible contact with the basilar membrane. The results and assessments presented in this study appear to be highly accurate. Although a further validation including histopathology is needed, the image fusion technique described in this study represents currently the most accurate method for intracochlear electrode assessment obtainable with CBCT.

Miniaturizable Ion-Selective Arrays Based on Highly Stable Polymer Membranes for Biomedical Applications

PubMed Central

Mir, Mònica; Lugo, Roberto; Tahirbegi, Islam Bogachan; Samitier, Josep

2014-01-01

Poly(vinylchloride) (PVC) is the most common polymer matrix used in the fabrication of ion-selective electrodes (ISEs). However, the surfaces of PVC-based sensors have been reported to show membrane instability. In an attempt to overcome this limitation, here we developed two alternative methods for the preparation of highly stable and robust ion-selective sensors. These platforms are based on the selective electropolymerization of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), where the sulfur atoms contained in the polymer covalently interact with the gold electrode, also permitting controlled selective attachment on a miniaturized electrode in an array format. This platform sensor was improved with the crosslinking of the membrane compounds with poly(ethyleneglycol) diglycidyl ether (PEG), thus also increasing the biocompatibility of the sensor. The resulting ISE membranes showed faster signal stabilization of the sensor response compared with that of the PVC matrix and also better reproducibility and stability, thus making these platforms highly suitable candidates for the manufacture of robust implantable sensors. PMID:24999717

Influence of Inner Transducer Properties on EMF Response and Stability of Solid-Contact Anion Selective Membrane Electrodes Based on Metalloporphyrin Ionophores

PubMed Central

Górski, Łukasz; Matusevich, Alexey; Pietrzak, Mariusz; Wang, Lin; Meyerhoff, Mark E.; Malinowska, Elżbieta

2010-01-01

The performance of solid-contact/coated wire type electrodes with plasticized PVC membranes containing metalloporphyrins as anion selective ionophores is reported. The membranes are deposited on transducers based on graphite pastes and graphite rods. The hydrophobicity of the underlying conductive transducer surface is found to be a key factor that influences the formation of an aqueous layer beneath the polymer film. Elimination of this ill-defined water layer greatly improves the electrochemical properties of the ion-sensors, such as EMF stability and life-time. Only highly lipophilic electrode substrates, namely graphite paste with mineral oil, were shown to prevent the formation of aqueous layer underneath the ion-sensing membrane. The possibility of employing Co(III)-tetraphenylporphyrin both as NO2− selective ionophore and as electron/ion conducting species to ensure ion-to-electron translation was also discussed based on the results of preliminary experiments. PMID:20357903

Inkjet printing of nanoporous gold electrode arrays on cellulose membranes for high-sensitive paper-like electrochemical oxygen sensors using ionic liquid electrolytes.

PubMed

Hu, Chengguo; Bai, Xiaoyun; Wang, Yingkai; Jin, Wei; Zhang, Xuan; Hu, Shengshui

2012-04-17

A simple approach to the mass production of nanoporous gold electrode arrays on cellulose membranes for electrochemical sensing of oxygen using ionic liquid (IL) electrolytes was established. The approach, combining the inkjet printing of gold nanoparticle (GNP) patterns with the self-catalytic growth of these patterns into conducting layers, can fabricate hundreds of self-designed gold arrays on cellulose membranes within several hours using an inexpensive inkjet printer. The resulting paper-based gold electrode arrays (PGEAs) had several unique properties as thin-film sensor platforms, including good conductivity, excellent flexibility, high integration, and low cost. The porous nature of PGEAs also allowed the addition of electrolytes from the back cellulose membrane side and controllably produced large three-phase electrolyte/electrode/gas interfaces at the front electrode side. A novel paper-based solid-state electrochemical oxygen (O(2)) sensor was therefore developed using an IL electrolyte, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate (BMIMPF(6)). The sensor looked like a piece of paper but possessed high sensitivity for O(2) in a linear range from 0.054 to 0.177 v/v %, along with a low detection limit of 0.0075% and a short response time of less than 10 s, foreseeing its promising applications in developing cost-effective and environment-friendly paper-based electrochemical gas sensors.

Potentiometric measurement of polymer-membrane electrodes based on lanthanum

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Saefurohman, Asep, E-mail: saefurohman.asep78@Gmail.com; Buchari,, E-mail: saefurohman.asep78@Gmail.com; Noviandri, Indra, E-mail: saefurohman.asep78@Gmail.com

2014-03-24

Quantitative analysis of rare earth elements which are considered as the standard method that has a high accuracy, and detection limits achieved by the order of ppm is inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICPAES). But these tools are expensive and valuable analysis of the high cost of implementation. In this study be made and characterized selective electrode for the determination of rare earth ions is potentiometric. Membrane manufacturing techniques studied is based on immersion (liquid impregnated membrane) in PTFE 0.5 pore size. As ionophores to be used tri butyl phosphate (TBP) and bis(2-etylhexyl) hydrogen phosphate. There is no reportmore » previously that TBP used as ionophore in polymeric membrane based lanthanum. Some parameters that affect the performance of membrane electrode such as membrane composition, membrane thickness, and types of membrane materials studied in this research. Manufacturing of Ion Selective Electrodes (ISE) Lanthanum (La) by means of impregnation La membrane in TBP in kerosene solution has been done and showed performance for ISE-La. FTIR spectrum results for PTFE 0.5 pore size which impregnated in TBP and PTFE blank showed difference of spectra in the top 1257 cm{sup −1}, 1031 cm{sup −1} and 794.7 cm{sup −1} for P=O stretching and stretching POC from group −OP =O. The result showed shift wave number for P =O stretching of the cluster (−OP=O) in PTFE-TBP mixture that is at the peak of 1230 cm{sup −1} indicated that no interaction bond between hydroxyl group of molecules with molecular clusters fosforil of TBP or R{sub 3}P = O. The membrane had stable responses in pH range between 1 and 9. Good responses were obtained using 10{sup −3} M La(III) internal solution, which produced relatively high potential. ISE-La showed relatively good performances. The electrode had a response time of 29±4.5 second and could be use for 50 days. The linear range was between 10{sup −5} and 10{sup −1} M.« less

Membrane electrode gasket assembly (MEGA) technology for polymer electrolyte fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pozio, A.; Giorgi, L.; De Francesco, M.; Silva, R. F.; Lo Presti, R.; Danzi, A.

A new technology for the production of a membrane electrode gasket assembly (MEGA) for polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) is defined. The MEGA system was prepared by sealing a previously prepared membrane electrode assembly (MEA) in a moulded gasket. For this aim, a proprietary silicone based liquid mixture was injected directly into the MEA borders. Gaskets obtained in different shapes and hardness grades are stable in a wide temperature range. The MEGA technology shows several advantages with respect to traditional PEFCs stack assembling systems: effective membrane saving, reduced fabrication time, possibility of quality control and failed elements substitution. This technology was successfully tested at the ENEA laboratories and the results were acquired in laboratory scale, but industrial production appears to be simple and cheap.

Ion and Bio-Selective Membrane Electrodes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rechnitz, Garry A.

1983-01-01

Discusses topics on membrane electrodes corresponding to approximately six hours of lecture time. These include glass, liquid, crystal, gas-sensing membrane electrodes as well as enzyme and other bioselective membrane electrodes. Instructional strategies and other topics which might be discussed are provided. (JN)

Stripping analysis of nanomolar perchlorate in drinking water with a voltammetric ion-selective electrode based on thin-layer liquid membrane.

PubMed

Kim, Yushin; Amemiya, Shigeru

2008-08-01

A highly sensitive analytical method is required for the assessment of nanomolar perchlorate contamination in drinking water as an emerging environmental problem. We developed the novel approach based on a voltammetric ion-selective electrode to enable the electrochemical detection of "redox-inactive" perchlorate at a nanomolar level without its electrolysis. The perchlorate-selective electrode is based on the submicrometer-thick plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) membrane spin-coated on the poly(3-octylthiophene)-modified gold electrode. The liquid membrane serves as the first thin-layer cell for ion-transfer stripping voltammetry to give low detection limits of 0.2-0.5 nM perchlorate in deionized water, commercial bottled water, and tap water under a rotating electrode configuration. The detection limits are not only much lower than the action limit (approximately 246 nM) set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency but also are comparable to the detection limits of the most sensitive analytical methods for detecting perchlorate, that is, ion chromatography coupled with a suppressed conductivity detector (0.55 nM) or electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (0.20-0.25 nM). The mass transfer of perchlorate in the thin-layer liquid membrane and aqueous sample as well as its transfer at the interface between the two phases were studied experimentally and theoretically to achieve the low detection limits. The advantages of ion-transfer stripping voltammetry with a thin-layer liquid membrane against traditional ion-selective potentiometry are demonstrated in terms of a detection limit, a response time, and selectivity.

Ion-Selective Electrodes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arnold, Mark A.; Meyerhoff, Mark E.

1984-01-01

Literature on ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) is reviewed in seven sections: books, conferences, reviews; potentiometric membrane electrodes; glass and solid-state membrane electrodes; liquid and polymer membrane ISEs; coated wire electrodes, ion-selective field effect transistors, and microelectrodes; gas sensors and selective bioelectrode…

Transportation and Accumulation of Redox Active Species at the Buried Interfaces of Plasticized Membrane Electrodes.

PubMed

Sohail, Manzar; De Marco, Roland; Jarolímová, Zdeňka; Pawlak, Marcin; Bakker, Eric; He, Ning; Latonen, Rose-Marie; Lindfors, Tom; Bobacka, Johan

2015-09-29

The transportation and accumulation of redox active species at the buried interface between glassy carbon electrodes and plasticized polymeric membranes have been studied using synchrotron radiation X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (SR-XPS), near edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS), in situ electrochemical Fourier transform infrared-attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Ferrocene tagged poly(vinyl chloride) [FcPVC], ferrocene (Fc), and its derivatives together with tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) doped plasticized polymeric membrane electrodes have been investigated, so as to extend the study of the mechanism of this reaction chemistry to different time scales (both small and large molecules with variable diffusion coefficients) using a range of complementary electrochemical and surface analysis techniques. This study also provides direct spectroscopic evidence for the transportation and electrochemical reactivity of redox active species, regardless of the size of the electrochemically reactive molecule, at the buried interface of the substrate electrode. With all redox dopants, when CA electrolysis was performed, redox active species were undetectable (<1 wt % of signature elements or below the detection limit of SR-XPS and NEXAFS) in the outermost surface layers of the membrane, while a high concentration of redox species was located at the electrode substrate as a consequence of the deposition of the reaction product (Fc(+)-anion complex) at the buried interface between the electrode and the membrane. This reaction chemistry for redox active species within plasticized polymeric membranes may be useful in the fashioning of multilayered polymeric devices (e.g., chemical sensors, organic electronic devices, protective laminates, etc.) based on an electrochemical tunable deposition of redox molecules at the buried substrate electrode beneath the membrane.

A four-diode full-wave ionic current rectifier based on bipolar membranes: overcoming the limit of electrode capacity.

PubMed

Gabrielsson, Erik O; Janson, Per; Tybrandt, Klas; Simon, Daniel T; Berggren, Magnus

2014-08-13

Full-wave rectification of ionic currents is obtained by constructing the typical four-diode bridge out of ion conducting bipolar membranes. Together with conjugated polymer electrodes addressed with alternating current, the bridge allows for generation of a controlled ionic direct current for extended periods of time without the production of toxic species or gas typically arising from electrode side-reactions. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Engineering the Membrane/Electrode Interface To Improve the Performance of Solid-State Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Huang, Chun; Zhang, Jin; Snaith, Henry J; Grant, Patrick S

2016-08-17

This paper investigates the effect of adding a 450 nm layer based on porous TiO2 at the interface between a 4.5 μm carbon/TiO2 nanoparticle-based electrode and a polymer electrolyte membrane as a route to improve energy storage performance in solid-state supercapacitors. Electrochemical characterization showed that adding the interface layer reduced charge transfer resistance, promoted more efficient ion transfer across the interface, and significantly improved charge/discharge dynamics in a solid-state supercapacitor, resulting in an increased areal capacitance from 45.3 to 111.1 mF cm(-2) per electrode at 0.4 mA cm(-2).

Methanol-tolerant cathode catalyst composite for direct methanol fuel cells

DOEpatents

Zhu, Yimin; Zelenay, Piotr

2006-09-05

A direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) having a methanol fuel supply, oxidant supply, and its membrane electrode assembly (MEA) formed of an anode electrode and a cathode electrode with a membrane therebetween, a methanol oxidation catalyst adjacent the anode electrode and the membrane, an oxidant reduction catalyst adjacent the cathode electrode and the membrane, comprises an oxidant reduction catalyst layer of Pt.sub.3Cr/C so that oxidation at the cathode of methanol that crosses from the anode through the membrane to the cathode is reduced with a concomitant increase of net electrical potential at the cathode electrode.

Methanol-Tolerant Cathode Catalyst Composite For Direct Methanol Fuel Cells

DOEpatents

Zhu, Yimin; Zelenay, Piotr

2006-03-21

A direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) having a methanol fuel supply, oxidant supply, and its membrane electrode assembly (MEA) formed of an anode electrode and a cathode electrode with a membrane therebetween, a methanol oxidation catalyst adjacent the anode electrode and the membrane, an oxidant reduction catalyst adjacent the cathode electrode and the membrane, comprises an oxidant reduction catalyst layer of a platinum-chromium alloy so that oxidation at the cathode of methanol that crosses from the anode through the membrane to the cathode is reduced with a concomitant increase of net electrical potential at the cathode electrode.

High Speed, Low Cost Fabrication of Gas Diffusion Electrodes for Membrane Electrode Assemblies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

DeCastro, Emory S.; Tsou, Yu-Min; Liu, Zhenyu

Fabrication of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) depends on creating inks or pastes of catalyst and binder, and applying this suspension to either the membrane (catalyst coated membrane) or gas diffusion media (gas diffusion electrode) and respectively laminating either gas diffusion media or gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) to the membrane. One barrier to cost effective fabrication for either of these approaches is the development of stable and consistent suspensions. This program investigated the fundamental forces that destabilize the suspensions and developed innovative approaches to create new, highly stable formulations. These more concentrated formulations needed fewer application passes, could be coated overmore » longer and wider substrates, and resulted in significantly lower coating defects. In March of 2012 BASF Fuel Cell released a new high temperature product based on these advances, whereby our customers received higher performing, more uniform MEAs resulting in higher stack build yields. Furthermore, these new materials resulted in an “instant” increase in capacity due to higher product yields and material throughput. Although not part of the original scope of this program, these new formulations have also led us to materials that demonstrate equivalent performance with 30% less precious metal in the anode. This program has achieved two key milestones in DOE’s Manufacturing R&D program: demonstration of processes for direct coating of electrodes and continuous in-line measurement for component fabrication.« less

Membrane-electrode assemblies for electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Swathirajan, Sundararajan; Mikhail, Youssef M.

1993-01-01

A combination, unitary, membrane and electrode assembly with a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, and first and second electrodes at least partially embedded in opposed surfaces of the membrane. The electrodes each comprise a respective group of finely divided carbon particles, very finely divided catalytic particles supported on internal and external surfaces of the carbon particles and a proton conductive material intermingled with the catalytic and carbon particles. A first group of finely divided carbon particles forming the first electrode has greater water attraction and retention properties, and is more hydrophilic than a second group of carbon particles forming the second electrode. In a preferred method, the membrane electrode assembly of the invention is prepared by forming a slurry of proton conductive material and at least one group of the carbon and catalyst particles. The slurry is applied to the opposed surfaces of the membrane and heated while being pressed to the membrane for a time and at a temperature and compressive load sufficient to embed at least a portion of the particles into the membrane.

Detection of Guanine and Adenine Using an Aminated Reduced Graphene Oxide Functional Membrane-Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode

PubMed Central

Li, Di; Yang, Xiao-Lu; Xiao, Bao-Lin; Geng, Fang-Yong; Hong, Jun; Sheibani, Nader; Moosavi-Movahedi, Ali Akbar

2017-01-01

A new electrochemical sensor based on a Nafion, aminated reduced graphene oxide and chitosan functional membrane-modified glassy carbon electrode was proposed for the simultaneous detection of adenine and guanine. Fourier transform-infrared spectrometry (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electrochemical methods were utilized for the additional characterization of the membrane materials. The prepared electrode was utilized for the detection of guanine (G) and adenine (A). The anodic peak currents to G and A were linear in the concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 120 μM and 0.2 to 110 μM, respectively. The detection limits were found to be 0.1 μM and 0.2 μM, respectively. Moreover, the modified electrode could also be used to determine G and A in calf thymus DNA. PMID:28718793

Potentiometric determination of trypsin using a polymeric membrane polycation-sensitive electrode based on current-controlled reagent delivery.

PubMed

Chen, Yan; Ding, Jiawang; Qin, Wei

2012-12-01

A potentiometric biosensor for the determination of trypsin is described based on current-controlled reagent delivery. A polymeric membrane protamine-sensitive electrode with dinonylnaphthalene sulfonate as cation exchanger is used for in situ generation of protamine. Diffusion of protamine across the polymeric membrane can be controlled precisely by applying an external current. The hydrolysis catalyzed with trypsin in sample solution decreases the concentration of free protamine released at the sample-membrane interface and facilitates the stripping of protamine out of the membrane surface via the ion-exchange process with sodium ions from the sample solution, thus decreasing the membrane potential, by which the protease can be sensed potentiometrically. The influences of anodic current amplitude, current pulse duration and protamine concentration in the inner filling solution on the membrane potential response have been studied. Under optimum conditions, the proposed protamine-sensitive electrode is useful for continuous and reversible detection of trypsin over the concentration range of 0.5-5UmL(-1) with a detection limit of 0.3UmL(-1). The proposed detection strategy provides a rapid and reagentless way for the detection of protease activities and offers great potential in the homogeneous immunoassays using proteases as labels. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Aluminum oxyhydroxide based separator/electrolyte and battery system, and a method making the same

DOEpatents

Gerald, II, Rex E.; Klingler, Robert J [Glenview, IL; Rathke, Jerome W [Homer Glen, IL

2011-03-08

The instant invention relates a solid-state electrochemical cell and a novel separator/electrolyte incorporated therein. A preferred embodiment of the invented electrochemical cell generally comprises a unique metal oxyhydroxide based (i.e. AlOOH) separator/electrolyte membrane sandwiched between a first electrode and a second electrode. A preferred novel separator/electrolyte comprises a nanoparticulate metal oxyhydroxide, preferably AlOOH and a salt which are mixed and then pressed together to form a monolithic metal oxyhydroxide-salt membrane.

Aluminum oxyhydroxide based separator/electrolyte and battery system, and a method of making the same

DOEpatents

Gerald, II; Rex, E [Brookfield, IL; Klingler, Robert J [Glenview, IL; Rathke, Jerome W [Homer Glen, IL

2011-02-15

The instant invention relates a solid-state electrochemical cell and a novel separator/electrolyte incorporated therein. The invented electrochemical cell generally comprising: a unique metal oxyhydroxide based (i.e. AlOOH) separator/electrolyte membrane sandwiched between a first electrode and a second electrode. The novel separator/electrolyte comprises a nanoparticulate metal oxyhydroxide, preferably AlOOH and a salt which are mixed and then pressed together to form a monolithic metal oxyhydroxide-salt membrane.

Preparation and photoelectrocatalytic performance of N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material.

PubMed

Cheng, Zhi-Lin; Han, Shuai

2016-01-01

A novel composite electrode material based on a N-doped TiO2-loaded NaY zeolite membrane (N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane) for photoelectrocatalysis was presented. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV-visible (UV-vis) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization techniques were used to analyze the structure of the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane. The XRD and SEM results verified that the N-doped TiO2 nanoparticles with the size of ca. 20 nm have been successfully loaded on the porous stainless steel-supported NaY zeolite membrane. The UV-vis result showed that the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane exhibited a more obvious red-shift than that of N-TiO2 nanoparticles. The XPS characterization revealed that the doping of N element into TiO2 was successfully achieved. The photoelectrocatalysis performance of the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material was evaluated by phenol removal and also the effects of reaction conditions on the catalytic performance were investigated. Owing to exhibiting an excellent catalytic activity and good recycling stability, the N-doped TiO2/NaY zeolite membrane composite electrode material was of promising application for photoelectrocatalysis in wastewater treatment.

Electrocapturing flow cell

DOEpatents

Morozov, Victor [Manassas, VA

2011-04-05

A flow cell for electrophoretically-assisted capturing analytes from a flow. The flow cell includes a specimen chamber, a first membrane, a second membrane, a first electrode chamber, and a second electrode chamber. The specimen chamber may have a sample inlet and a sample outlet. A first portion of the first membrane may be coupled to a first portion of the specimen chamber. A first portion of the second membrane may be coupled to a second portion of the specimen chamber. The first electrode chamber may be configured to accept a charge. A portion of the first electrode chamber may be coupled to a second portion of the first membrane. A second electrode chamber may be configured to accept an opposite charge. A portion of the second electrode chamber may be coupled to a second portion of the second membrane.

Method of making membrane-electrode assemblies for electrochemical cells and assemblies made thereby

DOEpatents

Swathirajan, Sundararajan; Mikhail, Youssef M.

1994-01-01

A method of making a combination, unitary, membrane and electrode assembly having a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, and first and second electrodes at least partially embedded in opposed surfaces of the membrane. The electrodes each comprise a respective group of finely divided carbon particles, very finely divided catalytic particles supported on internal and external surfaces of the carbon particles and a proton conductive material intermingled with the catalytic and carbon particles. A first group of finely divided carbon particles forming the first electrode has greater water attraction and retention properties, and is more hydrophilic than a second group of carbon particles forming the second electrode. In a preferred method, the membrane electrode assembly of the invention is prepared by forming a slurry of proton conductive material and at least one group of the carbon and catalyst particles. The slurry is applied to the opposed surfaces of the membrane and heated while being pressed to the membrane for a time and at a temperature and compressive load sufficient to embed at least a portion of the particles into the membrane.

Method of making membrane-electrode assemblies for electrochemical cells and assemblies made thereby

DOEpatents

Swathirajan, S.; Mikhail, Y.M.

1994-05-31

A method is described for making a combination, unitary, membrane and electrode assembly having a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, and first and second electrodes at least partially embedded in opposed surfaces of the membrane. The electrodes each comprise a respective group of finely divided carbon particles, very finely divided catalytic particles supported on internal and external surfaces of the carbon particles and a proton conductive material intermingled with the catalytic and carbon particles. A first group of finely divided carbon particles forming the first electrode has greater water attraction and retention properties, and is more hydrophilic than a second group of carbon particles forming the second electrode. In a preferred method, the membrane electrode assembly of the invention is prepared by forming a slurry of proton conductive material and at least one group of the carbon and catalyst particles. The slurry is applied to the opposed surfaces of the membrane and heated while being pressed to the membrane for a time and at a temperature and compressive load sufficient to embed at least a portion of the particles into the membrane. 10 figs.

A polymeric liquid membrane electrode responsive to 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine oxidation for sensitive peroxidase/peroxidase mimetic-based potentiometric biosensing.

PubMed

Wang, Xuewei; Yang, Yangang; Li, Long; Sun, Mingshuang; Yin, Haogen; Qin, Wei

2014-05-06

The oxidation of 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) has great utility in bioanalysis such as peroxidase/peroxidase mimetic-based biosensing. In this paper, the behaviors of TMB oxidation intermediates/products in liquid/liquid biphasic systems have been investigated for the first time. The free radical, charge transfer complex, and diimine species generated by TMB oxidation are all positively charged under acidic and near-neutral conditions. Electron paramagnetic resonance and visible absorbance spectroscopy data demonstrate that these cationic species can be effectively transferred from an aqueous phase into a water-immiscible liquid phase functionalized by an appropriate cation exchanger. Accordingly, sensitive potential responses of TMB oxidation have been obtained on a cation exchanger-doped polymeric liquid membrane electrode under mildly acidic and near-neutral conditions. By using the membrane electrode responsive to TMB oxidations, two sensitive potentiometric biosensing schemes including the peroxidase-labeled sandwich immunoassay and G-quadruplex DNAzyme-based DNA hybridization assay have been developed. The obtained detection limits for the target antigen and DNA are 0.02 ng/mL and 0.1 nM, respectively. Coupled with other advantages such as low cost, high reliability, and ease of miniaturization and integration, the proposed polymeric liquid membrane electrode holds great promise as a facile and efficient transducer for TMB oxidation and related biosensing applications.

Direct methanol feed fuel cell with reduced catalyst loading

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kindler, Andrew (Inventor)

1999-01-01

Improvements to direct feed methanol fuel cells include new protocols for component formation. Catalyst-water repellent material is applied in formation of electrodes and sintered before application of ionomer. A membrane used in formation of an electrode assembly is specially pre-treated to improve bonding between catalyst and membrane. The improved electrode and the pre-treated membrane are assembled into a membrane electrode assembly.

Localised electrochemical impedance measurements of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell using a reference electrode array to give cathode-specific measurements and examine membrane hydration dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Engebretsen, Erik; Hinds, Gareth; Meyer, Quentin; Mason, Tom; Brightman, Edward; Castanheira, Luis; Shearing, Paul R.; Brett, Daniel J. L.

2018-04-01

Advances in bespoke diagnostic techniques for polymer electrolyte fuel cells continue to provide unique insight into the internal operation of these devices and lead to improved performance and durability. Localised measurements of current density have proven to be extremely useful in designing better fuel cells and identifying optimal operating strategies, with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) now routinely used to deconvolute the various losses in fuel cells. Combining the two techniques provides another dimension of understanding, but until now each localised EIS has been based on 2-electrode measurements, composed of both the anode and cathode responses. This work shows that a reference electrode array can be used to give individual electrode-specific EIS responses, in this case the cathode is focused on to demonstrate the approach. In addition, membrane hydration dynamics are studied under current load steps from open circuit voltage. A three-stage process is identified associated with an initial rapid reduction in membrane resistance after 10 s of applying a current step, followed by a slower ramp to approximately steady state, which was achieved after ∼250 s. These results support previously published work that has looked at membrane swelling dynamics and reveal that membrane hydration/membrane resistance is highly heterogeneous.

Performance improvement in PEMFC using aligned carbon nanotubes as electrode catalyst support.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, D. J.; Yang, J.; Kariuki, N.

2008-01-01

A novel membrane electrode assembly (MEA) using aligned carbon nanotubes (ACNT) as the electrocatalyst support was developed for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) application. A multiple-step process of preparing ACNT-PEMFC including ACNT layer growth and catalyzing, MEA fabrication, and single cell packaging is reported. Single cell polarization studies demonstrated improved fuel utilization and higher power density in comparison with the conventional, ink based MEA.

Polymer electrolyte membrane assembly for fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yen, Shiao-Ping S. (Inventor); Kindler, Andrew (Inventor); Yavrouian, Andre (Inventor); Halpert, Gerald (Inventor)

2002-01-01

An electrolyte membrane for use in a fuel cell can contain sulfonated polyphenylether sulfones. The membrane can contain a first sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone and a second sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone, wherein the first sulfonated polyphenylether and the second sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone have equivalent weights greater than about 560, and the first sulfonated polyphenylether and the second sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone also have different equivalent weights. Also, a membrane for use in a fuel cell can contain a sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone and an unsulfonated polyphenylether sulfone. Methods for manufacturing a membrane electrode assemblies for use in fuel cells can include roughening a membrane surface. Electrodes and methods for fabricating such electrodes for use in a chemical fuel cell can include sintering an electrode. Such membranes and electrodes can be assembled into chemical fuel cells.

Polymer electrolyte membrane assembly for fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yen, Shiao-Ping S. (Inventor); Kindler, Andrew (Inventor); Yavrouian, Andre (Inventor); Halpert, Gerald (Inventor)

2000-01-01

An electrolyte membrane for use in a fuel cell can contain sulfonated polyphenylether sulfones. The membrane can contain a first sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone and a second sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone, wherein the first sulfonated polyphenylether and the second sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone have equivalent weights greater than about 560, and the first sulfonated polyphenylether and the second sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone also have different equivalent weights. Also, a membrane for use in a fuel cell can contain a sulfonated polyphenylether sulfone and an unsulfonated polyphenylether sulfone. Methods for manufacturing a membrane electrode assemblies for use in fuel cells can include roughening a membrane surface. Electrodes and methods for fabricating such electrodes for use in a chemical fuel cell can include sintering an electrode. Such membranes and electrodes can be assembled into chemical fuel cells.

Adaptive microlens array based on electrically charged polyvinyl chloride/dibutyl phthalate gel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Miao; Ren, Hongwen

2016-09-01

We prepared an adaptive microlens array (MLA) using a polyvinyl chloride/dibutyl phthalate gel and an indium-tin-oxide (ITO) glass substrate. The gel forms a membrane on the glass substrate and the ITO electrode has a ring array pattern. When the membrane is electrically charged by a DC voltage, the surface of the membrane above each circular electrode in the ring array can be deformed with a convex shape. As a result, the membrane functions as an MLA. By applying a voltage from 20 to ˜65 V to the electrode, the focal length of each microlens can be tuned from 300 to ˜160 μm. The dynamic response time can by reduced largely by changing the polarity of the DC voltage. Due to the advantages of optical isotropy, compact structure, and good stability, our MLA has potential applications in imaging, biometrics, and electronic displays.

Solid-contact pH-selective electrode using multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Crespo, Gastón A; Gugsa, Derese; Macho, Santiago; Rius, F Xavier

2009-12-01

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) are shown to be efficient transducers of the ionic-to-electronic current. This enables the development of a new solid-contact pH-selective electrode that is based on the deposition of a 35-microm thick layer of MWCNT between the acrylic ion-selective membrane and the glassy carbon rod used as the electrical conductor. The ion-selective membrane was prepared by incorporating tridodecylamine as the ionophore, potassium tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate as the lipophilic additive in a polymerized methylmethacrylate and an n-butyl acrylate matrix. The potentiometric response shows Nernstian behaviour and a linear dynamic range between 2.89 and 9.90 pH values. The response time for this electrode was less than 10 s throughout the whole working range. The electrode shows a high selectivity towards interfering ions. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chronopotentiometry techniques were used to characterise the electrochemical behaviour and the stability of the carbon-nanotube-based ion-selective electrodes.

Soft actuator based on Kraton with GO/Ag/Pani composite electrodes for robotic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Ajahar; Kant Jain, Ravi; Banerjee, Priyabrata; Inamuddin; Asiri, Abdullah M.

2017-11-01

In this work, electrochemically-driven Kraton/graphene oxide/Ag/polyaniline (Kraton/GO/Ag/Pani) polymer composite based ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC) was fabricated as a soft actuator. Silver nanopowder with polyaniline coating used as an electrode material is a novel approach in the fabrication of IPMC, which gives new opportunities for development of the electrode on ionic polymer actuator surfaces directly without electroless plating of Pt or Au metal. The Kraton/GO/Ag/Pani membrane showed much higher water-uptake (WU), ion exchange capacity (IEC), proton conductivity than those of several reported IPMC membranes. The enhanced actuation performance indicates that the Kraton/GO/Ag/Pani is a better alternative to the highly expensive commercialized IPMC actuator.

Laccase-based biocathodes: Comparison of chitosan and Nafion.

PubMed

El Ichi-Ribault, S; Zebda, A; Laaroussi, A; Reverdy-Bruas, N; Chaussy, D; Belgacem, M N; Suherman, A L; Cinquin, P; Martin, D K

2016-09-21

Chitosan and Nafion(®) are both reported as interesting polymers to be integrated into the structure of 3D electrodes for biofuel cells. Their advantage is mainly related to their chemical properties, which have a positive impact on the stability of electrodes such as the laccase-based biocathode. For optimal function in implantable applications the biocathode requires coating with a biocompatible semi-permeable membrane that is designed to prevent the loss of enzyme activity and to protect the structure of the biocathode. Since such membranes are integrated into the electrodes ultimately implanted, they must be fully characterized to demonstrate that there is no interference with the performance of the electrode. In the present study, we demonstrate that chitosan provides superior stability compared with Nafion(®) and should be considered as an optimum solution to enhance the biocompatibility and the stability of 3D bioelectrodes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development and characterization of membrane electrode assembly of direct methanol fuel cells using hydrocarbon membranes and supported catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Xiaoming

Direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is an attractive power source for portable applications in the near future, due to the high energy density of liquid methanol. Towards commercialization of the DMFC, several technical and economic challenges need to be addressed though. The present study aims at developing and characterizing high performance membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for the DMFCs by using a hydrocarbon type membrane (PolyFuel 62) and supported catalysts (PtRu/C). First, methanol and water transport properties in the PolyFuel 62 membrane were examined by various material characterization methods. Compared with the currently used perflurosulfonated Nafion 212 membrane, the PolyFuel membrane has lower methanol crossover, especially at high testing temperature. In addition, based on results of water diffusivity test, water diffusion through the PolyFuel membrane was also lower compared with the Nafion membrane. In order to check the possible impacts of the low methanol and water diffusivities in the PolyFuel membrane, a MEA with this new type of membrane was developed and its performance was compared with a Nafion MEA with otherwise identical electrodes and GDLs. The results showed anode performance was identical, while cathode performance of the PolyFuel MEA was lower. More experiments combined with a transmission line model revealed that low water transport through the PolyFuel membrane resulted in a higher proton resistance in the cathode electrode and thus, leading to a low cathode performance. Thus increasing the water content in the cathode electrode is critical for using the PolyFuel membrane in the DMFC MEA. Then, a low loading carbon supported catalyst, PtRu/C, was prepared and tested as the anode electrode in a MEA of the DMFC. Compared with performance of an unsupported MEA, we could find that lower performance in the supported MEA was due to methanol transport limitation because of the denser and thicker supported catalyst layer. Accordingly, an addition of a pore former, Li 2CO3, was proposed during the catalyst ink preparation. This was proved to be very effective, largely improving anode performance with only 1/3 of catalyst loading. Finally, the PolyFuel membrane and supported catalysts were ready to be applied in the new MEA for the DMFCs. The new made MEA, with the catalyst loading of 2.6-time lower than a reference MEA, showed a very promising result, about only 10mV performance loss under the current density of 150mA/cm² compared with the reference MEA. Moreover, a short-term decay test indicated that the new MEA may have better durability and life because of its low methanol crossover on the cathode electrode due the PolyFuel membrane.

Miniature Ion-Mobility Spectrometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartley, Frank T.

2006-01-01

The figure depicts a proposed miniature ion-mobility spectrometer that would be fabricated by micromachining. Unlike prior ion-mobility spectrometers, the proposed instrument would not be based on a time-of-flight principle and, consequently, would not have some of the disadvantageous characteristics of prior time-of-flight ion-mobility spectrometers. For example, one of these characteristics is the need for a bulky carrier-gas-feeding subsystem that includes a shutter gate to provide short pulses of gas in order to generate short pulses of ions. For another example, there is need for a complex device to generate pulses of ions from the pulses of gas and the device is capable of ionizing only a fraction of the incoming gas molecules; these characteristics preclude miniaturization. In contrast, the proposed instrument would not require a carrier-gas-feeding subsystem and would include a simple, highly compact device that would ionize all the molecules passing through it. The ionization device in the proposed instrument would be a 0.1-micron-thick dielectric membrane with metal electrodes on both sides. Small conical holes would be micromachined through the membrane and electrodes. An electric potential of the order of a volt applied between the membrane electrodes would give rise to an electric field of the order of several megavolts per meter in the submicron gap between the electrodes. An electric field of this magnitude would be sufficient to ionize all the molecules that enter the holes. Ionization (but not avalanche arcing) would occur because the distance between the ionizing electrodes would be less than the mean free path of gas molecules at the operating pressure of instrument. An accelerating grid would be located inside the instrument, downstream from the ionizing membrane. The electric potential applied to this grid would be negative relative to the potential on the inside electrode of the ionizing membrane and would be of a magnitude sufficient to generate a moderate electric field. Positive ions leaving the membrane holes would be accelerated in this electric field. The resulting flux of ions away from the ionization membrane would create a partial vacuum that would draw more of the gas medium through the membrane. The figure depicts a filter electrode and detector electrodes located along the sides of a drift tube downstream from the accelerator electrode. These electrodes would apply a transverse AC electric field superimposed on a ramped DC electric field. The AC field would effect differential transverse dispersal of ions. At a given instant of time, the trajectories of most of the ions would be bent toward the electrodes, causing most of the ions to collide with the electrodes and thereby become neutralized. The DC field would partly counteract the dispersive effect of the AC field, straightening the trajectories of a selected species of ions; the selection would vary with the magnitude of the applied DC field. The straightening of the trajectories of the selected ions would enable them to pass into the region between the detector electrodes. Depending on the polarity of the voltage applied to the detector electrodes, the electric field between the detector electrodes would draw the selected ions to one of these electrodes. Hence, the current collected by one of the detector electrodes would be a measure of the abundance of ions of the selected species. The ramping of the filter- electrode DC voltage would sweep the selection of ions through the spectrum of ionic species.

A cost-effective nanoporous ultrathin film electrode based on nanoporous gold/IrO2 composite for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Yachao; Guo, Xiaoqian; Shao, Zhigang; Yu, Hongmei; Song, Wei; Wang, Zhiqiang; Zhang, Hongjie; Yi, Baolian

2017-02-01

A cost-effective nanoporous ultrathin film (NPUF) electrode based on nanoporous gold (NPG)/IrO2 composite has been constructed for proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. The electrode was fabricated by integrating IrO2 nanoparticles into NPG through a facile dealloying and thermal decomposition method. The NPUF electrode is featured in its 3D interconnected nanoporosity and ultrathin thickness. The nanoporous ultrathin architecture is binder-free and beneficial for improving electrochemical active surface area, enhancing mass transport and facilitating releasing of oxygen produced during water electrolysis. Serving as anode, a single cell performance of 1.728 V (@ 2 A cm-2) has been achieved by NPUF electrode with a loading of IrO2 and Au at 86.43 and 100.0 μg cm-2 respectively, the electrolysis voltage is 58 mV lower than that of conventional electrode with an Ir loading an order of magnitude higher. The electrolysis voltage kept relatively constant up to 300 h (@250 mA cm-2) during the course of durability test, manifesting that NPUF electrode is promising for gas evolution.

Nanoengineered membrane electrode assembly interface

DOEpatents

Song, Yujiang; Shelnutt, John A

2013-08-06

A membrane electrode structure suitable for use in a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) that comprises membrane-affixed metal nanoparticles whose formation is controlled by a photochemical process that controls deposition of the metal nanoparticles using a photocatalyst integrated with a polymer electrolyte membrane, such as an ionomer membrane. Impregnation of the polymer membrane with the photocatalyst prior to metal deposition greatly reduces the required amount of metal precursor in the deposition reaction solution by restricting metal reduction substantially to the formation of metal nanoparticles affixed on or near the surface of the polymer membrane with minimal formation of metallic particles not directly associated with the membrane.

Layered conductive polymer on nylon membrane templates for high performance, thin-film supercapacitor electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, HaoTian Harvey; Naguib, Hani E.

2016-04-01

Flexible Thin-film Electrochemical Capacitors (ECs) are emerging technology that plays an important role as energy supply for various electronics system for both present era and the future. Intrinsically conductive polymers (ICPs) are promising pseudo-capacitive materials as they feature both good electrical conductivity and high specific capacitance. This study focuses on the construction and characterization of ultra-high surface area porous electrodes based on coating of nano-sized conductive polymer materials on nylon membrane templates. Herein, a novel nano-engineered electrode material based on nylon membranes was presented, which allows the creation of super-capacitor devices that is capable of delivering competitive performance, while maintaining desirable mechanical characteristics. With the formation of a highly conductive network with the polyaniline nano-layer, the electrical conductivity was also increased dramatically to facilitate the charge transfer process. Cyclic voltammetry and specific capacitance results showed promising application of this type of composite materials for future smart textile applications.

Novel Membrane-Based Electrochemical Sensor for Real-Time Bio-Applications

PubMed Central

Alatraktchi, Fatima AlZahra'a; Bakmand, Tanya; Dimaki, Maria; Svendsen, Winnie E.

2014-01-01

This article presents a novel membrane-based sensor for real-time electrochemical investigations of cellular- or tissue cultures. The membrane sensor enables recording of electrical signals from a cell culture without any signal dilution, thus avoiding loss of sensitivity. Moreover, the porosity of the membrane provides optimal culturing conditions similar to existing culturing techniques allowing more efficient nutrient uptake and molecule release. The patterned sensor electrodes were fabricated on a porous membrane by electron-beam evaporation. The electrochemical performance of the membrane electrodes was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry, and the detection of synthetic dopamine was demonstrated down to a concentration of 3.1 pM. Furthermore, to present the membrane-sensor functionality the dopamine release from cultured PC12 cells was successfully measured. The PC12 cells culturing experiments showed that the membrane-sensor was suitable as a cell culturing substrate for bio-applications. Real-time measurements of dopamine exocytosis in cell cultures were performed, where the transmitter release was recorded at the point of release. The developed membrane-sensor provides a new functionality to the standard culturing methods, enabling sensitive continuous in vitro monitoring and closely mimicking the in vivo conditions. PMID:25421738

High-performance Fuel Cell with Stretched Catalyst-Coated Membrane: One-step Formation of Cracked Electrode.

PubMed

Kim, Sang Moon; Ahn, Chi-Yeong; Cho, Yong-Hun; Kim, Sungjun; Hwang, Wonchan; Jang, Segeun; Shin, Sungsoo; Lee, Gunhee; Sung, Yung-Eun; Choi, Mansoo

2016-05-23

We have achieved performance enhancement of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) though crack generation on its electrodes. It is the first attempt to enhance the performance of PEMFC by using cracks which are generally considered as defects. The pre-defined, cracked electrode was generated by stretching a catalyst-coated Nafion membrane. With the strain-stress property of the membrane that is unique in the aspect of plastic deformation, membrane electrolyte assembly (MEA) was successfully incorporated into the fuel cell. Cracked electrodes with the variation of strain were investigated and electrochemically evaluated. Remarkably, mechanical stretching of catalyst-coated Nafion membrane led to a decrease in membrane resistance and an improvement in mass transport, which resulted in enhanced device performance.

Schiff's Bases and Crown Ethers as Supramolecular Sensing Materials in the Construction of Potentiometric Membrane Sensors

PubMed Central

Faridbod, Farnoush; Ganjali, Mohammad Reza; Dinarvand, Rassoul; Norouzi, Parviz; Riahi, Siavash

2008-01-01

Ionophore incorporated PVC membrane sensors are well-established analytical tools routinely used for the selective and direct measurement of a wide variety of different ions in complex biological and environmental samples. Potentiometric sensors have some outstanding advantages including simple design and operation, wide linear dynamic range, relatively fast response and rational selectivity. The vital component of such plasticized PVC members is the ionophore involved, defining the selectivity of the electrodes' complex formation. Molecular recognition causes the formation of many different supramolecules. Different types of supramolecules, like calixarenes, cyclodextrins and podands, have been used as a sensing material in the construction of ion selective sensors. Schiff's bases and crown ethers, which feature prominently in supramolecular chemistry, can be used as sensing materials in the construction of potentiometric ion selective electrodes. Up to now, more than 200 potentiometric membrane sensors for cations and anions based on Schiff's bases and crown ethers have been reported. In this review cation binding and anion complexes will be described. Liquid membrane sensors based on Schiff's bases and crown ethers will then be discussed. PMID:27879786

Facile fabrication of ultrathin hybrid membrane for highly flexible supercapacitors via in-situ phase separation of polyethersulfone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xiaoning; Ran, Fen; Shen, Kuiwen; Yang, Yunlong; Wu, Jiayu; Niu, Xiaoqin; Kong, Lingbin; Kang, Long; Chen, Shaowei

2016-10-01

In this article, a facile method based on in-situ phase-separation was developed for the fabrication of ultrathin hybrid membranes for highly flexible supercapacitors. The structures and morphologies of the prepared electrodes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) measurements; and the electrochemical behaviors were examined in 2 M KOH solution. SEM and FTIR characterizations reveal that activated carbon was imbedded into the polymer membrane of polyethersulfone to form a uniform and flexible hybrid membrane. When the thin polymer-carbon membrane (PCM) was used as an electrode material for supercapacitor, a high specific capacitance of 169.4 Fg-1 was obtained at a current density of 0.5 Ag-1 along with good long-term cycle life of 94.6% capacity retention after 2000 charging-discharging cycles. Benefiting from these merits, the as-fabricated PCM//PCM cell shows an excellent electrochemical property. These results suggest a promising route towards the fabrication of highly flexible electrodes for high-performance supercapacitors.

Design and fabrication of nanoelectrodes for applications with scanning electrochemical microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thakar, Rahul

Scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM) was introduced two decades ago and has since emerged as a powerful research tool to investigate localized electrochemical reactions at the surface of material and biological samples. The ability to obtain chemical information at a surface differentiates SECM from competing scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques. Although, chemical specificity is a unique advantage offered by SECM, inherent limitations due to a slow feedback response, and challenges associated with production of smaller electrodes have remained major drawbacks. Initially in this research, SECM was utilized as a characterization and investigative tool. Later, advances in SECM imaging were achieved with design and production of multifunctional nanoelectrodes. At first, platinum based nanoelectrodes were fabricated for use as electrochemical probes to investigate local electron transfer at chemically-modified surfaces. Further, micron and sub-micron platinum electrodes with chemically modified shrouds were prepared and characterized with voltammetric measurements. Studies reveal experimental evidence for the presence of edge-effects that are typically associated with submicron electrodes. Interestingly, we observed selectivity of these electrodes based on hydrophobic/ hydrophilic character. Through vapor deposition of parylene over microstructured material, single-pore membranes and porous membrane arrays were produced. Pore size characterization within porous membranes was performed with templated growth of micro/nanostructures. Characterization of transport properties of ions and redox-active molecules through hydrophobic parylene membranes was investigated with ion conductance microscopy and SECM, individually. Parylene is an insulative material that is chemically resistant, deposits conformally over high-aspect ratio objects and also converts into conductive carbon at high-temperature pyrolysis. Motivated by these results we identified a unique strategy to fabricate parylene based carbon electrodes Here, we have developed a unique strategy to obtain carbon based nanoelectrodes from vapor deposition of parylene over pulled glass nanopipettes. With this approach, multiple electrode geometries were constructed and the application of individual geomtery with SECM is demonstrated. In particular, enhanced spatial resolution and electrochemical information were obtained with the use of carbon ring/nanopore electrodes. Practical implications of edge-effects observed with carbon ring/nanopore electrodes is discussed with substrate generation tip collection (SG/TC) SECM Carbon ring/nanopore electrodes have also enabled the use of SECM in conjunction with ion conductance microscopy to alleviate the issue of poor feedback response. This has further helped in deconvolution of electrochemcial and topographical signals. Although, use of carbon nanoelectrodes is discussed with specific applications to electrochemcial microscopy, these probes have wide utility in electroanalytical applications. Initial proof-of-concept experiments along with future directions for this work are presented.

Membrane electrode assembly for a fuel cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prakash, Surya (Inventor); Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Atti, Anthony (Inventor); Olah, George (Inventor); Smart, Marshall C. (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A catalyst ink for a fuel cell including a catalytic material and poly(vinylidene fluoride). The ink may be applied to a substrate to form an electrode, or bonded with other electrode layers to form a membrane electrode assembly (MEA).

High-performance Fuel Cell with Stretched Catalyst-Coated Membrane: One-step Formation of Cracked Electrode

PubMed Central

Kim, Sang Moon; Ahn, Chi-Yeong; Cho, Yong-Hun; Kim, Sungjun; Hwang, Wonchan; Jang, Segeun; Shin, Sungsoo; Lee, Gunhee; Sung, Yung-Eun; Choi, Mansoo

2016-01-01

We have achieved performance enhancement of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) though crack generation on its electrodes. It is the first attempt to enhance the performance of PEMFC by using cracks which are generally considered as defects. The pre-defined, cracked electrode was generated by stretching a catalyst-coated Nafion membrane. With the strain-stress property of the membrane that is unique in the aspect of plastic deformation, membrane electrolyte assembly (MEA) was successfully incorporated into the fuel cell. Cracked electrodes with the variation of strain were investigated and electrochemically evaluated. Remarkably, mechanical stretching of catalyst-coated Nafion membrane led to a decrease in membrane resistance and an improvement in mass transport, which resulted in enhanced device performance. PMID:27210793

A solvated electron lithium electrode for secondary batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sammells, A. F.; Semkow, K. W.

1986-09-01

Attention is given to a novel method for the achievement of high electro-chemical reversibility in Li-based nonaqueous cells, using a liquid negative electrode that consists of Li dissolved in liquid ammonia as a solvated electron Li electrode. The containment of this liquid negative active material from direct contact to a liquid nonaqueous electrolyte in the positive electrode compartment was realized through the use of a Li-intercalated, electronically conducting ceramic membrane.

Gas permeable electrode for electrochemical system

DOEpatents

Ludwig, Frank A.; Townsend, Carl W.

1989-01-01

An electrode apparatus adapted for use in electrochemical systems having an anode compartment and a cathode compartment in which gas and ions are produced and consumed in the compartments during generation of electrical current. The electrode apparatus includes a membrane for separating the anode compartment from the cathode compartment wherein the membrane is permeable to both ions and gas. The cathode and anode for the assembly are provided on opposite sides of the membrane. During use of the membrane-electrode apparatus in electrochemical cells, the gas and ions generated at the cathode or anode migrate through the membrane to provide efficient transfer of gas and ions between the anode and cathode compartments.

HSPES membrane electrode assembly

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kindler, Andrew (Inventor); Yen, Shiao-Ping (Inventor)

2000-01-01

An improved fuel cell electrode, as well as fuel cells and membrane electrode assemblies that include such an electrode, in which the electrode includes a backing layer having a sintered layer thereon, and a non-sintered free-catalyst layer. The invention also features a method of forming the electrode by sintering a backing material with a catalyst material and then applying a free-catalyst layer.

Guided cracking of electrodes by stretching prism-patterned membrane electrode assemblies for high-performance fuel cells.

PubMed

Ahn, Chi-Yeong; Jang, Segeun; Cho, Yong-Hun; Choi, Jiwoo; Kim, Sungjun; Kim, Sang Moon; Sung, Yung-Eun; Choi, Mansoo

2018-01-19

Guided cracks were successfully generated in an electrode using the concentrated surface stress of a prism-patterned Nafion membrane. An electrode with guided cracks was formed by stretching the catalyst-coated Nafion membrane. The morphological features of the stretched membrane electrode assembly (MEA) were investigated with respect to variation in the prism pattern dimension (prism pitches of 20 μm and 50 μm) and applied strain (S ≈ 0.5 and 1.0). The behaviour of water on the surface of the cracked electrode was examined using environmental scanning electron microscopy. Guided cracks in the electrode layer were shown to be efficient water reservoirs and liquid water passages. The MEAs with and without guided cracks were incorporated into fuel cells, and electrochemical measurements were conducted. As expected, all MEAs with guided cracks exhibited better performance than conventional MEAs, mainly because of the improved water transport.

Development of materials for mini DMFC working at room temperature for portable applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coutanceau, C.; Koffi, R. K.; Léger, J.-M.; Marestin, K.; Mercier, R.; Nayoze, C.; Capron, P.

Methanol permeability measurements and direct methanol fuel cell tests were performed at room temperature with different commercially available or recast Nafion ® membranes and sulfonated polyimide (SPI) membranes. Power densities as high as 20 mW cm -2 could be obtained with Nafion ® 115. However, in order to meet the technological requirements for portable applications, thinner membranes have to be considered. As the MeOH crossover increases greatly (from (7 to 20) × 10 -8 mol s -1 cm -2) while Nafion ® membranes thickness decreases, non-perfluorinated polymers having high IEC are promising candidates for DMFC working at room temperature. The development catalysts tolerant to methanol is also relevant for this application. In spite of the low permeability to MeOH of SPI membranes, the obtained electrical performance with E-TEK electrodes based MEAs was lower than that obtained with Nafion ® membranes. No significant increase of performances was neither evidenced by using homemade PtCr(7:3)/C and PtRu(4:1)/C catalysts instead of E-TEK electrodes with recast Nafion ® based MEAs. However, MEAs composed with thin SPI membranes (50 μm) and homemade PtCr/C catalysts gave very promising results (18 mW cm -2). Based on experimental observations, a speculative explanation of this result is given.

Dual-Electrode CMUT With Non-Uniform Membranes for High Electromechanical Coupling Coefficient and High Bandwidth Operation

PubMed Central

Guldiken, Rasim O.; Zahorian, Jaime; Yamaner, F. Y.; Degertekin, F. L.

2010-01-01

In this paper, we report measurement results on dual-electrode CMUT demonstrating electromechanical coupling coefficient (k2) of 0.82 at 90% of collapse voltage as well as 136% 3 dB one-way fractional bandwidth at the transducer surface around the design frequency of 8 MHz. These results are within 5% of the predictions of the finite element simulations. The large bandwidth is achieved mainly by utilizing a non-uniform membrane, introducing center mass to the design, whereas the dual-electrode structure provides high coupling coefficient in a large dc bias range without collapsing the membrane. In addition, the non-uniform membrane structure improves the transmit sensitivity of the dual-electrode CMUT by about 2dB as compared with a dual electrode CMUT with uniform membrane. PMID:19574135

Gas permeable electrode for electrochemical system

DOEpatents

Ludwig, F.A.; Townsend, C.W.

1989-09-12

An electrode apparatus is described which is adapted for use in electrochemical systems having an anode compartment and a cathode compartment in which gas and ions are produced and consumed in the compartments during generation of electrical current. The electrode apparatus includes a membrane for separating the anode compartment from the cathode compartment wherein the membrane is permeable to both ions and gas. The cathode and anode for the assembly are provided on opposite sides of the membrane. During use of the membrane-electrode apparatus in electrochemical cells, the gas and ions generated at the cathode or anode migrate through the membrane to provide efficient transfer of gas and ions between the anode and cathode compartments. 3 figs.

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells for space and electric vehicle applications: From basic research to technology development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Srinivasan, Supramaniam; Mukerjee, Sanjeev; Parthasarathy, A.; CesarFerreira, A.; Wakizoe, Masanobu; Rho, Yong Woo; Kim, Junbom; Mosdale, Renaut A.; Paetzold, Ronald F.; Lee, James

1994-01-01

The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is one of the most promising electrochemical power sources for space and electric vehicle applications. The wide spectrum of R&D activities on PEMFC's, carried out in our Center from 1988 to date, is as follows (1) Electrode Kinetic and Electrocatalysis of Oxygen Reduction; (2) Optimization of Structures of Electrodes and of Membrane and Electrode Assemblies; (3) Selection and Evaluation of Advanced Proton Conducting Membranes and of Operating Conditions to Attain High Energy Efficiency; (4) Modeling Analysis of Fuel Cell Performance and of Thermal and Water Management; and (5) Engineering Design and Development of Multicell Stacks. The accomplishments on these tasks may be summarized as follows: (1) A microelectrode technique was developed to determine the electrode kinetic parameters for the fuel cell reactions and mass transport parameters for the H2 and O2 reactants in the proton conducting membrane. (2) High energy efficiencies and high power densities were demonstrated in PEMFCs with low platinum loading electrodes (0.4 mg/cm(exp 2) or less), advanced membranes and optimized structures of membrane and electrode assemblies, as well as operating conditions. (3) The modeling analyses revealed methods to minimize mass transport limitations, particularly with air as the cathodic reactant; and for efficient thermal and water management. (4) Work is in progress to develop multi-kilowatt stacks with the electrodes containing low platinum loadings.

Membrane-less hybrid flow battery based on low-cost elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leung, P. K.; Martin, T.; Shah, A. A.; Mohamed, M. R.; Anderson, M. A.; Palma, J.

2017-02-01

The capital cost of conventional redox flow batteries is relatively high (>USD 200/kWh) due to the use of expensive active materials and ion-exchange membranes. This paper presents a membrane-less hybrid organic-inorganic flow battery based on the low-cost elements zinc (92.7% with the use of carbon felt electrodes. In the presence of a fully oxidized active species close to its solubility limit, dissolution of the deposited anode is relatively slow (<2.37 g h-1 cm-2) with an equivalent corrosion current density of <1.9 mA cm-2. In a parallel plate flow configuration, the resulting battery was charge-discharge cycled at 30 mA cm-2 with average coulombic and energy efficiencies of c.a. 71.8 and c.a. 42.0% over 20 cycles, respectively.

Plastic Membrane Sensor from a Disposed Combined Glass Electrode

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marafie, Hayat M.; Shoukry, Adel F.; Alshatti, Laila A.

2007-01-01

The construction of combined plastic membrane electrode for hydralazinium cation from a disposed glass electrode is described. A variety of electrodes could be prepared by students using other types of polymers, plasticizers, or exchangers which could also help to study effects of pH and temperature, or environmental investigations.

Enhanced performance of polybenzimidazole-based high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell with gas diffusion electrodes prepared by automatic catalyst spraying under irradiation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Huaneng; Pasupathi, Sivakumar; Bladergroen, Bernard Jan; Linkov, Vladimir; Pollet, Bruno G.

2013-11-01

Gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) prepared by a novel automatic catalyst spraying under irradiation (ACSUI) technique are investigated for improving the performance of phosphoric acid (PA)-doped polybenzimidazole (PBI) high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The physical properties of the GDEs are characterized by pore size distribution and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrochemical properties of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) with the GDEs are evaluated and analyzed by polarization curve, cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemistry impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Effects of PTFE binder content, PA impregnation and heat treatment on the GDEs are investigated to determine the optimum performance of the single cell. At ambient pressure and 160 °C, the maximum power density can reach 0.61 W cm-2, and the current density at 0.6 V is up to 0.38 A cm-2, with H2/air and a platinum loading of 0.5 mg cm-2 on both electrodes. The MEA with the GDEs shows good stability for fuel cell operating in a short term durability test.

Near-ambient solid polymer fuel cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holleck, G. L.

1993-01-01

Fuel cells are extremely attractive for extraterrestrial and terrestrial applications because of their high energy conversion efficiency without noise or environmental pollution. Among the various fuel cell systems the advanced polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells based on sulfonated fluoropolymers (e.g., Nafion) are particularly attractive because they are fairly rugged, solid state, quite conductive, of good chemical and thermal stability and show good oxygen reduction kinetics due to the low specific adsorption of the electrolyte on the platinum catalyst. The objective of this program is to develop a solid polymer fuel cell which can efficiently operate at near ambient temperatures without ancillary components for humidification and/or pressurization of the fuel or oxidant gases. During the Phase 1 effort we fabricated novel integral electrode-membrane structures where the dispersed platinum catalyst is precipitated within the Nafion ionomer. This resulted in electrode-membrane units without interfacial barriers permitting unhindered water diffusion from cathode to anode. The integral electrode-membrane structures were tested as fuel cells operating on H2 and O2 or air at 1 to 2 atm and 10 to 50 C without gas humidification. We demonstrated that cells with completely dry membranes could be self started at room temperature and subsequently operated on dry gas for extended time. Typical room temperature low pressure operation with unoptimized electrodes yielded 100 mA/cm(exp 2) at 0.5V and maximum currents over 300 mA/cm(exp 2) with low platinum loadings. Our results clearly demonstrate that operation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells at ambient conditions is feasible. Optimization of the electrode-membrane structure is necessary to assess the full performance potential but we expect significant gains in weight and volume power density for the system. The reduced complexity will make fuel cells also attractive for smaller and portable power supplies and as replacement for batteries.

Electrochemically Switchable Polymeric Membrane Ion-Selective Electrodes.

PubMed

Zdrachek, Elena; Bakker, Eric

2018-06-07

We present here for the first time a solid contact ion-selective electrode suitable for the simultaneous sensing of cations (tetrabutylammonium) and anions (hexafluorophosphate), achieved by electrochemical switching. The membrane is based on a thin plasticized polyurethane membrane deposited on poly(3-octylthiophene) (POT) and contains a cation exchanger and lipophilic electrolyte (ETH 500). The cation exchanger is initially in excess; the ion-selective electrode exhibits an initial potentiometric response to cations. During an oxidative current pulse, POT is converted into POT + , which results in the expulsion of cations from the membrane followed by the extraction of anions from the sample solution to fulfill the electroneutrality condition. This creates a defined excess of lipophilic cation in the membrane, resulting in a potentiometric anion response. A reductive current pulse restores the original cation response by triggering the conversion of POT + back into POT, which is accompanied by the expulsion of anions from the membrane and the extraction of cations from the sample solution. Various current pulse magnitudes and durations are explored, and the best results in terms of response slope values and signal stability were observed with an oxidation current pulse of 140 μA cm -2 applied for 8 s and a reduction current pulse of -71 μA cm -2 applied for 8 s.

Process to prepare stable trifluorostyrene containing compounds grafted to base polymers using a solvent/water mixture

DOEpatents

Roelofs, Mark Gerrit; Yang, Zhen-Yu; Han, Amy Qi

2010-06-15

A fluorinated ion exchange polymer is prepared by grafting at least one grafting monomer derived from trifluorostyrene on to at least one base polymer in a organic solvent/water mixture. These ion exchange polymers are useful in preparing catalyst coated membranes and membrane electrode assemblies used in fuel cells.

Final Report - Advanced Cathode Catalysts and Supports for PEM Fuel Cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Debe, Mark

2012-09-28

The principal objectives of the program were development of a durable, low cost, high performance cathode electrode (catalyst and support), that is fully integrated into a fuel cell membrane electrode assembly with gas diffusion media, fabricated by high volume capable processes, and is able to meet or exceed the 2015 DOE targets. Work completed in this contract was an extension of the developments under three preceding cooperative agreements/grants Nos. DE-FC-02-97EE50473, DE-FC-99EE50582 and DE-FC36- 02AL67621 which investigated catalyzed membrane electrode assemblies for PEM fuel cells based on a fundamentally new, nanostructured thin film catalyst and support system, and demonstrated the feasibilitymore » for high volume manufacturability.« less

Ordered macroporous platinum electrode and enhanced mass transfer in fuel cells using inverse opal structure.

PubMed

Kim, Ok-Hee; Cho, Yong-Hun; Kang, Soon Hyung; Park, Hee-Young; Kim, Minhyoung; Lim, Ju Wan; Chung, Dong Young; Lee, Myeong Jae; Choe, Heeman; Sung, Yung-Eun

2013-01-01

Three-dimensional, ordered macroporous materials such as inverse opal structures are attractive materials for various applications in electrochemical devices because of the benefits derived from their periodic structures: relatively large surface areas, large voidage, low tortuosity and interconnected macropores. However, a direct application of an inverse opal structure in membrane electrode assemblies has been considered impractical because of the limitations in fabrication routes including an unsuitable substrate. Here we report the demonstration of a single cell that maintains an inverse opal structure entirely within a membrane electrode assembly. Compared with the conventional catalyst slurry, an ink-based assembly, this modified assembly has a robust and integrated configuration of catalyst layers; therefore, the loss of catalyst particles can be minimized. Furthermore, the inverse-opal-structure electrode maintains an effective porosity, an enhanced performance, as well as an improved mass transfer and more effective water management, owing to its morphological advantages.

Highly selective direct determination of chlorate ions by using a newly developed potentiometric electrode based on modified smectite.

PubMed

Topcu, Cihan

2016-12-01

A novel polyvinyl chloride membrane chlorate (ClO 3 - ) selective electrode based on modified smectite was developed for the direct determination of chlorate ions and the potentiometric performance characteristics of its were examined. The best selectivity and sensitivity for chlorate ions were obtained for the electrode membrane containing ionophore/polyvinylchloride/o-nitrophenyloctylether in composition of 12/28/60 (w/w%). The proposed electrode showed a Nernstian response toward chlorate ions at pH=7 in the concentration range of 1×10 -7 -1×10 -1 M and the limit of detection was calculated as 9×10 -8 M from the constructed response plot. The linear slope of the electrode was -61±1mVdecade -1 for chlorate activity in the mentioned linear working range. The selectivity coefficients were calculated according to both the matched potential method and the separate solution method. The calculated selectivity coefficients showed that the electrode performed excellent selectivity for chlorate ions. The potentiometric response of electrode toward chlorate ions was found to be highly reproducible. The electrode potential was stable between pH=4-10 and it had a dynamic response time of <5s. The potentiometric behavior of the electrode in partial non-aqueous medium was also investigated and the obtained results (up to 5% (v/v) alcohol) were satisfactory. The proposed electrode was used during 15 weeks without any significant change in its potential response. Additionally, the electrode was very useful in water analysis studies such as dam water, river water, tap water, and swimming pool water where the direct determination of chlorate ions was required. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Membrane with internal passages to permit fluid flow and an electrochemical cell containing the same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cisar, Alan J. (Inventor); Murphy, Oliver J. (Inventor); Gonzalez-Martin, Anuncia (Inventor); Hitchens, G. Duncan (Inventor)

1997-01-01

The invention provides an improved proton exchange membrane for use in electrochemical cells having internal passages parallel to the membrane surface, an apparatus and process for making the membrane, membrane and electrode assemblies fabricated using the membrane, and the application of the membrane and electrode assemblies to a variety of devices, both electrochemical and otherwise. The passages in the membrane extend from one edge of the membrane to another and allow fluid flow through the membrane and give access directly to the membrane for purposes of hydration.

MEMBRANE POTENTIAL OF THE SQUID GIANT AXON DURING CURRENT FLOW

PubMed Central

Cole, Kenneth S.; Curtis, Howard J.

1941-01-01

The squid giant axon was placed in a shallow narrow trough and current was sent in at two electrodes in opposite sides of the trough and out at a third electrode several centimeters away. The potential difference across the membrane was measured between an inside fine capillary electrode with its tip in the axoplasm between the pair of polarizing electrodes, and an outside capillary electrode with its tip flush with the surface of one polarizing electrode. The initial transient was roughly exponential at the anode make and damped oscillatory at the sub-threshold cathode make with the action potential arising from the first maximum when threshold was reached. The constant change of membrane potential, after the initial transient, was measured as a function of the total polarizing current and from these data the membrane potential is obtained as a function of the membrane current density. The absolute value of the resting membrane resistance approached at low polarizing currents is about 23 ohm cm.2. This low value is considered to be a result of the puncture of the axon. The membrane was found to be an excellent rectifier with a ratio of about one hundred between the high resistance at the anode and the low resistance at the cathode for the current range investigated. On the assumption that the membrane conductance is a measure of its ion permeability, these experiments show an increase of ion permeability under a cathode and a decrease under an anode. PMID:19873234

Graphene-doped electrospun nanofiber membrane electrodes and proton exchange membrane fuel cell performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Meng; Jiang, Min; Liu, Xiaobo; Wang, Min; Mu, Shichun

2016-09-01

A rational electrode structure can allow proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells own high performance with a low noble metal loading and an optimal transport pathway for reaction species. In this study, we develop a graphene doped polyacrylonitile (PAN)/polyvinylident fluoride (PVDF) (GPP) electrospun nanofiber electrode with improved electrical conductivity and high porosity, which could enhance the triple reaction boundary and promote gas and water transport throughout the porous electrode. Thus the increased electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) of Pt catalysts and fuel cell performance can be expected. As results, the ECSA of hot-pressed electrospun electrodes with 2 wt% graphene oxide (GO) is up to 84.3 m2/g, which is greatly larger than that of the conventional electrode (59.5 m2/g). Significantly, the GPP nanofiber electrospun electrode with Pt loading of 0.2 mg/cm2 exhibits higher fuel cell voltage output and stability than the conventional electrode.

In situ coating nickel organic complexes on free-standing nickel wire films for volumetric-energy-dense supercapacitors.

PubMed

Hong, Min; Xu, Shusheng; Yao, Lu; Zhou, Chao; Hu, Nantao; Yang, Zhi; Hu, Jing; Zhang, Liying; Zhou, Zhihua; Wei, Hao; Zhang, Yafei

2018-07-06

A self-free-standing core-sheath structured hybrid membrane electrodes based on nickel and nickel based metal-organic complexes (Ni@Ni-OC) was designed and constructed for high volumetric supercapacitors. The self-standing Ni@Ni-OC film electrode had a high volumetric specific capacity of 1225.5 C cm -3 at 0.3 A cm -3 and an excellent rate capability. Moreover, when countered with graphene-carbon nanotube (G-CNT) film electrode, the as-assembled Ni@Ni-OC//G-CNT hybrid supercapacitor device delivered an extraordinary volumetric capacitance of 85 F cm -3 at 0.5 A cm -3 and an outstanding energy density of 33.8 at 483 mW cm -3 . Furthermore, the hybrid supercapacitor showed no capacitance loss after 10 000 cycles at 2 A cm -3 , indicating its excellent cycle stability. These fascinating performances can be ascribed to its unique core-sheath structure that high capacity nano-porous nickel based metal-organic complexes (Ni-OC) in situ coated on highly conductive Ni wires. The impressive results presented here may pave the way to construct s self-standing membrane electrode for applications in high volumetric-performance energy storage.

Effects of electrode surface structure on the mechanoelectrical transduction of IPMC sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palmre, Viljar; Pugal, David; Kim, Kwang

2014-03-01

This study investigates the effects of electrode surface structure on the mechanoelectrical transduction of IPMC sensors. A physics-based mechanoelectrical transduction model was developed that takes into account the electrode surface profile (shape) by describing the polymer-electrode interface as a Koch fractal structure. Based on the model, the electrode surface effects were experimentally investigated in case of IPMCs with Pd-Pt electrodes. IPMCs with different electrode surface structures were fabricated through electroless plating process by appropriately controlling the synthesis parameters and conditions. The changes in the electrode surface morphology and the corresponding effects on the IPMC mechanoelectrical transduction were examined. Our experimental results indicate that increasing the dispersion of Pd particles near the membrane surface, and thus the polymer-electrode interfacial area, leads to a higher peak mechanoelectrically induced voltage of IPMC. However, the overall effect of the electrode surface structure is relatively low compared to the electromechanical transduction, which is in good agreement with theoretical prediction.

Effect of Particle Size and Operating Conditions on Pt 3Co PEMFC Cathode Catalyst Durability

DOE PAGES

Gummalla, Mallika; Ball, Sarah; Condit, David; ...

2015-05-29

The initial performance and decay trends of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) cathodes with Pt 3Co catalysts of three mean particle sizes (4.9 nm, 8.1 nm, and 14.8 nm) with identical Pt loadings are compared. Even though the cathode based on 4.9 nm catalyst exhibited the highest initial electrochemical surface area (ECA) and mass activity, the cathode based on 8.1 nm catalyst showed better initial performance at high currents. Owing to the low mass activity of the large particles, the initial performance of the 14.8 nm Pt3Co-based electrode was the lowest. The performance decay rate of the electrodes withmore » the smallest Pt 3Co particle size was the highest and that of the largest Pt 3Co particle size was lowest. Interestingly, with increasing number of decay cycles (0.6 to 1.0 V, 50 mV/s), the relative improvement in performance of the cathode based on 8.1 nm Pt 3Co over the 4.9 nm Pt 3Co increased, owing to better stability of the 8.1 nm catalyst. The electron microprobe analysis (EMPA) of the decayed membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) showed that the amount of Co in the membrane was lower for the larger particles, and the platinum loss into the membrane also decreased with increasing particle size. This suggests that the higher initial performance at high currents with 8.1 nm Pt 3Co could be due to lower contamination of the ionomer in the electrode. Furthermore, lower loss of Co from the catalyst with increased particle size could be one of the factors contributing to the stability of ECA and mass activity of electrodes with larger cathode catalyst particles. To delineate the impact of particle size and alloy effects, these results are compared with prior work from our research group on size effects of pure platinum catalysts. The impact of PEMFC operating conditions, including upper potential, relative humidity, and temperature on the alloy catalyst decay trends, along with the EMPA analysis of the decayed MEAs, are reported.« less

Fabrication of novel coated pyrolytic graphite electrodes for the selective nano-level monitoring of Cd²⁺ ions in biological and environmental samples using polymeric membrane of newly synthesized macrocycle.

PubMed

Sahani, Manoj Kumar; Singh, A K; Jain, A K; Upadhyay, Anjali; Kumar, Amit; Singh, Udai P; Narang, Shikha

2015-02-20

Novel 5-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thiol unit based macrocyclic ionophore 5,11,17-trithia-1,3,7,9,13,15,19,20,21-nonaazatetracyclo[14.2.1.1(4,7).1(10,13)]henicosa-4(20),10(21),16(19)-triene-6,12,18-trithione (M1), was synthesized and characterized. Preliminary studies on M1 have showed that it has more the affinity toward Cd(2+) ion. Thus, the macrocyclic ionophore (M1) was used as electroactive material in the fabrication of PVC-membrane electrodes such as polymeric membrane electrode (PME), coated graphite electrode (CGE) and coated pyrolytic graphite electrode (CPGE) were prepared and its performance characteristic were compared with. The electroanalytical studies performed on PME, CGE and CPGE revealed that CPGE having membrane composition M1:PVC:1-CN:NaTPB in the ratio of 7:37:54:2 exhibits the best potentiometric characteristics in terms of detection limit of 7.58×10(-9) mol L(-1), Nernstian slope of 29.6 mV decade(-1) of activity. The sensor was found to be independent of pH in the range 2.5-8.5. The sensor showed a fast response time of 10s and could be used over a period of 4 months without any significant divergence in its potentiometric characteristics. The sensor has been employed for monitoring of the Cd(2+) ion in real samples and also used as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of Cd(2+) ion with EDTA. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Potentiometric determination of ketotifen fumarate in pharmaceutical preparations and urine using carbon paste and PVC membrane selective electrodes.

PubMed

Frag, Eman Y Z; Mohamed, Gehad G; Khalil, Mohamed M; Hwehy, Mohammad M A

2011-01-01

This study compares between unmodified carbon paste (CPE; the paste has no ion pair) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane selective electrodes that were used in potentiometric determination of ketotifen fumarate (KTF), where sodium tetraphenylborate (NaTPB) was used as titrant. The performance characteristics of these sensors were evaluated according to IUPAC recommendations which reveal a fast, stable, and linear response for KTF over the concentration range of 10(-7) to 10(-2) mol L(-1). The electrodes show Nernstian slope value of 52.51 ± 0.20 and 51.51 ± 0.25 mV decade(-1) for CPE and PVC membrane electrodes at 30°C, respectively. The potential is nearly stable over the pH range 3.0-6.0 and 2.0-7.0 for CPE and PVC membrane electrodes, respectively. Selectivity coefficient values towards different inorganic cations, sugars, and amino acids reflect high selectivity of the prepared electrodes. The electrodes responses at different temperatures were also studied, and long operational lifetime of 12 and 5 weeks for CPE and PVC membrane electrodes, respectively, were found. These are used for determination of ketotifen fumarate using potentiometric titration, calibration, and standard addition methods in pure samples, its pharmaceutical preparations (Zaditen tablets), and biological fluid (urine). The direct potentiometric determination of KTF using the proposed sensors gave recoveries % of 98.97 ± 0.53 and 98.62 ± 0.74 with RSD 1.42 and 0.63% for CPE and PVC membrane selective electrodes, respectively. Validation of the method shows suitability of the proposed sensors for use in quality control assessment of KTF. The obtained results were in a good agreement with those obtained using the reported spectrophotometric method.

Potentiometric Determination of Ketotifen Fumarate in Pharmaceutical Preparations and Urine Using Carbon Paste and PVC Membrane Selective Electrodes

PubMed Central

Frag, Eman Y. Z.; Mohamed, Gehad G.; Khalil, Mohamed M.; Hwehy, Mohammad M. A.

2011-01-01

This study compares between unmodified carbon paste (CPE; the paste has no ion pair) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane selective electrodes that were used in potentiometric determination of ketotifen fumarate (KTF), where sodium tetraphenylborate (NaTPB) was used as titrant. The performance characteristics of these sensors were evaluated according to IUPAC recommendations which reveal a fast, stable, and linear response for KTF over the concentration range of 10−7 to 10−2 mol L−1. The electrodes show Nernstian slope value of 52.51 ± 0.20 and 51.51 ± 0.25 mV decade−1 for CPE and PVC membrane electrodes at 30°C, respectively. The potential is nearly stable over the pH range 3.0–6.0 and 2.0–7.0 for CPE and PVC membrane electrodes, respectively. Selectivity coefficient values towards different inorganic cations, sugars, and amino acids reflect high selectivity of the prepared electrodes. The electrodes responses at different temperatures were also studied, and long operational lifetime of 12 and 5 weeks for CPE and PVC membrane electrodes, respectively, were found. These are used for determination of ketotifen fumarate using potentiometric titration, calibration, and standard addition methods in pure samples, its pharmaceutical preparations (Zaditen tablets), and biological fluid (urine). The direct potentiometric determination of KTF using the proposed sensors gave recoveries % of 98.97 ± 0.53 and 98.62 ± 0.74 with RSD 1.42 and 0.63% for CPE and PVC membrane selective electrodes, respectively. Validation of the method shows suitability of the proposed sensors for use in quality control assessment of KTF. The obtained results were in a good agreement with those obtained using the reported spectrophotometric method. PMID:22013443

Junction Potentials Bias Measurements of Ion Exchange Membrane Permselectivity.

PubMed

Kingsbury, Ryan S; Flotron, Sophie; Zhu, Shan; Call, Douglas F; Coronell, Orlando

2018-04-17

Ion exchange membranes (IEMs) are versatile materials relevant to a variety of water and waste treatment, energy production, and industrial separation processes. The defining characteristic of IEMs is their ability to selectively allow positive or negative ions to permeate, which is referred to as permselectivity. Measured values of permselectivity that equal unity (corresponding to a perfectly selective membrane) or exceed unity (theoretically impossible) have been reported for cation exchange membranes (CEMs). Such nonphysical results call into question our ability to correctly measure this crucial membrane property. Because weighing errors, temperature, and measurement uncertainty have been shown to not explain these anomalous permselectivity results, we hypothesized that a possible explanation are junction potentials that occur at the tips of reference electrodes. In this work, we tested this hypothesis by comparing permselectivity values obtained from bare Ag/AgCl wire electrodes (which have no junction) to values obtained from single-junction reference electrodes containing two different electrolytes. We show that permselectivity values obtained using reference electrodes with junctions were greater than unity for CEMs. In contrast, electrodes without junctions always produced permselectivities lower than unity. Electrodes with junctions also resulted in artificially low permselectivity values for AEMs compared to electrodes without junctions. Thus, we conclude that junctions in reference electrodes introduce two biases into results in the IEM literature: (i) permselectivity values larger than unity for CEMs and (ii) lower permselectivity values for AEMs compared to those for CEMs. These biases can be avoided by using electrodes without a junction.

Ion selective electrode for cesium based on 5-(4'-nitrophenylazo)25,27-bis(2-propyloxy)26,28-dihydroxycalix[4]arene.

PubMed

Ramanjaneyulu, P S; Singh, Parminder; Sayi, Y S; Chawla, H M; Ramakumar, K L

2010-03-15

A polyvinylchloride (PVC) based liquid membrane ion selective electrode (ISE) for cesium was fabricated with 5-(4'-nitrophenylazo)25,27-bis(2-propyloxy)26,28-dihydroxycalix[4]arene as ionophore. Different membrane constituents were investigated to realise optimum performance of the ISE developed. Of the four plasticizers and two ion additives studied, the best response was observed with membrane having 2-nitro phenyl octyl ether (oNPOE) as plasticizer and potassium tetrakis (perchloro phenyl) borate (KTpClPB) as ion additive. Linear response over concentration range of 10(-5)-10(-1)M CsCl was obtained. The Nernstian slope of the response was 56 mV per decade for Cs with a response time less than 20s. Matched potential method has been applied to find out the selectivity for Cs over several ions like Rb(+), K(+), Na(+), NH(4)(+), Sr(2+), Ba(2+), Ca(2+), Mg(2+), Cu(2+), Pb(2+), Zn(2+), Ni(2+) and Ce(3+). The response of ISE for Cs(+) was fairly constant over the pH range of 3-11. The lifetime of the electrode is 9 months which is the longest life for any membrane-based Cs-ISE so far developed. The concentration of cesium in two simulated high level active waste streams was determined and results agreed well with those obtained independently employing atomic absorption spectrometry. (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highly selective potentiometric and colorimetric determinations of cobalt (II) ion using thiazole based ligands.

PubMed

Singhal, Divya; Singh, Ashok Kumar; Upadhyay, Anjali

2014-12-01

New PVC-membrane electrodes were prepared by using 2-((thiazol-2-ylimino)methyl)phenol (L1) and 2-((thiazol-2-ylamino)methyl)phenol (L2) and explored as Co(II) selective electrodes. The effect of various plasticizers and anion excluder was studied in detail and improved performance was observed. It was found that the electrode based on L1 shows better response characteristics in comparison to L2. Optimum performance was observed for the membrane electrode having a composition of L1:NaTPB:DBP:PVC≡2:8:78:62 (w/w, mg). The performance of PME based on L1 was compared with that of CGE. The electrodes exhibit Nernstian slope for Co(II) ions with a limit of detection of 6.91×10(-7) mol L(-1) for PME and 7.94×10(-8) mol L(-1) for CGE. The response time for PME and CGE was found to be 15s and 12 s respectively. The potentiometric responses are independent in the pH range 3.0-9.0 for CGE. The CGE could be used for a period of 90 days. The CGE was used as an indicator electrode in potentiometric titration of EDTA with Co(2+) ion. Further the selectivity of the L1 and L2 was also confirmed by the UV-vis and colorimetric studies and found that L1 is more selective for Co(II) ion. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Miniature Bipolar Electrostatic Ion Thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartley, Frank T.

2006-01-01

The figure presents a concept of a bipolar miniature electrostatic ion thruster for maneuvering a small spacecraft. The ionization device in the proposed thruster would be a 0.1-micron-thick dielectric membrane with metal electrodes on both sides. Small conical holes would be micromachined through the membrane and electrodes. An electric potential of the order of a volt applied between the membrane electrodes would give rise to an electric field of the order of several mega-volts per meter in the submicron gap between the electrodes. An electric field of this magnitude would be sufficient to ionize all the molecules that enter the holes. In a thruster-based on this concept, one or more propellant gases would be introduced into such a membrane ionizer. Unlike in larger prior ion thrusters, all of the propellant molecules would be ionized. This thruster would be capable of bipolar operation. There would be two accelerator grids - one located forward and one located aft of the membrane ionizer. In one mode of operation, which one could denote the forward mode, positive ions leaving the ionizer on the backside would be accelerated to high momentum by an electric field between the ionizer and an accelerator grid. Electrons leaving the ionizer on the front side would be ejected into free space by a smaller accelerating field. The equality of the ion and electron currents would eliminate the need for an additional electron- or ion-emitting device to keep the spacecraft charge-neutral. In another mode of operation, which could denote the reverse mode, the polarities of the voltages applied to the accelerator grids and to the electrodes of the membrane ionizer would be the reverse of those of the forward mode. The reversal of electric fields would cause the ion and electrons to be ejected in the reverse of their forward mode directions, thereby giving rise to thrust in the direction opposite that of the forward mode.

AC electroosmotic pump with bubble-free palladium electrodes and rectifying polymer membrane valves.

PubMed

Brask, Anders; Snakenborg, Detlef; Kutter, Jörg P; Bruus, Henrik

2006-02-01

We present the design, test and theoretical analysis of a novel micropump. The purpose is to make a pump with large flow rate (approximately 10 microL min-1) and high pressure capacity (approximately 1 bar) powered by a low voltage DeltaV<30 V. The pump is operated in AC mode with an electroosmotic actuator in connection with a full wave rectifying valve system. Individual valves are based on a flexible membrane with a slit. Bubble-free palladium electrodes are implemented in order to increase the range of applications and reduce maintenance.

Membrane with supported internal passages

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gonzalez-Martin, Anuncia (Inventor); Salinas, Carlos E. (Inventor); Cisar, Alan J. (Inventor); Hitchens, G. Duncan (Inventor); Murphy, Oliver J. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

The invention provides an improved proton exchange membrane for use in electrochemical cells having internal passages parallel to the membrane surface comprising permanent tubes preferably placed at the ends of the fluid passages. The invention also provides an apparatus and process for making the membrane, membrane and electrode assemblies fabricated using the membrane, and the application of the membrane and electrode assemblies to a variety of devices, both electrochemical and otherwise. The passages in the membrane extend from one edge of the membrane to another and allow fluid flow through the membrane and give access directly to the membrane.

Carbon nanotube-graphene composite for ionic polymer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Woosung; Choi, Hyonkwang; Choi, Suho; Jeon, Minhyon; Lee, Seung-Yop

2012-05-01

In this paper, we develop a new ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) by replacing a typical platinum or gold electrode with a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT)-graphene based electrode. A solvent of MWNT and graphene is formed on both sides of the ionic polymer membranes as electrodes by means of spray coating and baking. Then, the ionic liquid process is performed for actuating in air. The four kinds of IPMC samples with different MWNT-graphene ratios are fabricated with the same solid Nafion film. Experimental results show that the IPMC with a pure MWNT based electrode exhibits higher displacement compared to the conventional IPMC with a platinum electrode. Also, the increment of the ratio of graphene to the MWNT-graphene electrode decreases the resultant displacement but increases the fundamental natural frequency of the polymer actuator.

Development of a ceramic membrane from a lithian spinel, Li1+xMyMn2-yO4 (M=trivalent or tetravalent cations) for a Li ion-selective electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, H.; Venugopal, N.; Rim, T.; Yang, B.; Chung, K.; Ko, T.

2010-12-01

Recently a few lithium containing ceramics are reported as promising cathodes for application in lithium batteries. Among them, a spinel-type lithium manganate (LM) exhibits an exceptionally high ion selectivity at room temperature. Thus, LM could have a great potential as an ion selective membrane material for screening interfering ions from lithium ion for the determination of lithium ion in salt solution. In this study, we developed an ion-selective electrode based on LM as a membrane material and investigated its lithium ion selectivity by varying the content of M in composition. A sol-gel process was successfully applied for preparing LM films without resorting to calcination at a high temperature. The LM thin film-type membranes exhibit a high selectivity for Li ion over other cations, a wide operation detection range of 10-5 ~ 10-2 M, and a fast response time less than 60 s. Furthermore, our result demonstrates a linear potentiometric response over a wide range of lithium concentration, which is compared to that of a lithium ion-selective electrode based on an ionophore. Acknowledgements: This research was supported by a grant from the Development of Technology for Extraction of Resources Dissolved in Sea Water Program funded by Ministry of Land Transport and Maritime Affairs in Korean Government (2010).

Unique battery with a multi-functional, physicochemically active membrane separator/electrolyte-electrode monolith and a method making the same

DOEpatents

Gerald, II, Rex E; Ruscic, Katarina J; Sears, Devin N; Smith, Luis J; Klinger, Robert J; Rathke, Jerome W

2013-11-26

The invention relates to a unique battery having a physicochemically active membrane separator/electrolyte-electrode monolith and method of making the same. The Applicant's invented battery employs a physicochemically active membrane separator/electrolyte-electrode that acts as a separator, electrolyte, and electrode, within the same monolithic structure. The chemical composition, physical arrangement of molecules, and physical geometry of the pores play a role in the sequestration and conduction of ions. In one preferred embodiment, ions are transported via the ion-hoping mechanism where the oxygens of the Al.sub.2O.sub.3 wall are available for positive ion coordination (i.e. Li.sup.+). This active membrane-electrode composite can be adjusted to a desired level of ion conductivity by manipulating the chemical composition and structure of the pore wall to either increase or decrease ion conduction.

Unique battery with a multi-functional, physicochemically active membrane separator/electrolyte-electrode monolith and a method making the same

DOEpatents

Gerald II, Rex E.; Ruscic, Katarina J.; Sears, Devin N.; Smith, Luis J.; Klingler, Robert J.; Rathke, Jerome W.

2012-07-24

The invention relates to a unique battery having a physicochemically active membrane separator/electrolyte-electrode monolith and method of making the same. The Applicant's invented battery employs a physicochemically active membrane separator/electrolyte-electrode that acts as a separator, electrolyte, and electrode, within the same monolithic structure. The chemical composition, physical arrangement of molecules, and physical geometry of the pores play a role in the sequestration and conduction of ions. In one preferred embodiment, ions are transported via the ion-hoping mechanism where the oxygens of the Al₂O₃ wall are available for positive ion coordination (i.e. Li⁺). This active membrane-electrode composite can be adjusted to a desired level of ion conductivity by manipulating the chemical composition and structure of the pore wall to either increase or decrease ion conduction.

Nanoporous carbon-based electrodes for high strain ionomeric bending actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palmre, Viljar; Brandell, Daniel; Mäeorg, Uno; Torop, Janno; Volobujeva, Olga; Punning, Andres; Johanson, Urmas; Kruusmaa, Maarja; Aabloo, Alvo

2009-09-01

Ionic polymer metal composites (IPMCs) are electroactive material devices that bend at low applied voltage (1-4 V). Inversely, a voltage is generated when the materials are deformed, which makes them useful both as sensors and actuators. In this paper, we propose two new highly porous carbon materials as electrodes for IPMC actuators, generating a high specific area, and compare their electromechanical performance with recently reported RuO2 electrodes and conventional IPMCs. Using a direct assembly process (DAP), we synthesize ionic liquid (Emi-Tf) actuators with either carbide-derived carbon (CDC) or coconut-shell-based activated carbon-based electrodes. The carbon electrodes were applied onto ionic liquid-swollen Nafion membranes using a direct assembly process. The study demonstrates that actuators based on carbon electrodes derived from TiC have the greatest peak-to-peak strain output, reaching up to 20.4 mɛ (equivalent to>2%) at a 2 V actuation signal, exceeding that of the RuO2 electrodes by more than 100%. The electrodes synthesized from TiC-derived carbon also exhibit significantly higher maximum strain rate. The differences between the materials are discussed in terms of molecular interactions and mechanisms upon actuation in the different electrodes.

Fluid electrodes for submersible robotics based on dielectric elastomer actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christianson, Caleb; Goldberg, Nathaniel; Cai, Shengqiang; Tolley, Michael T.

2017-04-01

Recently, dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) have gathered interest for soft robotics due to their low cost, light weight, large strain, low power consumption, and high energy density. However, developing reliable, compliant electrodes for DEAs remains an ongoing challenge due to issues with fabrication, uniformity of the conductive layer, and mechanical stiffening of the actuators caused by conductive materials with large Young's moduli. In this work, we present a method for preparing, patterning, and utilizing conductive fluid electrodes. Further, when we submerse the DEAs in a bath containing a conductive fluid connected to ground, the bath serves as a second electrode, obviating the need for depositing a conductive layer to serve as either of the electrodes required of most DEAs. When we apply a positive electrical potential to the conductive fluid in the actuator with respect to ground, the electric field across the dielectric membrane causes charge carriers in the solution to apply an electrostatic force on the membrane, which compresses the membrane and causes the actuator to deform. We have used this process to develop a tethered submersible robot that can swim in a tank of saltwater at a maximum measured speed of 9.2 mm/s. Since saltwater serves as the electrode, we overcome buoyancy issues that may be a challenge for pneumatically actuated soft robots and traditional, rigid robotics. This research opens the door to low-power underwater robots for search and rescue and environmental monitoring applications.

High performance polymer chemical hydrogel-based electrode binder materials for direct borohydride fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choudhury, Nurul A.; Ma, Jia; Sahai, Yogeshwar; Buchheit, Rudolph G.

Novel, cost-effective, high-performance, and environment-friendly electrode binders, comprising polyvinyl alcohol chemical hydrogel (PCH) and chitosan chemical hydrogel (CCH), are reported for direct borohydride fuel cells (DBFCs). PCH and CCH binders-based electrodes have been fabricated using a novel, simple, cost-effective, time-effective, and environmentally benign technique. Morphologies and electrochemical performance in DBFCs of the chemical hydrogel binder-based electrodes have been compared with those of Nafion ® binder-based electrodes. Relationships between the performance of binders in DBFCs with structural features of the polymers and the polymer-based chemical hydrogels are discussed. The CCH binder exhibited better performance than a Nafion ® binder whereas the PCH binder exhibited comparable performance to Nafion ® in DBFCs operating at elevated cell temperatures. The better performance of CCH binder at higher operating cell temperatures has been ascribed to the hydrophilic nature and water retention characteristics of chitosan. DBFCs employing CCH binder-based electrodes and a Nafion ®-117 membrane as an electrolyte exhibited a maximum peak power density of about 589 mW cm -2 at 70 °C.

Construction of a new selective coated disk electrode for Ag (I) based on modified polypyrrole-carbon nanotubes composite with new lariat ether.

PubMed

Abbaspour, A; Tashkhourian, J; Ahmadpour, S; Mirahmadi, E; Sharghi, H; Khalifeh, R; Shahriyari, M R

2014-01-01

A poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) matrix membrane ion-selective electrode for silver (I) ion is fabricated based on modified polypyrrole - multiwalled carbon nanotubes composite with new lariat ether. This sensor has a Nernstian slope of 59.4±0.5mV/decade over a wide linear concentration range of 1.0×10(-7) to 1.0×10(-1)molL(-1) for silver (I) ion. It has a short response time of about 8.0s and can be used for at least 50days. The detection limit is 9.3×10(-8)molL(-1) for silver (I) ion, and the electrode was applicable in the wide pH range of 1.6 -7.7. The electrode shows good selectivity for silver ion against many cations such as Hg (II), which usually imposes serious interference in the determination of silver ion concentration. The use of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in a polymer matrix improves the linear range and sensitivity of the electrode. In addition by coating the solid contact with a layer of the polypyrrole (Ppy) before coating the membrane on it, not only did it reduce the drift in potential, but a shorter response time was also resulted. The proposed electrode was used as an indicator electrode for potentiometric titration of silver ions with chloride anions and in the titration of mixed halides. This electrode was successfully applied for the determination of silver ions in silver sulphadiazine as a burning cream. © 2013.

Direct Measurement of Cyclic Current-Voltage Responses of Integral Membrane Proteins at a Self-Assembled Lipid-Bilayer-Modified Electrode: Cytochrome f and Cytochrome c Oxidase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salamon, Z.; Hazzard, J. T.; Tollin, G.

1993-07-01

Direct cyclic voltage-current responses, produced in the absence of redox mediators, for two detergent-solubilized integral membrane proteins, spinach cytochrome f and beef heart cytochrome c oxidase, have been obtained at an optically transparent indium oxide electrode modified with a self-assembled lipid-bilayer membrane. The results indicate that both proteins interact with the lipid membrane so as to support quasi-reversible electron transfer redox reactions at the semiconductor electrode. The redox potentials that were obtained from analysis of the cyclic "voltammograms," 365 mV for cytochrome f and 250 and 380 mV for cytochrome c oxidase (vs. normal hydrogen electrode), compare quite well with the values reported by using conventional titration methods. The ability to obtain direct electrochemical measurements opens up another approach to the investigation of the properties of integral membrane redox proteins.

Electrochemical performance of an air-breathing direct methanol fuel cell using poly(vinyl alcohol)/hydroxyapatite composite polymer membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Chun-Chen; Chiu, Shwu-Jer; Lin, Che-Tseng

A novel composite polymer membrane based on poly(vinyl alcohol)/hydroxyapatite (PVA/HAP) was successfully prepared by a solution casting method. The characteristic properties of the PVA/HAP composite polymer membranes were examined by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), micro-Raman spectroscopy and AC impedance method. An air-breathing DMFC, comprised of an air cathode electrode with MnO 2/BP2000 carbon inks on Ni-foam, an anode electrode with PtRu black on Ti-mesh, and the PVA/HAP composite polymer membrane, was assembled and studied. It was found that this alkaline DMFC showed an improved electrochemical performance at ambient temperature and pressure; the maximum peak power density of an air-breathing DMFC in 8 M KOH + 2 M CH 3OH solution is about 11.48 mW cm -2. From the application point of view, these composite polymer membranes show a high potential for the DMFC applications.

Portable Apparatus for Electrochemical Sensing of Ethylene

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manoukian, Mourad; Tempelman, Linda A.; Forchione, John; Krebs, W. Michael; Schmitt, Edwin W.

2007-01-01

A small, lightweight, portable apparatus based on an electrochemical sensing principle has been developed for monitoring low concentrations of ethylene in air. Ethylene has long been known to be produced by plants and to stimulate the growth and other aspects of the development of plants (including, notably, ripening of fruits and vegetables), even at concentrations as low as tens of parts per billion (ppb). The effects are magnified in plant-growth and -storage chambers wherein ethylene can accumulate. There is increasing recognition in agriculture and related industries that it is desirable to monitor and control ethylene concentrations in order to optimize the growth, storage, and ripening of plant products. Hence, there are numerous potential uses for the present apparatus in conjunction with equipment for controlling ethylene concentrations. The ethylene sensor is of a thick-film type with a design optimized for a low detection limit. The sensor includes a noble metal sensing electrode on a chip and a hydrated solid-electrolyte membrane that is held in contact with the chip. Also located on the sensor chip are a counter electrode and a reference electrode. The sensing electrode is held at a fixed potential versus the reference electrode. Detection takes place at active-triple-point areas where the sensing electrode, electrolyte, and sample gas meet. These areas are formed by cutting openings in the electrolyte membrane. The electrode current generated from electrochemical oxidation of ethylene at the active triple points is proportional to the concentration of ethylene. An additional film of the solid-electrolyte membrane material is deposited on the sensing electrode to increase the effective triple-point areas and thereby enhance the detection signal. The sensor chip is placed in a holder that is part of a polycarbonate housing. When fully assembled, the housing holds the solid-electrolyte membrane in contact with the chip (see figure). The housing includes a water reservoir for keeping the solid-electrolyte membrane hydrated. The housing also includes flow channels for circulating a sample stream of air over the chip: ethylene is brought to the sensing surface predominately by convection in this sample stream. The sample stream is generated by a built-in sampling pump. The forced circulation of sample air contributes to the attainment of a low detection limit.

Preparation and characterization of electrodes for the NASA Redox storage system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, M. A.; Gahn, R. F.; Ling, J. S.; Charleston, J.

1980-01-01

Electrodes for the Redox energy storage system based on iron and chromium chloride reactants is discussed. The physical properties of several lots of felt were determined. Procedures were developed for evaluating electrode performance in lab scale cells. Experimental procedures for evaluating electrodes by cyclic voltammetry are described which minimize the IR losses due to the high internal resistance in the felt (distributed resistance). Methods to prepare electrodes which reduced the coevolution of hydrogen at the chromium electrode and eleminate the drop in voltage on discharge occasionally seen with previous electrodes were discussed. Single cells of 0.3329 ft area with improved membranes and electrodes are operating at over 80% voltage efficiency and coulombic efficiencies of over 98% at current densities of 16 to 20 amp % ft.

Improved durability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells by introducing Sn (IV) oxide into electrodes using an ion exchange method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poulsen, M. G.; Larsen, M. J.; Andersen, S. M.

2017-03-01

Electrodes of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs), consisting of catalyst-coated gas diffusion layers, were subjected to an optimized ion exchange procedure, in which tin (IV) oxide (SnO2) nanoparticles were introduced into them. Both methanol and sulfuric acid were tested as ion exchange solvents. SnO2 has previously been shown to exhibit radical scavenging abilities towards radicals inside the electrocatalyst layers. Its presence inside the electrodes was confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence. After exposure to an accelerated stress test in a three-electrode setup, the electrodes containing SnO2 were found to have retained approximately 73.0% of their original Pt, while only 53.2% was retained in electrodes treated identically, but without Sn. Similarly, the SnO2-treated electrodes also experienced a smaller loss in electrochemical surface area in comparison to before the accelerated stress test. A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) constructed with a SnO2-containing anode was evaluated over 500 h. The results showed remarkably reduced OCV decay rate and end of test hydrogen crossover compared to the control MEA, indicating that SnO2 aids in impeding membrane thinning and pinhole formation. The results point toward a positive effect of SnO2 on fuel cell durability, by reducing the degradation of the membrane as well as of the ionomer in the electrocatalyst layer.

Method of making MEA for PEM/SPE fuel cell

DOEpatents

Hulett, Jay S.

2000-01-01

A method of making a membrane-electrode-assembly (MEA) for a PEM/SPE fuel cell comprising applying a slurry of electrode-forming material directly onto a membrane-electrolyte film. The slurry comprises a liquid vehicle carrying catalyst particles and a binder for the catalyst particles. The membrane-electrolyte is preswollen by contact with the vehicle before the electrode-forming slurry is applied to the membrane-electrolyte. The swollen membrane-electrolyte is constrained against shrinking in the "x" and "y" directions during drying. Following assembly of the fuel cell, the MEA is rehydrated inside the fuel cell such that it swells in the "z" direction for enhanced electrical contact with contiguous electrically conductive components of the fuel cell.

Simultaneous voltammetry detection of dopamine and uric acid in human serum and urine with a poly(procaterol hydrochloride) modified glassy carbon electrode.

PubMed

Kong, Dexian; Zhuang, Qizhao; Han, Yejian; Xu, Lanping; Wang, Zeming; Jiang, Lili; Su, Jinwei; Lu, Chun-Hua; Chi, Yuwu

2018-08-01

In the present study, procaterol hydrochloride (ProH) was successfully electropolymerized onto a glass carbon electrode (GCE) with simply cyclic voltammetry scans to construct a poly(procaterol hydrochloride) (p-ProH) membrane modified electrode. Compared with the bare GCE, much higher oxidation peak current responses and better peak potentials separation could be obtained for the simultaneous oxidation of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA), owning to the excellent electrocatalytic ability of the p-ProH membrane. And it's based on that a square wave voltammetry (SWV) method was developed to selective and simultaneous measurement of DA and UA. Under the optimum conditions, the linear dependence of oxidation peak current on analyte concentrations were found to be 1.0-100 μmol/L and 2-100 μmol/L, giving detection limits of 0.3 μmol/L and 0.5 μmol/L for DA and UA, separately. The as prepared modified electrode shows simplicity in construction with the merits of good reproducibility, high stability, passable selectivity and nice sensitivity. Finally, the proposed p-ProH membrane modified electrode was successfully devoted to the detection of DA and UA in biological fluids such as human serum and urine with acceptable results. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Solid-Contact pH Sensor without CO2 Interference with a Superhydrophobic PEDOT-C14 as Solid Contact: The Ultimate "Water Layer" Test.

PubMed

Guzinski, Marcin; Jarvis, Jennifer M; D'Orazio, Paul; Izadyar, Anahita; Pendley, Bradford D; Lindner, Ernő

2017-08-15

The aim of this study was to find a conducting polymer-based solid contact (SC) for ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) that could become the ultimate, generally applicable SC, which in combination with all kinds of ion-selective membranes (ISMs) would match the performance characteristics of conventional ISEs. We present data collected with electrodes utilizing PEDOT-C 14 , a highly hydrophobic derivative of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), PEDOT, as SC and compare its performance characteristics with PEDOT-based SC ISEs. PEDOT-C 14 has not been used in SC ISEs previously. The PEDOT-C 14 -based solid contact (SC) ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) (H + , K + , and Na + ) have outstanding performance characteristics (theoretical response slope, short equilibration time, excellent potential stability, etc.). Most importantly, PEDOT-C 14 -based SC pH sensors have no CO 2 interference, an essential pH sensors property when aimed for whole-blood analysis. The superhydrophobic properties (water contact angle: 136 ± 5°) of the PEDOT-C 14 SC prevent the detachment of the ion-selective membrane (ISM) from its SC and the accumulation of an aqueous film between the ISM and the SC. The accumulation of an aqueous film between the ISM and its SC has a detrimental effect on the sensor performance. Although there is a test for the presence of an undesirable water layer, if the conditions for this test are not selected properly, it does not provide an unambiguous answer. On the other hand, recording the potential drifts of SC electrodes with pH-sensitive membranes in samples with different CO 2 levels can effectively prove the presence or absence of a water layer in a short time period.

Epoxy-crosslinked sulfonated poly (phenylene) copolymer proton exchange membranes

DOEpatents

Hibbs, Michael; Fujimoto, Cy H.; Norman, Kirsten; Hickner, Michael A.

2010-10-19

An epoxy-crosslinked sulfonated poly(phenylene) copolymer composition used as proton exchange membranes, methods of making the same, and their use as proton exchange membranes (PEM) in hydrogen fuel cells, direct methanol fuel cell, in electrode casting solutions and electrodes, and in sulfur dioxide electrolyzers. These improved membranes are tougher, have higher temperature capability, and lower SO.sub.2 crossover rates.

Aptamer-based potentiometric measurements of proteins using ion-selective microelectrodes.

PubMed

Numnuam, Apon; Chumbimuni-Torres, Karin Y; Xiang, Yun; Bash, Ralph; Thavarungkul, Panote; Kanatharana, Proespichaya; Pretsch, Ernö; Wang, Joseph; Bakker, Eric

2008-02-01

We here report on the first example of an aptamer-based potentiometric sandwich assay of proteins. The measurements are based on CdS quantum dot labels of the secondary aptamer, which were determined with a novel solid-contact Cd2+-selective polymer membrane electrode after dissolution with hydrogen peroxide. The electrode exhibited cadmium ion detection limits of 100 pM in 100 mL samples and of 1 nM in 200 microL microwells, using a calcium-selective electrode as a pseudoreference electrode. As a prototype example, thrombin was measured in 200 microL samples with a lower detection limit of 0.14 nM corresponding to 28 fmol of analyte. The results show great promise for the potentiometric determination of proteins at very low concentrations in microliter samples.

Alkaline polymer electrolyte membranes for fuel cell applications.

PubMed

Wang, Yan-Jie; Qiao, Jinli; Baker, Ryan; Zhang, Jiujun

2013-07-07

In this review, we examine the most recent progress and research trends in the area of alkaline polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) development in terms of material selection, synthesis, characterization, and theoretical approach, as well as their fabrication into alkaline PEM-based membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) and the corresponding performance/durability in alkaline polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Respective advantages and challenges are also reviewed. To overcome challenges hindering alkaline PEM technology advancement and commercialization, several research directions are then proposed.

Unraveling micro- and nanoscale degradation processes during operation of high-temperature polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hengge, K.; Heinzl, C.; Perchthaler, M.; Varley, D.; Lochner, T.; Scheu, C.

2017-10-01

The work in hand presents an electron microscopy based in-depth study of micro- and nanoscale degradation processes that take place during the operation of high-temperature polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs). Carbon supported Pt particles were used as cathodic catalyst material and the bimetallic, carbon supported Pt/Ru system was applied as anode. As membrane, cross-linked polybenzimidazole was used. Scanning electron microscopy analysis of cross-sections of as-prepared and long-term operated membrane-electrode-assemblies revealed insight into micrometer scale degradation processes: operation-caused catalyst redistribution and thinning of the membrane and electrodes. Transmission electron microscopy investigations were performed to unravel the nanometer scale phenomena: a band of Pt and Pt/Ru nanoparticles was detected in the membrane adjacent to the cathode catalyst layer. Quantification of the elemental composition of several individual nanoparticles and the overall band area revealed that they stem from both anode and cathode catalyst layers. The results presented do not demonstrate any catastrophic failure but rather intermediate states during fuel cell operation and indications to proceed with targeted HT-PEMFC optimization.

Process for recycling components of a PEM fuel cell membrane electrode assembly

DOEpatents

Shore, Lawrence [Edison, NJ

2012-02-28

The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of a PEM fuel cell can be recycled by contacting the MEA with a lower alkyl alcohol solvent which separates the membrane from the anode and cathode layers of the assembly. The resulting solution containing both the polymer membrane and supported noble metal catalysts can be heated under mild conditions to disperse the polymer membrane as particles and the supported noble metal catalysts and polymer membrane particles separated by known filtration means.

A reference electrode based on polyvinyl butyral (PVB) polymer for decentralized chemical measurements.

PubMed

Guinovart, Tomàs; Crespo, Gastón A; Rius, F Xavier; Andrade, Francisco J

2014-04-22

A new solid-state reference electrode using a polymeric membrane of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), Ag/AgCl and NaCl to be used in decentralized chemical measurements is presented. The electrode is made by drop-casting the membrane cocktail onto a glassy carbon (GC) substrate. A stable potential (less than 1 mV dec(-1)) over a wide range of concentrations for the several chemical species tested is obtained. No significant influence to changes in redox potential, light and pH are observed. The response of this novel electrode shows good correlation when compared with a conventional double-junction reference electrode. Also good long-term stability (90±33 μV/h) and a lifetime of approximately 4 months are obtained. Aspects related to the working mechanisms are discussed. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) studies reveal the presence of nanopores and channels on the surface, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) of optimized electrodes show low bulk resistances, usually in the kΩ range, suggesting that a nanoporous polymeric structure is formed in the interface with the solution. Future applications of this electrode as a disposable device for decentralized measurements are discussed. Examples of the utilization on wearable substrates (tattoos, fabrics, etc) are provided. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reduced size fuel cell for portable applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Valdez, Thomas I. (Inventor); Clara, Filiberto (Inventor); Frank, Harvey A. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

A flat pack type fuel cell includes a plurality of membrane electrode assemblies. Each membrane electrode assembly is formed of an anode, an electrolyte, and an cathode with appropriate catalysts thereon. The anode is directly into contact with fuel via a wicking element. The fuel reservoir may extend along the same axis as the membrane electrode assemblies, so that fuel can be applied to each of the anodes. Each of the fuel cell elements is interconnected together to provide the voltage outputs in series.

Materiais a base de oxidos com estrutura do tipo perovskite e compositos como anodos de PCES: Propriedades Funcionais e Comportamento Eletroquimico em Celulas com Eletrolitos Solidos a Base de Galatos e Silicatos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolotygin, Vladislav

This work was focused on the analysis of transport, thermomechanical and electrochemical properties of a series of perovskite-like oxide materials and composites for potential applications as anodes of intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with lanthanum gallate and silicate solid electrolytes. The primary attention was centered on A(Mn,Nb)O3-delta (A = Sr, Ca) and (La,Sr)(Mn,Ti)O3-based systems, lanthanum chromite substituted with acceptor-type and variable-valence cations, and various Ni-containing cermets. Emphasis was given to phase stability of the materials, their crystal structure, microstructure of porous electrode layers and dense ceramics, electronic conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, oxygen permeability, thermal and chemical induced expansion, and anodic overpotentials of the electrodes deposited onto (La,Sr)(Ga,Mg)O3- and La10(Si,Al)6O27-based electrolyte membranes. In selected cases, roles of oxygen diffusivity, states of the transition metal cations relevant for the electronic transport, catalytically active additives and doped ceria protective interlayers introduced in the model electrochemical cells were assessed. The correlations between transport properties of the electrode materials and electrochemical behavior of porous electrodes showed that the principal factors governing anode performance include, in particular, electronic conduction of the anode compositions and cation interdiffusion between the electrodes and solid electrolytes. The latter is critically important for the silicatebased electrolyte membranes, leading to substantially worse anode properties compared to the electrochemical cells with lanthanum gallate solid electrolyte. The results made it possible to select several anode compositions exhibiting lower area-specific electrode resistivity compared to known analogues, such as (La,Sr)(Cr,Mn)O3-delta.

Transport phenomena in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells via voltage loss breakdown

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flick, Sarah; Dhanushkodi, Shankar R.; Mérida, Walter

2015-04-01

This study presents a voltage loss breakdown method based on in-situ experimental data to systematically analyze the different overpotentials of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell. This study includes a systematic breakdown of the anodic overpotentials via the use of a reference electrode system. This work demonstrates the de-convolution of the individual overpotentials for both anode and cathode side, including the distinction between mass-transport overpotentials in cathode porous transport layer (PTL) and electrode, based on in-situ polarization tests under different operating conditions. This method is used to study the relationship between mass-transport losses inside the cathode catalyst layer (CL) and the PTL for both a single layer and two-layer PTL configuration. We conclude that the micro-porous layer (MPL) significantly improves the water removal within the cell, especially inside the cathode electrode, and therefore the mass transport within the cathode CL. This study supports the theory that the MPL on the cathode leads to an increase in water permeation from cathode to anode due to its function as a capillary barrier. This is reflected in increased anodic mass-transport overpotential, decreased ohmic losses and decreased cathode mass-transport losses, especially in the cathode electrode.

The Effect of Scala Tympani Morphology on Basilar Membrane Contact With a Straight Electrode Array: A Human Temporal Bone Study.

PubMed

Verberne, Juul; Risi, Frank; Campbell, Luke; Chambers, Scott; O'Leary, Stephen

2017-01-01

Scala tympani morphology influences the insertion dynamics and intra-scalar position of straight electrode arrays. Hearing preservation is the goal of cochlear implantation with current thin straight electrode arrays. These hug the lateral wall, facilitating full, atraumatic insertions. However, most studies still report some postoperative hearing loss. This study explores the influence of scala tympani morphology on array position relative to the basilar membrane and its possible contribution to postoperative hearing loss. Twenty-six fresh-frozen human temporal bones implanted with a straight electrode array were three-dimensionally reconstructed from micro-photographic histological sections. Insertion depth and the proximity between the array and basilar membrane were recorded. Lateral wall shape was quantified as a curvature ratio. Insertion depths ranged from 233 to 470 degrees. The mean first point of contact between the array and basilar membrane was 185 degrees; arrays tended to remain in contact with the membrane after first contacting it. Eighty-nine and 93% of arrays that reached the upper basal (>240-360 degrees) and second (>360-720 degrees) turns respectively contacted the basilar membrane in these regions. Scalar wall curvature ratio decreased significantly (the wall became steeper) from the basal to second turns. This shift correlated with a reduced distance between the array and basilar membrane. Scala tympani morphology influences the insertion dynamics and intra-scalar position of a straight electrode array. In addition to gross trauma of cochlear structures, contact between the array and basilar membrane and how this impacts membrane function should be considered in hearing preservation cases.

Biomimetic surface patterning for long-term transmembrane access

PubMed Central

VanDersarl, Jules J.; Renaud, Philippe

2016-01-01

Here we present a planar patch clamp chip based on biomimetic cell membrane fusion. This architecture uses nanometer length-scale surface patterning to replicate the structure and function of membrane proteins, creating a gigaohm seal between the cell and a planar electrode array. The seal is generated passively during cell spreading, without the application of a vacuum to the cell surface. This interface can enable cell-attached and whole-cell recordings that are stable to 72 hours, and generates no visible damage to the cell. The electrodes can be very small (<5 μm) and closely packed, offering a high density platform for cellular measurement. PMID:27577519

Biomimetic surface patterning for long-term transmembrane access.

PubMed

VanDersarl, Jules J; Renaud, Philippe

2016-08-31

Here we present a planar patch clamp chip based on biomimetic cell membrane fusion. This architecture uses nanometer length-scale surface patterning to replicate the structure and function of membrane proteins, creating a gigaohm seal between the cell and a planar electrode array. The seal is generated passively during cell spreading, without the application of a vacuum to the cell surface. This interface can enable cell-attached and whole-cell recordings that are stable to 72 hours, and generates no visible damage to the cell. The electrodes can be very small (<5 μm) and closely packed, offering a high density platform for cellular measurement.

Construction of conducting polymer/cytochrome C/thylakoid membrane based photo-bioelectrochemical fuel cells generating high photocurrent via photosynthesis.

PubMed

Cevik, Emre; Carbas, Buket Bezgin; Senel, Mehmet; Yildiz, Huseyin Bekir

2018-08-15

In this study, a photo-bioelectrochemical fuel cell was constructed for photocurrent generation by illuminating the electrodes within an aqueous solution. In this purpose, gold electrode was coated with poly 4-(4H-Dithieno [3,2-b:2',3'-d]pyrol-4-yl) aniline, P(DTP-Ph-NH 2 ) conductive polymer film by using electrochemical polymerization. Then, P(DTP-Ph-NH 2 ) conductive polymer film coated surface was electrochemically modified with cytochrome C which covalently linked onto the surface via bis-aniline functionality of the polymer film and formed crosslinked-structure. The thylakoid membrane was attached on the surface of this electrode by using bissulfosaxinimidyl suberate (BS 3 ) and used as photo-anode in photo-bioelectrochemical fuel cell. The photo-cathode of the photo-bioelectrochemical fuel cell fabrication was followed by the modification of conductive polymer poly[5-(4H-dithieno [3,2-b:2',3'-d]pyrol-4-yl) naphtalene-1-amine] film coating, glutaraldehyde activation, and bilirubin oxidase enzyme immobilization. During the photosynthesis occurring in thylakoid membrane under the light, water was oxidized and separated; while oxygen was released in anode side, the cathode side was reduced the oxygen gas into the water via a bio-electro-catalytic method. The cytochrome C was used for binding of thylakoid membrane to the electrode surface and play an important role for transferring of electrons released as a result of photosynthesis. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Potentiometric flow injection system for determination of reductants using a polymeric membrane permanganate ion-selective electrode based on current-controlled reagent delivery.

PubMed

Song, Wenjing; Ding, Jiawang; Liang, Rongning; Qin, Wei

2011-10-17

A polymeric membrane permanganate-selective electrode has been developed as a current-controlled reagent release system for potentiometric detection of reductants in flow injection analysis. By applying an external current, diffusion of permanganate ions across the polymeric membrane can be controlled precisely. The permanganate ions released at the sample-membrane interface from the inner filling solution of the electrode are consumed by reaction with a reductant in the sample solution thus changing the measured membrane potential, by which the reductant can be sensed potentiometrically. Ascorbate, dopamine and norepinephrine have been employed as the model reductants. Under the optimized conditions, the potential peak heights are proportional to the reductant concentrations in the ranges of 1.0×10(-5) to 2.5×10(-7)M for ascorbate, of 1.0×10(-5) to 5.0×10(-7)M for dopamine, and of 1.0×10(-5) to 5.0×10(-7)M for norepinephrine, respectively with the corresponding detection limits of 7.8×10(-8), 1.0×10(-7) and 1.0×10(-7)M. The proposed system has been successfully applied to the determination of reductants in pharmaceutical preparations and vegetables, and the results agree well with those of iodimetric analysis. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of surface roughening of Nafion 117 on the mechanical and physicochemical properties of ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yanjie; Zhu, Zicai; Liu, Jiayu; Chang, Longfei; Chen, Hualing

2016-08-01

In this paper, the surface of a Nafion membrane was roughened by the sandblasting method, mainly considering the change of sandblasting time and powder size. The roughened surfaces were characterized in terms of their topography from the confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and SEM. The key surface parameters, such as Sa (the arithmetical mean deviation of the specified surface profile), SSA (the surface area ratio before and after roughening) and the area measurement on the histogram from the CLSM images, were extracted and evaluated from the roughened membranes. Also, the detailed change in surface and interfacial electrodes were measured and discussed together with the surface resistance, equivalent modulus, capacitance and performances of IPMC actuators based on the roughened membranes. The results show that a suitable sandblasting condition, resulting in the decrease in the bending stiffness and the increase in the interface area closely related to the capacitance, can effectively increase the electromechanical responses of IPMCs. Although the surface roughening by sandblasting caused a considerable lowering of mechanical strength, it was very effective for enlarging the interfacial area between Nafion membrane and the electrode layers, and for forming a penetrated electrode structure, which facilitated improvement of the surface resistance and capacitance characteristics of IPMCs. In this work, a quantitative relationship was built between the topography of Nafion membrane surface and electromechanical performance of IPMCs by means of sandblasting.

Reinforced Electrode Architecture for a Flexible Battery with Paperlike Characteristics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gaikwad, AM; Chu, HN; Qeraj, R

2013-02-10

Compliant energy storage has not kept pace with flexible electronics. Herein we demonstrate a technique to reinforce arbitrary battery electrodes by supporting them with mechanically tough, low-cost fibrous membranes, which also serve as the separator. The membranes were laminated to form a full cell, and this stacked membrane reinforcement bears the loads during flexing. This technique was used to make a high energy density, nontoxic Zn-MnO2 battery with printed current collectors. The Zn and MnO2 electrodes were prepared by using a solution-based embedding process. The cell had a nominal potential of 1.5 V and an effective capacity of approximately 3more » mA h cm(-2). We investigated the effect of bending and fatigue on the electrochemical performance and mechanical integrity of the battery. The battery was able to maintain its capacity even after 1000 flex cycles to a bend radius of 2.54 cm. The battery showed an improvement in discharge capacity (ca. 10%) if the MnO2 electrode was flexed to tension as a result of the improvement of particle-to-particle contact. In a demonstration, the flexible battery was used to power a light-emitting diode display integrated with a strain sensor and microcontroller.« less

Ionic polymer metal composites with nanoporous carbon electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palmre, Viljar; Brandell, Daniel; Mäeorg, Uno; Torop, Janno; Volobujeva, Olga; Punning, Andres; Johanson, Urmas; Aabloo, Alvo

2010-04-01

Ionic Polymer Metal Composites (IPMCs) are soft electroactive polymer materials that bend in response to the voltage stimulus (1 - 4 V). They can be used as actuators or sensors. In this paper, we introduce two new highly-porous carbon materials for assembling high specific area electrodes for IPMC actuators and compare their electromechanical performance with recently reported IPMCs based on RuO2 electrodes. We synthesize ionic liquid (Emi-Tf) actuators with either Carbide-Derived Carbon (CDC) (derived from TiC) or coconut shell based activated carbon electrodes. The carbon electrodes are applied onto ionic liquid-swollen Nafion membranes using the direct assembly process. Our results show that actuators assembled with CDC electrodes have the greatest peak-to-peak strain output, reaching up to 20.4 mɛ (equivalent to >2%) at a 2 V actuation signal, exceeding that of the RuO2 electrodes by more than 100%. The electrodes synthesized from TiC-derived carbon also revealed significantly higher maximum strain rate. The differences between the materials are discussed in terms of molecular interactions and mechanisms upon actuation in the different electrodes.

Oxygen reduction reaction catalyzed by nickel complexes based on thiophosphorylated calix[4]resorcinols and immobilized in the membrane electrode assembly of fuel cells.

PubMed

Kadirov, M K; Knyazeva, I R; Nizameev, I R; Safiullin, R A; Matveeva, V I; Kholin, K V; Khrizanforova, V V; Ismaev, T I; Burilov, A R; Budnikova, Yu H; Sinyashin, O G

2016-10-18

The catalytic activity of the nickel complexes of thiophosphorylated calix[4]resorcinols for oxygen reduction in a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) has been studied. The conformation of the macrocyclic ligand determines the morphology and catalytic properties of the resulting organometallic species.

Additively Manufactured Pneumatically Driven Skin Electrodes.

PubMed

Schubert, Martin; Schmidt, Martin; Wolter, Paul; Malberg, Hagen; Zaunseder, Sebastian; Bock, Karlheinz

2017-12-23

Telemedicine focuses on improving the quality of health care, particularly in out-of-hospital settings. One of the most important applications is the continuous remote monitoring of vital parameters. Long-term monitoring of biopotentials requires skin-electrodes. State-of-the-art electrodes such as Ag/AgCl wet electrodes lead, especially during long-term application, to complications, e.g., skin irritations. This paper presents a low-cost, on-demand electrode approach for future long-term applications. The fully printed module comprises a polymeric substrate with electrodes on a flexible membrane, which establishes skin contact only for short time in case of measurement. The membranes that produce airtight seals for pressure chambers can be pneumatically dilated and pressed onto the skin to ensure good contact, and subsequently retracted. The dilatation depends on the pressure and membrane thickness, which has been tested up to 150 kPa. The electrodes were fabricated in screen and inkjet printing technology, and compared during exemplary electrodermal activity measurement (EDA). The results show less amplitude compared to conventional EDA electrodes but similar behavior. Because of the manufacturing process the module enables high individuality for future applications.

Device and method for the measurement of gas permeability through membranes

DOEpatents

Agarwal, Pradeep K.; Ackerman, John; Borgialli, Ron; Hamann, Jerry; Muknahalliptna, Suresh

2006-08-08

A device for the measuring membrane permeability in electrical/electrochemical/photo-electrochemical fields is provided. The device is a permeation cell and a tube mounted within the cell. An electrode is mounted at one end of the tube. A membrane is mounted within the cell wherein a corona is discharged from the electrode in a general direction toward the membrane thereby generating heated hydrogen atoms adjacent the membrane. A method for measuring the effects of temperature and pressure on membrane permeability and selectivity is also provided.

Methods and apparatus for using gas and liquid phase cathodic depolarizers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murphy, Oliver J. (Inventor); Hitchens, G. Duncan (Inventor)

1998-01-01

The invention provides methods for using gas and liquid phase cathodic depolarizers in an electrochemical cell having a cation exchange membrane in intimate contact with the anode and cathode. The electrochemical conversion of cathodic depolarizers at the cathode lowers the cell potential necessary to achieve a desired electrochemical conversion, such as ozone evolution, at the anode. When gaseous cathodic depolarizers, such as oxygen, are used, a gas diffusion cathode having the cation exchange membrane bonded thereto is preferred. When liquid phase cathodic depolarizers are used, the cathode may be a flow-by electrode, flow-through electrode, packed-bed electrode or a fluidized-bed electrode in intimate contact with the cation exchange membrane.

Functionalized Anodic Aluminum Oxide Membrane–Electrode System for Enzyme Immobilization

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

A nanoporous membrane system with directed flow carrying reagents to sequentially attached enzymes to mimic nature’s enzyme complex system was demonstrated. Genetically modified glycosylation enzyme, OleD Loki variant, was immobilized onto nanometer-scale electrodes at the pore entrances/exits of anodic aluminum oxide membranes through His6-tag affinity binding. The enzyme activity was assessed in two reactions—a one-step “reverse” sugar nucleotide formation reaction (UDP-Glc) and a two-step sequential sugar nucleotide formation and sugar nucleotide-based glycosylation reaction. For the one-step reaction, enzyme specific activity of 6–20 min–1 on membrane supports was seen to be comparable to solution enzyme specific activity of 10 min–1. UDP-Glc production efficiencies as high as 98% were observed at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min, at which the substrate residence time over the electrode length down pore entrances was matched to the enzyme activity rate. This flow geometry also prevented an unwanted secondary product hydrolysis reaction, as observed in the test homogeneous solution. Enzyme utilization increased by a factor of 280 compared to test homogeneous conditions due to the continuous flow of fresh substrate over the enzyme. To mimic enzyme complex systems, a two-step sequential reaction using OleD Loki enzyme was performed at membrane pore entrances then exits. After UDP-Glc formation at the entrance electrode, aglycon 4-methylumbelliferone was supplied at the exit face of the reactor, affording overall 80% glycosylation efficiency. The membrane platform showed the ability to be regenerated with purified enzyme as well as directly from expression crude, thus demonstrating a single-step immobilization and purification process. PMID:25025628

Simultaneous multi-patch-clamp and extracellular-array recordings: Single neuron reflects network activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vardi, Roni; Goldental, Amir; Sardi, Shira; Sheinin, Anton; Kanter, Ido

2016-11-01

The increasing number of recording electrodes enhances the capability of capturing the network’s cooperative activity, however, using too many monitors might alter the properties of the measured neural network and induce noise. Using a technique that merges simultaneous multi-patch-clamp and multi-electrode array recordings of neural networks in-vitro, we show that the membrane potential of a single neuron is a reliable and super-sensitive probe for monitoring such cooperative activities and their detailed rhythms. Specifically, the membrane potential and the spiking activity of a single neuron are either highly correlated or highly anti-correlated with the time-dependent macroscopic activity of the entire network. This surprising observation also sheds light on the cooperative origin of neuronal burst in cultured networks. Our findings present an alternative flexible approach to the technique based on a massive tiling of networks by large-scale arrays of electrodes to monitor their activity.

Simultaneous multi-patch-clamp and extracellular-array recordings: Single neuron reflects network activity.

PubMed

Vardi, Roni; Goldental, Amir; Sardi, Shira; Sheinin, Anton; Kanter, Ido

2016-11-08

The increasing number of recording electrodes enhances the capability of capturing the network's cooperative activity, however, using too many monitors might alter the properties of the measured neural network and induce noise. Using a technique that merges simultaneous multi-patch-clamp and multi-electrode array recordings of neural networks in-vitro, we show that the membrane potential of a single neuron is a reliable and super-sensitive probe for monitoring such cooperative activities and their detailed rhythms. Specifically, the membrane potential and the spiking activity of a single neuron are either highly correlated or highly anti-correlated with the time-dependent macroscopic activity of the entire network. This surprising observation also sheds light on the cooperative origin of neuronal burst in cultured networks. Our findings present an alternative flexible approach to the technique based on a massive tiling of networks by large-scale arrays of electrodes to monitor their activity.

Simultaneous multi-patch-clamp and extracellular-array recordings: Single neuron reflects network activity

PubMed Central

Vardi, Roni; Goldental, Amir; Sardi, Shira; Sheinin, Anton; Kanter, Ido

2016-01-01

The increasing number of recording electrodes enhances the capability of capturing the network’s cooperative activity, however, using too many monitors might alter the properties of the measured neural network and induce noise. Using a technique that merges simultaneous multi-patch-clamp and multi-electrode array recordings of neural networks in-vitro, we show that the membrane potential of a single neuron is a reliable and super-sensitive probe for monitoring such cooperative activities and their detailed rhythms. Specifically, the membrane potential and the spiking activity of a single neuron are either highly correlated or highly anti-correlated with the time-dependent macroscopic activity of the entire network. This surprising observation also sheds light on the cooperative origin of neuronal burst in cultured networks. Our findings present an alternative flexible approach to the technique based on a massive tiling of networks by large-scale arrays of electrodes to monitor their activity. PMID:27824075

Electrocatalytic activity of ZnS nanoparticles in direct ethanol fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bredol, Michael; Kaczmarek, Michał; Wiemhöfer, Hans-Dieter

2014-06-01

Low temperature fuel cells consuming ethanol without reformation would be a major step toward the use of renewable energy sources from biomass. However, the necessary electrodes and electrocatalysts still are far from being perfect and suffer from various poisoning and deactivation processes. This work describes investigations on systems using carbon/ZnS-based electrocatalysts for ethanol oxidation in complete membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs). MEAs were built on Nafion membranes with active masses prepared from ZnS nanoparticles and Vulcan carbon support. Under operation, acetic acid and acetaldehyde were identified and quantified as soluble oxidation products, whereas the amount of CO2 generated could not be quantified directly. Overall conversion efficiencies of up to 25% were estimated from cells operated over prolonged time. From polarization curves, interrupt experiments and analysis of reaction products, mass transport problems (concentration polarization) and breakthrough losses were found to be the main deficiencies of the ethanol oxidation electrodes fabricated so far.

Application of active electrode compensation to perform continuous voltage-clamp recordings with sharp microelectrodes.

PubMed

Gómez-González, J F; Destexhe, A; Bal, T

2014-10-01

Electrophysiological recordings of single neurons in brain tissues are very common in neuroscience. Glass microelectrodes filled with an electrolyte are used to impale the cell membrane in order to record the membrane potential or to inject current. Their high resistance induces a high voltage drop when passing current and it is essential to correct the voltage measurements. In particular, for voltage clamping, the traditional alternatives are two-electrode voltage-clamp technique or discontinuous single electrode voltage-clamp (dSEVC). Nevertheless, it is generally difficult to impale two electrodes in a same neuron and the switching frequency is limited to low frequencies in the case of dSEVC. We present a novel fully computer-implemented alternative to perform continuous voltage-clamp recordings with a single sharp-electrode. To reach such voltage-clamp recordings, we combine an active electrode compensation algorithm (AEC) with a digital controller (AECVC). We applied two types of control-systems: a linear controller (proportional plus integrative controller) and a model-based controller (optimal control). We compared the performance of the two methods to dSEVC using a dynamic model cell and experiments in brain slices. The AECVC method provides an entirely digital method to perform continuous recording and smooth switching between voltage-clamp, current clamp or dynamic-clamp configurations without introducing artifacts.

Method of fabricating electrode catalyst layers with directionally oriented carbon support for proton exchange membrane fuel cell

DOEpatents

Liu, Di-Jia [Naperville, IL; Yang, Junbing [Bolingbrook, IL

2012-03-20

A membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of the invention comprises an anode and a cathode and a proton conductive membrane therebetween, the anode and the cathode each comprising a patterned sheet of longitudinally aligned transition metal-containing carbon nanotubes, wherein the carbon nanotubes are in contact with and are aligned generally perpendicular to the membrane, wherein a catalytically active transition metal is incorporated throughout the nanotubes.

Multiple-membrane multiple-electrolyte redox flow battery design

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yan, Yushan; Gu, Shuang; Gong, Ke

A redox flow battery is provided. The redox flow battery involves multiple-membrane (at least one cation exchange membrane and at least one anion exchange membrane), multiple-electrolyte (one electrolyte in contact with the negative electrode, one electrolyte in contact with the positive electrode, and at least one electrolyte disposed between the two membranes) as the basic characteristic, such as a double-membrane, triple electrolyte (DMTE) configuration or a triple-membrane, quadruple electrolyte (TMQE) configuration. The cation exchange membrane is used to separate the negative or positive electrolyte and the middle electrolyte, and the anion exchange membrane is used to separate the middle electrolytemore » and the positive or negative electrolyte.« less

Samarium (III) Selective Membrane Sensor Based on Tin (IV) Boratophosphate

PubMed Central

Mittal, Susheel K.; Sharma, Harish Kumar; Kumar, Ashok S. K.

2004-01-01

A number of Sm (III) selective membranes of varying compositions using tin (IV) boratophosphate as electroactive material were prepared. Polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene and epoxy resin were used as binding materials. Membrane having composition of 40% exchanger and 60% epoxy resin exhibited best performance. This membrane worked well over a wide concentration range of 1×10-5M to 1×10-1 M of samarium ions with a Super-Nernstian slope of 40 mV/decade. It has a fast response time of less than 10 seconds and can be used for at least six months without any considerable divergence in potentials. The proposed sensor revealed good selectivities with respect to alkali, alkaline earth, some transition and rare earth metal ions and can be used in the pH range of 4.0-10.0. It was used as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of Sm (III) ions against EDTA. Effect of internal solution was studied and the electrode was successfully used in non-aqueous media, too.

Solid phase microbial fuel cell (SMFC) for harnessing bioelectricity from composite food waste fermentation: influence of electrode assembly and buffering capacity.

PubMed

Mohan, S Venkata; Chandrasekhar, K

2011-07-01

Solid phase microbial fuel cells (SMFC; graphite electrodes; open-air cathode) were designed to evaluate the potential of bioelectricity production by stabilizing composite canteen based food waste. The performance was evaluated with three variable electrode-membrane assemblies. Experimental data depicted feasibility of bioelectricity generation from solid state fermentation of food waste. Distance between the electrodes and presence of proton exchange membrane (PEM) showed significant influence on the power yields. SMFC-B (anode placed 5 cm from cathode-PEM) depicted good power output (463 mV; 170.81 mW/m(2)) followed by SMFC-C (anode placed 5 cm from cathode; without PEM; 398 mV; 53.41 mW/m(2)). SMFC-A (PEM sandwiched between electrodes) recorded lowest performance (258 mV; 41.8 mW/m(2)). Sodium carbonate amendment documented marked improvement in power yields due to improvement in the system buffering capacity. SMFCs operation also documented good substrate degradation (COD, 76%) along with bio-ethanol production. The operation of SMFC mimicked solid-sate fermentation which might lead to sustainable solid waste management practices. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of flow rate and concentration difference on reverse electrodialysis system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Kilsugn; Han, Jaesuk; Kim, Daejoong

2013-11-01

Various energy conversion technologies have been developed to reduce dependency on limited fossil fuels, including wind power, solar power, hydropower, ocean power, and geothermal power. Among them, reverse electrodialysis (RED), which is one type of salinity gradient power (SGP), has received much attention due to high reliability and simplicity without moving parts. Here, we experimentally evaluated the RED performance with several parameters like flow rate of concentrated and dilute solution, concentration difference, and temperature. RED was composed of endplates, electrodes, spacers, anion exchange membrane, and cation exchange membrane. Endplates are made by a polypropylene. It included the electrodes, flow field for the electrode rinse solution, and path to supply a concentrated and dilute solution. Titanium coated by iridium and ruthenium was used as the electrode. The electrode rinse solution based on hexacyanoferrate system is used to reduce the power loss generated by conversion process form ionic current to electric current. Maximum power monotonously increases as increasing flow rate and concentration difference. Net power has optimal point because pumping power consumption increases with flow rate. This work was supported by Basic Science Research Program (Grat No. NRF-2011-0009993) through the National Research Foundation of Korea.

Development of a DNA Sensor Based on Nanoporous Pt-Rich Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Hao, Pham; Thanh, Pham Duc; Xuan, Chu Thi; Hai, Nguyen Hoang; Tuan, Mai Anh

2017-06-01

Nanoporous Pt-rich electrodes with 72 at.% Pt composition were fabricated by sputtering a Pt-Ag alloy, followed by an electrochemical dealloying process to selectively etch away Ag atoms. The surface properties of nanoporous membranes were investigated by energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), a documentation system, and a gel image system (Gel Doc Imager). A single strand of probe deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was immobilized onto the electrode surface by physical adsorption. The DNA probe and target hybridization were measured using a lock-in amplifier and an electrochemical impedance spectroscope (EIS). The nanoporous Pt-rich electrode-based DNA sensor offers a fast response time of 3.7 s, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 4.35 × 10-10 M of DNA target.

Manufacturing and actuation characterization of ionic polymer metal composites with silver as electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandita, Surya D.; Lim, Hyoung Tae; Yoo, Youngtai; Park, Hoon Cheol

2006-03-01

Manufacturing and characterization of ionic polymer metal composites (IPMCs) with silver as electrodes have been investigated. Tollen's reagent that contains ion Ag(NH 3) II + was used as a raw material for silver deposition on the surfaces of the polymer membrane Nafion"R". Two types of inner solvents, namely common water based electrolyte solution (LiOH 1N) and ionic liquid were used and investigated. Compared to IPMCs with platinum electrodes, silver-plated IPMCs with water electrolyte showed higher conductivity. The actuation response of silver-plated IPMCs with the water based electrolyte was faster than that of platinum IPMCs. However, the silver electrode was too brittle and severely damaged during the solvent exchange process from water to ionic liquid, resulted in high resistance and hence very low actuation behavior.

Selectivity of Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Membranes.

PubMed

Aricò, Antonino S; Sebastian, David; Schuster, Michael; Bauer, Bernd; D'Urso, Claudia; Lufrano, Francesco; Baglio, Vincenzo

2015-11-24

Sulfonic acid-functionalized polymer electrolyte membranes alternative to Nafion(®) were developed. These were hydrocarbon systems, such as blend sulfonated polyetheretherketone (s-PEEK), new generation perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) systems, and composite zirconium phosphate-PFSA polymers. The membranes varied in terms of composition, equivalent weight, thickness, and filler and were investigated with regard to their methanol permeation characteristics and proton conductivity for application in direct methanol fuel cells. The behavior of the membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) was investigated in fuel cell with the aim to individuate a correlation between membrane characteristics and their performance in a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). The power density of the DMFC at 60 °C increased according to a square root-like function of the membrane selectivity. This was defined as the reciprocal of the product between area specific resistance and crossover. The power density achieved at 60 °C for the most promising s-PEEK-based membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) was higher than the benchmark Nafion(®) 115-based MEA (77 mW·cm(-2) vs. 64 mW·cm(-2)). This result was due to a lower methanol crossover (47 mA·cm(-2) equivalent current density for s-PEEK vs. 120 mA·cm(-2) for Nafion(®) 115 at 60 °C as recorded at OCV with 2 M methanol) and a suitable area specific resistance (0.15 Ohm cm² for s-PEEK vs. 0.22 Ohm cm² for Nafion(®) 115).

Selectivity of Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Membranes

PubMed Central

Aricò, Antonino S.; Sebastian, David; Schuster, Michael; Bauer, Bernd; D’Urso, Claudia; Lufrano, Francesco; Baglio, Vincenzo

2015-01-01

Sulfonic acid-functionalized polymer electrolyte membranes alternative to Nafion® were developed. These were hydrocarbon systems, such as blend sulfonated polyetheretherketone (s-PEEK), new generation perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) systems, and composite zirconium phosphate–PFSA polymers. The membranes varied in terms of composition, equivalent weight, thickness, and filler and were investigated with regard to their methanol permeation characteristics and proton conductivity for application in direct methanol fuel cells. The behavior of the membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) was investigated in fuel cell with the aim to individuate a correlation between membrane characteristics and their performance in a direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). The power density of the DMFC at 60 °C increased according to a square root-like function of the membrane selectivity. This was defined as the reciprocal of the product between area specific resistance and crossover. The power density achieved at 60 °C for the most promising s-PEEK-based membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) was higher than the benchmark Nafion® 115-based MEA (77 mW·cm−2 vs. 64 mW·cm−2). This result was due to a lower methanol crossover (47 mA·cm−2 equivalent current density for s-PEEK vs. 120 mA·cm−2 for Nafion® 115 at 60 °C as recorded at OCV with 2 M methanol) and a suitable area specific resistance (0.15 Ohm cm2 for s-PEEK vs. 0.22 Ohm cm2 for Nafion® 115). PMID:26610582

Electrospun Nanofiber-Coated Membrane Separators for Lithium-Ion Batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Hun

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used as a power source for portable electronic devices and hybrid electric vehicles due to their excellent energy and power densities, long cycle life, and enhanced safety. A separator is considered to be the critical component in lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. The separator is placed between the positive and negative electrodes in order to prevent the physical contact of electrodes while allowing the transportation of ions. In most commercial lithium-ion batteries, polyolefin microporous membranes are commonly used as the separator due to their good chemical stability and high mechanical strength. However, some of their intrinsic natures, such as low electrolyte uptake, poor adhesion property to the electrodes, and low ionic conductivity, can still be improved to achieve higher performance of lithium-ion batteries. In order to improve these intrinsic properties, polyolefin microporous membranes can be coated with nanofibers by using electrospinning technique. Electrospinning is a simple and efficient method to prepare nanofibers which can absorb a significant amount of liquid electrolyte to achieve low internal resistance and battery performance. This research presents the preparation and investigation of composite membrane separators prepared by coating nanofibers onto polyolefin microporous membranes via electrospinning technique. Polyvinylidene fluoride polymers and copolymers were used for the preparation of electrospun nanofiber coatings because they have excellent electrochemical stability, good adhesion property, and high temperature resistance. The nanofiber coatings prepared by electrospinning form an interconnected and randomly orientated structure on the surface of the polyolefin microporous membranes. The size of the nanofibers is on a scale that does not interfere with the micropores in the membrane substrates. The resultant nanofiber-coated membranes have the potential to combine advantages of both the polyolefin separator membranes and the nanoscale fibrous polymer coatings. The polyolefin microporous membranes serve as the supporting substrate which provides the required mechanical strength for the assembling process of lithium-ion batteries. The electrospun nanofiber coatings improve the wettability of the composite membrane separators to the liquid electrolyte, which is desirable for the lithium-ion batteries with high kinetics and good cycling performance. The results show that the nanofiber-coated membranes have enhanced adhesion properties to the battery electrode which can help prevent the formation of undesirable gaps between the separators and electrodes during prolonged charge-discharge cycles, especially in large-format batteries. The improvement on adhesive properties of nanofiber-coated membranes was evaluated by peel test. Nanofiber coatings applied to polyolefin membrane substrates improve the adhesion of separator membranes to battery electrodes. Electrolyte uptakes, ionic conductivities and interfacial resistances of the nanofiber-coated membrane separators were studied by soaking the membrane separators with a liquid electrolyte solution of 1 M lithium hexafluorophosphate dissolved in ethylene carbonate/dimethylcarbonate/ethylmethyl carbonate (1:1:1 vol). The nanofiber coatings on the surface of the membrane substrates increase the electrolyte uptake capacity due to the high surface area and capillary effect of nanofibers. The nanofiber-coated membranes soaked in the liquid electrolyte solution exhibit high ionic conductivities and low interfacial resistances to the lithium electrode. The cells containing LiFePO 4 cathode and the nanofiber-coated membranes as the separator show high discharge specific capacities and good cycling stability at room temperature. The nanofiber coatings on the membrane substrates contribute to high ionic conductivity and good electrochemical performance in lithium-ion batteries. Therefore, these nanofiber-coated composite membranes can be directly used as novel battery separators for high performance of lithium-ion batteries. Coating polyolefin microporous membranes with electrospun nanofibers is a promising approach to obtain highperformance separators for advanced lithium-ion batteries.

Improved Cathode Structure for a Direct Methanol Fuel Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valdez, Thomas; Narayanan, Sekharipuram

2005-01-01

An improved cathode structure on a membrane/electrode assembly has been developed for a direct methanol fuel cell, in a continuing effort to realize practical power systems containing such fuel cells. This cathode structure is intended particularly to afford better cell performance at a low airflow rate. A membrane/electrode assembly of the type for which the improved cathode structure was developed (see Figure 1) is fabricated in a process that includes brush painting and spray coating of catalyst layers onto a polymer-electrolyte membrane and onto gas-diffusion backings that also act as current collectors. The aforementioned layers are then dried and hot-pressed together. When completed, the membrane/electrode assembly contains (1) an anode containing a fine metal black of Pt/Ru alloy, (2) a membrane made of Nafion 117 or equivalent (a perfluorosulfonic acid-based hydrophilic, proton-conducting ion-exchange polymer), (3) a cathode structure (in the present case, the improved cathode structure described below), and (4) the electrically conductive gas-diffusion backing layers, which are made of Toray 060(TradeMark)(or equivalent) carbon paper containing between 5 and 6 weight percent of poly(tetrafluoroethylene). The need for an improved cathode structure arises for the following reasons: In the design and operation of a fuel-cell power system, the airflow rate is a critical parameter that determines the overall efficiency, cell voltage, and power density. It is desirable to operate at a low airflow rate in order to obtain thermal and water balance and to minimize the size and mass of the system. The performances of membrane/electrode assemblies of prior design are limited at low airflow rates. Methanol crossover increases the required airflow rate. Hence, one way to reduce the required airflow rate is to reduce the effect of methanol crossover. Improvement of the cathode structure - in particular, addition of hydrophobic particles to the cathode - has been demonstrated to mitigate the effects of crossover and decrease the airflow required.

Importance of balancing membrane and electrode water in anion exchange membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omasta, T. J.; Wang, L.; Peng, X.; Lewis, C. A.; Varcoe, J. R.; Mustain, W. E.

2018-01-01

Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) offer several potential advantages over proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), most notably to overcome the cost barrier that has slowed the growth and large scale implementation of fuel cells for transportation. However, limitations in performance have held back AEMFCs, specifically in the areas of stability, carbonation, and maximum achievable current and power densities. In order for AEMFCs to contend with PEMFCs for market viability, it is necessary to realize a competitive cell performance. This work demonstrates a new benchmark for a H2/O2 AEMFC with a peak power density of 1.4 W cm-2 at 60 °C. This was accomplished by taking a more precise look at balancing necessary membrane hydration while preventing electrode flooding, which somewhat surprisingly can occur both at the anode and the cathode. Specifically, radiation-grafted ETFE-based anion exchange membranes and anion exchange ionomer powder, functionalized with benchmark benzyltrimethylammonium groups, were utilized to examine the effects of the following parameters on AEMFC performance: feed gas flow rate, the use of hydrophobic vs. hydrophilic gas diffusion layers, and gas feed dew points.

Improvement of amperometric transducer selectivity using nanosized phenylenediamine films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soldatkina, O. V.; Kucherenko, I. S.; Pyeshkova, V. M.; Alekseev, S. A.; Soldatkin, O. O.; Dzyadevych, S. V.

2017-11-01

In this work, we studied the conditions of deposition of a semipermeable polyphenylenediamine (PPD)-based membrane on amperometric disk platinum electrodes. Restricting an access of interfering substances to the electrode surface, the membrane prevents their impact on the sensor operation. Two methods of membrane deposition by electropolymerization were compared—at varying potential (cyclic voltammetry) and at constant potential. The cyclic voltammetry was shown to be easier in performing and providing better properties of the membrane. The dependence of PPD membrane effectiveness on the number of cyclic voltammograms and phenylenediamine concentration was analyzed. It was shown that the impact of interfering substances (ascorbic acid, dopamine, cysteine, uric acid) on sensor operation could be completely avoided using three cyclic voltammograms in 30 mM phenylenediamine. On the other hand, when working with diluted samples, i.e., at lower concentrations of electroactive substances, it is reasonable to decrease the phenylenediamine concentration to 5 mM, which would result in a higher sensitivity of transducers to hydrogen peroxide due to a thinner PPD layer. The PPD membrane was tested during continuous operation and at 8-day storage and turned out to be efficient in sensor and biosensors.

AC impedance investigations of proton conduction in Nafion(sup TM)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cahan, B. D.; Wainright, J. S.

1993-12-01

AC impedance spectroscopy has been employed to study the conduction of protons in Nafion 117 polymer electrolyte membrane. Both two- and four-electrode geometries have been used to uniquely distinguish between the membrane impedance and the interfacial impedances. The results show that the impedance of Nafion for frequencies up to 100 kHz is characterized by a pure resistance, similar to conventional liquid electrolytes. The frequency dependent features observed using a two-electrode geometry are shown to be consistent will well-characterized interfacial impedances and do not arise from ionic conduction in the membrane. These results show that previous two-electrode studies reported in the literature have misinterpreted the impedance of the electrode interfaces as belonging to the conduction process in the electrolyte.

Asymmetric battery having a semi-solid cathode and high energy density anode

DOEpatents

Tan, Taison; Chiang, Yet-Ming; Ota, Naoki; Wilder, Throop; Duduta, Mihai

2017-11-28

Embodiments described herein relate generally to devices, systems and methods of producing high energy density batteries having a semi-solid cathode that is thicker than the anode. An electrochemical cell can include a positive electrode current collector, a negative electrode current collector and an ion-permeable membrane disposed between the positive electrode current collector and the negative electrode current collector. The ion-permeable membrane is spaced a first distance from the positive electrode current collector and at least partially defines a positive electroactive zone. The ion-permeable membrane is spaced a second distance from the negative electrode current collector and at least partially defines a negative electroactive zone. The second distance is less than the first distance. A semi-solid cathode that includes a suspension of an active material and a conductive material in a non-aqueous liquid electrolyte is disposed in the positive electroactive zone, and an anode is disposed in the negative electroactive zone.

Asymmetric battery having a semi-solid cathode and high energy density anode

DOEpatents

Tan, Taison; Chiang, Yet-Ming; Ota, Naoki; Wilder, Throop; Duduta, Mihai

2016-09-06

Embodiments described herein relate generally to devices, systems and methods of producing high energy density batteries having a semi-solid cathode that is thicker than the anode. An electrochemical cell can include a positive electrode current collector, a negative electrode current collector and an ion-permeable membrane disposed between the positive electrode current collector and the negative electrode current collector. The ion-permeable membrane is spaced a first distance from the positive electrode current collector and at least partially defines a positive electroactive zone. The ion-permeable membrane is spaced a second distance from the negative electrode current collector and at least partially defines a negative electroactive zone. The second distance is less than the first distance. A semi-solid cathode that includes a suspension of an active material and a conductive material in a non-aqueous liquid electrolyte is disposed in the positive electroactive zone, and an anode is disposed in the negative electroactive zone.

Performance of glucose/O2 enzymatic fuel cell based on supporting electrodes over-coated by polymer-nanogold particle composite with entrapped enzymes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huo, W. S.; Zeng, H.; Yang, Y.; Zhang, Y. H.

2017-03-01

Enzymatic electrodes over-coated by thin film of nano-composite made up of polymer and functionalized nano-gold particle was prepared. Glucose/O2 membrane-free enzymatic fuel cell based on nano-composite based electrodes with incorporated glucose oxidase and laccase was assembled. This enzymatic fuel cell exhibited high energy out-put density even when applied in human serum. Catalytic cycle involved in enzymatic fuel cell was limited by oxidation of glucose occurred on bioanode resulting from impact of sophisticated interaction between active site in glucose oxidase and nano-gold particle on configuration of redox center of enzyme molecule which crippled catalytic efficiency of redox protein.

Multi-block sulfonated poly(phenylene) copolymer proton exchange membranes

DOEpatents

Fujimoto, Cy H [Albuquerque, NM; Hibbs, Michael [Albuquerque, NM; Ambrosini, Andrea [Albuquerque, NM

2012-02-07

Improved multi-block sulfonated poly(phenylene) copolymer compositions, methods of making the same, and their use as proton exchange membranes (PEM) in hydrogen fuel cells, direct methanol fuel cells, in electrode casting solutions and electrodes. The multi-block architecture has defined, controllable hydrophobic and hydrophilic segments. These improved membranes have better ion transport (proton conductivity) and water swelling properties.

Simplified process for leaching precious metals from fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies

DOEpatents

Shore, Lawrence [Edison, NJ; Matlin, Ramail [Berkeley Heights, NJ

2009-12-22

The membrane electrode assemblies of fuel cells are recycled to recover the catalyst precious metals from the assemblies. The assemblies are cryogenically embrittled and pulverized to form a powder. The pulverized assemblies are then mixed with a surfactant to form a paste which is contacted with an acid solution to leach precious metals from the pulverized membranes.

Apparatus for Pumping a Fluid

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

van Boeyen, Roger W. (Inventor); Reeh, Jonathan A. (Inventor); Kesmez, Mehmet (Inventor); Heselmeyer, Eric A. (Inventor); Parkey, Jeffrey S. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

An electrochemically actuated pump and an electrochemical actuator for use with a pump. The pump includes one of various stroke volume multiplier configurations with the pressure of a pumping fluid assisting actuation of a driving fluid bellows. The electrochemical actuator has at least one electrode fluidically coupled to the driving fluid chamber of the first pump housing and at least one electrode fluidically coupled to the driving fluid chamber of the second pump housing. Accordingly, the electrochemical actuator selectively pressurizes hydrogen gas within a driving fluid chamber. The actuator may include a membrane electrode assembly including an ion exchange membrane with first and second catalyzed electrodes in contact with opposing sides of the membrane, and first and second hydrogen gas chambers in fluid communication with the first and second electrodes, respectively. A controller may reverse the polarity of a voltage source electrically coupled to the current collectors.

A multilayer membrane amperometric glucose sensor fabricated using planar techniques for large-scale production.

PubMed

Matsumoto, T; Saito, S; Ikeda, S

2006-03-23

This paper reports on a multilayer membrane amperometric glucose sensor fabricated using planar techniques. It is characterized by good reproducibility and suitable for large-scale production. The glucose sensor has 82 electrode sets formed on a single glass substrate, each with a platinum working electrode (WE), a platinum counter electrode (CE) and an Ag/AgCl reference electrode (RE). The electrode sets are coated with a membrane consisting of five layers: gamma-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (gamma-APTES), Nafion, glucose oxidase (GOX), gamma-APTES and perfluorocarbon polymer (PFCP), in that order. Tests have shown that the sensor has acceptably low dispersion (relative standard deviation, R.S.D.=42.9%, n=82), a wide measurement range (1.11-111 mM) and measurement stability over a 27-day period. Measurements of the glucose concentration in a control human urine sample demonstrated that the sensor has very low dispersion (R.S.D.=2.49%, n=10).

Tailoring gas-phase CO2 electroreduction selectivity to hydrocarbons at Cu nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merino-Garcia, I.; Albo, J.; Irabien, A.

2018-01-01

Copper-based surfaces appear as the most active catalysts for CO2 electroreduction to hydrocarbons, even though formation rates and efficiencies still need to be improved. The aim of the present work is to evaluate the continuous gas-phase CO2 electroreduction to hydrocarbons (i.e. ethylene and methane) at copper nanoparticulated-based surfaces, paying attention to particle size influence (ranging from 25-80 nm) on reaction productivity, selectivity, and Faraday efficiency (FE) for CO2 conversion. The effect of the current density and the presence of a microporous layer within the working electrode are then evaluated. Copper-based gas diffusion electrodes are prepared by airbrushing the catalytic ink onto carbon supports, which are then coupled to a cation exchange membrane (Nafion) in a membrane electrode assembly. The results show that the use of smaller copper nanoparticles (25 nm) leads to a higher ethylene production (1148 μmol m-2 s-1) with a remarkable high FE (92.8%), at the same time, diminishing the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction in terms of FE. This work demonstrates the importance of nanoparticle size on reaction selectivity, which may be of help to design enhanced electrocatalytic materials for CO2 valorization to hydrocarbons.

Aqueous based asymmetrical-bipolar electrochemical capacitor with a 2.4 V operating voltage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Haoran; Lian, Keryn

2018-02-01

A novel asymmetrical-bipolar electrochemical capacitor system leveraging the contributions of a Zn-CNT asymmetrical electrode and a KOH-H2SO4 dual-pH electrolyte was developed. The positive and negative electrodes operated in electrolytes with different pH, exploiting the maximum potential of both electrodes, which led to a cell voltage of 2.4 V. The potential tracking of both electrodes revealed that the Zn negative electrode could maintain a potential at -1.2 V, while the CNT positive electrode can be charged to +1.2 V without significant irreversible reactions. A bipolar ion exchange membrane has effectively separated the acid and alkaline from neutralization, which resulted in stable performance of the device with capacitance retention of 94% and coulombic efficiency of 99% over 10,000 cycles. This asymmetrical-bipolar design overcomes the thermodynamic limit of water decomposition, opening a new avenue towards high energy and high power density aqueous-based ECs.

A Ho(III) potentiometric polymeric membrane sensor based on a new four dentate neutral ion carrier.

PubMed

Zamani, Hassan Ali; Zanganeh-Asadabadi, Abbas; Rohani, Mitra; Zabihi, Mohammad Saleh; Fadaee, Javad; Ganjali, Mohammad Reza; Faridbod, Farnoush; Meghdadi, Soraia

2013-03-01

In this research, we report a new Ho(3+)-PVC membrane electrode based on N-(4,5-dimethyl-2-(picolinamido)phenyl)picolinamide (H(2)Me(2)bpb) as a suitable ion carrier. Poly vinylchloride (PVC)-based membrane composed of H(2)Me(2)bpb with oleic acid (OA) as anionic additives, and o-nitrophenyloctyl ether (NPOE) as plasticized solvent mediator. The sensor exhibits a Nernstian slope of 20.1 ± 0.2 mV decade(-1) over the concentration range of 1.0 × 10(-6) to 1.0 × 1(-2) mol L(-1), and a detection limit of 5.0 × 10(-7) mol L(-1) of Ho(3+) ions. The potentiometric response of the sensor is independent of the solution pH in the range of 3.5-9.4. It has a very short response time, in the whole concentration range (<10s), and can be used for at least eight weeks. The proposed electrode shows a good selectivity towards Ho(3+) ions over a wide variety of cations, including alkali, alkaline earth, transition and heavy metal ions. To assess its analytical applicability the proposed Ho(3+) sensor was successfully applied as an indicator electrode in the titration of Ho(3+) ion solutions in certified reference materials, alloy samples and for the determination of the fluoride ion in two mouthwash preparations. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Method for recovering catalytic elements from fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies

DOEpatents

Shore, Lawrence [Edison, NJ; Matlin, Ramail [Berkeley Heights, NJ; Heinz, Robert [Ludwigshafen, DE

2012-06-26

A method for recovering catalytic elements from a fuel cell membrane electrode assembly is provided. The method includes converting the membrane electrode assembly into a particulate material, wetting the particulate material, forming a slurry comprising the wetted particulate material and an acid leachate adapted to dissolve at least one of the catalytic elements into a soluble catalytic element salt, separating the slurry into a depleted particulate material and a supernatant containing the catalytic element salt, and washing the depleted particulate material to remove any catalytic element salt retained within pores in the depleted particulate material.

Efficient process for previous metal recovery from cell membrane electrode assemblies

DOEpatents

Shore, Lawrence; Matlin, Ramail; Heinz, Robert

2010-05-04

A method is provided for recovering a catalytic element from a fuel cell membrane electrode assembly. The method includes grinding the membrane electrode assembly into a powder, extracting the catalytic element by forming a slurry comprising the powder and an acid leachate adapted to dissolve the catalytic element into a soluble salt, and separating the slurry into a depleted powder and a supernatant containing the catalytic element salt. The depleted powder is washed to remove any catalytic element salt retained within pores in the depleted powder and the catalytic element is purified from the salt.

Final Report - High Performance, Durable, Low Cost Membrane Electrode Assemblies for Transportation Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Steinbach, Andrew

2017-05-31

The primary project objective was development of improved polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) which address the key DOE barriers of performance, durability and cost. Additional project objectives were to address commercialization barriers specific to MEAs comprising 3M nanostructured thin film (NSTF) electrodes, including a larger-than-acceptable sensitivity to operating conditions, an unexplained loss of rated power capability with operating time, and slow break-in conditioning. Significant progress was made against each of these barriers, and most DOE 2020 targets were met or substantially approached.

Failure analysis of fuel cell electrodes using three-dimensional multi-length scale X-ray computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pokhrel, A.; El Hannach, M.; Orfino, F. P.; Dutta, M.; Kjeang, E.

2016-10-01

X-ray computed tomography (XCT), a non-destructive technique, is proposed for three-dimensional, multi-length scale characterization of complex failure modes in fuel cell electrodes. Comparative tomography data sets are acquired for a conditioned beginning of life (BOL) and a degraded end of life (EOL) membrane electrode assembly subjected to cathode degradation by voltage cycling. Micro length scale analysis shows a five-fold increase in crack size and 57% thickness reduction in the EOL cathode catalyst layer, indicating widespread action of carbon corrosion. Complementary nano length scale analysis shows a significant reduction in porosity, increased pore size, and dramatically reduced effective diffusivity within the remaining porous structure of the catalyst layer at EOL. Collapsing of the structure is evident from the combination of thinning and reduced porosity, as uniquely determined by the multi-length scale approach. Additionally, a novel image processing based technique developed for nano scale segregation of pore, ionomer, and Pt/C dominated voxels shows an increase in ionomer volume fraction, Pt/C agglomerates, and severe carbon corrosion at the catalyst layer/membrane interface at EOL. In summary, XCT based multi-length scale analysis enables detailed information needed for comprehensive understanding of the complex failure modes observed in fuel cell electrodes.

Electroanalytical and naked eye determination of Cu(2+) ion in various environmental samples using 5-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thiol based Schiff bases.

PubMed

Bandi, Koteswara Rao; Singh, Ashok Kumar; Upadhyay, Anjali

2014-01-01

Novel polydentate Schiff bases 4-(5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-ylimino)pentan-2-one (S1) and (2-(indol-3-yl)vinyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thiol (S2) were synthesized and explored as Cu(2+) selective polymeric membrane electrodes (PME) using different plasticizers and anionic excluders. The potentiometric data revealed that the PME having the membrane composition (S2: NaTPB: TBP: PVC as 4: 2: 58: 36 (w/w; mg)) is shown to have good results. Thus the coated graphite electrode (CGE) with the same composition as the best PME was also fabricated and investigated as Cu(2+) selective electrode. It was found that CGE showed better response characteristics than PME with respect to low detection limit (1.2×10(-8)molL(-1)), near Nernstian slope (29.8±0.4mV decade(-1) of activity), wide working concentration range (6.4×10(-8)-1.0×10(-1)molL(-1)), long shelf life (90days) and fast response time (9s). The CGE was used successfully as an indicator electrode for the potentiometric determination of Cu(2+) ion against EDTA and also used to quantify Cu(2+) ion in soil, water, medicinal plants, vegetables and edible oil samples. The Schiff base S2 is used as chemosensor for the selective determination of Cu(2+) ion. © 2013.

Reduction of methanol crossover by thin cracked metal barriers at the interface between membrane and electrode in direct methanol fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Sungjun; Jang, Segeun; Kim, Sang Moon; Ahn, Chi-Yeong; Hwang, Wonchan; Cho, Yong-Hun; Sung, Yung-Eun; Choi, Mansoo

2017-09-01

This work reports the successful reduction in methanol crossover by creating a thin cracked metal barrier at the interface between a Nafion® membrane and an electrode in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The cracks are generated by simple mechanical stretching of a metal deposited Nafion® membrane as a result of the elastic mismatch between the two attached surfaces. The cracked metal barriers with varying strains (∼0.5 and ∼1.0) are investigated and successfully incorporated into the DMFC. Remarkably, the membrane electrode assembly with the thin metal crack exhibits comparable ohmic resistance as well as reduction of methanol crossover, which enhanced the device performance.

High Thermal Gradient in Thermo-electrochemical Cells by Insertion of a Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride) Membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasan, Syed Waqar; Said, Suhana Mohd; Sabri, Mohd Faizul Mohd; Bakar, Ahmad Shuhaimi Abu; Hashim, Nur Awanis; Hasnan, Megat Muhammad Ikhsan Megat; Pringle, Jennifer M.; Macfarlane, Douglas R.

2016-07-01

Thermo-Electrochemical cells (Thermocells/TECs) transform thermal energy into electricity by means of electrochemical potential disequilibrium between electrodes induced by a temperature gradient (ΔT). Heat conduction across the terminals of the cell is one of the primary reasons for device inefficiency. Herein, we embed Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride) (PVDF) membrane in thermocells to mitigate the heat transfer effects - we refer to these membrane-thermocells as MTECs. At a ΔT of 12 K, an improvement in the open circuit voltage (Voc) of the TEC from 1.3 mV to 2.8 mV is obtained by employment of the membrane. The PVDF membrane is employed at three different locations between the electrodes i.e. x = 2 mm, 5 mm, and 8 mm where ‘x’ defines the distance between the cathode and PVDF membrane. We found that the membrane position at x = 5 mm achieves the closest internal ΔT (i.e. 8.8 K) to the externally applied ΔT of 10 K and corresponding power density is 254 nWcm-2 78% higher than the conventional TEC. Finally, a thermal resistivity model based on infrared thermography explains mass and heat transfer within the thermocells.

Development of membrane electrode assembly for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell by catalyst coating membrane method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Huagen; Su, Huaneng; Pollet, Bruno G.; Pasupathi, Sivakumar

2015-08-01

Membrane electrode assembly (MEA), which contains cathode and anode catalytic layer, gas diffusion layers (GDL) and electrolyte membrane, is the key unit of a PEMFC. An attempt to develop MEA for ABPBI membrane based high temperature (HT) PEMFC is conducted in this work by catalyst coating membrane (CCM) method. The structure and performance of the MEA are examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and I-V curve. Effects of the CCM preparation method, Pt loading and binder type are investigated for the optimization of the single cell performance. Under 160 °C and atmospheric pressure, the peak power density of the MEA, with Pt loading of 0.5 mg cm-2 and 0.3 mg cm-2 for the cathode and the anode, can reach 277 mW cm-2, while a current density of 620 A cm-2 is delivered at the working voltage of 0.4 V. The MEA prepared by CCM method shows good stability operating in a short term durability test: the cell voltage maintained at ∼0.45 V without obvious drop when operated at a constant current density of 300 mA cm-2 and 160 °C under ambient pressure for 140 h.

Kinetic enhancement via passive deposition of carbon-based nanomaterials in vanadium redox flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aaron, Doug; Yeom, Sinchul; Kihm, Kenneth D.; Ashraf Gandomi, Yasser; Ertugrul, Tugrul; Mench, Matthew M.

2017-10-01

Addition of carbon-based nanomaterials to operating flow batteries accomplishes vanadium redox flow battery performance improvement. Initial efforts focus on addition of both pristine graphene and vacuum-filtered reduced graphene oxide (rGO) film on carbon paper supporting electrodes. While the former is unable to withstand convective flow through the porous electrode, the latter shows measurable kinetic improvement, particularly when laid on the polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) side of the electrode; in contrast to the kinetic performance gain, a deleterious impact on mass transport is observed. Based on this tradeoff, further improvement is realized using perforated rGO films placed on the PEM side of the electrodes. Poor mass transport in the dense rGO film prompts identification of a more uniform, passive deposition method. A suspension of rGO flakes or Vulcan carbon black (XC-72R), both boasting two orders-of-magnitude greater specific surface area than that of common carbon electrodes, is added to the electrolyte reservoirs and allowed to passively deposit on the carbon paper or carbon felt supporting electrodes. For common carbon felt electrodes, addition of rGO flakes or XC-72R enables a tripling of current density at the same 80% voltage efficiency.

Dual gas-diffusion membrane- and mediatorless dihydrogen/air-breathing biofuel cell operating at room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Hong-qi; So, Keisei; Kitazumi, Yuki; Shirai, Osamu; Nishikawa, Koji; Higuchi, Yoshiki; Kano, Kenji

2016-12-01

A membraneless direct electron transfer (DET)-type dihydrogen (H2)/air-breathing biofuel cell without any mediator was constructed wherein bilirubin oxidase from Myrothecium verrucaria (BOD) and membrane-bound [NiFe] hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio vulgaris Miyazaki F (MBH) were used as biocatalysts for the cathode and the anode, respectively, and Ketjen black-modified water proof carbon paper (KB/WPCC) was used as an electrode material. The KB/WPCC surface was modified with 2-aminobenzoic acid and p-phenylenediamine, respectively, to face the positively charged electron-accepting site of BOD and the negatively charged electron-donating site of MBH to the electrode surface. A gas-diffusion system was employed for the electrodes to realize high-speed substrate supply. As result, great improvement in the current density of O2 reduction with BOD and H2 reduction with MBH were realized at negatively and postively charged surfaces, respectively. Gas diffusion system also suppressed the oxidative inactivation of MBH at high electrode potentials. Finally, based on the improved bioanode and biocathode, a dual gas-diffusion membrane- and mediatorless H2/air-breathing biofuel cell was constructed. The maximum power density reached 6.1 mW cm-2 (at 0.72 V), and the open circuit voltage was 1.12 V using 1 atm of H2 gas as a fuel at room temperature and under passive and quiescent conditions.

Electrodeionization Using Microseparated Bipolar Membranes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lyons, Donald; Jackson, George; Andrews, Craig C.; Tennakoon, Charles L, K.; Singh, Waheguru; Hitchens, G. Duncan; Jabs, Harry; Chepin, James F.; Archer, Shivaun; Gonzalez-Martinez, Anukia;

Evaluating cochlear implant trauma to the scala vestibuli.

PubMed

Adunka, O; Kiefer, J; Unkelbach, M H; Radeloff, A; Gstoettner, W

2005-04-01

Placement of cochlear implant electrodes into the scala vestibuli may be intentional, e.g. in case of blocked scala tympani or unintentional as a result of trauma to the basilar membrane or erroneous location of the cochieostomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological consequences and cochlear trauma after implantation of different cochlear implant electrode arrays in the scala vestibuli. Human temporal bone study with histological and radiological evaluation. Twelve human cadaver temporal bones were implanted with different cochlear implant electrodes. Implanted bones were processed using a special method to section undecalcified bone. Cochlear trauma and intracochlear positions. All implanted electrodes were implanted into the scala vestibuli using a special approach that allows direct scala vestibuli insertions. Fractures of the osseous spiral lamina were evaluated in some bones in the basal cochlear regions. In most electrodes, delicate structures of the organ of Corti were left intact, however, Reissner's membrane was destroyed in all specimens and the electrode lay upon the tectorial membrane. In some bones the organ of Corti was destroyed. Scala vestibuli insertions did not cause severe trauma to osseous or neural structures, thus preserving the basis for electrostimulation of the cochlea. However, destruction of Reissner's membrane and impact on the Organ of Corti can be assumed to destroy residual hearing.

Reactor vessel using metal oxide ceramic membranes

DOEpatents

Anderson, Marc A.; Zeltner, Walter A.

1992-08-11

A reaction vessel for use in photoelectrochemical reactions includes as its reactive surface a metal oxide porous ceramic membrane of a catalytic metal such as titanium. The reaction vessel includes a light source and a counter electrode. A provision for applying an electrical bias between the membrane and the counter electrode permits the Fermi levels of potential reaction to be favored so that certain reactions may be favored in the vessel. The electrical biasing is also useful for the cleaning of the catalytic membrane.

Metallization of bacterial cellulose for electrical and electronic device manufacture

DOEpatents

Evans, Barbara R.; O'Neill, Hugh M.; Jansen, Valerie Malyvanh; Woodward, Jonathan

2006-01-17

The employment of metallized bacterial cellulose in the construction of fuel cells and other electronic devices is disclosed. The fuel cell includes an electrolyte membrane comprising a membrane support structure comprising bacterial cellulose, an anode disposed on one side of the electrolyte membrane, and a cathode disposed on an opposite side of the electrolyte membrane. At least one of the anode and the cathode comprises an electrode support structure comprising bacterial cellulose, and a catalyst disposed in or on the electrode support structure.

Spatially resolved, in situ potential measurements through porous electrodes as applied to fuel cells.

PubMed

Hess, Katherine C; Epting, William K; Litster, Shawn

2011-12-15

We report the development and use of a microstructured electrode scaffold (MES) to make spatially resolved, in situ, electrolyte potential measurements through the thickness of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC) electrode. This new approach uses a microfabricated apparatus to analyze the coupled transport and electrochemical phenomena in porous electrodes at the microscale. In this study, the MES allows the fuel cell to run under near-standard operating conditions, while providing electrolyte potential measurements at discrete distances through the electrode's thickness. Here we use spatial distributions of electrolyte potential to evaluate the effects of Ohmic and mass transport resistances on the through-plane reaction distribution for various operating conditions. Additionally, we use the potential distributions to estimate the ionic conductivity of the electrode. Our results indicate the in situ conductivity is higher than typically estimated for PEFC electrodes based on bulk polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) conductivity.

In-membrane micro fuel cell

DOEpatents

Omosebi, Ayokunle; Besser, Ronald

2016-09-06

An in-membrane micro fuel cell comprises an electrically-insulating membrane that is permissive to the flow of cations, such as protons, and a pair of electrodes deposited on channels formed in the membrane. The channels are arranged as conduits for fluids, and define a membrane ridge between the channels. The electrodes are porous and include catalysts for promoting the liberation of a proton and an electron from a chemical species and/or or the recombination of a proton and an electron with a chemical specie. The fuel cell may be provided a biosensor, an electrochemical sensor, a microfluidic device, or other microscale devices fabricated in the fuel cell membrane.

Electrodes for sealed secondary batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boies, D. B.; Child, F. T.

1972-01-01

Self-supporting membrane electrode structures, in which active ingredients and graphite are incorporated in a polymeric matrix, improve performance of electrodes in miniature, sealed, alkaline storage batteries.

The platinum microelectrode/Nafion interface - An electrochemical impedance spectroscopic analysis of oxygen reduction kinetics and Nafion characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parthasarathy, Arvind; Dave, Bhasker; Srinivasan, Supramaniam; Appleby, John A.; Martin, Charles R.

1992-01-01

The objectives of this study were to use electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to study the oxygen-reduction reaction under lower humidification conditions than previously studied. The EIS technique permits the discrimination of electrode kinetics of oxygen reduction, mass transport of O2 in the membrane, and the electrical characteristics of the membrane. Electrode-kinetic parameters for the oxygen-reduction reaction, corrosion current densities for Pt, and double-layer capacitances were calculated. The production of water due to electrochemical reduction of oxygen greatly influenced the EIS response and the electrode kinetics at the Pt/Nafion interface. From the finite-length Warburg behavior, a measure of the diffusion coefficient of oxygen in Nafion and diffusion-layer thickness was obtained. An analysis of the EIS data in the high-frequency domain yielded membrane and interfacial characteristics such as ionic conductivity of the membrane, membrane grain-boundary capacitance and resistance, and uncompensated resistance.

Basic investigation into the electrical performance of solid electrolyte membranes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richter, R.

1982-01-01

The electrical performance of solid electrolyte membranes was investigated analytically and the results were compared with experimental data. It is concluded that in devices that are used for pumping oxygen the major power losses have to be attributed to the thin film electrodes. Relations were developed by which the effectiveness of tubular solid electrolyte membranes can be determined and the optimum length evaluated. The observed failure of solid electrolyte tube membranes in very localized areas is explained by the highly non-uniform current distribution in the membranes. The analysis points to a possible contact resistance between the electrodes and the solid electrolyte material. This possible contact resistance remains to be investigated experimentally. It is concluded that film electrodes are not appropriate for devices which operate with current flow, i.e., pumps though they can be employed without reservation in devices that measure oxygen pressures if a limited increase in the response time can be tolerated.

Band-gap tunable dielectric elastomer filter for low frequency noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Kun; Wang, Mian; Lu, Tongqing; Zhang, Jinhua; Wang, Tiejun

2016-05-01

In the last decades, diverse materials and technologies for sound insulation have been widely applied in engineering. However, suppressing the noise radiation at low frequency still remains a challenge. In this work, a novel membrane-type smart filter, consisting of a pre-stretched dielectric elastomer membrane with two compliant electrodes coated on the both sides, is presented to control the low frequency noise. Since the stiffness of membrane dominates its acoustic properties, sound transmission band-gap of the membrane filter can be tuned by adjusting the voltage applied to the membrane. The impedance tube experiments have been carried out to measure the sound transmission loss (STL) of the filters with different electrodes, membrane thickness and pre-stretch conditions. The experimental results show that the center frequency of sound transmission band-gap mainly depends on the stress in the dielectric elastomer, and a large band-gap shift (more than 60 Hz) can be achieved by tuning the voltage applied to the 85 mm diameter VHB4910 specimen with pre-stretch {λ }0=3. Based on the experimental results and the assumption that applied electric field is independent of the membrane behavior, 3D finite element analysis has also been conducted to calculate the membrane stress variation. The sound filter proposed herein may provide a promising facility to control low frequency noise source with tonal characteristics.

Preparation of nano-structured polymeric proton conducting membranes for use in fuel cells.

PubMed

Alberti, Giulio; Casciola, Mario; Pica, Monica; Di Cesare, Giusi

2003-03-01

We briefly discuss the state of the art of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells and suggest that the main obstacles to the commercial development of these fuel cells are essentially the high costs and poor characteristics of present proton conducting membranes. A strategy for the preparation of improved nanocomposite membranes based on the introduction of proton conducting lamell? in the polymeric matrix of present ionomeric membranes is then discussed. Due to their high proton conductivity (in some cases even higher than 10(-1) S cm(-1)), tailor made lamellae obtained by exfoliation of superacid metal (IV) phosphonates are particularly suitable for the preparation of these hybrid membranes. The expected positive influence of the dispersed lamellae on important properties of proton conducting membranes, such as swelling, mechanical resistance, proton transport, and diffusion of methanol, are also discussed. The methods used to obtain good lamellar dispersions into ionomeric polymers and the preparation and main characteristics of some hybrid membranes are also briefly described. The presence of nanoparticles of metal phosphonates in the electrodic interfaces Nafion/Pt already considerably improves the electrochemical characteristics of fuel cells in the temperature range 80-130 degrees C. The increased working temperature of the fuel cell considerably reduces CO poisoning of the platinum electrodes and allows better control of the cooling system, thus overcoming important obstacles to the development of medium temperature PEM fuel cells.

Integration of reconfigurable potentiometric electrochemical sensors into a digital microfluidic platform.

PubMed

Farzbod, Ali; Moon, Hyejin

2018-05-30

This paper presents the demonstration of on-chip fabrication of a potassium-selective sensor array enabled by electrowetting on dielectric digital microfluidics for the first time. This demonstration proves the concept that electrochemical sensors can be seamlessly integrated with sample preparation units in a digital microfluidic platform. More significantly, the successful on-chip fabrication of a sensor array indicates that sensors become reconfigurable and have longer lifetime in a digital microfluidic platform. The on-chip fabrication of ion-selective electrodes includes electroplating Ag followed by forming AgCl layer by chemical oxidation and depositing a thin layer of desired polymer-based ion selective membrane on one of the sensor electrodes. In this study, potassium ionophores work as potassium ion channels and make the membrane selective to potassium ions. This selectiveness results in the voltage difference across the membrane layer, which is correlated with potassium ion concentration. The calibration curve of the fabricated potassium-selective electrode demonstrates the slope of 58 mV/dec for potassium concentration in KCl sample solutions and shows good agreement with the ideal Nernstian response. The proposed sensor platform is an outstanding candidate for a portable home-use for continuous monitoring of ions thanks to its advantages such as easy automation of sample preparation and detection processes, elongated sensor lifetime, minimal membrane and sample consumption, and user-definable/reconfigurable sensor array. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High-cycle electromechanical aging of dielectric elastomer actuators with carbon-based electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Saint-Aubin, C. A.; Rosset, S.; Schlatter, S.; Shea, H.

2018-07-01

We present high-cycle aging tests of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) based on silicone elastomers, reporting on the time-evolution of actuation strain and of electrode resistance over millions of cycles. We compare several types of carbon-based electrodes, and for the first time show how the choice of electrode has a dramatic influence on DEA aging. An expanding circle DEA configuration is used, consisting of a commercial silicone membrane with the following electrodes: commercial carbon grease applied manually, solvent-diluted carbon grease applied by stamping (pad printing), loose carbon black powder applied manually, carbon black powder suspension applied by inkjet-printing, and conductive silicone-carbon composite applied by stamping. The silicone-based DEAs with manually applied carbon grease electrodes show the shortest lifetime of less than 105 cycles at 5% strain, while the inkjet-printed carbon powder and the stamped silicone-carbon composite make for the most reliable devices, with lifetimes greater than 107 cycles at 5% strain. These results are valid for the specific dielectric and electrode configurations that were tested: using other dielectrics or electrode formulations would lead to different lifetimes and failure modes. We find that aging (as seen in the change in resistance and in actuation strain versus cycle number) is independent of the actuation frequency from 10 Hz to 200 Hz, and depends on the total accumulated time the DEA spends in an actuated state.

Membrane reference electrode

DOEpatents

Redey, L.; Bloom, I.D.

1988-01-21

A reference electrode utilizes a small thin, flat membrane of a highly conductive glass placed on a small diameter insulator tube having a reference material inside in contact with an internal voltage lead. When the sensor is placed in a non-aqueous ionic electrolytic solution, the concentration difference across the glass membrane generates a low voltage signal in precise relationship to the concentration of the species to be measured, with high spatial resolution. 2 figs.

[Construction and characterization of a selective membrane electrode for tenoxicam determination].

PubMed

Murăraşu, Andreea Elena; Mândrescu, Mariana; Spac, A F; Dorneanu, V

2010-01-01

This paper describes the construction and characterization of a selective membrane electrode which can be used for determination of tenoxicam. The electroactive compound is a precipitate obtained in 2 N hydrocloric acid solution containing tenoxicam in which a solution of iodine is added. The membrane is made by mixing the electroactive compound with polyethylene using tetrahydrofurane as solvent. The solution is evaporated in order to obtain a thick membrane, which is attached at one end of a PVC tube and is fixed with the same polymeric solution. In this tube an internal Ag/AgCl reference electrode is inserted. The assembly is filled with an internal solution containing tenoxicam. The electrode was characterized (electrode slope, selectivity, optimal pH range, response time, life time). The developed method was validated. The method showed a good liniarity in the range of 10(-6)-10(-1) M (the correlation coefficient r = 0.9999). The detection limit (LD) was 7.347 x 10(-7) M and the quantification limit (LQ) was 1.017 x 10(-6) M. There were established the precision (RSD = 1.79%) and the accuracy (mean recovery is 100.17%) The experimental results demonstrated a good sensibility.

Micromolded PDMS planar electrode allows patch clamp electrical recordings from cells.

PubMed

Klemic, Kathryn G; Klemic, James F; Reed, Mark A; Sigworth, Fred J

2002-06-01

The patch clamp method measures membrane currents at very high resolution when a high-resistance 'gigaseal' is established between the glass microelectrode and the cell membrane (Pflugers Arch. 391 (1981) 85; Neuron 8 (1992) 605). Here we describe the first use of the silicone elastomer, poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), for patch clamp electrodes. PDMS is an attractive material for patch clamp recordings. It has low dielectric loss and can be micromolded (Annu. Rev. Mat. Sci. 28 (1998) 153) into a shape that mimics the tip of the glass micropipette. Also, the surface chemistry of PDMS may be altered to mimic the hydrophilic nature of glass (J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 14 (1970) 2499; Annu. Rev. Mat. Sci. 28 (1998) 153), thereby allowing a high-resistance seal to a cell membrane. We present a planar electrode geometry consisting of a PDMS partition with a small aperture sealed between electrode and bath chambers. We demonstrate that a planar PDMS patch electrode, after oxidation of the elastomeric surface, permits patch clamp recording on Xenopus oocytes. Our results indicate the potential for high-throughput patch clamp recording with a planar array of PDMS electrodes.

Hydrodynamic trapping for rapid assembly and in situ electrical characterization of droplet interface bilayer arrays

DOE PAGES

Nguyen, Mary -Anne; Srijanto, Bernadeta; Collier, C. Patrick; ...

2016-08-02

The droplet interface bilayer (DIB) is a modular technique for assembling planar lipid membranes between water droplets in oil. The DIB method thus provides a unique capability for developing digital, droplet-based membrane platforms for rapid membrane characterization, drug screening and ion channel recordings. This paper demonstrates a new, low-volume microfluidic system that automates droplet generation, sorting, and sequential trapping in designated locations to enable the rapid assembly of arrays of DIBs. The channel layout of the device is guided by an equivalent circuit model, which predicts that a serial arrangement of hydrodynamic DIB traps enables sequential droplet placement and minimizesmore » the hydrodynamic pressure developed across filled traps to prevent squeeze-through of trapped droplets. Furthermore, the incorporation of thin-film electrodes fabricated via evaporation metal deposition onto the glass substrate beneath the channels allows for the first time in situ, simultaneous electrical interrogation of multiple DIBs within a sealed device. Combining electrical measurements with imaging enables measurements of membrane capacitance and resistance and bilayer area, and our data show that DIBs formed in different trap locations within the device exhibit similar sizes and transport properties. Simultaneous, single channel recordings of ion channel gating in multiple membranes are obtained when alamethicin peptides are incorporated into the captured droplets, qualifying the thin-film electrodes as a means for measuring stimuli-responsive functions of membrane-bound biomolecules. Furthermore, this novel microfluidic-electrophysiology platform provides a reproducible, high throughput method for performing electrical measurements to study transmembrane proteins and biomembranes in low-volume, droplet-based membranes.« less

Hydrodynamic trapping for rapid assembly and in situ electrical characterization of droplet interface bilayer arrays

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nguyen, Mary -Anne; Srijanto, Bernadeta; Collier, C. Patrick

The droplet interface bilayer (DIB) is a modular technique for assembling planar lipid membranes between water droplets in oil. The DIB method thus provides a unique capability for developing digital, droplet-based membrane platforms for rapid membrane characterization, drug screening and ion channel recordings. This paper demonstrates a new, low-volume microfluidic system that automates droplet generation, sorting, and sequential trapping in designated locations to enable the rapid assembly of arrays of DIBs. The channel layout of the device is guided by an equivalent circuit model, which predicts that a serial arrangement of hydrodynamic DIB traps enables sequential droplet placement and minimizesmore » the hydrodynamic pressure developed across filled traps to prevent squeeze-through of trapped droplets. Furthermore, the incorporation of thin-film electrodes fabricated via evaporation metal deposition onto the glass substrate beneath the channels allows for the first time in situ, simultaneous electrical interrogation of multiple DIBs within a sealed device. Combining electrical measurements with imaging enables measurements of membrane capacitance and resistance and bilayer area, and our data show that DIBs formed in different trap locations within the device exhibit similar sizes and transport properties. Simultaneous, single channel recordings of ion channel gating in multiple membranes are obtained when alamethicin peptides are incorporated into the captured droplets, qualifying the thin-film electrodes as a means for measuring stimuli-responsive functions of membrane-bound biomolecules. Furthermore, this novel microfluidic-electrophysiology platform provides a reproducible, high throughput method for performing electrical measurements to study transmembrane proteins and biomembranes in low-volume, droplet-based membranes.« less

Improved Electrodes for High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells using Carbon Nanospheres.

PubMed

Zamora, Héctor; Plaza, Jorge; Cañizares, Pablo; Lobato, Justo; Rodrigo, Manuel A

2016-05-23

This work evaluates the use of carbon nanospheres (CNS) in microporous layers (MPL) of high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell (HT-PEMFC) electrodes and compares the characteristics and performance with those obtained using conventional MPL based on carbon black. XRD, hydrophobicity, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller theory, and gas permeability of MPL prepared with CNS were the parameters evaluated. In addition, a short life test in a fuel cell was carried out to evaluate performance under accelerated stress conditions. The results demonstrate that CNS is a promising alternative to traditional carbonaceous materials because of its high electrochemical stability and good electrical conductivity, suitable to be used in this technology. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A Large Signal Model for CMUT Arrays with Arbitrary Membrane Geometries Operating in Non-Collapsed Mode

PubMed Central

Satir, Sarp; Zahorian, Jaime; Degertekin, F. Levent

2014-01-01

A large signal, transient model has been developed to predict the output characteristics of a CMUT array operated in the non-collapse mode. The model is based on separation of the nonlinear electrostatic voltage-to-force relation and the linear acoustic array response. For linear acoustic radiation and crosstalk effects, the boundary element method is used. The stiffness matrix in the vibroacoustics calculations is obtained using static finite element analysis of a single membrane which can have arbitrary geometry and boundary conditions. A lumped modeling approach is used to reduce the order of the system for modeling the transient nonlinear electrostatic actuation. To accurately capture the dynamics of the non-uniform electrostatic force distribution over the CMUT electrode during large deflections, the membrane electrode is divided into patches shaped to match higher order membrane modes, each introducing a variable to the system model. This reduced order nonlinear lumped model is solved in the time domain using Simulink. The model has two linear blocks to calculate the displacement profile of the electrode patches and the output pressure for a given force distribution over the array, respectively. The force to array displacement block uses the linear acoustic model, and the Rayleigh integral is evaluated to calculate the pressure at any field point. Using the model, the transient transmitted pressure can be simulated for different large signal drive signal configurations. The acoustic model is verified by comparison to harmonic FEA in vacuum and fluid for high and low aspect ratio membranes as well as mass-loaded membranes. The overall Simulink model is verified by comparison to transient 3D FEA and experimental results for different large drive signals; and an example for a phased array simulation is given. PMID:24158297

Reliability of high-strain ionomeric polymer transducers fabricated using the novel direct assembly process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akle, Barbar; Nawshin, Saila; Leo, Donald

2006-03-01

Ionomeric polymer transducers have received considerable attention in the past several years. These actuators, sometimes referred to as artificial muscles, have the ability to generate large bending strain and moderate stress at low applied voltages. Typically, ionic polymer actuators are composed of Nafion-117 membranes with platinum electrodes and are saturated with water diluents. Recently the authors have developed a novel fabrication technique named the Direct Assembly Process (DAP), which allowed good control on electrode morphology and composition. The DAP consists of spraying two high surface area metal-ionomer electrodes on a Nafion membrane. A single- walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) and ruthenium dioxide (RuO II) hybrid electrode was sprayed on a Formamide hydrated Nafion-117 membrane using the DAP method. This transducer was shown to generate 9.4% peak-peak strain under the application of +/-2V at a strain rate of 1%/sec. Furthermore using the DAP one is capable of incorporating several types of diluents in ionomeric polymer transducers. Transducers with ionic liquid diluents are demonstrated to operate in air for long periods of time. In this work we will present a reliability study of transducers fabricated using the DAP. Each transducer is tested under a frequency range of 0.2Hz to 1Hz, and a potential of +/-1V to +/-3V. Water hydrated transducers dehydrates and stop moving within 5 minutes while operating in air under +/-2V. Transducers with Formamide diluents operate for 20,000 cycles under +/-1.5V and 0.5Hz (around 11hrs), while they degrade in less than 3000 cycles under +/-2V and 0.5Hz. Ionic liquid based transducers are demonstrated to operate in air for over 400,000 with little loss in performance, and over 1 million cycle with a loss of only 43%. Actuators with several electrode compositions are fabricated and a correlation between the reliability of ionic liquid-ionic polymer transducers and maximum strain will be presented. This correlation will be used to assess the adhesion between the high surface area electrodes and the Nafion membrane. SEM images of tested transducers will be presented.

Ionic Current Measurements in the Squid Giant Axon Membrane

PubMed Central

Cole, Kenneth S.; Moore, John W.

1960-01-01

The concepts, experiments, and interpretations of ionic current measurements after a step change of the squid axon membrane potential require the potential to be constant for the duration and the membrane area measured. An experimental approach to this ideal has been developed. Electrometer, operational, and control amplifiers produce the step potential between internal micropipette and external potential electrodes within 40 microseconds and a few millivolts. With an internal current electrode effective resistance of 2 ohm cm.2, the membrane potential and current may be constant within a few millivolts and 10 per cent out to near the electrode ends. The maximum membrane current patterns of the best axons are several times larger but of the type described by Cole and analyzed by Hodgkin and Huxley when the change of potential is adequately controlled. The occasional obvious distortions are attributed to the marginal adequacy of potential control to be expected from the characteristics of the current electrodes and the axon. Improvements are expected only to increase stability and accuracy. No reason has been found either to question the qualitative characteristics of the early measurements or to so discredit the analyses made of them. PMID:13694548

Pseudocapacitive Desalination of Brackish Water and Seawater with Vanadium-Pentoxide-Decorated Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes.

PubMed

Lee, Juhan; Srimuk, Pattarachai; Aristizabal, Katherine; Kim, Choonsoo; Choudhury, Soumyadip; Nah, Yoon-Chae; Mücklich, Frank; Presser, Volker

2017-09-22

A hybrid membrane pseudocapacitive deionization (MPDI) system consisting of a hydrated vanadium pentoxide (hV 2 O 5 )-decorated multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) electrode and one activated carbon electrode enables sodium ions to be removed by pseudocapacitive intercalation with the MWCNT-hV 2 O 5 electrode and chloride ion to be removed by non-faradaic electrosorption of the porous carbon electrode. The MWCNT-hV 2 O 5 electrode was synthesized by electrochemical deposition of hydrated vanadium pentoxide on the MWCNT paper. The stable electrochemical operating window for the MWCNT-hV 2 O 5 electrode was between -0.5 V and +0.4 V versus Ag/AgCl, which provided a specific capacity of 44 mAh g -1 (corresponding with 244 F g -1 ) in aqueous 1 m NaCl. The desalination performance of the MPDI system was investigated in aqueous 200 mm NaCl (brackish water) and 600 mm NaCl (seawater) solutions. With the aid of an anion and a cation exchange membrane, the MPDI hybrid cell was operated from -0.4 to +0.8 V cell voltage without crossing the reduction and oxidation potential limit of both electrodes. For the 600 mm NaCl solution, the NaCl salt adsorption capacity of the cell was 23.6±2.2 mg g -1 , which is equivalent to 35.7±3.3 mg g -1 normalized to the mass of the MWCNT-hV 2 O 5 electrode. Additionally, we propose a normalization method for the electrode material with faradaic reactions based on sodium uptake capacities. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Investigation of electrolyte leaching in the performance degradation of phosphoric acid-doped polybenzimidazole membrane-based high temperature fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Yeon Hun; Oh, Kyeongmin; Ahn, Sungha; Kim, Na Young; Byeon, Ayeong; Park, Hee-Young; Lee, So Young; Park, Hyun S.; Yoo, Sung Jong; Jang, Jong Hyun; Kim, Hyoung-Juhn; Ju, Hyunchul; Kim, Jin Young

2017-09-01

Precise monitoring of electrolyte leaching in high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (HT-PEMFC) devices during lifetime tests is helpful in making a diagnosis of their quality changes and analyzing their electrochemical performance degradation. Here, we investigate electrolyte leaching in the performance degradation of phosphoric acid (PA)-doped polybenzimidazole (PBI) membrane-based HT-PEMFCs. We first perform quantitative analyses to measure PA leakage during cell operation by spectrophotometric means, and a higher PA leakage rate is detected when the current density is elevated in the cell. Second, long-term degradation tests under various current densities of the cells and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis are performed to examine the influence of PA loss on the membrane and electrodes during cell performance degradation. The combined results indicate that PA leakage affect cell performance durability, mostly due to an increase in charge transfer resistance and a decrease in the electrochemical surface area (ECSA) of the electrodes. Additionally, a three-dimensional (3-D) HT-PEMFC model is applied to a real-scale experimental cell, and is successfully validated against the polarization curves measured during various long-term experiments. The simulation results highlight that the PA loss from the cathode catalyst layer (CL) is a significant contributor to overall performance degradation.

Membrane-based electrochemical nanobiosensor for Escherichia coli detection and analysis of cells viability.

PubMed

Cheng, Ming Soon; Lau, Suk Hiang; Chow, Vincent T; Toh, Chee-Seng

2011-08-01

A sensitive and selective membrane-based electrochemical nanobiosensor is developed for specific quantitative label-free detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) cells and analysis of viable but nonculturable (VBNC) E. coli cells which remain mostly undetected using current methods. The sensing mechanism relies on the blocking of nanochannels of a nanoporous alumina-membrane modified electrode, upon the formation of immune complexes at the nanoporous membrane. The resulting obstacle to diffusive mass transfer of a redox probe in the analysis solution to the underlying platinum electrode reduces the Faradaic signal response of the biosensor, measured using cyclic voltammetry. Antibody loading under conditions of varying antibody concentrations and pHs are optimized. The biosensor gives a low detection limit of 22 cfu mL(-1) (R(2) = 0.999) over a wide linear working range of 10 to 10(6) cfu mL(-1). It is specific toward E. coli with minimal cross-reactivity to two other pathogenic bacteria (commonly found in waters). Relative standard deviation (RSD) for triplicate measurements of 2.5% indicates reasonably useful level of reproducibility. Differentiation of live, VBNC, and dead cells are carried out after the cell capture and quantitation step, by simple monitoring of the cells' enzyme activity using the same redox probe in the analysis solution, in the presence of glucose.

Reactor process using metal oxide ceramic membranes

DOEpatents

Anderson, Marc A.

1994-01-01

A reaction vessel for use in photoelectrochemical reactions includes as its reactive surface a metal oxide porous ceramic membrane of a catalytic metal such as titanium. The reaction vessel includes a light source and a counter electrode. A provision for applying an electrical bias between the membrane and the counter electrode permits the Fermi levels of potential reaction to be favored so that certain reactions may be favored in the vessel. The electrical biasing is also useful for the cleaning of the catalytic membrane. Also disclosed is a method regenerating a porous metal oxide ceramic membrane used in a photoelectrochemical catalytic process by periodically removing the reactants and regenerating the membrane using a variety of chemical, thermal, and electrical techniques.

A novel electrochemical ion exchange system and its application in water treatment.

PubMed

Li, Yansheng; Li, Yongbin; Liu, Zhigang; Wu, Tao; Tian, Ying

2011-06-01

A novel electrochemical ion exchange system with porous cylinder electrodes is proposed for treatment of wastewater. This system can be used for desalination without the costly ion-exchange membrane and extra chemical reagents. Since the electrodes are completely uniform and no ion-exchange membrane was used in this system, it can be operated by switching anodes and cathodes flexibly for eliminating the scaling on the surface of electrodes. The strong base ion-exchange resin grains placed among the anode and cathode have played as supporting electrolyte, which is capable for the treatment of wastewater with low conductivity. The concentrated and neutralized anolyte containing chlorine is effective for disinfection and contaminants removal. Under the experimental conditions, the removal percentage of total dissolved salts was 83% and the removal percentage of chemical oxygen demand was 92% without consumption of extra chemical reagents. Copyright © 2011 The Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A new ion selective electrode for cesium (I) based on calix[4]arene-crown-6 compounds.

PubMed

Ramanjaneyulu, P S; Kumar, Abha Naveen; Sayi, Y S; Ramakumar, K L; Nayak, S K; Chattopadhyay, S

2012-02-29

A polyvinylchloride (PVC) based liquid membrane ion selective electrode (ISE) for cesium has been developed. 25,27-Dihydroxycalix[4]arene-crown-6 (L1), 5,11,17,23-tetra-tert-butyl-25,27-dimethoxycalix[4]arene-crown-6 (L2) and 25,27-bis(1-octyloxy)calix[4]arene-crown-6 (L3) were investigated for their use as ionophores. The cation exchange resin DOWEX-50W was used to maintain low activity Cs+ in inner filling solution to improve the performance. The best response for cesium was observed with L3 along with optimized membrane constituents and composition. Excellent Nernstian response (56.6 mV/decade of Cs(I)) over the concentration range 10(-7) to 10(-2)M of Cs(I) was obtained with a fast response time of less than 10s. Detection limit for Cs(I) using the present ISE is 8.48×10(-8) M Cs(I). Separate solution method (SSM) was applied to ascertain the selectivity for Cs(I) over alkali, alkaline earth and transition metal ions. The response of ISE for Cs(I) was fairly constant over the pH range of 4-11. The lifetime of the electrode is 10 months which is the highest life for any membrane based Cs-ISE so far developed. The concentration of cesium ion in two simulated high level active waste streams was determined and results agreed well with those obtained independently employing AAS. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electrochemical vapor deposition of semiconductors from gas phase with a solid membrane cell.

PubMed

Cho, Sung Ki; Fan, Fu-Ren F; Bard, Allen J

2015-05-27

We demonstrate the feasibility of semiconductor deposition via the electrochemical reduction of gaseous precursors by the use of an anhydrous proton-conducting membrane, the solid acid CsHSO4, at 165 °C. This membrane electrode assembly was operated within the oxidation of hydrogen on a porous Pt anode and the deposition of Si or Ge under bias at the cathode from chloride-based gaseous precursors; SiCl4 and GeCl4 in an Ar flow with a reduction potential over -1.0 V (vs RHE).

Picomolar detection limits with current-polarized Pb2+ ion-selective membranes.

PubMed

Pergel, E; Gyurcsányi, R E; Tóth, K; Lindner, E

2001-09-01

Minor ion fluxes across ion-selective membranes bias submicromolar activity measurements with conventional ion-selective electrodes. When ion fluxes are balanced, the lower limit of detection is expected to be dramatically improved. As proof of principle, the flux of lead ions across an ETH 5435 ionophore-based lead-selective membrane was gradually compensated by applying a few nanoamperes of galvanostatic current. When the opposite ion fluxes were matched, and the undesirable leaching of primary ions was eliminated, Nernstian response down to 3 x 10(-12) M was achieved.

Non-noble metal based electro-catalyst compositions for proton exchange membrane based water electrolysis and methods of making

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kumta, Prashant N.; Kadakia, Karan Sandeep; Datta, Moni Kanchan

The invention provides electro-catalyst compositions for an anode electrode of a proton exchange membrane-based water electrolysis system. The compositions include a noble metal component selected from the group consisting of iridium oxide, ruthenium oxide, rhenium oxide and mixtures thereof, and a non-noble metal component selected from the group consisting of tantalum oxide, tin oxide, niobium oxide, titanium oxide, tungsten oxide, molybdenum oxide, yttrium oxide, scandium oxide, cooper oxide, zirconium oxide, nickel oxide and mixtures thereof. Further, the non-noble metal component can include a dopant. The dopant can be at least one element selected from Groups III, V, VI and VIImore » of the Periodic Table. The compositions can be prepared using a surfactant approach or a sol gel approach. Further, the compositions are prepared using noble metal and non-noble metal precursors. Furthermore, a thin film containing the compositions can be deposited onto a substrate to form the anode electrode.« less

Construction of Uranyl Selective Electrode Based on Complex of Uranyl Ion with New Ligand Carboxybenzotriazole in PVC Matrix Membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abu-Dalo, M. A.; Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F.; Al-Mheidat, I. R.; Nassory, N. S.

2015-10-01

In the present study uranyl selective electrodes in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix membrane were prepared based on a complex of uranyl ion (UO2) with carboxybenzotriazole (CBT) as ligand. The effect of the nature of plasticizer in PVC matrix were evaluated using three different plasticizers, these are dibutyl phthalate (DBP), dioctyl phthalate (DOP) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) sebacate (BHS). The results of this study indicated that the best plasticizer could be used is the DBP, which may be attributed to its lowest viscosity value compared to DOP and BHS. The electrodes with DBP as plasticizer exhibits a Nernstian response with a slope of 28.0 mV/ decade, over a wide range of concentration from 3.0×10-5-6.0×10-2 M and a detection limit of 4.0×10-6 M. It can be used in the pH range of 4.0-10.0 with a response time of less than 10 s for DBP and 25 s for both DOP and BHS. The effects of ions interferences on the electrode response were evaluated. The di- and tri-valent cations were found to interfere less than univalent cations, which was attributed to the high diffusion and the exchange rate between the univalent ions and the uranyl ion solution. The electrodes were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM). The results of the standard addition method were satisfactory with errors less than 7%. The developed electrode was found to be fast, sensitive and reliable indicated its potential use in measuring the uranly ion concentration in the field.

Hybrid capacitive deionization with anion-exchange membranes for lithium extraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siekierka, Anna; Bryjak, Marek

2017-11-01

Lithium is considered to be a critical material for various industrial fields. We present our studies on extraction lithium from diluted aqueous solution by novel hybrid system based on a membrane capacitive deionization and batteries desalination. Hybrid CDI is comprised by a lithium selective adsorbent, activated carbon electrode and anion-exchange membranes. Here, we demonstrated implication of various type of anion-exchange membranes and influence their properties on effective capacity and energy requirements in charge/discharge steps. We described a configuration with anion-exchange membrane characterized by adsorption capacity of 35 mg/g of Li+ with 0.08Wh/g and removal efficiency of 60 % of lithium ions, using novel selective desalination technique.

Impedimetric DNA biosensor based on a nanoporous alumina membrane for the detection of the specific oligonucleotide sequence of dengue virus.

PubMed

Deng, Jiajia; Toh, Chee-Seng

2013-06-17

A novel and integrated membrane sensing platform for DNA detection is developed based on an anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane. Platinum electrodes (~50-100 nm thick) are coated directly on both sides of the alumina membrane to eliminate the solution resistance outside the nanopores. The electrochemical impedance technique is employed to monitor the impedance changes within the nanopores upon DNA binding. Pore resistance (Rp) linearly increases in response towards the increasing concentration of the target DNA in the range of 1 × 10⁻¹² to 1 × 10⁻⁶ M. Moreover, the biosensor selectively differentiates the complementary sequence from single base mismatched (MM-1) strands and non-complementary strands. This study reveals a simple, selective and sensitive method to fabricate a label-free DNA biosensor.

Continuous-flow electrophoresis: Membrane-associated deviations of buffer pH and conductivity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smolka, A. J. K.; Mcguire, J. K.

1978-01-01

The deviations in buffer pH and conductivity which occur near the electrode membranes in continuous-flow electrophoresis were studied in the Beckman charged particle electrophoresis system and the Hanning FF-5 preparative electrophoresis instrument. The nature of the membranes separating the electrode compartments from the electrophoresis chamber, the electric field strength, and the flow rate of electrophoresis buffer were all found to influence the formation of the pH and conductivity gradients. Variations in electrode buffer flow rate and the time of electrophoresis were less important. The results obtained supported the hypothesis that a combination of Donnan membrane effects and the differing ionic mobilities in the electrophoresis buffer was responsible for the formation of the gradients. The significance of the results for the design and stable operation of continuous-flow electrophoresis apparatus was discussed.

Patterned Electrode-Based Amperometric Gas Sensor for Direct Nitric Oxide Detection within Microfluidic Devices

PubMed Central

Cha, Wansik; Tung, Yi-Chung; Meyerhoff, Mark E.; Takayama, Shuichi

2010-01-01

This manuscript describes a thin amperometric nitric oxide (NO) sensor that can be microchannel embedded to enable direct real-time detection of NO produced by cells cultured within the microdevice. A key for achieving the thin (~ 1 mm) planar sensor configuration required for sensor-channel integration is the use of gold/indium-tin oxide patterned electrode directly on a porous polymer membrane (pAu/ITO) as the base working electrode. Electrochemically deposited Au-hexacyanoferrate layer on pAu/ITO is used to catalyze NO oxidation to nitrite at lower applied potentials (0.65 ~ 0.75 V vs. Ag/AgCl) and stabilize current output. Furthermore, use of a gas-permeable membrane to separate internal sensor compartments from the sample phase imparts excellent NO selectivity over common interferents (e.g., nitrite, ascorbate, ammonia, etc.) present in culture media and biological fluids. The optimized sensor design reversibly detects NO down to ~1 nM level in stirred buffer and <10 nM in flowing buffer when integrated within a polymeric microfluidic device. We demonstrate utility of the channel-embedded sensor by monitoring NO generation from macrophages cultured within non-gas permeable microchannels, as they are stimulated with endotoxin. PMID:20329749

Ion Exchange Polymeric Coatings for Selective Capacitive Deionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Amit; Kim, Jun; Li, Qilin; Verduzco, Rafael

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an energy-efficient technology for adsorbing and removing scalants and foulants from water by utilizing electric potential between porous carbon electrodes. Currently, industrial application of CDI is limited to low salinity waters due to the limited absorption capacities of carbon electrodes. However, CDI can potentially be used as a low-cost approach to selectively remove divalent ions from high salinity water. Divalent ions such as sulfonates and carbonates cause scaling and thus performance deterioration of membrane-based desalination systems. In this work, we investigated ion-exchange polymer coatings for use in a membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) process for selective removal of divalent ions. Poly-Vinyl Alcohol (PVA) base polymer was crosslinked and charged using sulfo-succinic acid (SSA) to give a cation exchange layer. 50 um thick standalone polymer films had a permeability of 4.25*10-7 cm2/s for 10mM NaCl feed. Experiments on electrodes with as low as 10 υm thick coating of cation exchange polymer are under progress and will be evaluated on the basis of their selective salt removal efficiency and charge efficiency, and in future we will extend this work to sulfonated block copolymers and anion exchange polymers.

Novel Organic Membrane-based Thin-film Microsensors for the Determination of Heavy Metal Cations

PubMed Central

Arida, Hassan A.; Kloock, Joachim P.; Schöning, Michael J.

2006-01-01

A first step towards the fabrication and electrochemical evaluation of thin-film microsensors based on organic PVC membranes for the determination of Hg(II), Cd(II), Pb(II) and Cu(II) ions in solutions has been realised. The membrane-coating mixture used in the preparation of this new type of microsensors is incorporating PVC as supporting matrix, o-nitrophenyloctylether (o-NPOE) as solvent mediator and a recently synthesized Hg[dimethylglyoxime(phene)]2+ and Bis-(4-hydroxyacetophenone)-ethylenediamine as electroactive materials for Hg(II) and Cd(II), respectively. A set of three commercialised ionophores for Cd(II), Pb(II) and Cu(II) has been also used for comparison. Thin-film microsensors based on these membranes showed a Nernstian response of slope (26-30 mV/dec.) for the respective tested cations. The potentiometric response characteristics (linear range, pH range, detection limit and response time) are comparable with those obtained by conventional membranes as well as coated wire electrodes prepared from the same membrane. The realisation of the new organic membrane-based thin-film microsensors overcomes the problem of an insufficient selectivity of solid-state-based thin-film sensors.

Microfluidic electrochemical reactors

DOEpatents

Nuzzo, Ralph G [Champaign, IL; Mitrovski, Svetlana M [Urbana, IL

2011-03-22

A microfluidic electrochemical reactor includes an electrode and one or more microfluidic channels on the electrode, where the microfluidic channels are covered with a membrane containing a gas permeable polymer. The distance between the electrode and the membrane is less than 500 micrometers. The microfluidic electrochemical reactor can provide for increased reaction rates in electrochemical reactions using a gaseous reactant, as compared to conventional electrochemical cells. Microfluidic electrochemical reactors can be incorporated into devices for applications such as fuel cells, electrochemical analysis, microfluidic actuation, pH gradient formation.

Chalcogen catalysts for polymer electrolyte fuel cell

DOEpatents

Alonso-Vante, Nicolas [Buxerolles, FR; Zelenay, Piotr [Los Alamos, NM; Choi, Jong-Ho [Los Alamos, NM; Wieckowski, Andrzej [Champaign, IL; Cao, Dianxue [Urbana, IL

2009-09-15

A methanol-tolerant cathode catalyst and a membrane electrode assembly for fuel cells that includes such a cathode catalyst. The cathode catalyst includes a support having at least one transition metal in elemental form and a chalcogen disposed on the support. Methods of making the cathode catalyst and membrane electrode assembly are also described.

Nanostructured catalyst supports

DOEpatents

Zhu, Yimin; Goldman, Jay L.; Qian, Baixin; Stefan, Ionel C.

2012-10-02

The present invention relates to SiC nanostructures, including SiC nanopowder, SiC nanowires, and composites of SiC nanopowder and nanowires, which can be used as catalyst supports in membrane electrode assemblies and in fuel cells. The present invention also relates to composite catalyst supports comprising nanopowder and one or more inorganic nanowires for a membrane electrode assembly.

Chalcogen catalysts for polymer electrolyte fuel cell

DOEpatents

Zelenay, Piotr; Choi, Jong-Ho; Alonso-Vante, Nicolas; Wieckowski, Andrzej; Cao, Dianxue

2010-08-24

A methanol-tolerant cathode catalyst and a membrane electrode assembly for fuel cells that includes such a cathode catalyst. The cathode catalyst includes a support having at least one transition metal in elemental form and a chalcogen disposed on the support. Methods of making the cathode catalyst and membrane electrode assembly are also described.

A simple, fast and accurate in-situ method to measure the rate of transport of redox species through membranes for lithium batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meddings, Nina; Owen, John R.; Garcia-Araez, Nuria

2017-10-01

Lithium ion conducting membranes are important to protect the lithium metal electrode and act as a barrier to crossover species such as polysulphides in Li-S systems, redox mediators in Li-O2 cells or dissolved cathode species or electrolyte oxidation products in high voltage Li-ion batteries. We present an in-situ method for measuring permeability of membranes to crossover redox species. The method employs a 'Swagelok' cell design equipped with a glassy carbon working electrode, in which redox species are placed initially in the counter electrode compartment only. Permeability through the membrane, which separates working and counter electrodes, is determined using a square wave voltammetry technique that allows the concentration of crossover redox species to be evaluated over time with very high precision. We test the method using a model and well-behaved electrochemical system to demonstrate its sensitivity, reproducibility and reliability relative to alternative approaches. This new method offers advantages in terms of small electrolyte volume, and simple, fast, quantitative and in-situ measurement.

Rapid pH change due to bacteriorhodopsin measured with a tin-oxide electrode.

PubMed Central

Robertson, B; Lukashev, E P

1995-01-01

The photocurrent transient generated by bacteriorhodopsin (bR) on a tin-oxide electrode is due to pH change and not to charge displacement as previously assumed. Films of either randomly oriented or highly oriented purple membranes were deposited on transparent electrodes made of tin-oxide-coated glass. The membranes contained either wild-type or D96N-mutant bR. When excited with yellow light through the glass, the bR pumps protons across the membrane. The result is a rapid local pH change as well as a charge displacement. Experiments with these films show that it is the pH change rather than the displacement that produces the current transient. The calibration for the transient pH measurement is given. The sensitivity of a tin-oxide electrode to a transient pH change is very much larger than its sensitivity to a steady-state pH change. PMID:7787036

Method and apparatus for removing ions from soil

DOEpatents

Bibler, J.P.

1993-03-02

A method and apparatus are presented for selectively removing species of ions from an area of soil. Permeable membranes 14 and 18 impregnated with an ion exchange resin that is specific to one or more species of chemical ions are inserted into ground 12 in close proximity to, and on opposing sides of, a soil area of interest 22. An electric potential is applied across electrodes 26 and 28 to cause the migration of ions out of soil area 22 toward the membranes 14 and 18. Preferably, the resin exchanges ions of sodium or hydrogen for ions of mercury that it captures from soil area 22. Once membranes 14 and 18 become substantially saturated with mercury ions, the potential applied across electrodes 26 and 28 is discontinued and membranes 14 and 18 are preferably removed from soil 12 for storage or recovery of the ions. The membranes are also preferably impregnated with a buffer to inhibit the effect of the hydrolysis of water by current from the electrodes.

Method and apparatus for removing ions from soil

DOEpatents

Bibler, Jane P.

1993-01-01

A method and apparatus for selectively removing species of ions from an area of soil. Permeable membranes 14 and 18 impregnated with an ion exchange resin that is specific to one or more species of chemical ions are inserted into ground 12 in close proximity to, and on opposing sides of, a soil area of interest 22. An electric potential is applied across electrodes 26 and 28 to cause the migration of ions out of soil area 22 toward the membranes 14 and 18. Preferably, the resin exchanges ions of sodium or hydrogen for ions of mercury that it captures from soil area 22. Once membranes 14 and 18 become substantially saturated with mercury ions, the potential applied across electrodes 26 and 28 is discontinued and membranes 14 and 18 are preferably removed from soil 12 for storage or recovery of the ions. The membranes are also preferably impregnated with a buffer to inhibit the effect of the hydrolysis of water by current from the electrodes.

Preparation of a self-humidifying membrane electrode assembly for fuel cell and its performance analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Cheng; Mao, Zongqiang; Xu, Jingming; Xie, Xiaofeng; Yang, Lizhai

2003-10-01

A novel nano-porous material SiO2-gel was prepared. After being purified by H2O2, then protonized by H2SO4 and desiccated in vacuum, the SiO2-gel, mixed with Nafion solution, was coated between an electrode and a solid electrolyte, which made a new type of self-humidifying membrane electrode assembly. The SiO2 powder was characterized by FTIR, BET and XRD. The surface of the electrodes was characterized by SEM and EDS. The performances of the self-humidifying membrane electrodes were analyzed by polarization discharge and AC impedance under the operation modes of external humidification and self-humidification respectively. Experimental-results indicated that the SiO2 powder held super-hydrophilicity, and the layer of SiO2 and Nafion polymer between electrode and solid electrolyte expanded three-dimension electrochemistry reac-tion area, maintained stability of catalyst layer and enhanced back-diffusion of water from cathode to anode, so the PEM Fuel cell can generate electricity at self-humidification mode. The power density of single PEM fuel cell reached 1.5 W/cm2 under 0.2 Mpa, 70°C and dry hydrogen and oxygen.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pezeshki, Alan M.; Sacci, Robert L.; Veith, Gabriel M.

Here, we demonstrate a novel method to accelerate electrode degradation in redox flow batteries and apply this method to the all-vanadium chemistry. Electrode performance degradation occurred seven times faster than in a typical cycling experiment, enabling rapid evaluation of materials. This method also enables the steady-state study of electrodes. In this manner, it is possible to delineate whether specific operating conditions induce performance degradation; we found that both aggressively charging and discharging result in performance loss. Post-mortem x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the degraded electrodes was used to resolve the effects of state of charge (SoC) and current on the electrodemore » surface chemistry. For the electrode material tested in this work, we found evidence that a loss of oxygen content on the negative electrode cannot explain decreased cell performance. Furthermore, the effects of decreased electrode and membrane performance on capacity fade in a typical cycling battery were decoupled from crossover; electrode and membrane performance decay were responsible for a 22% fade in capacity, while crossover caused a 12% fade.« less

Enhanced Performance of non-PGM Catalysts in Air Operated PEM-Fuel Cells

DOE PAGES

Barkholtz, Heather M.; Chong, Lina; Kaiser, Zachary Brian; ...

2016-10-13

Here a non-platinum group metal (non-PGM) oxygen reduction catalyst was prepared from “support-free” zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) precursor and tested in the proton exchange membrane fuel cell with air as the cathode feed. The iron nitrogen and carbon composite (FeeNeC) based catalyst has high specific surface area decorated uniformly with active sites, which redefines the triple phase boundary (TPB) and requires re-optimization of the cathodic membrane electrode fabrication to ensure efficient mass and charge transports to the catalyst surface. This study reports an effort in optimizing catalytic ink formulation for the membrane electrode preparation and its impact to the fuelmore » cell performance under air. Through optimization, the fuel cell areal current density as high as 115.2 mA/cm 2 at 0.8 V or 147.6 mA/cm 2 at 0.8 V iR-free has been achieved under one bar air. We also investigated impacts on fuel cell internal impedance and the water formation.« less

The research of differential reference electrode arrayed flexible IGZO glucose biosensor based on microfluidic framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jian-Syun; Chou, Jung-Chuan; Liao, Yi-Hung; Chen, Ruei-Ting; Huang, Min-Siang; Wu, Tong-Yu

2017-03-01

This study used a fast, simple, and low-cost method to fabricate arrayed flexible glucose biosensor, and the glucose biosensor was integrated with microfluidic framework for investigating sensing characteristics of glucose biosensor at the dynamic conditions. The indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) was adopted as sensing membrane and it was deposited on aluminum electrodes / polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate by the radio frequency sputtering system. Then, we utilized screen-printed technology to accomplish miniaturization of glucose biosensor. Finally, the glucose sensing membrane was composed of glucose oxidase (GOx) and nafion, which was dropped on IGZO sensing membrane to complete glucose biosensor. According to the experimental results, we found that optimal sensing characteristics of arrayed flexible IGZO glucose biosensor at the dynamic conditions were better than at the static conditions. The optimal average sensitivity and linearity of the arrayed flexible IGZO glucose biosensor were 7.255 mV/mM and 0.994 at 20 µL/min flow rate, respectively.

Advances in direct oxidation methanol fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Surampudi, S.; Narayanan, S. R.; Vamos, E.; Frank, H.; Halpert, G.; Laconti, Anthony B.; Kosek, J.; Prakash, G. K. Surya; Olah, G. A.

1993-01-01

Fuel cells that can operate directly on fuels such as methanol are attractive for low to medium power applications in view of their low weight and volume relative to other power sources. A liquid feed direct methanol fuel cell has been developed based on a proton exchange membrane electrolyte and Pt/Ru and Pt catalyzed fuel and air/O2 electrodes, respectively. The cell has been shown to deliver significant power outputs at temperatures of 60 to 90 C. The cell voltage is near 0.5 V at 300 mA/cm(exp 2) current density and an operating temperature of 90 C. A deterrent to performance appears to be methanol crossover through the membrane to the oxygen electrode. Further improvements in performance appear possible by minimizing the methanol crossover rate.

Design and construction of new potentiometric sensors for determination of Al3+ ion based on (Z)-2-(2-methyl benzylidene)-1-(2,4-dinitrophenyl) hydrazine.

PubMed

Mizani, F; Salmanzadeh Ardabili, S; Ganjaliab, M R; Faridbod, F; Payehghadr, M; Azmoodeh, M

2015-04-01

(Z)-2-(2-methyl benzylidene)-1-(2,4-dinitrophenyl) hydrazine (L) was used as an active component of PVC membrane electrode (PME), coated graphite electrode (CGE) and coated silver wire electrode (CWE) for sensing Al(3+) ion. The electrodes exhibited linear Nernstian responses to Al(3+) ion in the concentration range of 1.0×10(-6) to 1.0×10(-1)M (for PME, LOD=8.8×10(-7)M), 5.5×10(-7) to 2.0×10(-1)M (for CWE, LOD=3.3×10(-7)M) and 1.5×10(-7) to 1.0×10(-1)M (for CGE, LOD=9.2×10(-8)M). The best performances were observed with the membranes having the composition of L:PVC:NPOE:NaTPB in the ratio of 5:35:57:3 (w/w; mg). The electrodes have a response time of 6s and an applicable pH range of 3.5-9.1. The sensors have a lifetime of about 15weeks and exhibited excellent selectivity over a number of mono-, bi-, and tri-valent cations including alkali, alkaline earth metal, heavy and transition metal ions. Analytical utility of the proposed sensor has been further tested by using it as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of Al(3+) with EDTA. The electrode was also successfully applied for the determination of Al(3+) ion in real and pharmaceutical samples. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reactor process using metal oxide ceramic membranes

DOEpatents

Anderson, M.A.

1994-05-03

A reaction vessel for use in photoelectrochemical reactions includes as its reactive surface a metal oxide porous ceramic membrane of a catalytic metal such as titanium. The reaction vessel includes a light source and a counter electrode. A provision for applying an electrical bias between the membrane and the counter electrode permits the Fermi levels of potential reaction to be favored so that certain reactions may be favored in the vessel. The electrical biasing is also useful for the cleaning of the catalytic membrane. Also disclosed is a method regenerating a porous metal oxide ceramic membrane used in a photoelectrochemical catalytic process by periodically removing the reactants and regenerating the membrane using a variety of chemical, thermal, and electrical techniques. 2 figures.

The Effect of Platinum Electrocatalyst on Membrane Degradation in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells.

PubMed

Bodner, Merit; Cermenek, Bernd; Rami, Mija; Hacker, Viktor

2015-12-08

Membrane degradation is a severe factor limiting the lifetime of polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Therefore, obtaining a deeper knowledge is fundamental in order to establish fuel cells as competitive product. A segmented single cell was operated under open circuit voltage with alternating relative humidity. The influence of the catalyst layer on membrane degradation was evaluated by measuring a membrane without electrodes and a membrane-electrode-assembly under identical conditions. After 100 h of accelerated stress testing the proton conductivity of membrane samples near the anode and cathode was investigated by means of ex situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The membrane sample near the cathode inlet exhibited twofold lower membrane resistance and a resulting twofold higher proton conductivity than the membrane sample near the anode inlet. The results from the fluoride ion analysis have shown that the presence of platinum reduces the fluoride emission rate; which supports conclusions drawn from the literature.

The Effect of Platinum Electrocatalyst on Membrane Degradation in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells

PubMed Central

Bodner, Merit; Cermenek, Bernd; Rami, Mija; Hacker, Viktor

2015-01-01

Membrane degradation is a severe factor limiting the lifetime of polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Therefore, obtaining a deeper knowledge is fundamental in order to establish fuel cells as competitive product. A segmented single cell was operated under open circuit voltage with alternating relative humidity. The influence of the catalyst layer on membrane degradation was evaluated by measuring a membrane without electrodes and a membrane-electrode-assembly under identical conditions. After 100 h of accelerated stress testing the proton conductivity of membrane samples near the anode and cathode was investigated by means of ex situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The membrane sample near the cathode inlet exhibited twofold lower membrane resistance and a resulting twofold higher proton conductivity than the membrane sample near the anode inlet. The results from the fluoride ion analysis have shown that the presence of platinum reduces the fluoride emission rate; which supports conclusions drawn from the literature. PMID:26670258

Production of an ion-exchange membrane-catalytic electrode bonded material for electrolytic cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Takenaka, H.; Torikai, E.

1986-01-01

A good bond is achieved by placing a metal salt in solution on one side of a membrane and a reducing agent on the other side so that the reducing agent penetrates the membrane and reduces the metal. Thus, a solution containing Pt, Rh, etc., is placed on one side of the membrane and a reducing agent such as NaBH, is placed on the other side. The bonded metal layer obtained is superior in catalytic activity and is suitable as an electrode in a cell such as for solid polymer electrolyte water electrolysis.

Flexible Hybrid Membranes with Ni(OH)2 Nanoplatelets Vertically Grown on Electrospun Carbon Nanofibers for High-Performance Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Zhang, Longsheng; Ding, Qianwei; Huang, Yunpeng; Gu, Huahao; Miao, Yue-E; Liu, Tianxi

2015-10-14

The practical applications of transition metal oxides and hydroxides for supercapacitors are restricted by their intrinsic poor conductivity, large volumetric expansion, and rapid capacitance fading upon cycling, which can be solved by optimizing these materials to nanostructures and confining them within conductive carbonaceous frameworks. In this work, flexible hybrid membranes with ultrathin Ni(OH)2 nanoplatelets vertically and uniformly anchored on the electrospun carbon nanofibers (CNF) have been facilely prepared as electrode materials for supercapacitors. The Ni(OH)2/CNF hybrid membranes with three-dimensional macroporous architectures as well as hierarchical nanostructures can provide open and continuous channels for rapid diffusion of electrolyte to access the electrochemically active Ni(OH)2 nanoplatelets. Moreover, the carbon nanofiber can act both as a conductive core to provide efficient transport of electrons for fast Faradaic redox reactions of the Ni(OH)2 sheath, and as a buffering matrix to mitigate the local volumetric expansion/contraction upon long-term cycling. As a consequence, the optimized Ni(OH)2/CNF hybrid membrane exhibits a high specific capacitance of 2523 F g(-1) (based on the mass of Ni(OH)2, that is 701 F g(-1) based on the total mass) at a scan rate of 5 mV s(-1). The Ni(OH)2/CNF hybrid membranes with high mechanical flexibility, superior electrical conductivity, and remarkably improved electrochemical capacitance are condsidered as promising flexible electrode materials for high-performance supercapacitors.

Uncooled tunneling infrared sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kenny, Thomas W. (Inventor); Kaiser, William J. (Inventor); Podosek, Judith A. (Inventor); Vote, Erika C. (Inventor); Muller, Richard E. (Inventor); Maker, Paul D. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

An uncooled infrared tunneling sensor in which the only moving part is a diaphragm which is deflected into contact with a micromachined silicon tip electrode prepared by a novel lithographic process. Similarly prepared deflection electrodes employ electrostatic force to control the deflection of a silicon nitride, flat diaphragm membrane. The diaphragm exhibits a high resonant frequency which reduces the sensor's sensitivity to vibration. A high bandwidth feedback circuit controls the tunneling current by adjusting the deflection voltage to maintain a constant deflection of the membrane. The resulting infrared sensor can be miniaturized to pixel dimensions smaller than 100 .mu.m. An alternative embodiment is implemented using a corrugated membrane to permit large deflection without complicated clamping and high deflection voltages. The alternative embodiment also employs a pinhole aperture in a membrane to accommodate environmental temperature variation and a sealed chamber to eliminate environmental contamination of the tunneling electrodes and undesireable accoustic coupling to the sensor.

Membrane Bioprobe Electrodes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rechnitz, Garry A.

1975-01-01

Describes the design of ion selective electrodes coupled with immobilized enzymes which operate either continuously or on drop-sized samples. Cites techniques for urea, L-phenylalanine and amygdalin. Micro size electrodes for use in single cells are discussed. (GH)

Electrode and interconnect for miniature fuel cells using direct methanol feed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Valdez, Thomas I. (Inventor); Clara, Filiberto (Inventor)

2004-01-01

An improved system for interconnects in a fuel cell. In one embodiment, the membranes are located in parallel with one another, and current flow between them is facilitated by interconnects. In another embodiment, all of the current flow is through the interconnects which are located on the membranes. The interconnects are located between two electrodes.

Development and Application of a Sample Holder for In Situ Gaseous TEM Studies of Membrane Electrode Assemblies for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells.

PubMed

Kamino, Takeo; Yaguchi, Toshie; Shimizu, Takahiro

2017-10-01

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells hold great potential for stationary and mobile applications due to high power density and low operating temperature. However, the structural changes during electrochemical reactions are not well understood. In this article, we detail the development of the sample holder equipped with gas injectors and electric conductors and its application to a membrane electrode assembly of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell. Hydrogen and oxygen gases were simultaneously sprayed on the surfaces of the anode and cathode catalysts of the membrane electrode assembly sample, respectively, and observation of the structural changes in the catalysts were simultaneously carried out along with measurement of the generated voltages.

The cell-in-series method: A technique for accelerated electrode degradation in redox flow batteries

DOE PAGES

Pezeshki, Alan M.; Sacci, Robert L.; Veith, Gabriel M.; ...

2015-11-21

Here, we demonstrate a novel method to accelerate electrode degradation in redox flow batteries and apply this method to the all-vanadium chemistry. Electrode performance degradation occurred seven times faster than in a typical cycling experiment, enabling rapid evaluation of materials. This method also enables the steady-state study of electrodes. In this manner, it is possible to delineate whether specific operating conditions induce performance degradation; we found that both aggressively charging and discharging result in performance loss. Post-mortem x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of the degraded electrodes was used to resolve the effects of state of charge (SoC) and current on the electrodemore » surface chemistry. For the electrode material tested in this work, we found evidence that a loss of oxygen content on the negative electrode cannot explain decreased cell performance. Furthermore, the effects of decreased electrode and membrane performance on capacity fade in a typical cycling battery were decoupled from crossover; electrode and membrane performance decay were responsible for a 22% fade in capacity, while crossover caused a 12% fade.« less

Fabrication of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell MEAs utilizing inkjet print technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Towne, Silas; Viswanathan, Vish; Holbery, James; Rieke, Peter

Utilizing drop-on-demand technology, we have successfully fabricated hydrogen-air polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), demonstrated some of the processing advantages of this technology and have demonstrated that the performance is comparable to conventionally fabricated membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs). Commercial desktop inkjet printers were used to deposit the active catalyst electrode layer directly from print cartridges onto Nafion ® polymer membranes in the hydrogen form. The layers were well-adhered and withstood simple tape peel, bending and abrasion tests and did so without any post-deposition hot press step. The elimination of this processing step suggests that inkjet-based fabrication or similar processing technologies may provide a route to less expensive large-scale fabrication of PEMFCs. When tested in our experimental apparatus, open circuit voltages up to 0.87 V and power densities of up to 155 mW cm -2 were obtained with a catalyst loading of 0.20 mg Pt cm -2. A commercially available membrane under identical, albeit not optimized test conditions, showed about 7% greater power density. The objective of this work was to demonstrate some of the processing advantages of drop-on-demand technology for fabrication of MEAs. It remains to be determined if inkjet fabrication offers performance advantages or leads to more efficient utilization of expensive catalyst materials.

In-plane structuring of proton exchange membrane fuel cell cathodes: Effect of ionomer equivalent weight structuring on performance and current density distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herden, Susanne; Riewald, Felix; Hirschfeld, Julian A.; Perchthaler, Markus

2017-07-01

Within the active area of a fuel cell inhomogeneous operating conditions occur, however, state of the art electrodes are homogenous over the complete active area. This study uses current density distribution measurements to analyze which ionomer equivalent weight (EW) shows locally the highest current densities. With this information a segmented cathode electrode is manufactured by decal transfer. The segmented electrode shows better performance especially at high current densities compared to homogenous electrodes. Furthermore this segmented catalyst coated membrane (CCM) performs optimal in wet as well as dry conditions, both operating conditions arise in automotive fuel cell applications. Thus, cathode electrodes with an optimized ionomer EW distribution might have a significant impact on future automotive fuel cell development.

Inexpensive and Disposable pH Electrodes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldcamp, Michael J.; Conklin, Alfred; Nelson, Kimberly; Marchetti, Jessica; Brashear, Ryan; Epure, Emily

2010-01-01

Inexpensive electrodes for the measurement of pH have been constructed using the ionophore tribenzylamine for sensing H[superscript +] concentrations. Both traditional liquid-membrane electrodes and coated-wire electrodes have been constructed and studied, and both exhibit linear, nearly Nernstian responses to changes in pH. Measurements of pH…

Promising applications of graphene and graphene-based nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Bich Ha; Hieu Nguyen, Van

2016-06-01

The present article is a review of research works on promising applications of graphene and graphene-based nanostructures. It contains five main scientific subjects. The first one is the research on graphene-based transparent and flexible conductive films for displays and electrodes: efficient method ensuring uniform and controllable deposition of reduced graphene oxide thin films over large areas, large-scale pattern growth of graphene films for stretchble transparent electrodes, utilization of graphene-based transparent conducting films and graphene oxide-based ones in many photonic and optoelectronic devices and equipments such as the window electrodes of inorganic, organic and dye-sensitized solar cells, organic light-emitting diodes, light-emitting electrochemical cells, touch screens, flexible smart windows, graphene-based saturated absorbers in laser cavities for ultrafast generations, graphene-based flexible, transparent heaters in automobile defogging/deicing systems, heatable smart windows, graphene electrodes for high-performance organic field-effect transistors, flexible and transparent acoustic actuators and nanogenerators etc. The second scientific subject is the research on conductive inks for printed electronics to revolutionize the electronic industry by producing cost-effective electronic circuits and sensors in very large quantities: preparing high mobility printable semiconductors, low sintering temperature conducting inks, graphene-based ink by liquid phase exfoliation of graphite in organic solutions, and developing inkjet printing technique for mass production of high-quality graphene patterns with high resolution and for fabricating a variety of good-performance electronic devices, including transparent conductors, embedded resistors, thin-film transistors and micro supercapacitors. The third scientific subject is the research on graphene-based separation membranes: molecular dynamics simulation study on the mechanisms of the transport of molecules, vapors and gases through nanopores in graphene membranes, experimental works investigating selective transport of different molecules through nanopores in single-layer graphene and graphene-based membranes toward the water desalination, chemical mixture separation and gas control. Various applications of graphene in bio-medicine are the contents of the fourth scientific subject of the review. They include the DNA translocations through nanopores in graphene membranes toward the fabrication of devices for genomic screening, in particular DNA sequencing; subnanometre trans-electrode membranes with potential applications to the fabrication of very high resolution, high throughput nanopore-based single-molecule detectors; antibacterial activity of graphene, graphite oxide, graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide; nanopore sensors for nucleic acid analysis; utilization of graphene multilayers as the gates for sequential release of proteins from surface; utilization of graphene-based electroresponsive scaffolds as implants for on-demand drug delivery etc. The fifth scientific subject of the review is the research on the utilization of graphene in energy storage devices: ternary self-assembly of ordered metal oxide-graphene nanocomposites for electrochemical energy storage; self-assembled graphene/carbon nanotube hybrid films for supercapacitors; carbon-based supercapacitors fabricated by activation of graphene; functionalized graphene sheet-sulfure nanocomposite for using as cathode material in rechargeable lithium batteries; tunable three-dimensional pillared carbon nanotube-graphene networks for high-performance capacitance; fabrications of electrochemical micro-capacitors using thin films of carbon nanotubes and chemically reduced graphenes; laser scribing of high-performance and flexible graphene-based electrochemical capacitors; emergence of next-generation safe batteries featuring graphene-supported Li metal anode with exceptionally high energy or power densities; fabrication of anodes for lithium ion batteries from crumpled graphene-encapsulated Si nanoparticles; liquid-mediated dense integration of graphene materials for compact capacitive energy storage; scalable fabrication of high-power graphene micro-supercapacitors for flexible and on-chip energy storage; superior micro-supercapacitors based on graphene quantum dots; all-graphene core-sheat microfibres for all-solid-state, stretchable fibriform supercapacitors and wearable electronic textiles; micro-supercapacitors with high electrochemical performance based on three-dimensional graphene-carbon nanotube carpets; macroscopic nitrogen-doped graphene hydrogels for ultrafast capacitors; manufacture of scalable ultra-thin and high power density graphene electrochemical capacitor electrodes by aqueous exfoliation and spray deposition; scalable synthesis of hierarchically structured carbon nanotube-graphene fibers for capacitive energy storage; phosphorene-graphene hybrid material as a high-capacity anode material for sodium-ion batteries. Beside above-presented promising applications of graphene and graphene-based nanostructures, other less widespread, but perhaps not less important, applications of graphene and graphene-based nanomaterials, are also briefly discussed.

Graphene-Supported Platinum Catalyst-Based Membrane Electrode Assembly for PEM Fuel Cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Devrim, Yilser; Albostan, Ayhan

2016-08-01

The aim of this study is the preparation and characterization of a graphene-supported platinum (Pt) catalyst for proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) applications. The graphene-supported Pt catalysts were prepared by chemical reduction of graphene and chloroplatinic acid (H2PtCl6) in ethylene glycol. X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy have been used to analyze structure and surface morphology of the graphene-supported catalyst. The TGA results showed that the Pt loading of the graphene-supported catalyst was 31%. The proof of the Pt particles on the support surfaces was also verified by energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analysis. The commercial carbon-supported catalyst and prepared Pt/graphene catalysts were used as both anode and cathode electrodes for PEMFC at ambient pressure and 70°C. The maximum power density was obtained for the Pt/graphene-based membrane electrode assembly (MEA) with H2/O2 reactant gases as 0.925 W cm2. The maximum current density of the Pt/graphene-based MEA can reach 1.267 and 0.43 A/cm2 at 0.6 V with H2/O2 and H2/air, respectively. The MEA prepared by the Pt/graphene catalyst shows good stability in long-term PEMFC durability tests. The PEMFC cell voltage was maintained at 0.6 V without apparent voltage drop when operated at 0.43 A/cm2 constant current density and 70°C for 400 h. As a result, PEMFC performance was found to be superlative for the graphene-supported Pt catalyst compared with the Pt/C commercial catalyst. The results indicate the graphene-supported Pt catalyst could be utilized as the electrocatalyst for PEMFC applications.

Microfabricated Patch Clamp Electrodes for Improved Ion Channel Protein Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klemic, James; Klemic, Kathryn; Reed, Mark; Sigworth, Frederick

2002-03-01

Ion channels are trans-membrane proteins that underlie many cell functions including hormone and neurotransmitter release, muscle contraction and cell signaling cascades. Ion channel proteins are commonly characterized via the patch clamp method in which an extruded glass tube containing ionic solution, manipulated by an expert technician, is brought into contact with a living cell to record ionic current through the cell membrane. Microfabricated planar patch electrodes, micromolded in the silicone elastomer poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) from microlithographically patterned structures, have been developed that improve on this method. Microfabrication techniques allow arrays of patch electrodes to be fabricated, increasing the throughput of the measurement technique. Planar patch electrodes readily allow the automation of cell sealing, further increasing throughput. Microfabricated electrode arrays may be readily integrated with microfluidic structures to allow fast, in situ solution exchange. Miniaturization of the electrode geometry should increase both the signal to noise and the bandwidth of the measurement. Microfabricated patch electrode arrays have been fabricated and measurements have been taken.

A copper ion-selective electrode with high selectivity prepared by sol-gel and coated wire techniques.

PubMed

Mazloum Ardakani, M; Salavati-Niasari, M; Khayat Kashani, M; Ghoreishi, S M

2004-03-01

A sol-gel electrode and a coated wire ion-selective poly(vinyl chloride) membrane, based on thiosemicarbazone as a neutral carrier, were successfully developed for the detection of Cu (II) in aqueous solutions. The sol-gel electrode and coated electrode exhibited linear response with Nernstian slopes of 29.2 and 28.1 mV per decade respectively, within the copper ion concentration ranges 1.0 x 10(-5) - 1.0 x 10(-1) M and 6.0 x 10(-6) - 1.0 x 10(-1) M for coated and sol-gel sensors. The coated and sol-gel electrodes show detection limits of 3.0 x 10(-6) and 6.0 x 10(-6) M respectively. The electrodes exhibited good selectivities for a number of alkali, alkaline earth, transition and heavy metal ions. The proposed electrodes have response times ranging from 10-50 s to achieve a 95% steady potential for Cu2+ concentration. The electrodes are suitable for use in aqueous solutions over a wide pH range (4-7.5). Applications of these electrodes for the determination of copper in real samples, and as an indicator electrode for potentiometric titration of Cu2+ ion using EDTA, are reported. The lifetimes of the electrodes were tested over a period of six months to investigate their stability. No significant change in the performance of the sol-gel electrode was observed over this period, but after two months the coated wire copper-selective electrode exhibited a gradual decrease in the slope. The selectivity of the sol-gel electrode was found to be better than that of the coated wire copper-selective electrode. Based on these results, a novel sol-gel copper-selective electrode is proposed for the determination of copper, and applied to real sample assays.

Determination of uric acid level by polyaniline and poly (allylamine): Based biosensor

PubMed Central

Wathoni, Nasrul; Hasanah, Aliya Nur; Gozali, Dolih; Wahyuni, Yeni; Fauziah, Lia Layusa

2014-01-01

The uric acid biosensor has been much developed by immobilizing uricase enzyme into the membrane of conductive polymer and the membrane of polyelectrolyte such as polyaniline (PANI) and poly (allylamine) (PAA) respectively. The purpose of this research was to create a new amperometric uric acid biosensor by immobilization of uricase in combination between PANI and PAA membranes. The working electrode was Pt plate (0.5 mm). The auxiliary and the reference electrode were Pt wire 0.4 mm and Ag/AgCl respectively. Uricase, uric acid, PAA, pyrrole and glutaraldehyde were supplied from Sigma. All other chemical was obtained from Merck. The biosensor was created by immobilizing of uricase by a glutaraldehyde crosslinking procedure on PANI composite film on the surface of a platinum electrode while the polyelectrolyte layer of PAA were prepared via layer-by-layer assembly on the electrode, functioning as H2O2-selective film. Standard of deviation, coefficient of variation (CV) and coefficient of correlation (r) analysis were used in this study. The biosensor had a good linearity with a correlation coefficient of 0.993 and it could be used up to 27 times with the CV value of 3.97%. The presence of other compounds such as glucose and ascorbic acid gave 1.3 ± 1.13% and 3.27 ± 2.29% respectively on the interference effect toward the current response of uric acid biosensor. The polymer combination of PANI and PAA can be used as a selective matrix of uric acid biosensor. PMID:24696812

A porous ceramic membrane tailored high-temperature supercapacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xin; He, Benlin; Zhao, Yuanyuan; Tang, Qunwei

2018-03-01

The supercapacitor that can operate at high-temperature are promising for markedly increase in capacitance because of accelerated charge movement. However, the state-of-the-art polymer-based membranes will decompose at high temperature. Inspired by solid oxide fuel cells, we present here the experimental realization of high-temperature supercapacitors (HTSCs) tailored with porous ceramic separator fabricated by yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and nickel oxide (NiO). Using activated carbon electrode and supporting electrolyte from potassium hydroxide (KOH) aqueous solution, a category of symmetrical HTSCs are built in comparison with a conventional polymer membrane based device. The dependence of capacitance performance on temperature is carefully studied, yielding a maximized specific capacitance of 272 F g-1 at 90 °C for the optimized HTSC tailored by NiO/YSZ membrane. Moreover, the resultant HTSC has relatively high durability when suffer repeated measurement over 1000 cycles at 90 °C, while the polymer membrane based supercapacitor shows significant reduction in capacitance at 60 °C. The high capacitance along with durability demonstrates NiO/YSZ membrane tailored HTSCs are promising in future advanced energy storage devices.

Direct evidence of ionic fluxes across ion-selective membranes: a scanning electrochemical microscopic and potentiometric study.

PubMed

Gyurcsányi, R E; Pergel, E; Nagy, R; Kapui, I; Lan, B T; Tóth, K; Bitter, I; Lindner, E

2001-05-01

Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) supplemented with potentiometric measurements was used to follow the time-dependent buildup of a steady-state diffusion layer at the aqueous-phase boundary of lead ion-selective electrodes (ISEs). Differential pulse voltammetry is adapted to SECM for probing the local concentration profiles at the sample side of solvent polymeric membranes. Major factors affecting the membrane transport-related surface concentrations were identified from SECM data and the potentiometric transients obtained under different experimental conditions (inner filling solution composition, membrane thickness, surface pretreatment). The amperometrically determined surface concentrations correlated well with the lower detection limits of the lead ion-selective electrodes.

Membrane-spacer assembly for flow-electrode capacitive deionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Ki Sook; Cho, Younghyun; Choo, Ko Yeon; Yang, SeungCheol; Han, Moon Hee; Kim, Dong Kook

2018-03-01

Flow-electrode capacitive deionization (FCDI) is a desalination process designed to overcome the limited desalination capacity of conventional CDI systems due to their fixed electrodes. Such a FCDI cell system is comprised of a current collector, freestanding ion-exchange membrane (IEM), gasket, and spacer for flowing saline water. To simplify the cell system, in this study we combined the membrane and spacer into a single unit, by coating the IEM on a porous ceramic structure that acts as the spacer. The combination of membrane with the porous structure avoids the use of costly freestanding IEM. Furthermore, the FCDI system can be readily scaled up by simply inserting the IEM-coated porous structures in between the channels for flow electrodes. However, coating the IEM on such porous ceramic structures can cause a sudden drop in the treatment capacity, if the coated IEM penetrates the ceramic pores and prevents these pores from acting as saline flow channels. To address this issue, we blocked the larger microscale pores on the outer surface with SiO2 and polymeric multilayers. Thus, the IEM is coated only onto the top surface of the porous structure, while the internal pores remain empty to function as water channels.

A soft biomolecule actuator based on a highly functionalized bacterial cellulose nano-fiber network with carboxylic acid groups.

PubMed

Wang, Fan; Jeon, Jin-Han; Park, Sukho; Kee, Chang-Doo; Kim, Seong-Jun; Oh, Il-Kwon

2016-01-07

Upcoming human-related applications such as soft wearable electronics, flexible haptic systems, and active bio-medical devices will require bio-friendly actuating materials. Here, we report a soft biomolecule actuator based on carboxylated bacterial cellulose (CBC), ionic liquid (IL), and poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) ( PSS) electrodes. Soft and biocompatible polymer-IL composites were prepared via doping of CBC with ILs. The highly conductive PSS layers were deposited on both sides of the CBC-IL membranes by a dip-coating technique to yield a sandwiched actuator system. Ionic conductivity and ionic exchange capacity of the CBC membrane can be increased up to 22.8 times and 1.5 times compared with pristine bacterial cellulose (BC), respectively, resulting in 8 times large bending deformation than the pure BC actuators with metallic electrodes in an open air environment. The developed CBC-IL actuators show significant progress in the development of biocompatible and soft actuating materials with quick response, low operating voltage and comparatively large bending deformation.

A single-walled carbon nanotube thin film-based pH-sensing microfluidic chip.

PubMed

Li, Cheng Ai; Han, Kwi Nam; Pham, Xuan-Hung; Seong, Gi Hun

2014-04-21

A novel microfluidic pH-sensing chip was developed based on pH-sensitive single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). In this study, the SWCNT thin film acted both as an electrode and a pH-sensitive membrane. The potentiometric pH response was observed by electronic structure changes in the semiconducting SWCNTs in response to the pH level. In a microfluidic chip consisting of a SWCNT pH-sensing working electrode and an Ag/AgCl reference electrode, the calibration plot exhibited promising pH-sensing performance with an ideal Nernstian response of 59.71 mV pH(-1) between pH 3 and 11 (standard deviation of the sensitivity is 1.5 mV pH(-1), R(2) = 0.985). Moreover, the SWCNT electrode in the microfluidic device showed no significant variation at any pH value in the range of the flow rate between 0.1 and 15 μl min(-1). The selectivity coefficients of the SWCNT electrode revealed good selectivity against common interfering ions.

Hydrogen-based electrochemical energy storage

DOEpatents

Simpson, Lin Jay

2013-08-06

An energy storage device (100) providing high storage densities via hydrogen storage. The device (100) includes a counter electrode (110), a storage electrode (130), and an ion conducting membrane (120) positioned between the counter electrode (110) and the storage electrode (130). The counter electrode (110) is formed of one or more materials with an affinity for hydrogen and includes an exchange matrix for elements/materials selected from the non-noble materials that have an affinity for hydrogen. The storage electrode (130) is loaded with hydrogen such as atomic or mono-hydrogen that is adsorbed by a hydrogen storage material such that the hydrogen (132, 134) may be stored with low chemical bonding. The hydrogen storage material is typically formed of a lightweight material such as carbon or boron with a network of passage-ways or intercalants for storing and conducting mono-hydrogen, protons, or the like. The hydrogen storage material may store at least ten percent by weight hydrogen (132, 134) at ambient temperature and pressure.

Combined SO sub x /NO sub x removal and concentration from flue gas through an electrochemical membrane

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Winnick, J.

1989-11-01

Electrochemical membrane removal of SO{sub 2} from flue gas and concentration into a salable by-product stream has been achieved. Full-cell tests have verified both the concept and choice of materials compatible with the process gas. Electrodes have been developed, manufactured from a conducting ceramic, La{sub 0.8}Sr{sub 0.2}CoO{sub 3}. Electrochemical cell reactions conform precisely with those discerned in free electrolyte. These reactions are stoichiometric to over 95% SO{sub 2} removal. Oleum by-product generation is likewise totally stoichiometric (100% current efficiency). NO{sub x} removal has been found to occur at the oxidizing electrode. Cell polarization, that is, the achievable current densities atmore » reasonable voltage, is unacceptable with the membranes tested thus far. Future work will focus on identifying a ceramic matrix material and a membrane fabrication technique which yields a membrane with the proper capillarity match with the porous electrodes. This will give the cell the proper polarization performance to permit larger scale endurance tests. 56 figs.« less

Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis of a thin polymer film-based micro-direct methanol fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schulz, Tobias; Weinmüller, Christian; Nabavi, Majid; Poulikakos, Dimos

A single cell micro-direct methanol fuel cell (micro-DMFC) was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The electrodes consisted of thin, flexible polymer (SU8) film microchannel structures fabricated in-house using microfabrication techniques. AC impedance spectroscopy was used to separate contributions to the overall cell polarization from the anode, cathode and membrane. A clear distinction between the different electrochemical phenomena occurring in the micro-DMFC, especially the distinction between double layer charging and Faradaic reactions was shown. The effect of fuel flow rate, temperature, and anode flow channel structure on the impedance of the electrode reactions and membrane/electrode double layer charging were investigated. Analysis of impedance data revealed that the performance of the test cell was largely limited by the presence of intermediate carbon monoxide in the anode reaction. Higher temperatures increase cell performance by enabling intermediate CO to be oxidized at much higher rates. The results also revealed that serpentine anode flow microchannels show a lower tendency to intermediate CO coverage and a more stable cell behavior than parallel microchannels.

Calcium-selective electrodes based on photo-cured polyurethane-acrylate membranes covalently attached to methacrylate functionalized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) as solid-contact.

PubMed

Ocaña, Cristina; Abramova, Natalia; Bratov, Andrey; Lindfors, Tom; Bobacka, Johan

2018-08-15

We report here the fabrication of solid-contact calcium-selective electrodes (Ca 2+ -SCISEs) made of a polyurethane acrylate ion-selective membrane (ISM) that was covalently attached to the underlying ion-to-electron transducer (solid-contact). Methacrylate-functionalized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (Meth-PEDOT) and Meth-PEDOT films containing either multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) or carboxylated MWCNT (cMWCNT) were used as solid contacts. The solid contacts were deposited by drop-casting on screen-printed electrodes and characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiometry. Covalent binding between the solid contact and the ISM was obtained via photopolymerization in order to increase the robustness of the Ca 2+ -SCISEs. The performance of the Ca 2+ -SCISEs was studied by measuring their potentiometric response and their sensitivity to light, oxygen and carbon dioxide. Meth-PEDOT was found to be a promising solid-contact material to develop low-cost and easy to prepare ISEs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A reagentless amperometric biosensor for alcohol detection in column liquid chromatography based on co-immobilized peroxidase and alcohol oxidase in carbon paste.

PubMed

Johansson, K; Jönsson-Pettersson, G; Gorton, L; Marko-Varga, G; Csöregi, E

1993-12-01

A reagentless carbon paste electrode chemically modified with covalently bound alcohol oxidase and horse-radish peroxidase was examined as a selective sensor in flow injection and column liquid chromatography. A combination of carbodiimide, glutaraldehyde, and polyethyleneimine was used for immobilizing the enzymes in the paste. The surface of the electrodes was protected by first forming a layer of electropolymerized ortho-phenylenediamine followed by deposition of a cation exchange membrane (Eastman AQ 29D). The electrodes were used for detection of hydrogen peroxide, methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, and butanol. Preliminary investigations of the use of this sensor for bioprocess control are reported.

A passive ozone sampler based on a reaction with iodide.

PubMed

Yanagisawa, Y

1994-02-01

A new passive sampler for ozone and its simple analytical system have been developed. Because it is small and sensitive, the sampler can be used for determining personal exposures to ozone and oxidants and for multilocation measurements. The sampler consists of an electrode, a spacer, and several layers of membrane filters and Teflon meshes. The electrode is a carbon paper disk coated with nylon-6 polymer and potassium iodide. The membrane filters are used to remove interferences. A sampling rate of ozone is controlled by the spacer and Teflon meshes. Iodine is liberated by an oxidation reaction of potassium iodide with ozone. The iodine is stabilized by forming a charge transfer complex with nylon-6 and is accumulated in the nylon-6 layer. The amount of iodine, which is proportional to the level of ozone exposure, is quantified by constant current coulometry. The discharge time of a galvanic battery is measured using the electrode as a positive electrode and a zinc plate as a counter electrode. A time-weighted average concentration of ozone is derived from the discharge time after exposing the electrode to ozone. The effects of various environmental conditions on the sampler's performance were investigated. The results indicated that the sampler showed a linear response to ozone exposure up to 1,450 parts per billion for every hour of use (ppb.hour). The minimum detectable exposure was about 400 ppb.hour. The effects of surface wind velocity, temperature, and humidity were small. However, a relative humidity below 20% resulted in an underestimation of the ozone concentration. Because the electrode requires no pretreatment and the analytical method is very simple, this method is suitable for large-scale studies of personal exposures to ozone and oxidants using multilocation measurements.

A fully spray-coated fuel cell membrane electrode assembly using Aquivion ionomer with a graphene oxide/cerium oxide interlayer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breitwieser, Matthias; Bayer, Thomas; Büchler, Andreas; Zengerle, Roland; Lyth, Stephen M.; Thiele, Simon

2017-05-01

A novel multilayer membrane electrode assembly (MEA) for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is fabricated in this work, within a single spray-coating device. For the first time, direct membrane deposition is used to fabricate a PEMFC by spraying the short-side-chain ionomer Aquivion directly onto the gas diffusion electrodes. The fully sprayed MEA, with an Aquivion membrane 10 μm in thickness, achieved a high power density of 1.6 W/cm2 for H2/air operation at 300 kPaabs. This is one of the highest reported values for thin composite membranes operated in H2/air atmosphere. By the means of confocal laser scanning microscopy, individual carbon fibers from the gas diffusion layer are identified to penetrate through the micro porous layer (MPL), likely causing a low electrical cell resistance in the range of 150 Ω cm2 through the thin sprayed membranes. By spraying a 200 nm graphene oxide/cerium oxide (GO/CeO2) interlayer between two layers of Aquivion ionomer, the impact of the electrical short is eliminated and the hydrogen crossover current density is reduced to about 1 mA/cm2. The peak power density of the interlayer-containing MEA drops only by 10% compared to a pure Aquivion membrane of similar thickness.

Manual and Flow-Injection Detection/Quantification of Polyquaterniums via Fully Reversible Polyion-Sensitive Polymeric Membrane-Based Ion-Selective Electrodes.

PubMed

Ferguson, Stephen A; Meyerhoff, Mark E

2017-10-27

The detection of four different polyquaterniums (PQs) using a fully reversible potentiometric polyion sensor in three different detection modes is described. The polyion sensing "pulstrodes" serve as the detector for direct dose-response experiments, beaker titrations, and in a flow-injection analysis (FIA) system. Direct polycation response toward PQ-2, PQ-6, PQ-10, and poly(2-methacryloxyethyltrimethylammonium) chloride (PMETAC) yields characteristic information about each PQ species (e.g., relative charge densities, etc.) via syringe pump addition of each PQ species to a background electrolyte solution. Quantitative titrations are performed using a syringe pump to deliver heparin as the polyanion titrant to quantify all four PQs at μg/mL levels. Both the direct and indirect methods incorporate the use of a three-electrode system including counter, double junction reference, and working electrodes. The working electrode possesses a plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) membrane containing the neutral lipophilic salt of dinonylnaphthalenesulfonate (DNNS - ) tridodecylmethylammonium (TDMA + ). Further, the titration method is shown to be useful to quantify PQ-6 levels in recreational swimming pool water collected in Ann Arbor, MI. Finally, a FIA system equipped with a pulstrode detector is used to demonstrate the ability to potentially quantify PQ levels via a more streamlined and semiautomated testing platform.

Dissolution testing and potentiometric determination of famciclovir in pure, dosage forms and biological fluids.

PubMed

Rezk, Mohamed S; El Nashar, Rasha M

2013-02-01

The performance characteristics of two new plastic membrane ion selective electrodes (ISEs) used for the determination of famciclovir (Fcv) based on the ion associate of Fcv with phosphotungstic acid (PTA) or phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) are described. Different experimental conditions as type of plasticizer to be incorporated in the membrane, life span, effect of soaking, pH, temperature, and interferences were studied. Both electrodes showed similar performance under these conditions, exhibiting Nernstian slopes of S (Fcv-PTA)=58.60±0.84 mV/decade and S (Fcv-PMA)=58.77±0.68 mV/decade within a usable concentration range of 10⁻⁵-10⁻² [Fcv/M] at 298/K. Famciclovir was assayed potentiometrically in its pure solution, pharmaceutical preparations and biological fluids (urine and plasma) using proposed electrodes under batch and flow injection analysis (FIA) conditions with a recovery % ranging between 96.76% and 102.83% having RSD of 0.66%-1.81%. The electrodes were also successfully applied in the determination of the dissolution profile of Fcv tablets and the results came in agreement with the validated results of the HPLC method obtained from the quality control unit of the company producing the tablets. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Titanium (III) cation selective electrode based on synthesized tris(2pyridyl) methylamine ionophore and its application in water samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rezayi, Majid; Karazhian, Reza; Abdollahi, Yadollah; Narimani, Leila; Sany, Seyedeh Belin Tavakoly; Ahmadzadeh, Saeid; Alias, Yatimah

2014-04-01

The introduction of low detection limit ion selective electrodes (ISEs) may well pave the way for the determination of trace targets of cationic compounds. This research focuses on the detection of titanium (III) cation using a new PVC-membrane sensor based on synthesized tris(2pyridyl) methylamine (tpm) ionophore. The application and validation of the proposed sensor was done using potentiometric titration, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The membrane sensor exhibited a Nernstian response to the titanium (III) cation over a concentration range of 1.0 × 10-6-1.0 × 10-2 M and pH range from 1-2.5. The Nernstian slope, the lower of detection (LOD), and the response time (t95%) of the proposed sensor were 29.17 +/- 0.24 mV/dec, 7.9 × 10-7 M, and 20 s, respectively. The direct determination of 4-39 μg/ml of titanium (III) standard solution showed an average recovery of 94.60 and a mean relative standard deviation of 1.8 at 100.0 μg/ml. Finally, the utilization of the electrodes as end-point indicators for potentiometric titration with EDTA solutions for titanium (III) sensor was successfully carried out.

Double-membrane triple-electrolyte redox flow battery design

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yushan, Yan; Gu, Shuang; Gong, Ke

A redox flow battery is provided having a double-membrane (one cation exchange membrane and one anion exchange membrane), triple-electrolyte (one electrolyte in contact with the negative electrode, one electrolyte in contact with the positive electrode, and one electrolyte positioned between and in contact with the two membranes). The cation exchange membrane is used to separate the negative or positive electrolyte and the middle electrolyte, and the anion exchange membrane is used to separate the middle electrolyte and the positive or negative electrolyte. This design physically isolates, but ionically connects, the negative electrolyte and positive electrolyte. The physical isolation offers greatmore » freedom in choosing redox pairs in the negative electrolyte and positive electrolyte, making high voltage of redox flow batteries possible. The ionic conduction drastically reduces the overall ionic crossover between negative electrolyte and positive one, leading to high columbic efficiency.« less

Rheological properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) derived composite membranes for fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Remiš, T.

2017-01-01

Rheological properties of new anhydrous proton conducting membrane based on PVA, tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS),sulfosuccinic acid (SSA), titanium dioxide (TiO2)was examined at various stoichiometric ratios. SSA was used as sulfonating agents to form a crosslinked structure and as proton source, whereas TEO Sand TiO2were utilized to improve the thermal and mechanical properties of the membrane. In order to verify that all the substances were immobilized into the matrix, the membranes were analysed by means of FT-IR. The rheological, mechanical and thermal properties of the membranes were investigated using rheometer ARES G2 and thermogravimetic analyser (TGA).The analysis of mixed PVA solutions exhibited a unique behaviour of viscosity with increased crosslink density. The dynamic storage modulus G´ of dried composite membranes shows better mechanical resistance and increased tolerance to pressure applied during membrane electrode assembly (MEA).

Combinatorial electrochemical cell array for high throughput screening of micro-fuel-cells and metal/air batteries.

PubMed

Jiang, Rongzhong

2007-07-01

An electrochemical cell array was designed that contains a common air electrode and 16 microanodes for high throughput screening of both fuel cells (based on polymer electrolyte membrane) and metal/air batteries (based on liquid electrolyte). Electrode materials can easily be coated on the anodes of the electrochemical cell array and screened by switching a graphite probe from one cell to the others. The electrochemical cell array was used to study direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs), including high throughput screening of electrode catalysts and determination of optimum operating conditions. For screening of DMFCs, there is about 6% relative standard deviation (percentage of standard deviation versus mean value) for discharge current from 10 to 20 mAcm(2). The electrochemical cell array was also used to study tin/air batteries. The effect of Cu content in the anode electrode on the discharge performance of the tin/air battery was investigated. The relative standard deviations for screening of metal/air battery (based on zinc/air) are 2.4%, 3.6%, and 5.1% for discharge current at 50, 100, and 150 mAcm(2), respectively.

The Analysis of Cyanide and Its Breakdown Products in Biological Samples

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

simultaneous GC-mass spectrometric (MS) analysis of cyanide and thiocyanate, and Funazo et al. (53) quantita- tively methylated cyanide and thiocyanate for...selective membrane electrode for thiocyanate ion based on a bis-taurine- salicylic binuclear copper(II) complex as ionophore. Chinese Journal of Chemistry

Ultrathin Graphene Membranes as Flexible Electrodes for Electrochemical Double Layer Capacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Talapatra, Saikat; Kar, Swastik; Shah, Rakesh; Ghosh, Sujoy; An, Xiaohong; Simmons, Trevor; Washington, Morris; Nayak, Saroj

2010-03-01

We will present the results of our investigations of electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) or supercapacitors (SC) fabricated using graphene based ultra thin membranes. These EDLC's show far superior performance compared to other carbon nanomaterials based EDLC's devices. We found that the graphene based devices possess specific capacitance values as high as 120 F/g, with impressive power densities (˜105 kW/kg) and energy densities (˜9.2 Wh/kg). Further, these devices indicated rapid charge transfer response even without the use of any binders or specially prepared current collectors. Our ultracapacitors reflect a significant improvement over previously reported graphene-based ultracapacitors and are substantially better than those obtained with carbon nanotubes.

Method of improving fuel cell performance by removing at least one metal oxide contaminant from a fuel cell electrode

DOEpatents

Kim, Yu Seung [Los Alamos, NM; Choi, Jong-Ho [Los Alamos, NM; Zelenay, Piotr [Los Alamos, NM

2009-08-18

A method of removing contaminants from a fuel cell catalyst electrode. The method includes providing a getter electrode and a fuel cell catalyst electrode having at least one contaminant to a bath and applying a voltage sufficient to drive the contaminant from the fuel cell catalyst electrode to the getter electrode. Methods of removing contaminants from a membrane electrode assembly of a fuel cell and of improving performance of a fuel cell are also provided.

Electrolytic cell with reference electrode

DOEpatents

Kessie, Robert W.

1989-01-01

A reference electrode device is provided for a high temperature electrolytic cell used to electrolytically recover uranium from spent reactor fuel dissolved in an anode pool, the device having a glass tube to enclose the electrode and electrolyte and serve as a conductive membrane with the cell electrolyte, and an outer metal tube about the glass tube to serve as a shield and basket for any glass sections broken by handling of the tube to prevent their contact with the anode pool, the metal tube having perforations to provide access between the bulk of the cell electrolyte and glass membrane.

Reference electrode for electrolytic cell

DOEpatents

Kessie, R.W.

1988-07-28

A reference electrode device is provided for a high temperature electrolytic cell used to electrolytically recover uranium from spent reactor fuel dissolved in an anode pool, the device having a glass tube to enclose the electrode and electrolyte and serve as a conductive membrane with the cell electrolyte, and an outer metal tube about the glass tube to serve as a shield and basket for any glass sections broken by handling of the tube to prevent their contact with the anode pool, the metal tube having perforations to provide access between the bulk of the cell electrolyte and glass membrane. 4 figs.

Conducting polymer ultracapacitor

DOEpatents

Shi, Steven Z.; Davey, John R.; Gottesfeld, Shimshon; Ren, Xiaoming

2002-01-01

A sealed ultracapacitor assembly is formed with first and second electrodes of first and second conducting polymers electrodeposited on porous carbon paper substrates, where the first and second electrodes each define first and second exterior surfaces and first and second opposing surfaces. First and second current collector plates are bonded to the first and second exterior surfaces, respectively. A porous membrane separates the first and second opposing surfaces, with a liquid electrolyte impregnating the insulating membrane. A gasket formed of a thermoplastic material surrounds the first and second electrodes and seals between the first and second current collector plates for containing the liquid electrolyte.

Introduction to Solid Supported Membrane Based Electrophysiology

PubMed Central

Bazzone, Andre; Costa, Wagner Steuer; Braner, Markus; Călinescu, Octavian; Hatahet, Lina; Fendler, Klaus

2013-01-01

The electrophysiological method we present is based on a solid supported membrane (SSM) composed of an octadecanethiol layer chemisorbed on a gold coated sensor chip and a phosphatidylcholine monolayer on top. This assembly is mounted into a cuvette system containing the reference electrode, a chlorinated silver wire. After adsorption of membrane fragments or proteoliposomes containing the membrane protein of interest, a fast solution exchange is used to induce the transport activity of the membrane protein. In the single solution exchange protocol two solutions, one non-activating and one activating solution, are needed. The flow is controlled by pressurized air and a valve and tubing system within a faraday cage. The kinetics of the electrogenic transport activity is obtained via capacitive coupling between the SSM and the proteoliposomes or membrane fragments. The method, therefore, yields only transient currents. The peak current represents the stationary transport activity. The time dependent transporter currents can be reconstructed by circuit analysis. This method is especially suited for prokaryotic transporters or eukaryotic transporters from intracellular membranes, which cannot be investigated by patch clamp or voltage clamp methods. PMID:23711952

Introduction to solid supported membrane based electrophysiology.

PubMed

Bazzone, Andre; Costa, Wagner Steuer; Braner, Markus; Călinescu, Octavian; Hatahet, Lina; Fendler, Klaus

2013-05-11

The electrophysiological method we present is based on a solid supported membrane (SSM) composed of an octadecanethiol layer chemisorbed on a gold coated sensor chip and a phosphatidylcholine monolayer on top. This assembly is mounted into a cuvette system containing the reference electrode, a chlorinated silver wire. After adsorption of membrane fragments or proteoliposomes containing the membrane protein of interest, a fast solution exchange is used to induce the transport activity of the membrane protein. In the single solution exchange protocol two solutions, one non-activating and one activating solution, are needed. The flow is controlled by pressurized air and a valve and tubing system within a faraday cage. The kinetics of the electrogenic transport activity is obtained via capacitive coupling between the SSM and the proteoliposomes or membrane fragments. The method, therefore, yields only transient currents. The peak current represents the stationary transport activity. The time dependent transporter currents can be reconstructed by circuit analysis. This method is especially suited for prokaryotic transporters or eukaryotic transporters from intracellular membranes, which cannot be investigated by patch clamp or voltage clamp methods.

Experimental and analytical analysis of polarization and water transport behaviors of hydrogen alkaline membrane fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huo, Sen; Zhou, Jiaxun; Wang, Tianyou; Chen, Rui; Jiao, Kui

2018-04-01

Experimental test and analytical modeling are conducted to investigate the operating behavior of an alkaline electrolyte membrane (AEM) fuel cell fed by H2/air (or O2) and explore the effect of various operating pressures on the water transfer mechanism. According to the experimental test, the cell performance is greatly improved through increasing the operating pressure gradient from anode to cathode which leads to significant liquid water permeation through the membrane. The high frequency resistance of the A901 alkaline membrane is observed to be relatively stable as the operating pressure varies based on the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method. Correspondingly, based on the modeling prediction, the averaged water content in the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) does not change too much which leads to the weak variation of membrane ohmic resistance. This reveals that the performance enhancement should give the credit to better electro-chemical reaction kinetics for both the anode and cathode, also prone by the EIS results. The reversion of water back diffusion direction across the membrane is also observed through analytical solution.

Wafer-Level Membrane-Transfer Process for Fabricating MEMS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, Eui-Hyeok; Wiberg, Dean

2003-01-01

A process for transferring an entire wafer-level micromachined silicon structure for mating with and bonding to another such structure has been devised. This process is intended especially for use in wafer-level integration of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) that have been fabricated on dissimilar substrates. Unlike in some older membrane-transfer processes, there is no use of wax or epoxy during transfer. In this process, the substrate of a wafer-level structure to be transferred serves as a carrier, and is etched away once the transfer has been completed. Another important feature of this process is that two electrodes constitutes an electrostatic actuator array. An SOI wafer and a silicon wafer (see Figure 1) are used as the carrier and electrode wafers, respectively. After oxidation, both wafers are patterned and etched to define a corrugation profile and electrode array, respectively. The polysilicon layer is deposited on the SOI wafer. The carrier wafer is bonded to the electrode wafer by using evaporated indium bumps. The piston pressure of 4 kPa is applied at 156 C in a vacuum chamber to provide hermetic sealing. The substrate of the SOI wafer is etched in a 25 weight percent TMAH bath at 80 C. The exposed buried oxide is then removed by using 49 percent HF droplets after an oxygen plasma ashing. The SOI top silicon layer is etched away by using an SF6 plasma to define the corrugation profile, followed by the HF droplet etching of the remaining oxide. The SF6 plasma with a shadow mask selectively etches the polysilicon membrane, if the transferred membrane structure needs to be patterned. Electrostatic actuators with various electrode gaps have been fabricated by this transfer technique. The gap between the transferred membrane and electrode substrate is very uniform ( 0.1 m across a wafer diameter of 100 mm, provided by optimizing the bonding control). Figure 2 depicts the finished product.

Synthesis, characterization and optimization of platinum-alloy nanoparticle catalysts in proton exchange membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srivastava, Ratndeep

Renewable hydrogen-fuelled proton exchange membrane (PEMFC) fuel cells have consistently demonstrated great promise as a future source of energy due to their high conversion efficiency, lower temperature of operation and lack of greenhouse emissions. One of the major impediments in the commercialization of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells is the insufficient catalytic reactivity and higher cost of Pt electrocatalysts which are utilized for the electroreduction of oxygen from air. This dissertation focuses primarily on a family of Pt alloy fuel cell electrocatalysts referred to as de-alloyed core-shell electrocatalysts. These materials are bimetallic or multimetallic nanoparticles, mostly supported on conductive supports which were first described in a dissertation by Dr. S. Koh earlier in 2009.1 De-alloyed Pt nanoparticle electrocatalysts are formed from base metal rich binary Pt-M and ternary Pt-M1-M 2 (M, M1, M2 = Cu, Co, Ni, Fe and Cr) alloy nanoparticle precursors. The precursors are transformed and activated by electrochemical selective dissolution of the less noble metal component of the precursors (de-alloying). They have shown exceptional activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in idealized electrochemical half cell measurements, in particular rotating disk electrode experiments. However, these materials were never tested or implemented in realistic Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEA) and single PEM fuel cells. The objective of this work was to implement de-alloyed Pt particle catalysts in realistic fuel cell electrode layers as well as a detailed characterization of their behavior and stability. The major challenges of MEA implementation consists of the behavior of the new nanostructured electrocatalysts inside the complex three-phase interface of polymer membrane ionomer, liquid water, metal catalyst, support, and reactant gas. Activity measurements were followed by medium and long-term durability analysis by potential cycling of the membrane electrode assemblies to high potentials. These de-alloyed catalysts show improved resistance to electro-chemical surface area degradation as compared to state of the art available commercial Pt/C catalysts. TEM imaging with combination of electrochemical characterization helps in determining the mechanisms for particle growth and failures. Anomalous small angle x-ray scattering (ASAXS) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques were also used in the characterization of these materials.

Analysis of cerium-composite polymer-electrolyte membranes during and after accelerated oxidative-stability test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Dongwon; Han, Myungseong; Shul, Yong-Gun; Lee, Hyejin; Bae, Byungchan

2018-02-01

The oxidative stability of membranes constructed from a composite of pristine sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) and cerium was investigated by conducting an accelerated oxidative-stability test at the open-circuit voltage (OCV). The membranes were analyzed in situ through OCV and impedance measurements, cyclic voltammetry, and linear-sweep voltammetry to monitor the electrochemical properties during the stability test. Although the high-frequency resistance of a composite membrane was slightly higher than that of a pristine membrane because of the exchange of protons from the sulfonic acid with cerium ions, the composite membrane maintained its potential for much longer than the pristine membrane. The effect of the cerium ions as radical scavengers was confirmed by analyzing the drain water and chemical structure after operation. These post-operation analyses confirmed that cerium ions improved the oxidative stability of the hydrocarbon-based polymer during fuel-cell operation. It is clear that the cerium-based radical scavengers prevented chemical degradation of the polymer membrane as well as the electrode in terms of hydrogen cross-over, polymer-chain scission, and the electrochemical surface area, while they rarely diffused outward from the membrane.

Validated electrochemical and chromatographic quantifications of some antibiotic residues in pharmaceutical industrial waste water.

PubMed

Ibrahim, Heba K; Abdel-Moety, Mona M; Abdel-Gawad, Sherif A; Al-Ghobashy, Medhat A; Kawy, Mohamed Abdel

2017-03-01

Realistic implementation of ion selective electrodes (ISEs) into environmental monitoring programs has always been a challenging task. This could be largely attributed to difficulties in validation of ISE assay results. In this study, the electrochemical response of amoxicillin trihydrate (AMX), ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (CPLX), trimethoprim (TMP), and norfloxacin (NFLX) was studied by the fabrication of sensitive membrane electrodes belonging to two types of ISEs, which are polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane electrodes and glassy carbon (GC) electrodes. Linear response for the membrane electrodes was in the concentration range of 10 -5 -10 -2  mol/L. For the PVC membrane electrodes, Nernstian slopes of 55.1, 56.5, 56.5, and 54.0 mV/decade were achieved over a pH 4-8 for AMX, CPLX, and NFLX, respectively, and pH 3-6 for TMP. On the other hand, for GC electrodes, Nernstian slopes of 59.1, 58.2, 57.0, and 58.2 mV/decade were achieved over pH 4-8 for AMX, CPLX, and NFLX, respectively, and pH 3-6 for TMP. In addition to assay validation to international industry standards, the fabricated electrodes were also cross-validated relative to conventional separation techniques; high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and thin layer chromatography (TLC)-densitometry. The HPLC assay was applied in concentration range of 0.5-10.0 μg/mL, for all target analytes. The TLC-densitometry was adopted over a concentration range of 0.3-1.0 μg/band, for AMX, and 0.1-0.9 μg/band, for CPLX, NFLX, and TMP. The proposed techniques were successfully applied for quantification of the selected drugs either in pure form or waste water samples obtained from pharmaceutical plants. The actual waste water samples were subjected to solid phase extraction (SPE) for pretreatment prior to the application of chromatographic techniques (HPLC and TLC-densitometry). On the other hand, the fabricated electrodes were successfully applied for quantification of the antibiotic residues in actual waste water samples without any pretreatment. This finding assures the suitability of the fabricated ISEs for environmental analysis.

Soft electroporation for delivering molecules into tightly adherent mammalian cells through 3D hollow nanoelectrodes.

PubMed

Caprettini, Valeria; Cerea, Andrea; Melle, Giovanni; Lovato, Laura; Capozza, Rosario; Huang, Jian-An; Tantussi, Francesco; Dipalo, Michele; De Angelis, Francesco

2017-08-17

Electroporation of in-vitro cultured cells is widely used in biological and medical areas to deliver molecules of interest inside cells. Since very high electric fields are required to electroporate the plasma membrane, depending on the geometry of the electrodes the required voltages can be very high and often critical to cell viability. Furthermore, in traditional electroporation configuration based on planar electrodes there is no a priori certain feedback about which cell has been targeted and delivered and the addition of fluorophores may be needed to gain this information. In this study we present a nanofabricated platform able to perform intracellular delivery of membrane-impermeable molecules by opening transient nanopores into the lipid membrane of adherent cells with high spatial precision and with the application of low voltages (1.5-2 V). This result is obtained by exploiting the tight seal that the cells present with 3D fluidic hollow gold-coated nanostructures that act as nanochannels and nanoelectrodes at the same time. The final soft-electroporation platform provides an accessible approach for controlled and selective drug delivery on ordered arrangements of cells.

Arrays of EAP micro-actuators for single-cell stretching applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbari, S.; Niklaus, M.; Shea, H.

2010-04-01

Mechanical stimuli are critical for the development and maintenance of most tissues such as muscles, cartilage, bones and blood vessels. The commercially available cell culture systems replicating the in vivo environment are typically based on simple membrane cell-stretching equipment, which can only measure the average response of large colonies of cells over areas of greater than one cm2. We present here the conceptual design and the complete fabrication process of an array of 128 Electro-Active Polymer (EAP) micro-actuators which are uni-axially stretched and hence used to impose unidirectional strain on single cells, make it feasible to do experiments on the cytomechanics of individual cells. The Finite Element Method is employed to study the effect of different design parameters on achievable strain, leading to the optimized design. Compliant gold electrodes are deposited by low-energy ion implantation on both sides of a PDMS membrane, as this technique allows making electrodes that support large strain with minimal stiffening of the elastomer. The membrane is bonded to a rigid support, leading to an array of 100×100 μm2 EAP actuators.

Carbon Nanotube-Based Ion Selective Sensors for Wearable Applications.

PubMed

Roy, Soumyendu; David-Pur, Moshe; Hanein, Yael

2017-10-11

Wearable electronics offer new opportunities in a wide range of applications, especially sweat analysis using skin sensors. A fundamental challenge in these applications is the formation of sensitive and stable electrodes. In this article we report the development of a wearable sensor based on carbon nanotube (CNT) electrode arrays for sweat sensing. Solid-state ion selective electrodes (ISEs), sensitive to Na + ions, were prepared by drop coating plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) doped with ionophore and ion exchanger on CNT electrodes. The ion selective membrane (ISM) filled the intertubular spaces of the highly porous CNT film and formed an attachment that was stronger than that achieved with flat Au, Pt, or carbon electrodes. Concentration of the ISM solution used influenced the attachment to the CNT film, the ISM surface morphology, and the overall performance of the sensor. Sensitivity of 56 ± 3 mV/decade to Na + ions was achieved. Optimized solid-state reference electrodes (REs), suitable for wearable applications, were prepared by coating CNT electrodes with colloidal dispersion of Ag/AgCl, agarose hydrogel with 0.5 M NaCl, and a passivation layer of PVC doped with NaCl. The CNT-based REs had low sensitivity (-1.7 ± 1.2 mV/decade) toward the NaCl solution and high repeatability and were superior to bare Ag/AgCl, metals, carbon, and CNT films, reported previously as REs. CNT-based ISEs were calibrated against CNT-based REs, and the short-term stability of the system was tested. We demonstrate that CNT-based devices implemented on a flexible support are a very attractive platform for future wearable technology devices.

Ferrocene bound poly(vinyl chloride) as ion to electron transducer in electrochemical ion sensors.

PubMed

Pawlak, Marcin; Grygolowicz-Pawlak, Ewa; Bakker, Eric

2010-08-15

We report here on the synthesis of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) covalently modified with ferrocene groups (FcPVC) and the electrochemical behavior of the resulting polymeric membranes in view of designing all solid state voltammetric ion sensors. The Huisgen cycloaddition ("click chemistry") was found to be a simple and efficient method for ferrocene attachment. A degree of PVC modification with ferrocene groups between 1.9 and 6.1 mol % was achieved. The chemical modification of the PVC backbone does not significantly affect the ion-selective properties (selectivity, mobility, and solvent casting ability) of potentiometric sensing membranes applying this polymer. Importantly, the presence of such ferrocene groups may eliminate the need for an additional redox-active layer between the membrane and the inner electric contact in all solid state sensor designs. Electrochemical doping of this system was studied in a symmetrical sandwich configuration: glassy carbon electrode |FcPVC| glassy carbon electrode. Prior electrochemical doping from aqueous solution, resulting in a partial oxidation of the ferrocene groups, was confirmed to be necessary for the sandwich configuration to pass current effectively. The results suggest that only approximately 2.3 mol % of the ferrocene groups are electrochemically accessible, likely due to surface confined electrochemical behavior in the polymer. Indeed, cyclic voltammetry of aqueous hexacyanoferrate (III) remains featureless at cathodic potentials (down to -0.5 V). This indicates that the modified membrane is not responsive to redox-active species in the sample solution, making it possible to apply this polymer as a traditional, single membrane. Yet, the redox capacity of the electrode modified with this type of membrane was more than 520 microC considering a 20 mm(2) active electrode area, which appears to be sufficient for numerous practical ion voltammetric applications. The electrode was observed to operate reproducibly, with 1% standard deviation, when applying pulsed amperometric techniques.

High Performance Fuel Cell and Electrolyzer Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEAs) for Space Energy Storage Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valdez, Thomas I.; Billings, Keith J.; Kisor, Adam; Bennett, William R.; Jakupca, Ian J.; Burke, Kenneth; Hoberecht, Mark A.

2012-01-01

Regenerative fuel cells provide a pathway to energy storage system development that are game changers for NASA missions. The fuel cell/ electrolysis MEA performance requirements 0.92 V/ 1.44 V at 200 mA/cm2 can be met. Fuel Cell MEAs have been incorporated into advanced NFT stacks. Electrolyzer stack development in progress. Fuel Cell MEA performance is a strong function of membrane selection, membrane selection will be driven by durability requirements. Electrolyzer MEA performance is catalysts driven, catalyst selection will be driven by durability requirements. Round Trip Efficiency, based on a cell performance, is approximately 65%.

A 3D scanning laser endoscope architecture utilizing a circular piezoelectric membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khayatzadeh, Ramin; Çivitci, Fehmi; Ferhanoğlu, Onur

2017-12-01

A piezo-scanning fiber endoscopic device architecture is proposed for 3D imaging or ablation. The endoscopic device consists of a piezoelectric membrane that is placed perpendicular to the optical axis, a fiber optic cable that extends out from and actuated by the piezoelectric membrane, and one or multiple lenses for beam delivery and collection. Unlike its counterparts that utilize piezoelectric cylinders for fiber actuation, the proposed architecture offers quasi-static actuation in the axial direction along with resonant actuation in the lateral directions forming a 3D scanning pattern, allowing adjustment of the focus plane. The actuation of the four-quadrant piezoelectric membrane involves driving of two orthogonal electrodes with AC signals for lateral scanning, while simultaneously driving all electrodes for axial scanning and focus adjustment. We have characterized piezoelectric membranes (5 -15mm diameter) with varying sizes to monitor axial displacement behavior with respect to applied DC voltage. We also demonstrate simultaneous lateral and axial actuation on a resolution target, and observe the change of lateral resolution on a selected plane through performing 1D cross-sectional images, as an indicator of focal shift through axial actuation. Based on experimental results, we identify the optical and geometrical parameters for optimal 3D imaging of tissue samples. Our findings reveal that a simple piezoelectric membrane, having comparable dimensions and drive voltage requirement with off-the-shelf MEMS scanner chips, offers tissue epithelial imaging with sub-cellular resolution.

Membrane-electrode structures for molecular catalysts for use in fuel cells and other electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Kerr, John B.; Zhu, Xiaobing; Hwang, Gi Suk; Martin, Zulima; He, Qinggang; Driscoll, Peter; Weber, Adam; Clark, Kyle

2016-09-27

Water soluble catalysts, (M)meso-tetra(N-Methyl-4-Pyridyl)Porphinepentachloride (M=Fe, Co, Mn & Cu), have been incorporated into the polymer binder of oxygen reduction cathodes in membrane electrode assemblies used in PEM fuel cells and found to support encouragingly high current densities. The voltages achieved are low compared to commercial platinum catalysts but entirely consistent with the behavior observed in electroanalytical measurements of the homogeneous catalysts. A model of the dynamics of the electrode action has been developed and validated and this allows the MEA electrodes to be optimized for any chemistry that has been demonstrated in solution. It has been shown that improvements to the performance will come from modifications to the structure of the catalyst combined with optimization of the electrode structure and a well-founded pathway to practical non-platinum group metal catalysts exists.

Investigation of Ruthenium Dissolution in Advanced Membrane Electrode Assemblies for Direct Methanol Based Fuel Cells Stacks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valdez, T. I.; Firdosy, S.; Koel, B. E.; Narayanan, S. R.

2005-01-01

This viewgraph presentation gives a detailed review of the Direct Methanol Based Fuel Cell (DMFC) stack and investigates the Ruthenium that was found at the exit of the stack. The topics include: 1) Motivation; 2) Pathways for Cell Degradation; 3) Cell Duration Testing; 4) Duration Testing, MEA Analysis; and 5) Stack Degradation Analysis.

Microfabricated electrochemical sensors for combustion applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vulcano Rossi, Vitor A.; Mullen, Max R.; Karker, Nicholas A.; Zhao, Zhouying; Kowarz, Marek W.; Dutta, Prabir K.; Carpenter, Michael A.

2015-05-01

A new design for the miniaturization of an existing oxygen sensor is proposed based on the application of silicon microfabrication technologies to a cm sized O2 sensor demonstrated by Argonne National Laboratory and The Ohio State University which seals a metal/metal oxide within the structure to provide an integrated oxygen reference. The structural and processing changes suggested will result in a novel MEMS-based device meeting the semiconductor industry standards for cost efficiency and mass production. The MEMS design requires thin film depositions to create a YSZ membrane, palladium oxide reference and platinum electrodes. Pt electrodes are studied under operational conditions ensuring film conductivity over prolonged usage. SEM imaging confirms void formation after extended tests, consistent with the literature. Furthermore, hydrophilic bonding of pairs of silicon die samples containing the YSZ membrane and palladium oxide is discussed in order to create hermetic sealed cavities for oxygen reference. The introduction of tensile Si3N4 films to the backside of the silicon die generates bowing of the chips, compromising bond quality. This effect is controlled through the application of pressure during the initial bonding stages. In addition, KOH etching of the bonded die samples is discussed, and a YSZ membrane that survives the etching step is characterized by Raman spectroscopy.

Electrochemical sensor based on molecularly imprinted membranes at platinum nanoparticles-modified electrode for determination of 17β-estradiol.

PubMed

Yuan, Lihua; Zhang, Jun; Zhou, Ping; Chen, Jiaxing; Wang, Ruoyu; Wen, Tingting; Li, Yun; Zhou, Xuemin; Jiang, Huijun

2011-11-15

In this paper, an electrochemical sensor for 17β-estradiol (E2) based on the molecular imprinting polymer (MIP) membranes had been constructed. 6-mercaptonicotinic acid (MNA) and E2 were first assembled on the surface of platinum nanoparticles-modified glassy carbon electrode (PtNPs/GCE) by the formation of Pt-S bonds and hydrogen-bonding interactions, and subsequently the polymer membranes were formed by electropolymerization. Finally, a novel molecularly imprinted sensor (MIS) was obtained after removal of E2. Experimental parameters such as deposition time, scan cycles, pH value and accumulation condition were optimized. Under optimal conditions, the MIS exhibited a large adsorption capacity and high selectivity. A good linearity was obtained in the range of 3.0×10(-8)-5.0×10(-5)molL(-1) (r=0.996) with an estimated detection limit of 1.6×10(-8)molL(-1). MIS had been successfully used to analyze E2 in water samples without complex pretreatment. Meanwhile, the average recoveries were higher than 93.9% with RSD<3.7%. All results above reveal that MIS is an effective electrochemical technique to determine E2 real-time in complicated matrix. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A macroscopic model of proton transport through the membrane-ionomer interface of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell.

PubMed

Kumar, Milan; Edwards, Brian J; Paddison, Stephen J

2013-02-14

The membrane-ionomer interface is the critical interlink of the electrodes and catalyst to the polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM); together forming the membrane electrode assembly in current state-of-the-art PEM fuel cells. In this paper, proton conduction through the interface is investigated to understand its effect on the performance of a PEM fuel cell. The water containing domains at this interface were modeled as cylindrical pores/channels with the anionic groups (i.e., -SO(3)(-)) assumed to be fixed on the pore wall. The interactions of each species with all other species and an applied external field were examined. Molecular-based interaction potential energies were computed in a small test element of the pore and were scaled up in terms of macroscopic variables. Evolution equations of the density and momentum of the species (water molecules and hydronium ions) were derived within a framework of nonequilibrium thermodynamics. The resulting evolution equations for the species were solved analytically using an order-of-magnitude analysis to obtain an expression for the proton conductivity. Results show that the conductivity increases with increasing water content and pore radius, and strongly depends on the separation distance between the sulfonate groups and their distribution on the pore wall. It was also determined that the conductivity of two similar pores of different radii in series is limited by the pore with the smaller radius.

Flexible Fe3O4@Carbon Nanofibers Hierarchically Assembled with MnO2 Particles for High-Performance Supercapacitor Electrodes.

PubMed

Iqbal, Nousheen; Wang, Xianfeng; Babar, Aijaz Ahmed; Zainab, Ghazala; Yu, Jianyong; Ding, Bin

2017-11-09

Increasing use of wearable electronic devices have resulted in enhanced demand for highly flexible supercapacitor electrodes with superior electrochemical performance. In this study, flexible composite membranes with electrosprayed MnO 2 particles uniformly anchored on Fe 3 O 4 doped electrospun carbon nanofibers (Fe 3 O 4 @CNF Mn ) have been prepared as flexible electrodes for high-performance supercapacitors. The interconnected porous beaded structure ensures free movement of electrolyte within the composite membranes, therefore, the developed supercapacitor electrodes not only offer high specific capacitance of ~306 F/g, but also exhibit good capacitance retention of ~85% after 2000 cycles, which certify that the synthesized electrodes offer high and stable electrochemical performance. Additionally, the supercapacitors fabricated from our developed electrodes well maintain their performance under flexural stress and exhibit a very minute change in specific capacitance even up to 180° bending angle. The developed electrode fabrication strategy integrating electrospinning and electrospray techniques paves new insights into the development of potential functional nanofibrous materials for light weight and flexible wearable supercapacitors.

Carbon Quantum Dot-Induced MnO2 Nanowire Formation and Construction of a Binder-Free Flexible Membrane with Excellent Superhydrophilicity and Enhanced Supercapacitor Performance.

PubMed

Lv, Haipeng; Gao, Xiujiao; Xu, Qunjie; Liu, Haimei; Wang, Yong-Gang; Xia, Yongyao

2017-11-22

Manganese oxides (MnO 2 ) are regarded as typical and promising electrode materials for supercapacitors. However, the practical electrochemical performance of MnO 2 is far from its theoretical value. Nowadays, numerous efforts are being devoted to the design and preparation of nanostructured MnO 2 with the aim of improving its electrochemical properties. In this work, ultralong MnO 2 nanowires were fabricated in a process induced by carbon quantum dots (CQDs); subsequently, a binder-free flexible electrode membrane was easily obtained by vacuum filtration of the MnO 2 nanowires. The effects of the CQDs not only induced the formation of one-dimensional nanostructured MnO 2 , but also significantly improved the wettability between electrode and electrolyte. In other words, the MnO 2 membrane demonstrated a superhydrophilic character in aqueous solution, indicating the sufficient and abundant contact probability between electrode and electrolyte. The binder-free flexible MnO 2 electrode exhibited a preeminent specific capacitance of 340 F g -1 at 1 A g -1 ; even when the current density reached 20 A g -1 , it still maintained 260 F g -1 (76% retention rate compared to that at 1 A g -1 ). Moreover, it also showed good cycling stability with 80.1% capacity retention over 10 000 cycles at 1 A g -1 . Furthermore, an asymmetric supercapacitor was constructed using the MnO 2 membrane and active carbon as the positive and negative electrodes, respectively, which exhibited a high energy density of 33.6 Wh kg -1 at 1.0 kW kg -1 , and a high power density of 10 kW kg -1 at 12.5 Wh kg -1 .

Electrospinning processed nanofibrous TiO2 membranes for photovoltaic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onozuka, Katsuhiro; Ding, Bin; Tsuge, Yosuke; Naka, Takayuki; Yamazaki, Michiyo; Sugi, Shinichiro; Ohno, Shingo; Yoshikawa, Masato; Shiratori, Seimei

2006-02-01

We have recently fabricated dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) comprising nanofibrous TiO2 membranes as electrode materials. A thin TiO2 film was pre-deposited on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) coated conducting glass substrate by immersion in TiF4 aqueous solution to reduce the electron back-transfer from FTO to the electrolyte. The composite polyvinyl acetate (PVac)/titania nanofibrous membranes can be deposited on the pre-deposited thin TiO2 film coated FTO by electrospinning of a mixture of PVac and titanium isopropoxide in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). The nanofibrous TiO2 membranes were obtained by calcining the electrospun composite nanofibres of PVac/titania as the precursor. Spectral sensitization of the nanofibrous TiO2 membranes was carried out with a ruthenium (II) complex, cis-dithiocyanate-N,N'-bis(2,2'-bipyridyl-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid) ruthenium (II) dihydrate. The results indicated that the photocurrent and conversion efficiency of electrodes can be increased with the addition of the pre-deposited TiO2 film and the adhesion treatment using DMF. Additionally, the dye loading, photocurrent, and efficiency of the electrodes were gradually increased by increasing the average thickness of the nanofibrous TiO2 membranes. The efficiency of the fibrous TiO2 photoelectrode with the average membrane thickness of 3.9 µm has a maximum value of 4.14%.

Equivalent complex conductivities representing the effects of T-tubules and folded surface membranes on the electrical admittance and impedance of skeletal muscles measured by external-electrode method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sekine, Katsuhisa

2017-12-01

In order to represent the effects of T-tubules and folded surface membranes on the electrical admittance and impedance of skeletal muscles measured by the external-electrode method, analytical relations for the equivalent complex conductivities of hypothetical smooth surface membranes were derived. In the relations, the effects of each tubule were represented by the admittance of a straight cable. The effects of the folding of a surface membrane were represented by the increased area of surface membranes. The equivalent complex conductivities were represented as summation of these effects, and the effects of the T-tubules were different between the transversal and longitudinal directions. The validity of the equivalent complex conductivities was supported by the results of finite-difference method (FDM) calculations made using three-dimensional models in which T-tubules and folded surface membranes were represented explicitly. FDM calculations using the equivalent complex conductivities suggested that the electrically inhomogeneous structure due to the existence of muscle cells with T-tubules was sufficient for explaining the experimental results previously obtained using the external-electrode method. Results of FDM calculations in which the structural changes caused by muscle contractions were taken into account were consistent with the reported experimental results.

Computational modeling of mediator oxidation by oxygen in an amperometric glucose biosensor.

PubMed

Simelevičius, Dainius; Petrauskas, Karolis; Baronas, Romas; Razumienė, Julija

2014-02-07

In this paper, an amperometric glucose biosensor is modeled numerically. The model is based on non-stationary reaction-diffusion type equations. The model consists of four layers. An enzyme layer lies directly on a working electrode surface. The enzyme layer is attached to an electrode by a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) coated terylene membrane. This membrane is modeled as a PVA layer and a terylene layer, which have different diffusivities. The fourth layer of the model is the diffusion layer, which is modeled using the Nernst approach. The system of partial differential equations is solved numerically using the finite difference technique. The operation of the biosensor was analyzed computationally with special emphasis on the biosensor response sensitivity to oxygen when the experiment was carried out in aerobic conditions. Particularly, numerical experiments show that the overall biosensor response sensitivity to oxygen is insignificant. The simulation results qualitatively explain and confirm the experimentally observed biosensor behavior.

Computational Modeling of Mediator Oxidation by Oxygen in an Amperometric Glucose Biosensor

PubMed Central

Šimelevičius, Dainius; Petrauskas, Karolis; Baronas, Romas; Julija, Razumienė

2014-01-01

In this paper, an amperometric glucose biosensor is modeled numerically. The model is based on non-stationary reaction-diffusion type equations. The model consists of four layers. An enzyme layer lies directly on a working electrode surface. The enzyme layer is attached to an electrode by a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) coated terylene membrane. This membrane is modeled as a PVA layer and a terylene layer, which have different diffusivities. The fourth layer of the model is the diffusion layer, which is modeled using the Nernst approach. The system of partial differential equations is solved numerically using the finite difference technique. The operation of the biosensor was analyzed computationally with special emphasis on the biosensor response sensitivity to oxygen when the experiment was carried out in aerobic conditions. Particularly, numerical experiments show that the overall biosensor response sensitivity to oxygen is insignificant. The simulation results qualitatively explain and confirm the experimentally observed biosensor behavior. PMID:24514882

Potentiometric Aptasensing of Vibrio alginolyticus Based on DNA Nanostructure-Modified Magnetic Beads.

PubMed

Zhao, Guangtao; Ding, Jiawang; Yu, Han; Yin, Tanji; Qin, Wei

2016-12-02

A potentiometric aptasensing assay that couples the DNA nanostructure-modified magnetic beads with a solid-contact polycation-sensitive membrane electrode for the detection of Vibrio alginolyticus is herein described. The DNA nanostructure-modified magnetic beads are used for amplification of the potential response and elimination of the interfering effect from a complex sample matrix. The solid-contact polycation-sensitive membrane electrode using protamine as an indicator is employed to chronopotentiometrically detect the change in the charge or DNA concentration on the magnetic beads, which is induced by the interaction between Vibrio alginolyticus and the aptamer on the DNA nanostructures. The present potentiometric aptasensing method shows a linear range of 10-100 CFU mL -1 with a detection limit of 10 CFU mL -1 , and a good specificity for the detection of Vibrio alginolyticus . This proposed strategy can be used for the detection of other microorganisms by changing the aptamers in the DNA nanostructures.

Performance of polymer nano composite membrane electrode assembly using Alginate as a dopant in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mulijani, S.

2017-01-01

Polymer membrane and composite polymer for membrane electrode assembly (MEAs) are synthesized and studied for usage in direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC). In this study, we prepared 3 type of MEAs, polystyrene (PS), sulfonated polystyrene (SPS) and composite polymer SPS-alginat membrane via catalyst hot pressed method. The performance and properties of prepared MEAs were evaluated and analyzed by impedance spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The result showed that, water up take of MEA composite polymer SPS-alginate was obtained higher than that in SPS and PS. The proton conductivity of MEA-SPS-alginate was also higher than that PS and PSS. SEM characterization revealed that the intimate contact between the carbon catalyst layers (CL) and the membranes, and the uniformly porous structure correlate positively with the MEAs prepared by hot pressed method, exhibiting high performances for DMFC.

Recent advances in solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell technology

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ticianelli, E.A.; Srinivasan, S.; Gonzalez, E.R.

1988-01-01

With methods used to advance solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell technology, we are close to obtaining the goal of 1 A/cm/sup 2/ at 0.7. Higher power densities have been reported (2 A/cm/sup 2/ at 0.5 V) but only with high catalyst loading electrodes (2 mg/cm/sup 2/ and 4 mg/cm/sup 2/ at anode and cathode, respectively) and using a Dow membrane with a better conductivity and water retention characteristics. Work is in progress to ascertain performances of cells with Dow membrane impregnated electrodes and Dow membrane electrolytes. 5 refs., 6 figs.

A lithium ion battery using an aqueous electrolyte solution

PubMed Central

Chang, Zheng; Li, Chunyang; Wang, Yanfang; Chen, Bingwei; Fu, Lijun; Zhu, Yusong; Zhang, Lixin; Wu, Yuping; Huang, Wei

2016-01-01

Energy and environmental pollution have become the two major problems in today’s society. The development of green energy storage devices with good safety, high reliability, high energy density and low cost are urgently demanded. Here we report on a lithium ion battery using an aqueous electrolyte solution. It is built up by using graphite coated with gel polymer membrane and LISICON as the negative electrode, and LiFePO4 in aqueous solution as the positive electrode. Its average discharge voltage is up to 3.1 V and energy density based on the two electrode materials is 258 Wh kg−1. It will be a promising energy storage system with good safety and efficient cooling effects. PMID:27328707

The membrane biofilm reactor: the natural partnership of membranes and biofilm.

PubMed

Rittmann, B E

2006-01-01

Many exciting new technologies for water-quality control combine microbiological processes with adsorption, advanced oxidation, a membrane or an electrode to improve performance, address emerging contaminants or capture renewable energy. An excellent example is the H2-based membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR), which delivers H2 gas to a biofilm that naturally accumulates on the outer surface of a bubbleless membrane. Autotrophic bacteria in the biofilm oxidise the H2 and use the electrons to reduce NO3-, CIO4- and other oxidised contaminants. This natural partnership of membranes and biofilm makes it possible to gain many cost, performance and simplicity advantages from using H2 as the electron donor for microbially catalysed reductions. The MBfR has been demonstrated for denitrification in drinking water; reduction of perchlorate in groundwater; reduction of selenate, chromate, trichloroethene and other emerging contaminants; advanced N removal in wastewater treatment and autotrophic total-N removal.

Electrochemical Sunset Yellow Biosensor Based on Photocured Polyacrylamide Membrane for Food Dye Monitoring

PubMed Central

Rozi, Normazida; Ahmad, Amalina; Yook Heng, Lee; Shyuan, Loh Kee; Hanifah, Sharina Abu

2018-01-01

An enzyme-based electrochemical biosensor was investigated for the analysis of Sunset Yellow synthetic food dye. A glassy carbon electrode was coated with a poly(acrylamide-co-ethyl methacrylate) membrane to immobilize laccase using a single-step photopolymerization procedure. Poly(acrylamide-co-ethyl methacrylate) membrane was demonstrated to have acceptable water absorption and suitable for biosensor application. Sunset Yellow biosensor exhibited a linear response range from 0.08 to 10.00 µM with a detection limit of 0.02 µM. This biosensor was successfully used to determine Sunset Yellow in soft drinks with recoveries of 99.0–101.6%. The method was validated using high-performance liquid chromatography, indicating the biosensor can be as a promising alternative method for Sunset Yellow detection. PMID:29301262

Functionalized β-cyclodextrin based potentiometric sensor for naproxen determination.

PubMed

Lenik, Joanna; Łyszczek, Renata

2016-04-01

Potentiometric sensors based on neutral β-cyclodextrins: (2-hydroxypropyl)-β-cyclodextrin, heptakis(2,3,6-tri-O-methyl)-β-cyclodextrin, heptakis(2,3,6-tri-O-benzoyl)-β-cyclodextrin and anionic β-cyclodextrin: (2-hydroxy-3-N,N,N-trimethylamino)propyl-β-cyclodextrin chloride for naproxen are described. Inclusion complexes of naproxen with the above-mentioned cyclodextrins were studied using IR spectroscopy. The electrode surface was made from PVC membranes doped with the appropriate β-cyclodextrin as ionophores and quaternary ammonium chlorides as positive charge additives that were dispersed in plasticizers. The optimum membrane contains heptakis(2,3,6-tri-O-benzoyl)-β-cyclodextrin, o-nitrophenyloctyl ether and tetraoctyl ammonium chloride as a lipophilic salt. The electrode is characterized by a Nernstian response slope of -59.0 ± 0.5 mV decade(-1) over the linear range of 5.0 × 10(-5)-1.0 × 10(-2) mol L(-1) and the detection limit 1.0 × 10(-5) mol L(-1), as well as the response time 10s. It can be used in the pH range 6.2-8.5 for 10 months without any considerable deterioration. Incorporation of β-cyclodextrins improved the electrode selectivity towards naproxen ions from several inorganic and organic interferents and some common drug excipients due to concovalent interactions (host molecule-guest molecule). The notable advantages of the naproxen-selective electrode include its high sensitivity, high selectivity, cost-effectiveness as well as accurate and comfortable application in drug analysis and milk samples. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Potentiometric sensors with carbon black supporting platinum nanoparticles.

PubMed

Paczosa-Bator, Beata; Cabaj, Leszek; Piech, Robert; Skupień, Krzysztof

2013-11-05

For the first time, a single-piece, all-solid-state ion-selective electrode was fabricated with carbon black supporting platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs-CB) and a polymeric membrane. The PtNPs-CB, as an intermediate layer, was drop-casted directly on the solid substrate, and then an ionophore-doped solvent polymeric membrane was added in order to form a sensor. The performance of the newly developed electrodes was evaluated on the basis of potassium and nitrate ions. The stability of the electrical potential for the electrodes was examined by performing current-reversal chronopotentiometry, and the influence of the interfacial water film was assessed by the potentiometric aqueous-layer test. Fabricated potassium- and nitrate-selective electrodes displayed a Nernstian slope and several outstanding properties such as high long-term potential stability, potential repeatability, and reproducibility.

Perovskite electrodes and method of making the same

DOEpatents

Seabaugh, Matthew M [Columbus, OH; Swartz, Scott L [Columbus, OH

2009-09-22

The invention relates to perovskite oxide electrode materials in which one or more of the elements Mg, Ni, Cu, and Zn are present as minority components that enhance electrochemical performance, as well as electrode products with these compositions and methods of making the electrode materials. Such electrodes are useful in electrochemical system applications such as solid oxide fuel cells, ceramic oxygen generation systems, gas sensors, ceramic membrane reactors, and ceramic electrochemical gas separation systems.

Perovskite electrodes and method of making the same

DOEpatents

Seabaugh, Matthew M.; Swartz, Scott L.

2005-09-20

The invention relates to perovskite oxide electrode materials in which one or more of the elements Mg, Ni, Cu, and Zn are present as minority components that enhance electrochemical performance, as well as electrode products with these compositions and methods of making the electrode materials. Such electrodes are useful in electrochemical system applications such as solid oxide fuel cells, ceramic oxygen generation systems, gas sensors, ceramic membrane reactors, and ceramic electrochemical gas separation systems.

Ytterbium-selective polymeric membrane electrode based on substituted urea and thiourea as a suitable carrier.

PubMed

Singh, A K; Jain, A K; Mehtab, Sameena

2007-08-06

Plasticized membranes using 1-phenyl-3-(2-thiazolyl)-2-thiourea (PTT) and 1-phenyl-3-(2-thiazolyl)-2-urea (PTU) have been prepared and explored as ytterbium ion-selective sensors. Effect of various plasticizers, viz. chloronaphthalene (CN), o-nitrophenyloctyl ether (o-NPOE), dibutylphthalate (DBP), dioctylsebacate (DOS) and anion excluders, sodium tetraphenylborate (NaTPB) and oleic acid (OA) was studied and improved membrane performance was observed. Optimum performance was noted with membrane of PTT having composition of PTT (3.5):PVC (80):DOS (160):NaTPB (1.5) in mg. The sensor works satisfactorily in the concentration range 1.2x10(-7) to 1.0x10(-2) M (detection limit 5.5x10(-8) M) with a Nernstian slope of 19.7 mV decade(-1) of activity. Wide pH range (3.0-8.0), fast response time (10 s), non-aqueous tolerance (up to 20%) and adequate shelf life (12 weeks) indicate the vital utility of the proposed sensor. The proposed electrode comparatively shows good selectivity for Yb3+ ion with respect to alkali, alkaline earth, transition and rare earth metals ions and can be used for its determination in binary mixtures and sulfite determination in white and red wine samples.

Characterization of Pressure Transients Generated by Nanosecond Electrical Pulse (nsEP) Exposure.

PubMed

Roth, Caleb C; Barnes, Ronald A; Ibey, Bennett L; Beier, Hope T; Christopher Mimun, L; Maswadi, Saher M; Shadaram, Mehdi; Glickman, Randolph D

2015-10-09

The mechanism(s) responsible for the breakdown (nanoporation) of cell plasma membranes after nanosecond pulse (nsEP) exposure remains poorly understood. Current theories focus exclusively on the electrical field, citing electrostriction, water dipole alignment and/or electrodeformation as the primary mechanisms for pore formation. However, the delivery of a high-voltage nsEP to cells by tungsten electrodes creates a multitude of biophysical phenomena, including electrohydraulic cavitation, electrochemical interactions, thermoelastic expansion, and others. To date, very limited research has investigated non-electric phenomena occurring during nsEP exposures and their potential effect on cell nanoporation. Of primary interest is the production of acoustic shock waves during nsEP exposure, as it is known that acoustic shock waves can cause membrane poration (sonoporation). Based on these observations, our group characterized the acoustic pressure transients generated by nsEP and determined if such transients played any role in nanoporation. In this paper, we show that nsEP exposures, equivalent to those used in cellular studies, are capable of generating high-frequency (2.5 MHz), high-intensity (>13 kPa) pressure transients. Using confocal microscopy to measure cell uptake of YO-PRO®-1 (indicator of nanoporation of the plasma membrane) and changing the electrode geometry, we determined that acoustic waves alone are not responsible for poration of the membrane.

Chemical compositions, methods of making the chemical compositions, and structures made from the chemical compositions

DOEpatents

Yang, Lei; Cheng, Zhe; Liu, Ze; Liu, Meilin

2015-01-13

Embodiments of the present disclosure include chemical compositions, structures, anodes, cathodes, electrolytes for solid oxide fuel cells, solid oxide fuel cells, fuel cells, fuel cell membranes, separation membranes, catalytic membranes, sensors, coatings for electrolytes, electrodes, membranes, and catalysts, and the like, are disclosed.

Comparative evaluation of transmembrane ion transport due to monopolar and bipolar nanosecond, high-intensity electroporation pulses based on full three-dimensional analyses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Q.; Joshi, R. P.

2017-07-01

Electric pulse driven membrane poration finds applications in the fields of biomedical engineering and drug/gene delivery. Here we focus on nanosecond, high-intensity electroporation and probe the role of pulse shape (e.g., monopolar-vs-bipolar), multiple electrode scenarios, and serial-versus-simultaneous pulsing, based on a three-dimensional time-dependent continuum model in a systematic fashion. Our results indicate that monopolar pulsing always leads to higher and stronger cellular uptake. This prediction is in agreement with experimental reports and observations. It is also demonstrated that multi-pronged electrode configurations influence and increase the degree of cellular uptake.

PEM/SPE fuel cell

DOEpatents

Grot, Stephen Andreas

1998-01-01

A PEM/SPE fuel cell including a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) having a plurality of oriented filament embedded the face thereof for supporting the MEA and conducting current therefrom to contiguous electrode plates.

Amphoteric Ion-Exchange Membranes with Significantly Improved Vanadium Barrier Properties for All-Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries.

PubMed

Nibel, Olga; Rojek, Tomasz; Schmidt, Thomas J; Gubler, Lorenz

2017-07-10

All-vanadium redox flow batteries (VRBs) have attracted considerable interest as promising energy-storage devices that can allow the efficient utilization of renewable energy sources. The membrane, which separates the porous electrodes in a redox flow cell, is one of the key components in VRBs. High rates of crossover of vanadium ions and water through the membrane impair the efficiency and capacity of a VRB. Thus, membranes with low permeation rate of vanadium species and water are required, also characterized by low resistance and stability in the VRB environment. Here, we present a new design concept for amphoteric ion-exchange membranes, based on radiation-induced grafting of vinylpyridine into an ethylene tetrafluoroethylene base film and a two-step functionalization to introduce cationic and anionic exchange sites, respectively. During long-term cycling, redox flow cells containing these membranes showed higher efficiency, less pronounced electrolyte imbalance, and significantly reduced capacity decay compared to the cells with the benchmark material Nafion 117. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Performance enhancement of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells by dual-layered membrane electrode assembly structures with carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Jung, Dong-Won; Kim, Jun-Ho; Kim, Se-Hoon; Kim, Jun-Bom; Oh, Eun-Suok

2013-05-01

The effect of dual-layered membrane electrode assemblies (d-MEAs) on the performance of a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) was investigated using the following characterization techniques: single cell performance test, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). It has been shown that the PEMFC with d-MEAs has better cell performance than that with typical mono-layered MEAs (m-MEAs). In particular, the d-MEA whose inner layer is composed of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) showed the best fuel cell performance. This is due to the fact that the d-MEAs with MWCNTs have the highest electrochemical surface area and the lowest activation polarization, as observed from the CV and EIS test.

Effect of NaI/I 2 mediators on properties of PEO/LiAlO 2 based all-solid-state supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Yijing; Zhou, Juanjuan; Mansour, Azzam N.; Zhou, Xiangyang

NaI/I 2 mediators and activated carbon were added into poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/lithium aluminate (LiAlO 2) electrolyte to fabricate composite electrodes. All solid-state supercapacitors were fabricated using the as prepared composite electrodes and a Nafion 117 membrane as a separator. Cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and galvanostatic charge/discharge measurements were conducted to evaluate the electrochemical properties of the supercapacitors. With the addition of NaI/I 2 mediators, the specific capacitance increased by 27 folds up to 150 F g -1. The specific capacitance increased with increases in the concentration of mediators in the electrodes. The addition of mediators also reduced the electrode resistance and rendered a higher electron transfer rate between mediator and mediator. The stability of the all-solid-state supercapacitor was tested over 2000 charge/discharge cycles.

Electrochemically driven mechanical energy harvesting.

PubMed

Kim, Sangtae; Choi, Soon Ju; Zhao, Kejie; Yang, Hui; Gobbi, Giorgia; Zhang, Sulin; Li, Ju

2016-01-06

Efficient mechanical energy harvesters enable various wearable devices and auxiliary energy supply. Here we report a novel class of mechanical energy harvesters via stress-voltage coupling in electrochemically alloyed electrodes. The device consists of two identical Li-alloyed Si as electrodes, separated by electrolyte-soaked polymer membranes. Bending-induced asymmetric stresses generate chemical potential difference, driving lithium ion flux from the compressed to the tensed electrode to generate electrical current. Removing the bending reverses ion flux and electrical current. Our thermodynamic analysis reveals that the ideal energy-harvesting efficiency of this device is dictated by the Poisson's ratio of the electrodes. For the thin-film-based energy harvester used in this study, the device has achieved a generating capacity of 15%. The device demonstrates a practical use of stress-composition-voltage coupling in electrochemically active alloys to harvest low-grade mechanical energies from various low-frequency motions, such as everyday human activities.

Electrochemically driven mechanical energy harvesting

PubMed Central

Kim, Sangtae; Choi, Soon Ju; Zhao, Kejie; Yang, Hui; Gobbi, Giorgia; Zhang, Sulin; Li, Ju

2016-01-01

Efficient mechanical energy harvesters enable various wearable devices and auxiliary energy supply. Here we report a novel class of mechanical energy harvesters via stress–voltage coupling in electrochemically alloyed electrodes. The device consists of two identical Li-alloyed Si as electrodes, separated by electrolyte-soaked polymer membranes. Bending-induced asymmetric stresses generate chemical potential difference, driving lithium ion flux from the compressed to the tensed electrode to generate electrical current. Removing the bending reverses ion flux and electrical current. Our thermodynamic analysis reveals that the ideal energy-harvesting efficiency of this device is dictated by the Poisson's ratio of the electrodes. For the thin-film-based energy harvester used in this study, the device has achieved a generating capacity of 15%. The device demonstrates a practical use of stress-composition–voltage coupling in electrochemically active alloys to harvest low-grade mechanical energies from various low-frequency motions, such as everyday human activities. PMID:26733282

Capacitive Micro Pressure Sensor Integrated with a Ring Oscillator Circuit on Chip

PubMed Central

Dai, Ching-Liang; Lu, Po-Wei; Chang, Chienliu; Liu, Cheng-Yang

2009-01-01

The study investigates a capacitive micro pressure sensor integrated with a ring oscillator circuit on a chip. The integrated capacitive pressure sensor is fabricated using the commercial CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) process and a post-process. The ring oscillator is employed to convert the capacitance of the pressure sensor into the frequency output. The pressure sensor consists of 16 sensing cells in parallel. Each sensing cell contains a top electrode and a lower electrode, and the top electrode is a sandwich membrane. The pressure sensor needs a post-CMOS process to release the membranes after completion of the CMOS process. The post-process uses etchants to etch the sacrificial layers, and to release the membranes. The advantages of the post-process include easy execution and low cost. Experimental results reveal that the pressure sensor has a high sensitivity of 7 Hz/Pa in the pressure range of 0–300 kPa. PMID:22303167

Capacitive micro pressure sensor integrated with a ring oscillator circuit on chip.

PubMed

Dai, Ching-Liang; Lu, Po-Wei; Chang, Chienliu; Liu, Cheng-Yang

2009-01-01

The study investigates a capacitive micro pressure sensor integrated with a ring oscillator circuit on a chip. The integrated capacitive pressure sensor is fabricated using the commercial CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) process and a post-process. The ring oscillator is employed to convert the capacitance of the pressure sensor into the frequency output. The pressure sensor consists of 16 sensing cells in parallel. Each sensing cell contains a top electrode and a lower electrode, and the top electrode is a sandwich membrane. The pressure sensor needs a post-CMOS process to release the membranes after completion of the CMOS process. The post-process uses etchants to etch the sacrificial layers, and to release the membranes. The advantages of the post-process include easy execution and low cost. Experimental results reveal that the pressure sensor has a high sensitivity of 7 Hz/Pa in the pressure range of 0-300 kPa.

A Novel Unitized Regenerative Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murphy, O. J.; Cisar, A. J.; Gonzalez-Martin, A.; Salinas, C. E.; Simpson, S. F.

1996-01-01

A difficulty encountered in designing a unitized regenerative proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell lies in the incompatibility of electrode structures and electrocatalyst materials optimized for either of the two functions (fuel cell or electrolyzer) with the needs of the other function. This difficulty is compounded in previous regenerative fuel cell designs by the fact that water, which is needed for proton conduction in the PEM during both modes of operation, is the reactant supplied to the anode in the electrolyzer mode of operation and the product formed at the cathode in the fuel cell mode. Drawbacks associated with existing regenerative fuel cells have been addressed. In a first innovation, electrodes function either as oxidation electrodes (hydrogen ionization or oxygen evolution) or as reduction electrodes (oxygen reduction or hydrogen evolution) in the fuel cell and electrolyzer modes, respectively. Control of liquid water within the regenerative fuel cell has been brought about by a second innovation. A novel PEM has been developed with internal channels that permit the direct access of water along the length of the membrane. Lateral diffusion of water along the polymer chains of the PEM provides the water needed at electrode/PEM interfaces. Fabrication of the novel single cell unitized regenerative fuel cell and results obtained on testing it are presented.

A novel unitized regenerative proton exchange membrane fuel cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murphy, O. J.; Cisar, A. J.; Gonzalez-Martin, A.; Salinas, C. E.; Simpson, S. F.

1995-01-01

A difficulty encountered in designing a unitized regenerative proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell lies in the incompatibility of electrode structures and electrocatalyst materials optimized for either of the two functions (fuel cell or electrolyzer) with the needs of the other function. This difficulty is compounded in previous regenerative fuel cell designs by the fact that water, which is needed for proton conduction in the PEM during both modes of operation, is the reactant supplied to the anode in the electrolyzer mode of operation and the product formed at the cathode in the fuel cell mode. Drawbacks associated with existing regenerative fuel cells have been addressed in work performed at Lynntech. In a first innovation, electrodes function either as oxidation electrodes (hydrogen ionization or oxygen evolution) or as reduction electrodes (oxygen reduction or hydrogen evolution) in the fuel cell and electrolyzer modes, respectively. Control of liquid water within the regenerative fuel cell has been brought about by a second innovation. A novel PEM has been developed with internal channels that permit the direct access of water along the length of the membrane. Lateral diffusion of water along the polymer chains of the PEM provides the water needed at electrode/PEM interfaces. Fabrication of the novel unitized regenerative fuel cell and results obtained on testing it will be presented.

Biofuel Cell Based on Microscale Nanostructured Electrodes with Inductive Coupling to Rat Brain Neurons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andoralov, Viktor; Falk, Magnus; Suyatin, Dmitry B.; Granmo, Marcus; Sotres, Javier; Ludwig, Roland; Popov, Vladimir O.; Schouenborg, Jens; Blum, Zoltan; Shleev, Sergey

2013-11-01

Miniature, self-contained biodevices powered by biofuel cells may enable a new generation of implantable, wireless, minimally invasive neural interfaces for neurophysiological in vivo studies and for clinical applications. Here we report on the fabrication of a direct electron transfer based glucose/oxygen enzymatic fuel cell (EFC) from genuinely three-dimensional (3D) nanostructured microscale gold electrodes, modified with suitable biocatalysts. We show that the process underlying the simple fabrication method of 3D nanostructured electrodes is based on an electrochemically driven transformation of physically deposited gold nanoparticles. We experimentally demonstrate that mediator-, cofactor-, and membrane-less EFCs do operate in cerebrospinal fluid and in the brain of a rat, producing amounts of electrical power sufficient to drive a self-contained biodevice, viz. 7 μW cm-2 in vitro and 2 μW cm-2 in vivo at an operating voltage of 0.4 V. Last but not least, we also demonstrate an inductive coupling between 3D nanobioelectrodes and living neurons.

Building one-dimensional oxide nanostructure arrays on conductive metal substrates for lithium-ion battery anodes.

PubMed

Jiang, Jian; Li, Yuanyuan; Liu, Jinping; Huang, Xintang

2011-01-01

Lithium ion battery (LIB) is potentially one of the most attractive energy storage devices. To meet the demands of future high-power and high-energy density requirements in both thin-film microbatteries and conventional batteries, it is challenging to explore novel nanostructured anode materials instead of conventional graphite. Compared to traditional electrodes based on nanostructure powder paste, directly grown ordered nanostructure array electrodes not only simplify the electrode processing, but also offer remarkable advantages such as fast electron transport/collection and ion diffusion, sufficient electrochemical reaction of individual nanostructures, enhanced material-electrolyte contact area and facile accommodation of the strains caused by lithium intercalation and de-intercalation. This article provides a brief overview of the present status in the area of LIB anodes based on one-dimensional nanostructure arrays growing directly on conductive inert metal substrates, with particular attention to metal oxides synthesized by an anodized alumina membrane (AAM)-free solution-based or hydrothermal methods. Both the scientific developments and the techniques and challenges are critically analyzed.

Biofuel cell based on microscale nanostructured electrodes with inductive coupling to rat brain neurons.

PubMed

Andoralov, Viktor; Falk, Magnus; Suyatin, Dmitry B; Granmo, Marcus; Sotres, Javier; Ludwig, Roland; Popov, Vladimir O; Schouenborg, Jens; Blum, Zoltan; Shleev, Sergey

2013-11-20

Miniature, self-contained biodevices powered by biofuel cells may enable a new generation of implantable, wireless, minimally invasive neural interfaces for neurophysiological in vivo studies and for clinical applications. Here we report on the fabrication of a direct electron transfer based glucose/oxygen enzymatic fuel cell (EFC) from genuinely three-dimensional (3D) nanostructured microscale gold electrodes, modified with suitable biocatalysts. We show that the process underlying the simple fabrication method of 3D nanostructured electrodes is based on an electrochemically driven transformation of physically deposited gold nanoparticles. We experimentally demonstrate that mediator-, cofactor-, and membrane-less EFCs do operate in cerebrospinal fluid and in the brain of a rat, producing amounts of electrical power sufficient to drive a self-contained biodevice, viz. 7 μW cm(-2) in vitro and 2 μW cm(-2) in vivo at an operating voltage of 0.4 V. Last but not least, we also demonstrate an inductive coupling between 3D nanobioelectrodes and living neurons.

Sulfur-Doped Laser-Induced Porous Graphene Derived from Polysulfone-Class Polymers and Membranes.

PubMed

Singh, Swatantra P; Li, Yilun; Zhang, Jibo; Tour, James M; Arnusch, Christopher J

2018-01-23

Graphene based materials have profoundly impacted research in nanotechnology, and this has significantly advanced biomedical, electronics, energy, and environmental applications. Laser-induced graphene (LIG) is made photothermally and has enabled a rapid route for graphene layers on polyimide surfaces. However, polysulfone (PSU), poly(ether sulfone) (PES), and polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) are highly used in numerous applications including medical, energy, and water treatment and they are critical components of polymer membranes. Here we show LIG fabrication on PSU, PES, and PPSU resulting in conformal sulfur-doped porous graphene embedded in polymer dense films or porous substrates using reagent- and solvent-free methods in a single step. We demonstrate the applicability as flexible electrodes with enhanced electrocatalytic hydrogen peroxide generation, as antifouling surfaces and as antimicrobial hybrid membrane-LIG porous filters. The properties and surface morphology of the conductive PSU-, PES-, and PPSU-LIG could be modulated using variable laser duty cycles. The LIG electrodes showed enhanced hydrogen peroxide generation compared to LIG made on polyimide, and showed exceptional biofilm resistance and potent antimicrobial killing effects when treated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and mixed bacterial culture. The hybrid PES-LIG membrane-electrode ensured complete elimination of bacterial viability in the permeate (6 log reduction), in a flow-through filtration mode at a water flux of ∼500 L m -2 h -1 (2.5 V) and at ∼22 000 L m -2 h -1 (20 V). Due to the widespread use of PSU, PES, and PPSU in modern society, these functional PSU-, PES-, and PPSU-LIG surfaces have great potential to be incorporated into biomedical, electronic, energy and environmental devices and technologies.

Construction and evaluation of ion selective electrodes for nitrate with a summing operational amplifier. Application to tobacco analysis.

PubMed

Pérez-Olmos, R; Rios, A; Fernández, J R; Lapa, R A; Lima, J L

2001-01-05

In this paper, the construction and evaluation of an electrode selective to nitrate with improved sensitivity, constructed like a conventional electrode (ISE) but using an operational amplifier to sum the potentials supplied by four membranes (ESOA) is described. The two types of electrodes, without an inner reference solution, were constructed using tetraoctylammonium bromide as sensor, dibutylphthalate as solvent mediator and PVC as plastic matrix, the membranes obtained directly applied onto a conductive epoxy resin support. After the comparative evaluation of their working characteristics they were used in the determination of nitrate in different types of tobacco. The limit of detection of the direct potentiometric method developed was found to be 0.18 g kg(-1) and the precision and accuracy of the method, when applied to eight different samples of tobacco, expressed in terms of mean R.S.D. and average percentage of spike recovery was 0.6 and 100.3%, respectively. The comparison of variances showed, on all ocassions, that the results obtained by the ESOA were similar to those obtained by the conventional ISE, but with higher precision. Linear regression analysis showed good agreement (r=0.9994) between the results obtained by the developed potentiometric method and those of a spectrophotometric method based on brucine, adopted as reference method, when applied simultaneously to 32 samples of different types of tobacco.

Titanium (III) cation selective electrode based on synthesized tris(2pyridyl) methylamine ionophore and its application in water samples

PubMed Central

Rezayi, Majid; Karazhian, Reza; Abdollahi, Yadollah; Narimani, Leila; Sany, Seyedeh Belin Tavakoly; Ahmadzadeh, Saeid; Alias, Yatimah

2014-01-01

The introduction of low detection limit ion selective electrodes (ISEs) may well pave the way for the determination of trace targets of cationic compounds. This research focuses on the detection of titanium (III) cation using a new PVC-membrane sensor based on synthesized tris(2pyridyl) methylamine (tpm) ionophore. The application and validation of the proposed sensor was done using potentiometric titration, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The membrane sensor exhibited a Nernstian response to the titanium (III) cation over a concentration range of 1.0 × 10−6–1.0 × 10−2 M and pH range from 1–2.5. The Nernstian slope, the lower of detection (LOD), and the response time (t95%) of the proposed sensor were 29.17 ± 0.24 mV/dec, 7.9 × 10−7 M, and 20 s, respectively. The direct determination of 4–39 μg/ml of titanium (III) standard solution showed an average recovery of 94.60 and a mean relative standard deviation of 1.8 at 100.0 μg/ml. Finally, the utilization of the electrodes as end-point indicators for potentiometric titration with EDTA solutions for titanium (III) sensor was successfully carried out. PMID:24722576

An ionic electro-active actuator made with graphene film electrode, chitosan and ionic liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Qingsong; Yu, Min; Yang, Xu; Kim, Kwang Jin; Dai, Zhendong

2015-06-01

A newly developed ionic electro-active actuator composed of an ionic electrolyte layer sandwiched between two graphene film layers was investigated. Scanning electronic microscopy observation and x-ray diffraction analysis showed that the graphene sheets in the film stacked in a nearly face-to-face fashion but did not restack back to graphite, and the resulting graphene film with low sheet resistance (10 Ω sq-1) adheres well to the electrolyte membrane. Contact angle measurement showed the surface energy (37.98 mJ m-2) of the ionic electrolyte polymer is 2.67 times higher than that (14.2 mJ m-2) of the Nafion membrane, contributing to the good adhesion between the graphene film electrode and the electrolyte membrane. An electric double-layer is formed at the interface between the graphene film electrode and the ionic electrolyte membrane under the input potential, resulting in a higher capacitance of 27.6 mF cm-2. We report that this ionic actuator exhibits adequate bending strain, ranging from 0.032 to 0.1% (305 to 945 μm) as functions of voltage.

Fast electrochemical membrane actuator: Design, fabrication and preliminary testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uvarov, I. V.; Postnikov, A. V.; Shlepakov, P. S.; Naumov, V. V.; Koroleva, O. M.; Izyumov, M. O.; Svetovoy, V. B.

2017-11-01

An actuator based on water electrolysis with a fast change of voltage polarity is presented. It demonstrates a new actuation principle allowing significant increase the operation frequency of the device due to fast termination of the produced gas. The actuator consists of a working chamber with metallic electrodes and supplying channels filled with an electrolyte. The chamber is formed in a layer of SU-8 and covered by a flexible polydimethylsiloxane membrane, which deforms as the pressure in the chamber increases. Design, fabrication procedure, and first tests of the actuator are described.

Polyurethane Ionophore-Based Thin Layer Membranes for Voltammetric Ion Activity Sensing.

PubMed

Cuartero, Maria; Crespo, Gaston A; Bakker, Eric

2016-06-07

We report on a plasticized polyurethane ionophore-based thin film material (of hundreds of nanometer thickness) for simultaneous voltammetric multianalyte ion activity detection triggered by the oxidation/reduction of an underlying poly(3-octylthiophene) film. This material provides excellent mechanical, physical, and chemical robustness compared to other polymers. Polyurethane films did not exhibit leaching of lipophilic additives after rinsing with a direct water jet and exhibited resistance to detachment from the underlying electrode surface, resulting in a voltammetric current response with less than <1.5% RSD variation (n = 50). In contrast, plasticized poly(vinyl chloride), polystyrene, and poly(acrylate) ionophore-based membranes of the same thickness and composition exhibited a significant deterioration of the signal after identical treatment. While previously reported works emphasized fundamental advancement of multi-ion detection with multi-ionophore-based thin films, polyurethane thin membranes allow one to achieve real world measurements without sacrificing analytical performance. Indeed, polyurethane membranes are demonstrated to be useful for the simultaneous determination of potassium and lithium in undiluted human serum and blood with attractive precision.

Label-free and substrate-free potentiometric aptasensing using polycation-sensitive membrane electrodes.

PubMed

Ding, Jiawang; Chen, Yan; Wang, Xuewei; Qin, Wei

2012-02-21

A potentiometric label-free and substrate-free (LFSF) aptasensing strategy which eliminates the labeling, separation, and immobilization steps is described in this paper. An aptamer binds specifically to a target molecule via reaction incubation, which could induce a change in the aptamer conformation from a random coil-like configuration to a rigid folded structure. Such a target binding-induced aptamer conformational change effectively prevents the aptamer from electrostatically interacting with the protamine binding domain. This could either shift the response curve for the potentiometric titration of the aptamer with protamine as monitored by a conventional polycation-sensitive membrane electrode or change the current-dependent potential detected by a protamine-conditioned polycation-sensitive electrode with the pulsed current-driven ion fluxes of protamine across the polymeric membrane. Using adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a model analyte, the proposed concept offers potentiometric detection of ATP down to the submicromolar concentration range and has been applied to the determination of ATP in HeLa cells. In contrast to the current LFSF aptasensors based on optical detection, the proposed strategy allows the LFSF biosensing of aptamer/target binding events in a homogeneous solution via electrochemical transduction. It is anticipated that the proposed strategy will lay a foundation for development of potentiometric sensors for LFSF aptasensing of a variety of analytes where target binding-induced conformational changes such as the formation of folded structures and the opening of DNA hairpin loops are involved.

BioMEMS for mitochondria medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Padmaraj, Divya

A BioMEMS device to study cell-mitochondrial physiological functionalities was developed. The pathogenesis of many diseases including obesity, diabetes and heart failure as well as aging has been linked to functional defects of mitochondria. The synthesis of Adenosine Tri Phosphate (ATP) is determined by the electrical potential across the inner mitochondrial membrane and by the pH difference due to proton flux across it. Therefore, electrical characterization by E-fields with complementary chemical testing was used here. The BioMEMS device was fabricated as an SU-8 based microfluidic system with gold electrodes on SiO2/Si wafers for electromagnetic interrogation. Ion Sensitive Field Effect Transistors (ISFETs) were incorporated for proton studies important in the electron transport chain, together with monitoring Na+, K+ and Ca++ ions for ion channel studies. ISFETs are chemically sensitive Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET) devices and their threshold voltage is directly proportional to the electrolytic H+ ion variation. These ISFETs (sensitivity ˜55 mV/pH for H+) were further realized as specific ion sensitive Chemical Field Effect Transistors (CHEMFETs) by depositing a specific ion sensitive membrane on the gate. Electrodes for dielectric spectroscopy studies of mitochondria were designed as 2- and 4-probe structures for optimized operation over a wide frequency range. In addition, to limit polarization effects, a 4-electrode set-up with unique meshed pickup electrodes (7.5x7.5 mum2 loops with 4 mum wires) was fabricated. Sensitivity of impedance spectroscopy to membrane potential changes was confirmed by studying the influence of uncouplers and glucose on mitochondria. An electrical model was developed for the mitochondrial sample, and its frequency response correlated with impedance spectroscopy experiments of sarcolemmal mitochondria. Using the mesh electrode structure, we obtained a reduction of 83.28% in impedance at 200 Hz. COMSOL simulations of selected electrical structures in this sensor were compared with experimental results to better understand the physical system. A broadband permittivity analysis tool consisting of lumped and distributed structures was also developed. The frequency range of this device is from 100 Hz to 40 GHz and utilizes an interdigitated capacitor and coplanar waveguide. The simultaneous measurement of membrane potential, ion concentrations and pH would enhance diagnostics and studies of mitochondrial diseases.

A novel membrane based process to isolate photosystem-I membrane complex from spinach.

PubMed

Liu, Jianguo; Yin, Mengmeng; Wang, Meng; Zhang, Xuefang; Ge, Baosheng; Liu, Shuang; Lu, Jianren; Cui, Zhanfeng

2011-02-01

The isolation of photosystem-I (PS-I) from spinach has been conducted using ultrafiltration with 300 kDa molecular weight cut-off polyethersulfone membranes. The effects of ultrafiltration operating conditions on PS-I activity were optimized using parameter scanning ultrafiltration. These conditions included solution pH, ionic strength, stirring speed, and permeate flux. The effects of detergent (Triton X-100 and n-dodecyl-beta-D-maltoside) concentration on time dependent activity of PS-I were also studied using an O(2) electrode. Under optimized conditions, the PS-I purity obtained in the retentate was about 84% and the activity recovery was greater than 94% after ultrafiltration. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the isolation of a membrane protein using ultrafiltration alone.

High performance aqueous symmetric supercapacitors based on advanced carbon electrodes and hydrophilic poly(vinylidene fluoride) porous separator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Qinxing; Huang, Xiaolin; Zhang, Yufeng; Wu, Shihua; Zhao, Peng

2018-06-01

The main components of a supercapacitor include two electrodes, electrolyte, and a separator, which are all essential to specify the energy storage capability of the device. In this work, two kinds of porous carbon materials have been fabricated via different routes using pomelo peel as raw material. The specific surface area are 1187 m2 g-1 for the nanosized worm-like carbon, and 1744 m2 g-1 for the nitrogen-enriched microsized carbon. Both carbon materials demonstrate excellent energy storage capability as electrodes for aqueous supercapacitors. According to the three-electrode measurements, the worm-like carbon exhibits a high specific capacitance of 316 F g-1 at 0.2 A g-1 in 6 M KOH, while the other exhibits 471 F g-1 due to the highly enriched nitrogen atoms in structure. In addition, two-electrode coin-type cells have been assembled with the carbon materials as electrodes and hydrophilic poly(vinylidene fluoride) porous membrane as the separator. The assembled cells exhibit high specific capacitances, excellent rate performance and superior cycling durability because of a synergistic effect of the high performance carbon electrodes and hydrophilic porous separator.

PEM/SPE fuel cell

DOEpatents

Grot, S.A.

1998-01-13

A PEM/SPE fuel cell is described including a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) having a plurality of oriented filament embedded the face thereof for supporting the MEA and conducting current therefrom to contiguous electrode plates. 4 figs.

Ionomer equivalent weight structuring in the cathode catalyst layer of automotive fuel cells: Effect on performance, current density distribution and electrochemical impedance spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herden, Susanne; Hirschfeld, Julian A.; Lohri, Cyrill; Perchthaler, Markus; Haase, Stefan

2017-10-01

To improve the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) with segmented cathode electrodes have been manufactured. Electrodes with a higher and lower ionomer equivalent weight (EW) were used and analyzed using current density and temperature distribution, polarization curve, temperature sweep and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements. These were performed using automotive metallic bipolar plates and operating conditions. Measurement data were used to manufacture an optimized segmented cathode electrode. We were able to show that our results are transferable from a small scale hardware to automotive application and that an ionomer EW segmentation of the cathode leads to performance improvement in a broad spectrum of operating conditions. Furthermore, we confirmed our results by using in-situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

Durability of De-Alloyed Platinum-Nickel Cathode Catalyst in Low Platinum Loading Membrane-Electrode Assemblies Subjected to Accelerated Stress Tests

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ahluwalia, R. K.; Wang, X.; Peng, J. -K.

Here, the durability of de-alloyed platinum-nickel catalysts supported on high-surface area carbon (d-PtNi/C) in optimized electrodes and membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) under an accelerated stress test (AST) protocol is investigated with the objective of developing a quantitative understanding of the degradation mechanisms and their relationship to the electrode structure, pre-conditioning, and operating conditions. It is found that the cell degradation can be mitigated by controlling the voltage cycle, acid washing the MEA to remove Ni contaminants that enter the electrode and membrane during fabrication, and monitoring the operating conditions. For example, the electrochemical surface area (ECSA) loss is <25% aftermore » 30,000 triangle cycles with 0.925 V upper potential limit if the MEA is acid washed and extensive diagnostics are avoided. The parameters that exacerbate the cell degradation also accelerate the rate at which Ni leaches out from the catalyst. A mechanistic model is presented for the degradation in performance of d-PtNi/C electrodes. The model correlates a) the degradation in ORR mass and specific activities with ECSA and Ni losses, b) the decrease in limiting current density ( iL), which is inversely proportional to the O 2 mass transport resistance, with the degradation in catalyst roughness factor, and c) the increase in mass transfer overpotentials with the reduced current density, i/iL .« less

Durability of De-Alloyed Platinum-Nickel Cathode Catalyst in Low Platinum Loading Membrane-Electrode Assemblies Subjected to Accelerated Stress Tests

DOE PAGES

Ahluwalia, R. K.; Wang, X.; Peng, J. -K.; ...

2018-04-25

Here, the durability of de-alloyed platinum-nickel catalysts supported on high-surface area carbon (d-PtNi/C) in optimized electrodes and membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) under an accelerated stress test (AST) protocol is investigated with the objective of developing a quantitative understanding of the degradation mechanisms and their relationship to the electrode structure, pre-conditioning, and operating conditions. It is found that the cell degradation can be mitigated by controlling the voltage cycle, acid washing the MEA to remove Ni contaminants that enter the electrode and membrane during fabrication, and monitoring the operating conditions. For example, the electrochemical surface area (ECSA) loss is <25% aftermore » 30,000 triangle cycles with 0.925 V upper potential limit if the MEA is acid washed and extensive diagnostics are avoided. The parameters that exacerbate the cell degradation also accelerate the rate at which Ni leaches out from the catalyst. A mechanistic model is presented for the degradation in performance of d-PtNi/C electrodes. The model correlates a) the degradation in ORR mass and specific activities with ECSA and Ni losses, b) the decrease in limiting current density ( iL), which is inversely proportional to the O 2 mass transport resistance, with the degradation in catalyst roughness factor, and c) the increase in mass transfer overpotentials with the reduced current density, i/iL .« less

Construction and performance characteristics of polymeric membrane electrode and coated graphite electrode for the selective determination of Fe³⁺ ion.

PubMed

Bandi, Koteswara Rao; Singh, Ashok K; Upadhyay, Anjali

2014-03-01

Novel Fe(3+) ion-selective polymeric membrane electrodes (PMEs) were prepared using three different ionophores N-(4-(dimethylamino)benzylidene)thiazol-2-amine [L1], 5-((3-methylthiophene-2yl) methyleneamino)-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thiol [L2] and N-((3-methylthiophene-2yl)methylene)thiazol-2-amine [L3] and their potentiometric characteristics were discussed. Effect of various plasticizers and anion excluders was also studied in detail and improved performance was observed. The best performance was obtained for the membrane electrode having a composition of L2:PVC:o-NPOE:NaTPB as 3:38.5:56:2.5 (w/w; mg). A coated graphite electrode (CGE) was also prepared with the same composition and compared. CGE is found to perform better as it shows a wider working concentration range of 8.3×10(-8)-1.0×10(-1)molL(-1), a lower detection limit of 2.3×10(-8)molL(-1), and a near Nernstian slope of 19.5 ± 0.4 mVdecade(-1) of activity with a response time of 10s. The CGE shows a shelf life of 6 weeks and in view of high selectivity, it can be used to quantify Fe(3+) ion in water, soil, vegetable and medicinal plants. It can also be used as an indicator electrode in potentiometric titration of EDTA with Fe(3+) ion. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Systems and methods for selective hydrogen transport and measurement

DOEpatents

Glatzmaier, Gregory C

2013-10-29

Systems and methods for selectively removing hydrogen gas from a hydrogen-containing fluid volume are disclosed. An exemplary system includes a proton exchange membrane (PEM) selectively permeable to hydrogen by exclusively conducting hydrogen ions. The system also includes metal deposited as layers onto opposite sides or faces of the PEM to form a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA), each layer functioning as an electrode so that the MEA functions as an electrochemical cell in which the ionic conductors are hydrogen ions, and the MEA functioning as a hydrogen selective membrane (HSM) when located at the boundary between a hydrogen-containing fluid volume and a second fluid.

Membrane microfilter device for selective capture, electrolysis and genomic analysis of human circulating tumor cells.

PubMed

Zheng, Siyang; Lin, Henry; Liu, Jing-Quan; Balic, Marija; Datar, Ram; Cote, Richard J; Tai, Yu-Chong

2007-08-31

This paper presents development of a parylene membrane microfilter device for single stage capture and electrolysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in human blood, and the potential of this device to allow genomic analysis. The presence and number of CTCs in blood has recently been demonstrated to provide significant prognostic information for patients with metastatic breast cancer. While finding as few as five CTCs in about 7.5mL of blood (i.e., 10(10) blood cells in) is clinically significant, detection of CTCs is currently difficult and time consuming. CTC enrichment is performed by either gradient centrifugation of CTC based on their buoyant density or magnetic separation of epithelial CTC, both of which are laborious procedures with variable efficiency, and CTC identification is typically done by trained pathologists through visual observation of stained cytokeratin-positive epithelial CTC. These processes may take hours, if not days. Work presented here provides a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS)-based option to make this process simpler, faster, better and cheaper. We exploited the size difference between CTCs and human blood cells to achieve the CTC capture on filter with approximately 90% recovery within 10 min, which is superior to current approaches. Following capture, we facilitated polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based genomic analysis by performing on-membrane electrolysis with embedded electrodes reaching each of the individual 16,000 filtering pores. The biggest advantage for this on-membrane in situ cell lysis is the high efficiency since cells are immobilized, allowing their direct contact with electrodes. As a proof-of-principle, we show beta actin gene PCR, the same technology can be easily extended to real time PCR for CTC-specific transcript to allow molecular identification of CTC and their further characterization.

Durability and degradation analysis of hydrocarbon ionomer membranes in polymer electrolyte fuel cells accelerated stress evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimizu, Ryo; Tsuji, Junichi; Sato, Nobuyuki; Takano, Jun; Itami, Shunsuke; Kusakabe, Masato; Miyatake, Kenji; Iiyama, Akihiro; Uchida, Makoto

2017-11-01

The chemical durabilities of two proton-conducting hydrocarbon polymer electrolyte membranes, sulfonated benzophenone poly(arylene ether ketone) (SPK) semiblock copolymer and sulfonated phenylene poly(arylene ether ketone) (SPP) semiblock copolymer are evaluated under accelerated open circuit voltage (OCV) conditions in a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC). Post-test characterization of the membrane electrodes assemblies (MEAs) is carried out via gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. These results are compared with those of the initial MEAs. The SPP cell shows the highest OCV at 1000 h, and, in the post-test analysis, the SPP membrane retains up to 80% of the original molecular weight, based on the GPC results, and 90% of the hydrophilic structure, based on the NMR results. The hydrophilic structure of the SPP membrane is more stable after the durability evaluation than that of the SPK. From these results, the SPP membrane, with its simple hydrophilic structure, which does not include ketone groups, is seen to be significantly more resistant to radical attack. This structure leads to high chemical durability and thus impedes the chemical decomposition of the membrane.

Characterization of screen-printed electrodes for dielectric elastomer (DE) membranes: influence of screen dimensions and electrode thickness on actuator performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fasolt, Bettina; Hodgins, Micah; Seelecke, Stefan

2016-04-01

Screen printing is used as a method for printing electrodes on silicone thin films for the fabrication of dielectric elastomer transducers (DET). This method can be used to manufacture a multitude of patternable designs for actuator and sensor applications, implementing the same method for prototyping as well as large-scale production. The fabrication of DETs does not only require the development of a flexible, highly conductive electrode material, which adheres to a stretched and unstretched silicone film, but also calls for a thorough understanding of the effects of the different printing parameters. This work studies the influence of screen dimensions (open area, mesh thickness) as well as the influence of multiple-layer- printing on the electrode stiffness, electrical resistance and capacitance as well as actuator performance. The investigation was conducted in a custom-built testing device, which enabled an electro-mechanical characterization of the DET, simultaneously measuring parameters such as strain, voltage, current, force, sheet resistance, capacitance and membrane thickness. Magnified pictures of the electrodes will additionally illustrate the effects of the different printing parameters.

Prototype for Automatable, Dielectrophoretically-Accessed Intracellular Membrane–Potential Measurements by Metal Electrodes

PubMed Central

Sukhorukov, Vladimir L.; Zimmermann, Dirk

2013-01-01

Abstract Functional access to membrane proteins, for example, ion channels, of individual cells is an important prerequisite in drug discovery studies. The highly sophisticated patch-clamp method is widely used for electrogenic membrane proteins, but is demanding for the operator, and its automation remains challenging. The dielectrophoretically-accessed, intracellular membrane–potential measurement (DAIMM) method is a new technique showing high potential for automation of electrophysiological data recording in the whole-cell configuration. A cell suspension is brought between a mm-scaled planar electrode and a μm-scaled tip electrode, placed opposite to each other. Due to the asymmetric electrode configuration, the application of alternating electric fields (1–5 MHz) provokes a dielectrophoretic force acting on the target cell. As a consequence, the cell is accelerated and pierced by the tip electrode, hence functioning as the internal (working) electrode. We used the light-gated cation channel Channelrhodopsin-2 as a reporter protein expressed in HEK293 cells to characterize the DAIMM method in comparison with the patch-clamp technique. PMID:22994967

Electrochemical performance and durability of carbon supported Pt catalyst in contact with aqueous and polymeric proton conductors.

PubMed

Andersen, Shuang Ma; Skou, Eivind

2014-10-08

Significant differences in catalyst performance and durability are often observed between the use of a liquid electrolyte (e.g., sulfuric acid), and a solid polymer electrolyte (e.g., Nafion). To understand this phenomenon, we studied the electrochemical behavior of a commercially available carbon supported platinum catalyst in four different electrode structures: catalyst powder (CP), catalyst ionomer electrode (CIE), half membrane electrode assembly (HMEA), and full membrane electrode assembly (FMEA) in both ex situ and in situ experiments under a simulated start/stop cycle. We found that the catalyst performance and stability are very much influenced by the presence of the Nafion ionomers. The proton conducting phase provided by the ionomer and the self-assembled electrode structure render the catalysts a higher utilization and better stability. This is probably due to an enhanced dispersion, an improved proton-catalyst interface, the restriction of catalyst particle aggregation, and the improved stability of the ionomer phase especially after the lamination. Therefore, an innovative electrode HMEA design for ex-situ catalyst characterization is proposed. The electrode structure is identical to the one used in a real fuel cell, where the protons transport takes place solely through solid state proton conducting phase.

Direct Electrolytic Deposition of Mats of Mn(x)O(y) Nanowires

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Myung, Nosang; West, William; Whitacre, Jay; Bugga, Ratnakumar

2004-01-01

Mats of free-standing manganese oxide (MnxOy) nanowires have been fabricated as experimental electrode materials for rechargeable electrochemical power cells and capacitors. Because they are free-standing, the wires in these mats are electrochemically accessible. The advantage of the mat-of-nanowires configuration, relative to other configurations of electrode materials, arises from the combination of narrowness and high areal number density of the wires. This combination offers both high surface areas for contact with electrolytes and short paths for diffusion of ions into and out of the electrodes, thereby making it possible to charge and discharge at rates higher than would otherwise be possible and, consequently, to achieve greater power densities. The nanowires are fabricated in an electrolytic process in which there is no need for an electrode binder material. Moreover, there is no need to incorporate an electrically conductive additive into the electrode material; the only electrically conductive material that must be added is a thin substrate contact film at the anchored ends of the nanowires. Hence, the mass fraction of active electrode material is close to 100 percent, as compared with about 85 percent in conventional electrodes made from a slurry of active electrode material, binder, and conductive additive pressed onto a metal foil. The locations and sizes of the nanowires are defined by holes in templates in the form of commercially available porous alumina membranes. In experiments to demonstrate the present process, alumina membranes of various pore sizes and degrees of porosity were used. First, a film of Au was sputtered onto one side of each membrane. The membranes were then attached, variously, to carbon tape or a gold substrate by use of silver or carbon paste. Once thus attached, the membranes were immersed in a plating solution comprising 0.01 M MnSO4 + 0.03 M (NH4)2SO4. The pH of the solution was kept constant at 8 by addition of H2SO4 or NH4OH as needed. Mn(x)O(y) nanowires were potentiostatically electrodeposited in the pores in the alumina templates. Depending on the anodic deposition potentials, Mn(x)O(y) was deposited in various oxidation states [divalent (Mn3O4), trivalent (Mn2O3), or tetravalent (MnO2)]. The Mn(x)O(y) wires were made free-standing (see figure) by dissolving the alumina templates, variously, in KOH or NaOH at a concentration of 20 volume percent.

Nanotube Film Electrode and an Electroactive Device Fabricated with the Nanotube Film Electrode and Methods for Making Same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kang, Jin Ho (Inventor); Harrison, Joycelyn S. (Inventor); Park, Cheol (Inventor)

2017-01-01

Disclosed is a single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) film electrode (FE), all-organic electroactive device systems fabricated with the SWNT-FE, and methods for making same. The SWCNT can be replaced by other types of nanotubes. The SWCNT film can be obtained by filtering SWCNT solution onto the surface of an anodized alumina membrane. A freestanding flexible SWCNT film can be collected by breaking up this brittle membrane. The conductivity of this SWCNT film can advantageously be higher than 280 S/cm. An electroactive polymer (EAP) actuator layered with the SWNT-FE shows a higher electric field-induced strain than an EAP layered with metal electrodes because the flexible SWNT-FE relieves the restraint of the displacement of the polymeric active layer as compared to the metal electrode. In addition, if thin enough, the SWNT-FE is transparent in the visible light range, thus making it suitable for use in actuators used in optical devices.

Nanopore Electrochemistry: A Nexus for Molecular Control of Electron Transfer Reactions

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Pore-based structures occur widely in living organisms. Ion channels embedded in cell membranes, for example, provide pathways, where electron and proton transfer are coupled to the exchange of vital molecules. Learning from mother nature, a recent surge in activity has focused on artificial nanopore architectures to effect electrochemical transformations not accessible in larger structures. Here, we highlight these exciting advances. Starting with a brief overview of nanopore electrodes, including the early history and development of nanopore sensing based on nanopore-confined electrochemistry, we address the core concepts and special characteristics of nanopores in electron transfer. We describe nanopore-based electrochemical sensing and processing, discuss performance limits and challenges, and conclude with an outlook for next-generation nanopore electrode sensing platforms and the opportunities they present. PMID:29392173

Fuel cell and membrane therefore

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Aindow, Tai-Tsui

A fuel cell includes first and second flow field plates, and an anode electrode and a cathode electrode between the flow field plates. A polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) is arranged between the electrodes. At least one of the flow field plates influences, at least in part, an in-plane anisotropic physical condition of the PEM that varies in magnitude between a high value direction and a low value direction. The PEM has an in-plane physical property that varies in magnitude between a high value direction and a low value direction. The PEM is oriented with its high value direction substantially alignedmore » with the high value direction of the flow field plate.« less

Core-shell fuel cell electrodes

DOEpatents

Adzic, Radoslav; Bliznakov, Stoyan; Vukmirovic, Miomir

2017-12-26

Embodiments of the disclosure relate to membrane electrode assemblies. The membrane electrode assembly may include at least one gas-diffusion layer having a first side and a second side, and particle cores adhered to at least one of the first and second sides of the at least one gas-diffusion layer. The particle cores includes surfaces adhered to the at least one of the first and second sides of the at least one gas-diffusion layer and surfaces not in contact with the at least one gas-diffusion layer. Furthermore, a thin layer of catalytically atoms may be adhered to the surfaces of the particle cores not in contact with the at least one gas-diffusion layer.

Preparation of PEMFC Electrodes from Milligram-Amounts of Catalyst Powder

DOE PAGES

Yarlagadda, Venkata; McKinney, Samuel E.; Keary, Cristin L.; ...

2017-06-03

Development of electrocatalysts with higher activity and stability is one of the highest priorities in enabling cost-competitive hydrogen-air fuel cells. Although the rotating disk electrode (RDE) technique is widely used to study new catalyst materials, it has been often shown to be an unreliable predictor of catalyst performance in actual fuel cell operation. Fabrication of membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) for evaluation which are more representative of actual fuel cells generally requires relatively large amounts (>1 g) of catalyst material which are often not readily available in early stages of development. In this study, we present two MEA preparation techniques usingmore » as little as 30 mg of catalyst material, providing methods to conduct more meaningful MEA-based tests using research-level catalysts amounts.« less

Finite element method (FEM) model of the mechanical stress on phospholipid membranes from shock waves produced in nanosecond electric pulses (nsEP)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barnes, Ronald; Roth, Caleb C.; Shadaram, Mehdi; Beier, Hope; Ibey, Bennett L.

2015-03-01

The underlying mechanism(s) responsible for nanoporation of phospholipid membranes by nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsEP) remains unknown. The passage of a high electric field through a conductive medium creates two primary contributing factors that may induce poration: the electric field interaction at the membrane and the shockwave produced from electrostriction of a polar submersion medium exposed to an electric field. Previous work has focused on the electric field interaction at the cell membrane, through such models as the transport lattice method. Our objective is to model the shock wave cell membrane interaction induced from the density perturbation formed at the rising edge of a high voltage pulse in a polar liquid resulting in a shock wave propagating away from the electrode toward the cell membrane. Utilizing previous data from cell membrane mechanical parameters, and nsEP generated shockwave parameters, an acoustic shock wave model based on the Helmholtz equation for sound pressure was developed and coupled to a cell membrane model with finite-element modeling in COMSOL. The acoustic structure interaction model was developed to illustrate the harmonic membrane displacements and stresses resulting from shockwave and membrane interaction based on Hooke's law. Poration is predicted by utilizing membrane mechanical breakdown parameters including cortical stress limits and hydrostatic pressure gradients.

Anionic membrane and ionomer based on poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide) for alkaline membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Ai Lien; Saad, Saeed; Lan, Rong; Goodfellow, Robert J.; Tao, Shanwen

2011-10-01

Hydroxyl-ion conductive poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide) (PPO) membranes with different characteristics were prepared via relatively simple bromination/amination serial reactions with reduced number of involved chemicals and shorter reaction time. The effects of reactants ratio, reaction atmosphere, polymer concentration, casting solvent, and hydroxylation treatment on reaction were investigated in details. The microstructure, water uptake, swelling ratio, ion-exchange capacity and ionic conductivity of the membranes were also studied. The obtained results demonstrate that, the ionic conductivity of the membrane is dependent on casting solvent. The N-methyl-2-pyrrolidonecast membrane exhibits the highest conductivity with the thinnest film. Although the membrane was prepared via a relatively simple preparation route with least toxic chemicals, a competitive ionic conductivity value of 1.64 × 10-2 S cm-1 was achieved at 60 °C. A power density of 19.5 mW cm-2 has been demonstrated from the alkaline membrane fuel cell operated at 70 °C, assembled from the entirely homemade membrane electrode assembly without any hot-pressing.

Pinpoint Delivery of Molecules by Using Electron Beam Addressing Virtual Cathode Display.

PubMed

Hoshino, Takayuki; Yoshioka, Moto; Wagatsuma, Akira; Miyazako, Hiroki; Mabuchi, Kunihiko

2018-03-01

Electroporation, a physical transfection method to introduce genomic molecules in selective living cells, could be implemented by microelectrode devices. A local electric field generated by a finer electrode can induces cytomembrane poration in the electrode vicinity. To employ fine, high-speed scanning electrodes, we developed a fine virtual cathode pattern, which was generated on a cell adhesive surface of 100-nm-thick SiN membrane by inverted-electron beam lithography. The SiN membrane works as both a vacuum barrier and the display screen of the virtual cathode. The kinetic energy of the incident primary electrons to the SiN membrane was completely blocked, whereas negative charges and leaking electric current appeared on the surface of the dielectric SiN membrane within a region of 100 nm. Locally controlled transmembrane molecular delivery was demonstrated on adhered C2C12 myoblast cells in a culturing medium with fluorescent dye propidium iodide (PI). Increasing fluorescence of pre-diluted PI indicated local poration and transmembrane inflow at the virtual cathode position, as well as intracellular diffusion. The transmembrane inflows depended on beam duration time and acceleration voltage. At the post-molecular delivery, a slight decrease in intracellular PI fluorescence intensity indicates membrane recovery from the poration. Cell viability was confirmed by time-lapse cell imaging of post-exposure cell migration.

High-performance, low-voltage electroosmotic pumps with molecularly thin silicon nanomembranes

PubMed Central

Snyder, Jessica L.; Getpreecharsawas, Jirachai; Fang, David Z.; Gaborski, Thomas R.; Striemer, Christopher C.; Fauchet, Philippe M.; Borkholder, David A.; McGrath, James L.

2013-01-01

We have developed electroosmotic pumps (EOPs) fabricated from 15-nm-thick porous nanocrystalline silicon (pnc-Si) membranes. Ultrathin pnc-Si membranes enable high electroosmotic flow per unit voltage. We demonstrate that electroosmosis theory compares well with the observed pnc-Si flow rates. We attribute the high flow rates to high electrical fields present across the 15-nm span of the membrane. Surface modifications, such as plasma oxidation or silanization, can influence the electroosmotic flow rates through pnc-Si membranes by alteration of the zeta potential of the material. A prototype EOP that uses pnc-Si membranes and Ag/AgCl electrodes was shown to pump microliter per minute-range flow through a 0.5-mm-diameter capillary tubing with as low as 250 mV of applied voltage. This silicon-based platform enables straightforward integration of low-voltage, on-chip EOPs into portable microfluidic devices with low back pressures. PMID:24167263

Elucidating Performance Limitations in Alkaline-Exchange- Membrane Fuel Cells

DOE PAGES

Shiau, Huai-Suen; Zenyuk, Iryna V.; Weber, Adam Z.

2017-07-15

Water management is a serious concern for alkaline-exchange-membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) because water is a reactant in the alkaline oxygen-reduction reaction and hydroxide conduction in alkaline-exchange membranes is highly hydration dependent. Here in this article, we develop and use a multiphysics, multiphase model to explore water management in AEMFCs. We demonstrate that the low performance is mostly caused by extremely non-uniform distribution of water in the ionomer phase. A sensitivity analysis of design parameters including humidification strategies, membrane properties, and water transport resistance was undertaken to explore possible optimization strategies. Furthermore, the strategy and issues of reducing bicarbonate/carbonate buildup inmore » the membrane-electrode assembly with CO 2 from air is demonstrated based on the model prediction. Overall, mathematical modeling is used to explore trends and strategies to overcome performance bottlenecks and help enable AEMFC commercialization.« less

Methods of making membrane electrode assemblies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Yu Seung; Lee, Kwan -Soo; Rockward, Tommy Q. T.

Method of making a membrane electrode assembly comprising: providing a membrane comprising a perfluorinated sulfonic acid; providing a first transfer substrate; applying to a surface of the first transfer substrate a first ink, said first ink comprising an ionomer and a catalyst; applying to the first ink a suitable non-aqueous swelling agent; forming an assembly comprising: the membrane; and the first transfer substrate, wherein the surface of the first transfer substrate comprising the first ink and the non-aqueous swelling agent is disposed upon one surface of the membrane; and heating the assembly at a temperature of 150.degree. C. or lessmore » and at a pressure of from about 250 kPa to about 3000 kPa or less for a time suitable to allow substantially complete transfer of the first ink and the second ink to the membrane; and cooling the assembly to room temperature and removing the first transfer substrate and the second transfer substrate.« less

Nano-level monitoring of Mn(2+) ion by fabrication of coated pyrolytic graphite electrode based on isonicotinohydrazide derivatives.

PubMed

Sahani, Manoj Kumar; Singh, A K; Jain, A K

2015-05-01

The two ionophores N'(N',N‴E,N',N‴E)-N',N‴-((((oxybis(ethane-2,1-diyl))bis(oxy)) bis(2,1-phenylene))bis(methanylylidene))di(isonicotinohydrazide) (I1) and (N',N‴E,N',N‴E)-N',N‴-(((propane-1,3-diylbis(oxy))bis(2,1-phenylene))bis(methanylylidene))di(isonicotinohydrazide) (I2) were synthesised and investigated as neutral carrier in the fabrication of Mn(2+) ion selective sensor. Several membranes were prepared by incorporating different plasticizers and anionic excluders and their effect on potentiometric response was studied. The best analytical performance was obtained with the electrode having a membrane of composition of I2: PVC: o-NPOE: NaTPB in the ratio of 6:34:58:2 (w/w, mg). Comparative studies of coated graphite electrode (CGE) and coated pyrolytic graphite electrode (CPGE) based on I2 reveal the superiority of CPGE. The CPGE exhibits wide working concentration range of 1.23×10(-8)-1.0×10(-1) mol L(-1) and a detection limit down to 4.78×10(-9) mol L(-1) with a Nernstian slope of 29.5±0.4 mV decade(-1) of activity. The sensor performs satisfactorily over a wide pH range (3.5-9.0) and exhibited a quick response time (9s). The sensor can work satisfactorily in water-acetonitrile and water-methanol mixtures. It can tolerate 30% acetonitrile and 20% methanol content in the mixtures. The sensor could be used for a period of four months without any significant divergence in performance. The sensor reflects its utility in the quantification of Mn(2+) ion in real samples and has been successfully employed as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of Mn(2+) ion with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Nagy, Z.; Yonco, R.M.; You, H.; Melendres, C.A.

1992-08-25

An electrochemical cell has a layer-type or sandwich configuration with a Teflon center section that houses working, reference and counter electrodes and defines a relatively narrow electrolyte cavity. The center section is surrounded on both sides with thin Teflon membranes. The membranes are pressed in place by a pair of Teflon inner frames which are in turn supported by a pair of outer metal frames. The pair of inner and outer frames are provided with corresponding, appropriately shaped slits that are in plane generally transverse to the plane of the working electrode and permit X-ray beams to enter and exit the cell through the Teflon membranes that cover the slits so that the interface between the working electrode and the electrolyte within the cell may be analyzed by transmission geometry. In one embodiment, the center section consists of two parts, one on top of the other. Alternatively, the center section of the electrochemical cell may consist of two intersliding pieces or may be made of a single piece of Teflon sheet material. The electrolyte cavity is shaped so that the electrochemical cell can be rotated 90[degree] in either direction while maintaining the working and counter electrodes submerged in the electrolyte. 5 figs.

Electrochemical cell

DOEpatents

Nagy, Zoltan; Yonco, Robert M.; You, Hoydoo; Melendres, Carlos A.

1992-01-01

An electrochemical cell has a layer-type or sandwich configuration with a Teflon center section that houses working, reference and counter electrodes and defines a relatively narrow electrolyte cavity. The center section is surrounded on both sides with thin Teflon membranes. The membranes are pressed in place by a pair of Teflon inner frames which are in turn supported by a pair of outer metal frames. The pair of inner and outer frames are provided with corresponding, appropriately shaped slits that are in plane generally transverse to the plane of the working electrode and permit X-ray beams to enter and exit the cell through the Teflon membranes that cover the slits so that the interface between the working electrode and the electrolyte within the cell may be analyzed by transmission geometry. In one embodiment, the center section consists of two parts, one on top of the other. Alternatively, the center section of the electrochemical cell may consist of two intersliding pieces or may be made of a single piece of Teflon sheet material. The electrolyte cavity is shaped so that the electrochemical cell can be rotated 90.degree. in either direction while maintaining the working and counter electrodes submerged in the electrolyte.

Nature inspired capacitive sensor with unique and unclonable characteristic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karuthedath, C. B.; Schwesinger, N.

2018-02-01

Background of this paper is the development of sensors showing a nature like characteristic. The sensor is able to detect excitations on inertia bases and operates capacitive. It consists of a miniaturized interdigitated electrode structure on a printed circuit board, a flexible and conductive membrane of PDMS located in a certain distance above and a certain number of steel balls fixed on top of the membrane. The steel ball distribution is random and the conductivity of the membrane is not homogeneous across the membrane. Due to this double random distribution, no sensor equals the other, although the external geometry is equal. The overall size of the sensor is 4.7mm x 4.7mm x 1.7mm. Tilt, acceleration or magnetic fields are capable of causing forces on the steel balls and therefore relative movements between the membrane and the electrode structures. Due to this movement, capacity changes of the arrangement are measurable. This paper describes besides the fabrication of conductive membranes the preparation of regarding sensors. Process technology makes cloning of the sensors impossible. Although all process steps are suited for mass production, no sensor equals the other. Measurements with these sensors prove that each sensor reacts differently to the same excitation. Calculations of the Intra-Concordance-Coefficient show the similarity of the sensors for equal excitations. On the other hand, the maximum Inter-Concordance-Coefficient reveals the differences of such sensors very clearly. Such a characteristic, i.e. equal reaction to equal excitation and an output of significantly different signals allows considering each sensor as a unique device. The sensors obviously behave like receptors in natural organisms. These unusual properties of uniqueness and impossibility to clone make the sensors very interesting for highly secure identification demands. In combination with a very simple measurement procedure, the sensors are an attractive hardware base for technical security solutions.

A method for improving the drop test performance of a MEMS microphone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winter, Matthias; Ben Aoun, Seifeddine; Feiertag, Gregor; Leidl, Anton; Scheele, Patrick; Seidel, Helmut

2009-05-01

Most micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) microphones are designed as capacitive microphones where a thin conductive membrane is located in front of a rigid counter electrode. The membrane is exposed to the environment to convert sound into vibrations of the membrane. The movement of the membrane causes a change in the capacitance between the membrane and the counter electrode. The resonance frequency of the membrane is designed to occur above the acoustic spectrum to achieve a linear frequency response. To obtain a good sensitivity the thickness of the membrane must be as small as possible, typically below 0.5 μm. These fragile membranes may be damaged by rapid pressure changes. For cell phones, drop tests are among the most relevant reliability tests. The extremely high acceleration during the drop impact leads to fast pressure changes in the microphone which could result in a rupture of the membrane. To overcome this problem a stable protection layer can be placed at a small distance to the membrane. The protective layer has small holes to form a low pass filter for air pressure. The low pass filter reduces pressure changes at high frequencies so that damage to the membrane by excitation in resonance will be prevented.

Lateral trapping of DNA inside a voltage gated nanopore

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Töws, Thomas; Reimann, Peter

2017-06-01

The translocation of a short DNA fragment through a nanopore is addressed when the perforated membrane contains an embedded electrode. Accurate numerical solutions of the coupled Poisson, Nernst-Planck, and Stokes equations for a realistic, fully three-dimensional setup as well as analytical approximations for a simplified model are worked out. By applying a suitable voltage to the membrane electrode, the DNA can be forced to preferably traverse the pore either along the pore axis or at a small but finite distance from the pore wall.

Micro-sonicator for spore lysis

DOEpatents

Miles, Robin R.; Belgrader, Phillip; Nasarabadi, Shanavaz L.

2000-01-01

A micro-sonicator for spore lysis. Using micromachining technology, the micro-sonicator uses ultrasonic excitation of spores to perform spore and cell lysis. The micro-sonicator comprises a container with a cavity therein for retaining the sample in an ultrasonic transmission medium, the cavity being closed by a silicon membrane to which an electrode and piezoelectric material are attached, with the electrode and piezoelectric material being electrically connected to an AC signal generator which causes the membrane to flex and vibrate at the frequency of the applied voltage.

Amperometric Enzyme Electrodes

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-12-01

form of carbon (glascy carbon , graphite, reticulated vitreous carbon , carbon paste, fiber or foil). Carbon is favored for enzyme immoblization...the surface for covalent bonding. The most frequently used electrode material, glassy carbon , often displays complex behavior. Although attempts have...Mixed Carbon Paste Electrode with an Immobilized Layer of D-Gluconate Dehydrogenase from Bacteral Membranes," Agric. Biol. Chelm., 51 (1987), 747-754

Novel LTCC-potentiometric microfluidic device for biparametric analysis of organic compounds carrying plastic antibodies as ionophores: application to sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim.

PubMed

Almeida, S A A; Arasa, E; Puyol, M; Martinez-Cisneros, C S; Alonso-Chamarro, J; Montenegro, M C B S M; Sales, M G F

2011-12-15

Monitoring organic environmental contaminants is of crucial importance to ensure public health. This requires simple, portable and robust devices to carry out on-site analysis. For this purpose, a low-temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) microfluidic potentiometric device (LTCC/μPOT) was developed for the first time for an organic compound: sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Sensory materials relied on newly designed plastic antibodies. Sol-gel, self-assembling monolayer and molecular-imprinting techniques were merged for this purpose. Silica beads were amine-modified and linked to SMX via glutaraldehyde modification. Condensation polymerization was conducted around SMX to fill the vacant spaces. SMX was removed after, leaving behind imprinted sites of complementary shape. The obtained particles were used as ionophores in plasticized PVC membranes. The most suitable membrane composition was selected in steady-state assays. Its suitability to flow analysis was verified in flow-injection studies with regular tubular electrodes. The LTCC/μPOT device integrated a bidimensional mixer, an embedded reference electrode based on Ag/AgCl and an Ag-based contact screen-printed under a micromachined cavity of 600 μm depth. The sensing membranes were deposited over this contact and acted as indicating electrodes. Under optimum conditions, the SMX sensor displayed slopes of about -58.7 mV/decade in a range from 12.7 to 250 μg/mL, providing a detection limit of 3.85 μg/mL and a sampling throughput of 36 samples/h with a reagent consumption of 3.3 mL per sample. The system was adjusted later to multiple analyte detection by including a second potentiometric cell on the LTCC/μPOT device. No additional reference electrode was required. This concept was applied to Trimethoprim (TMP), always administered concomitantly with sulphonamide drugs, and tested in fish-farming waters. The biparametric microanalyzer displayed Nernstian behaviour, with average slopes -54.7 (SMX) and +57.8 (TMP) mV/decade. To demonstrate the microanalyzer capabilities for real applications, it was successfully applied to single and simultaneous determination of SMX and TMP in aquaculture waters. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Towards fast, reliable, and manufacturable DEAs: miniaturized motor and Rupert the rolling robot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rosset, Samuel; Shea, Herbert

2015-04-01

Dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) are known for their large strains, low mass and high compliance, making them very attractive for a broad range of applications, from soft robotics to tuneable optics, or energy harvesting. However, 15 years after the first major paper in the field, commercial applications of the technology are still scarce, owing to high driving voltages, short lifetimes, slow response speed, viscoelastic drift, and no optimal solution for the compliant electrodes. At the EPFL's Microsystems for Space Technologies laboratory, we have been working on the miniaturization and manufacturability of DETs for the past 10 years. In the frame of this talk, we present our fabrication processes for high quality thin-_lm silicone membranes, and for patterning compliant electrodes on the sub mm-scale. We use either implantation of gold nano-clusters through a mask, or pad-printing of conductive rubber to precisely shape the electrodes on the dielectric membrane. Our electrodes are compliant, time stable and present strong adhesion to the membrane. The combination of low mechanical- loss elastomers with robust and precisely-defined electrodes allows for the fabrication of very fast actuators that exhibit a long lifetime. We present different applications of our DET fabrication process, such as a soft tuneable lens with a settling time smaller than 175 microseconds, a motor spinning at 1500 rpm, and a self-commutating rolling robot.

Through-plane conductivities of membranes for nonaqueous redox flow batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Anderson, Travis Mark; Small, Leo J.; Pratt, III, Harry D.

In this study, nonaqueous redox flow batteries (RFB) leverage nonaqueous solvents to enable higher operating voltages compared to their aqueous counterparts. Most commercial components for flow batteries, however, are designed for aqueous use. One critical component, the ion-selective membrane, provides ionic conductance between electrodes while preventing crossover of electroactive species. Here we evaluate the area-specific conductances and through-plane conductivities of commercially available microporous separators (Celgard 2400, 2500) and anion exchange membranes (Neosepta AFX, Neosepta AHA, Fumasep FAP-450, Fumasep FAP-PK) soaked in acetonitrile, propylene carbonate, or two imidazolium-based ionic liquids. Fumasep membranes combined with acetonitrile-based electrolyte solutions provided the highest conductancemore » values and conductivities by far. When tested in ionic liquids, all anion exchange membranes displayed conductivities greater than those of the Celgard microporous separators, though the separators’ decreased thickness-enabled conductances on par with the most conductive anion exchange membranes. Ionic conductivity is not the only consideration when choosing an anion exchange membrane; testing of FAP-450 and FAP-PK membranes in a nonaqueous RFB demonstrated that the increased mechanical stability of PEEK-supported FAP-PK minimized swelling, in turn decreasing solvent mediated crossover and enabling greater electrochemical yields (40% vs. 4%) and Coulombic efficiencies (94% vs. 90%) compared to the unsupported, higher conductance FAP-450.« less

Through-plane conductivities of membranes for nonaqueous redox flow batteries

DOE PAGES

Anderson, Travis Mark; Small, Leo J.; Pratt, III, Harry D.; ...

2015-08-13

In this study, nonaqueous redox flow batteries (RFB) leverage nonaqueous solvents to enable higher operating voltages compared to their aqueous counterparts. Most commercial components for flow batteries, however, are designed for aqueous use. One critical component, the ion-selective membrane, provides ionic conductance between electrodes while preventing crossover of electroactive species. Here we evaluate the area-specific conductances and through-plane conductivities of commercially available microporous separators (Celgard 2400, 2500) and anion exchange membranes (Neosepta AFX, Neosepta AHA, Fumasep FAP-450, Fumasep FAP-PK) soaked in acetonitrile, propylene carbonate, or two imidazolium-based ionic liquids. Fumasep membranes combined with acetonitrile-based electrolyte solutions provided the highest conductancemore » values and conductivities by far. When tested in ionic liquids, all anion exchange membranes displayed conductivities greater than those of the Celgard microporous separators, though the separators’ decreased thickness-enabled conductances on par with the most conductive anion exchange membranes. Ionic conductivity is not the only consideration when choosing an anion exchange membrane; testing of FAP-450 and FAP-PK membranes in a nonaqueous RFB demonstrated that the increased mechanical stability of PEEK-supported FAP-PK minimized swelling, in turn decreasing solvent mediated crossover and enabling greater electrochemical yields (40% vs. 4%) and Coulombic efficiencies (94% vs. 90%) compared to the unsupported, higher conductance FAP-450.« less

MOF-Based Membrane Encapsulated ZnO Nanowires for Enhanced Gas Sensor Selectivity.

PubMed

Drobek, Martin; Kim, Jae-Hun; Bechelany, Mikhael; Vallicari, Cyril; Julbe, Anne; Kim, Sang Sub

2016-04-06

Gas sensors are of a great interest for applications including toxic or explosive gases detection in both in-house and industrial environments, air quality monitoring, medical diagnostics, or control of food/cosmetic properties. In the area of semiconductor metal oxides (SMOs)-based sensors, a lot of effort has been devoted to improve the sensing characteristics. In this work, we report on a general methodology for improving the selectivity of SMOx nanowires sensors, based on the coverage of ZnO nanowires with a thin ZIF-8 molecular sieve membrane. The optimized ZnO@ZIF-8-based nanocomposite sensor shows markedly selective response to H2 in comparison with the pristine ZnO nanowires sensor, while showing the negligible sensing response to C7H8 and C6H6. This original MOF-membrane encapsulation strategy applied to nanowires sensor architecture pave the way for other complex 3D architectures and various types of applications requiring either gas or ion selectivity, such as biosensors, photo(catalysts), and electrodes.

Stability of High-Performance Pt-Based Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reactions.

PubMed

Lin, Rui; Cai, Xin; Zeng, Hao; Yu, Zhuoping

2018-04-01

Due to their environmental sustainability and high efficiency, proton-exchange-membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are expected to be an essential type of energy source for electric vehicles, energy generation, and the space industry in the coming decades. Here, the recent developments regarding shape-controlled nanostructure catalysts are reviewed, with a focus on the stability of high-performance Pt-based catalysts and related mechanisms. The catalysts, which possess great activity, are still far from meeting the requirements of their applications, due to stability issues, especially in membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs). Thus, solutions toward the comprehensive performance of Pt-based catalysts are discussed here. The research trends and related theories that can promote the application of Pt-based catalysts are also provided. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Electrode assembly for use in a solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell

DOEpatents

Raistrick, Ian D.

1989-01-01

A gas reaction fuel cell may be provided with a solid polymer electrolyte membrane. Porous gas diffusion electrodes are formed of carbon particles supporting a catalyst which is effective to enhance the gas reactions. The carbon particles define interstitial spaces exposing the catalyst on a large surface area of the carbon particles. A proton conducting material, such as a perfluorocarbon copolymer or ruthenium dioxide contacts the surface areas of the carbon particles adjacent the interstitial spaces. The proton conducting material enables protons produced by the gas reactions adjacent the supported catalyst to have a conductive path with the electrolyte membrane. The carbon particles provide a conductive path for electrons. A suitable electrode may be formed by dispersing a solution containing a proton conducting material over the surface of the electrode in a manner effective to coat carbon surfaces adjacent the interstitial spaces without impeding gas flow into the interstitial spaces.

MEMBRANE AND PROTOPLASM RESISTANCE IN THE SQUID GIANT AXON

PubMed Central

Cole, Kenneth S.; Hodgkin, Alan L.

1939-01-01

The direct current longitudinal resistance of the squid giant axon was measured as a function of the electrode separation. Large sea water electrodes were used and the inter-electrode length was immersed in oil. The slope of the resistance vs. separation curve is large for a small electrode separation, but becomes smaller and finally constant as the separation is increased. An analysis of the resistance vs. length curves gives the following results. The nerve membrane has a resistance of about 1000 ohm cm.2 The protoplasm has a specific resistance of about 1.4 times that of sea water. The resistance of the connective tissue sheath outside the fiber corresponds to a layer of sea water about 20µ in thickness. The characteristic length for the axon is about 2.3 mm. in oil and 6.0 mm. in sea water. PMID:19873126

Characterization of Pressure Transients Generated by Nanosecond Electrical Pulse (nsEP) Exposure

PubMed Central

Roth, Caleb C.; Barnes Jr., Ronald A.; Ibey, Bennett L.; Beier, Hope T.; Christopher Mimun, L.; Maswadi, Saher M.; Shadaram, Mehdi; Glickman, Randolph D.

2015-01-01

The mechanism(s) responsible for the breakdown (nanoporation) of cell plasma membranes after nanosecond pulse (nsEP) exposure remains poorly understood. Current theories focus exclusively on the electrical field, citing electrostriction, water dipole alignment and/or electrodeformation as the primary mechanisms for pore formation. However, the delivery of a high-voltage nsEP to cells by tungsten electrodes creates a multitude of biophysical phenomena, including electrohydraulic cavitation, electrochemical interactions, thermoelastic expansion, and others. To date, very limited research has investigated non-electric phenomena occurring during nsEP exposures and their potential effect on cell nanoporation. Of primary interest is the production of acoustic shock waves during nsEP exposure, as it is known that acoustic shock waves can cause membrane poration (sonoporation). Based on these observations, our group characterized the acoustic pressure transients generated by nsEP and determined if such transients played any role in nanoporation. In this paper, we show that nsEP exposures, equivalent to those used in cellular studies, are capable of generating high-frequency (2.5 MHz), high-intensity (>13 kPa) pressure transients. Using confocal microscopy to measure cell uptake of YO-PRO®-1 (indicator of nanoporation of the plasma membrane) and changing the electrode geometry, we determined that acoustic waves alone are not responsible for poration of the membrane. PMID:26450165

High performance membrane-electrode assembly based on a surface-modified membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Sangil; Lee, Jang Woo; Kwak, Chan; Chai, Geun Seok; Son, In Hyuk; Jang, Moon Yup; An, Sung Guk; Cho, Sung Yong; Kim, Jun Young; Kim, Hyung Wook; Serov, Alexey Alexandrovych; Yoo, Youngtai; Nam, Kie Hyun

A surface-modified membrane is prepared using a sputtering technique that deposits gold directly on a Nafion ® 115 membrane surface that is roughened with silicon carbide paper. The surface-modified membranes are characterized by means of a scanning electron microscope (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and water contact-angle analysis. A single direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) with a surface-modified membrane exhibits enhanced performance (160 mW cm -2), while a bare Nafion ® 115 cell yields 113 mW cm -2 at 0.4 V and an operating temperature of 70 °C. From FE-SEM images and CO ad stripping voltammograms, it is also found that the gold layer is composed of clusters of porous nodule-like particles, which indicates that an anode with nodule-like gold leads to the preferential oxidation of carbon monoxide. These results suggest that the topology of gold in the interfacial area and its electrocatalytic nature may be the critical factors that affect DMFC performance.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shiau, Huai-Suen; Zenyuk, Iryna V.; Weber, Adam Z.

Water management is a serious concern for alkaline-exchange-membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) because water is a reactant in the alkaline oxygen-reduction reaction and hydroxide conduction in alkaline-exchange membranes is highly hydration dependent. Here in this article, we develop and use a multiphysics, multiphase model to explore water management in AEMFCs. We demonstrate that the low performance is mostly caused by extremely non-uniform distribution of water in the ionomer phase. A sensitivity analysis of design parameters including humidification strategies, membrane properties, and water transport resistance was undertaken to explore possible optimization strategies. Furthermore, the strategy and issues of reducing bicarbonate/carbonate buildup inmore » the membrane-electrode assembly with CO 2 from air is demonstrated based on the model prediction. Overall, mathematical modeling is used to explore trends and strategies to overcome performance bottlenecks and help enable AEMFC commercialization.« less

A numerical model for CO effect evaluation in HT-PEMFCs: Part 2 - Application to different membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cozzolino, R.; Chiappini, D.; Tribioli, L.

2016-06-01

In this paper, a self-made numerical model of a high temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell is presented. In particular, we focus on the impact of CO poisoning on fuel cell performance and its influence on electrochemical modelling. More specifically, the aim of this work is to demonstrate the effectiveness of our zero-dimensional electrochemical model of HT-PEMFCs, by comparing numerical and experimental results, obtained from two different commercial membranes electrode assemblies: the first one is based on polybenzimidazole (PBI) doped with phosphoric acid, while the second one uses a PBI electrolyte with aromatic polyether polymers/copolymers bearing pyridine units, always doped with H3PO4. The analysis has been carried out considering both the effect of CO poisoning and operating temperature for the two membranes above mentioned.

Determination of Cd2+ in aqueous solution using polyindole-Ce(IV) vanadophosphate conductive nanocomposite ion-selective membrane electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Asif Ali; Quasim Khan, Mohd; Hussain, Rizwan

2017-09-01

In the present study an organic-inorganic nanocomposite ion exchanger Polyindole-Ce(IV) vanadophosphate (PIn-CVP) was synthesized via sol-gel process showing excellent ion exchange capacity (IEC‒1.90 meqg-1). The material was characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR, and TGA. A heterogeneous ion exchange membrane of PIn-CVP (IEC‒0.90 meqg-1) was also prepared by solution casting method. PIn-CVP shows high electrical conductivity (5.5  ×  10-2 S cm-1) and it is stable up to 120 °C under ambient conditions. Cd2+ selective membrane electrode was fabricated and its linear working range (3.98  ×  10-7 M to 1.0  ×  10-1 M), response time (25 s), Nerstian slope 25.00 mV dec-1 and working pH range (4-7) were calculated. It was employed as an indicator electrode in the potentiometric titration of Cd2+.

Use of marker ion and cationic surfactant plastic membrane electrode for potentiometric titration of cationic polyelectrolytes.

PubMed

Masadome, Takashi; Imato, Toshihiko

2003-07-04

A plasticized poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) membrane electrode sensitive to stearyltrimethylammonium (STA) ion is applied to the determination of cationic polyelectrolytes such as poly (diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (Cat-floc) by potentiometric titration, using a potassium poly (vinyl sulfate) (PVSK) solution as a titrant. The end-point of the titration is detected as the potential change of the plasticized PVC membrane electrode caused by decrease in the concentration of STA ion added to the sample solution as a marker ion due to the ion association reaction between the STA ion and PVSK. The effects of the concentration of STA ion, coexisting electrolytes in the sample solution and pH of the sample on the degree of the potential change at the end-point were examined. A linear relationship between the concentration of cationic polyelectrolyte and the end-point volume of the titrant exists in the concentration range from 2x10(-5) to 4x10(-4) N for Cat-floc, glycol chitosan, and methylglycol chitosan.

Factors in electrode fabrication for performance enhancement of anion exchange membrane water electrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Min Kyung; Park, Hee-Young; Choe, Seunghoe; Yoo, Sung Jong; Kim, Jin Young; Kim, Hyoung-Juhn; Henkensmeier, Dirk; Lee, So Young; Sung, Yung-Eun; Park, Hyun S.; Jang, Jong Hyun

2017-04-01

To improve the cell performance for alkaline anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE), the effects of the amount of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) non-ionomeric binder in the anode and the hot-pressing conditions during the fabrication of the membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) on cell performances are studied. The electrochemical impedance data indicates that hot-pressing at 50 °C for 1 min during MEA construction can reduce the polarization resistance of AEMWE by ∼12%, and increase the initial water electrolysis current density at 1.8 V (from 195 to 243 mA cm-2). The electrochemical polarization and impedance results also suggest that the AEMWE performance is significantly affected by the content of PTFE binder in the anode electrode, and the optimal content is found to be 9 wt% between 5 and 20 wt%. The AEMWE device fabricated with the optimized parameters exhibits good water splitting performance (299 mA cm-2 at 1.8 V) without noticeable degradation in voltage cycling operations.

Aqueous liquid feed organic fuel cell using solid polymer electrolyte membrane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olah, George A. (Inventor); Surampudi, Subbarao (Inventor); Vamos, Eugene (Inventor); Halpert, Gerald (Inventor); Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Frank, Harvey A. (Inventor); Prakash, G. K. Surya (Inventor)

1997-01-01

A liquid organic fuel cell is provided which employs a solid electrolyte membrane. An organic fuel, such as a methanol/water mixture, is circulated past an anode of a cell while oxygen or air is circulated past a cathode of the cell. The cell solid electrolyte membrane is preferably fabricated from Nafion.TM.. Additionally, a method for improving the performance of carbon electrode structures for use in organic fuel cells is provided wherein a high surface-area carbon particle/Teflon.TM.-binder structure is immersed within a Nafion.TM./methanol bath to impregnate the electrode with Nafion.TM.. A method for fabricating an anode for use in a organic fuel cell is described wherein metal alloys are deposited onto the electrode in an electro-deposition solution containing perfluorooctanesulfonic acid. A fuel additive containing perfluorooctanesulfonic acid for use with fuel cells employing a sulfuric acid electrolyte is also disclosed. New organic fuels, namely, trimethoxymethane, dimethoxymethane, and trioxane are also described for use with either conventional or improved fuel cells.

Microfabrication and characterization of an array of dielectric elastomer actuators generating uniaxial strain to stretch individual cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbari, S.; Shea, H. R.

2012-04-01

Cells regulate their behavior in response to mechanical strains. Cell cultures to study mechanotransuction are typically cm2 in area, far too large to monitor single cell response. We have developed an array of dielectric elastomer microactuators as a tool to study mechanotransduction of individual cells. The array consists of 72 100 µm × 200 µm electroactive polymer actuators which expand uniaxially when a voltage is applied. Single cells will be attached on each actuator to study their response to periodic mechanical strains. The device is fabricated by patterning compliant microelectrodes on both sides of a 30 µm thick polydimethylsiloxane membrane, which is bonded to a Pyrex chip with 200 µm wide trenches. Low-energy metal ion implantation is used to make stretchable electrodes and we demonstrate here the successful miniaturization of such ion-implanted electrodes. The top electrode covers the full membrane area, while the bottom electrodes are 100 µm wide parallel lines, perpendicular to the trenches. Applying a voltage between the top and bottom electrodes leads to uniaxial expansion of the membrane at the intersection of the bottom electrodes and the trenches. To characterize the in-plane strain, an array of 4 µm diameter aluminum dots is deposited on each actuator. The position of each dot is tracked, allowing displacement and strain profiles to be measured as a function of voltage. The uniaxial strain reaches 4.7% at 2.9 kV with a 0.2 s response time, sufficient to stimulate most cells with relevant biological strains and frequencies.

Development of a Portable Taste Sensor with a Lipid/Polymer Membrane

PubMed Central

Tahara, Yusuke; Nakashi, Kenichi; Ji, Ke; Ikeda, Akihiro; Toko, Kiyoshi

2013-01-01

We have developed a new portable taste sensor with a lipid/polymer membrane and conducted experiments to evaluate the sensor's performance. The fabricated sensor consists of a taste sensor chip (40 mm × 26 mm × 2.2 mm) with working and reference electrodes and a portable sensor device (80 mm × 25 mm × 20 mm). The working electrode consists of a taste-sensing site comprising a poly(hydroxyethyl)methacrylate (pHEMA) hydrogel layer with KCl as the electrolyte layer and a lipid/polymer membrane as the taste sensing element. The reference electrode comprises a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane layer with a small hole and a pHEMA layer with KCl. The whole device is the size of a USB memory stick, making it suitable for portable use. The sensor's response to tannic acid as the standard astringency substance showed good accuracy and reproducibility, and was comparable with the performance of a commercially available taste sensing system. Thus, it is possible for this sensor to be used for in-field evaluations and it can make a significant contribution to the food industry, as well as in various fields of research. PMID:23325168

Potentiometric Aptasensing of Vibrio alginolyticus Based on DNA Nanostructure-Modified Magnetic Beads

PubMed Central

Zhao, Guangtao; Ding, Jiawang; Yu, Han; Yin, Tanji; Qin, Wei

2016-01-01

A potentiometric aptasensing assay that couples the DNA nanostructure-modified magnetic beads with a solid-contact polycation-sensitive membrane electrode for the detection of Vibrio alginolyticus is herein described. The DNA nanostructure-modified magnetic beads are used for amplification of the potential response and elimination of the interfering effect from a complex sample matrix. The solid-contact polycation-sensitive membrane electrode using protamine as an indicator is employed to chronopotentiometrically detect the change in the charge or DNA concentration on the magnetic beads, which is induced by the interaction between Vibrio alginolyticus and the aptamer on the DNA nanostructures. The present potentiometric aptasensing method shows a linear range of 10–100 CFU mL−1 with a detection limit of 10 CFU mL−1, and a good specificity for the detection of Vibrio alginolyticus. This proposed strategy can be used for the detection of other microorganisms by changing the aptamers in the DNA nanostructures. PMID:27918423

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gottesfeld, S.

The recent increase in attention to polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC's) is the result of significant technical advances in this technology and the initiation of some projects for the demonstration of complete PEFC-based power system in a bus or in a passenger car. A PEFC powered vehicle has the potential for zero emission, high energy conversion efficiency and extended range compared to present day battery powered EV's. This paper describes recent achievements in R&D on PEFC's. The major thrust areas have been: (1) demonstration of membrane/electrode assemblies with stable high performance in life tests lasting 4000 hours, employing ultra-low Pt loadings corresponding to only 1/2 oz of Pt for the complete power source of a passenger car; (2) effective remedies for the high sensitivity of the Pt electrocatalyst to impurities in the fuel feed stream; and (3) comprehensive evaluation of the physicochemical properties of membrane and electrodes in the PEFC, clarifying the water management issues and enabling effective codes and diagnostics for this fuel cell.

Activity inhibition and its mitigation in high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells: The role of phosphoric acid, ammonium trifluoromethanesulfonate, and polyvinylidene difluoride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holst-Olesen, Kaspar; Nesselberger, Markus; Perchthaler, Markus; Hacker, Viktor; Arenz, Matthias

2014-12-01

In the presented work we systematically study the influence of phosphoric acid, ammonium trifluoromethanesulfonate (ATFMS), and polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) on the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of carbon supported, Pt based catalysts. The influence of phosphoric acid is investigated in a mixed solution of perchloric acid with small amounts of phosphoric acid added. Thin-film rotating disk electrode (TF-RDE) measurements show that such a mixed electrolyte is advantageous as the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is inhibited without influencing the oxygen solubility in the electrolyte. In contrast to previous reports it is seen when investigating additives that ATFMS acts as a catalyst poison; whereas the results provide evidence of a better performance in case of the PVDF incorporated catalysts as compared to reference samples without PVDF. The technological relevance of the PVDF improvements and its stability over prolonged time was validated by membrane electrode assembly (MEA) tests.

Composite fuel cell membranes

DOEpatents

Plowman, K.R.; Rehg, T.J.; Davis, L.W.; Carl, W.P.; Cisar, A.J.; Eastland, C.S.

1997-08-05

A bilayer or trilayer composite ion exchange membrane is described suitable for use in a fuel cell. The composite membrane has a high equivalent weight thick layer in order to provide sufficient strength and low equivalent weight surface layers for improved electrical performance in a fuel cell. In use, the composite membrane is provided with electrode surface layers. The composite membrane can be composed of a sulfonic fluoropolymer in both core and surface layers.

Composite fuel cell membranes

DOEpatents

Plowman, Keith R.; Rehg, Timothy J.; Davis, Larry W.; Carl, William P.; Cisar, Alan J.; Eastland, Charles S.

1997-01-01

A bilayer or trilayer composite ion exchange membrane suitable for use in a fuel cell. The composite membrane has a high equivalent weight thick layer in order to provide sufficient strength and low equivalent weight surface layers for improved electrical performance in a fuel cell. In use, the composite membrane is provided with electrode surface layers. The composite membrane can be composed of a sulfonic fluoropolymer in both core and surface layers.

Structures and fabrication techniques for solid state electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2006-10-10

Low-cost, mechanically strong, highly electronically conductive porous substrates and associated structures for solid-state electrochemical devices, techniques for forming these structures, and devices incorporating the structures provide solid state electrochemical device substrates of novel composition and techniques for forming thin electrode/membrane/electrolyte coatings on the novel or more conventional substrates. In particular, in one aspect the invention provides techniques for co-firing of device substrate (often an electrode) with an electrolyte or membrane layer to form densified electrolyte/membrane films 5 to 20 microns thick. In another aspect, densified electrolyte/membrane films 5 to 20 microns thick may be formed on a pre-sintered substrate by a constrained sintering process. In some cases, the substrate may be a porous metal, alloy, or non-nickel cermet incorporating one or more of the transition metals Cr, Fe and Cu, or alloys thereof.

Preparation of polyacrylonitrile nanofibrous membrane for fabrication of separator of lithium ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arifeen, W. U.; Dong, T.; Kurniawan, R.; Ko, T. J.

2018-03-01

In this paper, the manufacturing process and morphology of nano fibrous membranes are discussed. These membranes are explored as separators in rechargeable lithium ion batteries. The function of separator is to allow the flow of ions while protecting the physical contact between positive and negative electrode. Therefore, the porosity, mechanical strength and thermal stability of separators possess significant importance. The separators are manufactured by electrospinning process and later the morphology is studied with the help of scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The separator is prepared by polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and then exposed to the hot plate. The uniform, continuous and dense nano fibrous membrane is prepared with the help of electrospinning process providing the prevention of physical contact between electrode and stable enough to work in high temperatures leading to high performance lithium ion batteries separators.

Label-free electrochemical biosensors based on 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine responsive isoporous silica-micelle membrane.

PubMed

Sun, Qinqin; Yan, Fei; Su, Bin

2018-05-15

3,3',5,5'-Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) has been frequently used as an indicator in G-quadruplex/hemin DNAzyme (G4zyme)-based chemical and biochemical analysis, and its oxidation products are usually monitored by electrochemical or optical methods to quantify G4zyme formation-related analytes. Herein we report a simple electrochemical approach based on isoporous silica-micelle membrane (iSMM) to measure TMB, instead of its oxidation products, in G4zyme-based detection of specific analytes. The iSMM was grown on the indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode, which was composed of highly ordered, vertically oriented silica nanochannels and cylindrical micelles of cetyltrimethylammonium. The iSMM-ITO electrode was selectively responsive to neutral TMB but not its oxidation products, thanks to the sieving and pre-concentration capacity of micellar structures in terms of molecular charge and lipophilicity. In other words, only TMB could be extracted and enriched into micelles and subsequently oxidized at the underlying ITO electrode surface (namely the micelle/ITO interface), generating an amplified anodic current. Since the depletion of TMB was catalyzed by G4zymes formed in the presence of specific analyte, the decrease of this anodic current enabled the quantitative detection of this analyte. The current variation relative to its initial value ((j 0 -j)/j 0 ), termed as the current attenuation ratio, showed the obvious dependence on the analyte concentration. As proof-of-concept experiments, four substances, i.e., potassium cation (K + ), adenosine triphosphate, thrombin and nucleic acid, were detected in aqueous media and the analysis of K + in pre-treated human serum was also performed. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Bio-inspired spider-web-like membranes with a hierarchical structure for high performance lithium/sodium ion battery electrodes: the case of 3D freestanding and binder-free bismuth/CNF anodes.

PubMed

Jin, Yuqiang; Yuan, Haocheng; Lan, Jin-Le; Yu, Yunhua; Lin, Yuan-Hua; Yang, Xiaoping

2017-09-14

High gravimetric energy density and volumetric energy density energy storage devices are highly desirable due to the rapid development of electric vehicles, and portable and wearable electronic equipment. Electrospinning is a promising technology for preparing freestanding electrodes with high gravimetric and volumetric energy density. However, the energy density of the traditional electrospun electrodes is restricted by the low mass loading of active materials (e.g. 20%-30 wt%). Herein, a biomimetic strategy inspired by the phenomenon of the sticky spider web is demonstrated as a high performance anode, which simultaneously improves the gravimetric and volumetric energy density. Freestanding carbon nanofiber (CNF) membranes containing over 50 wt% of bismuth were prepared by electrospinning and subsequent thermal treatment. Membranes consisting of CNF network structures bonded tightly with active Bi cluster materials, resulting in excellent mechanical protection and a fast charge transport path, which are difficult to achieve simultaneously. The composite membrane delivers high reversible capacity (483 mA h g -1 at 100 mA g -1 after 200 cycles) and high rate performance (242 mA h g -1 at 1 A g -1 ) as a lithium-ion battery anode. For use as a sodium ion battery, the composite membrane also shows a high reversible specific capacity of 346 mA h g -1 and outstanding cycling performance (186 mA h g -1 at 50 mA g -1 after 100 cycles). This work offers a simple, low cost and eco-friendly method for fabricating free-standing and binder-free composite electrodes with high loading used in LIBs and SIBs.

Chemical multisensors with selective encapsulation of ion-selective membranes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwager, Felix J.; Bousse, Luc J.; Bowman, Lyn; Meindl, J. D.

Chemical sensors fabricated with simultaneous wafer scale encapsulation of ion selective electrode mambranes are described. The sensors are miniature ion selective electrodes in chambers located on a silicon substrate. These chambers are made by anodically bonding to the silicon a no. 7740 pyrex glass wafer in which cavities were drilled. Pores with dimensions selectable from 50 microns upwards are opened in the roofs of the chambers by drilling with a CO2 laser. Each sensor die contains four cavities which are filled under reduced pressure with liquid membrane material which is subsequently polymerized. The transducers on the cavity floor are Ag/AgCl electrodes. Interconnects between the sensor chambers on each die and bonding pads are made in the silicon substrate.

Improvement and analysis of the hydrogen-cerium redox flow cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tucker, Michael C.; Weiss, Alexandra; Weber, Adam Z.

2016-09-01

The H2-Ce redox flow cell is optimized using commercially-available cell materials. Cell performance is found to be sensitive to the upper charge cutoff voltage, membrane boiling pretreatment, methanesulfonic-acid concentration, (+) electrode surface area and flow pattern, and operating temperature. Performance is relatively insensitive to membrane thickness, Cerium concentration, and all features of the (-) electrode including hydrogen flow. Cell performance appears to be limited by mass transport and kinetics in the cerium (+) electrode. Maximum discharge power of 895 mW cm-2 was observed at 60 °C; an energy efficiency of 90% was achieved at 50 °C. The H2-Ce cell is promising for energy storage assuming one can optimize Ce reaction kinetics and electrolyte.

A thermally regenerative ammonia battery with carbon-silver electrodes for converting low-grade waste heat to electricity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahimi, Mohammad; Kim, Taeyoung; Gorski, Christopher A.; Logan, Bruce E.

2018-01-01

Thermally regenerative ammonia batteries (TRABs) have shown great promise as a method to convert low-grade waste heat into electrical power, with power densities an order of magnitude higher than other approaches. However, previous TRABs based on copper electrodes suffered from unbalanced anode dissolution and cathode deposition rates during discharging cycles, limiting practical applications. To produce a TRAB with stable and reversible electrode reactions over many cycles, inert carbon electrodes were used with silver salts. In continuous flow tests, power production was stable over 100 discharging cycles, demonstrating excellent reversibility. Power densities were 23 W m-2-electrode area in batch tests, which was 64% higher than that produced in parallel tests using copper electrodes, and 30 W m-2 (net energy density of 490 Wh m-3-anolyte) in continuous flow tests. While this battery requires the use a precious metal, an initial economic analysis of the system showed that the cost of the materials relative to energy production was 220 per MWh, which is competitive with energy production from other non-fossil fuel sources. A substantial reduction in costs could be obtained by developing less expensive anion exchange membranes.

Aqueous alkali metal hydroxide insoluble cellulose ether membrane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoyt, H. E.; Pfluger, H. L. (Inventor)

1969-01-01

A membrane that is insoluble in an aqueous alkali metal hydroxide medium is described. The membrane is a resin which is a water-soluble C2-C4 hydroxyalkyl cellulose ether polymer and an insolubilizing agent for controlled water sorption, a dialytic and electrodialytic membrane. It is particularly useful as a separator between electrodes or plates in an alkaline storage battery.

Laccase electrodes based on the combination of single-walled carbon nanotubes and redox layered double hydroxides: Towards the development of biocathode for biofuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Shou-Nian; Holzinger, Michael; Mousty, Christine; Cosnier, Serge

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) were combined with layered double hydroxides (LDH) intercalated with 2,2‧-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) diammonium salt [ZnCr-ABTS] to entrap and electrically connect laccase enzyme. The resulting laccase electrodes exhibited an electro-enzymatic activity for O 2 reduction. To improve this electrocatalytic activity, varying SWCNT quantities and loading methods were tested to optimize the configuration of the laccase electrodes. Furthermore, the resulting bioelectrode was successfully used as a biocathode for the elaboration of a membrane-less glucose/air biofuel cell. In 0.1 M phosphate buffer (PBS) of pH 6.0, containing glucose (5 mM) under ambient conditions, the assembled biofuel cell yielded a maximum power density of 18 μW cm -2 at a cell voltage of 0.3 V whereas this power decreased to 8.3 μW cm -2 for a biofuel cell based on the identical biocathode setup without SWCNT.

A biosensor based on graphite epoxy composite electrode for aspartame and ethanol detection.

PubMed

Kirgöz, Ulkü Anik; Odaci, Dilek; Timur, Suna; Merkoçi, Arben; Alegret, Salvador; Beşün, Nurgün; Telefoncu, Azmi

2006-06-16

A gelatin membrane with carboxyl esterase and alcohol oxidase was subsequently integrated onto the surface of a graphite epoxy composite electrode (GECE). The developed biosensors showed linearity in the range of 2.5-400 microM for aspartame and 2.5-25 microM for ethanol with response times of 170 and 70s for each analyte, respectively. The resulting bienzyme biosensor was used for aspartame detection in diet coke samples and ethanol detection in beer and wine samples. From the obtained results, it can be concluded that the developed biosensor is a selective, practical and economic tool for aspartame and ethanol detection in real samples.

CuC1 thermochemical cycle for hydrogen production

DOEpatents

Fan, Qinbai [Chicago, IL; Liu, Renxuan [Chicago, IL

2012-01-03

An electrochemical cell for producing copper having a dense graphite anode electrode and a dense graphite cathode electrode disposed in a CuCl solution. An anion exchange membrane made of poly(ethylene vinyl alcohol) and polyethylenimine cross-linked with a cross-linking agent selected from the group consisting of acetone, formaldehyde, glyoxal, glutaraldehyde, and mixtures thereof is disposed between the two electrodes.

Molecular Transport in Ionic Polymer Membranes Under an Applied Voltage

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-11-22

in Porous Carbon Electrodes in Supercapacitors Using in Situ Infrared Spectroelectrochemistry, Journal of the American Chemical Society (08 2013...3. Ion Dynamics in Porous Carbon Electrodes in Supercapacitors Using in situ Infrared Spectroelectrochemistry Electrochemical double layer...capacitors (EDLC), or supercapacitors , rely on electrosorption of ions by porous carbon electrodes and offer a higher power and a longer cyclic

Development of a common biosensor format for an enzyme based biosensor array to monitor fruit quality.

PubMed

Jawaheer, Shobha; White, S F; Rughooputh, S D D V; Cullen, David C

2003-10-15

Individual enzyme-based biosensors involving three-electrode systems were developed for the detection of analytes comprising markers of the stage of maturity and quality in selected fruits of economic importance to tropical countries. Importantly, a common fabrication format has been developed to simplify manufacture and allow future integration of the individual sensors into a single multi-sensor array. Specifically, sensors for beta-D-glucose, total D-glucose, sucrose and ascorbic acid have been developed. Pectin, a natural polysaccharide present in plant cells, was used as a novel matrix to enhance enzyme entrapment and stabilisation in the sensors. Except for ascorbic acid, all the sensors function via the detection of enzymatically generated H2O2 at rhodinised carbon electrodes. Since ascorbic acid is electrochemically active at the working potential chosen (+350 mV vs. Ag/AgCl), it was measured directly. Enzyme sensors demonstrated expected response with respect to their substrates, typically 0-0.8 microA/20 mm2 electrode area response over analyte ranges of 0-7 mM. Interferences related to electrochemically active compounds present in fruits under study were significantly reduced by inclusion of a suitable cellulose acetate (CA) membrane or by enzymatic inactivation with ascorbate oxidase. Initial development was carried out into production of biosensor arrays. CA membranes were used to improve the linear range of the sensors, producing up to a fivefold improvement in the detection range compared to sensors without an additional diffusion barrier.

Selective electrical interfaces with the nervous system.

PubMed

Rutten, Wim L C

2002-01-01

To achieve selective electrical interfacing to the neural system it is necessary to approach neuronal elements on a scale of micrometers. This necessitates microtechnology fabrication and introduces the interdisciplinary field of neurotechnology, lying at the juncture of neuroscience with microtechnology. The neuroelectronic interface occurs where the membrane of a cell soma or axon meets a metal microelectrode surface. The seal between these may be narrow or may be leaky. In the latter case the surrounding volume conductor becomes part of the interface. Electrode design for successful interfacing, either for stimulation or recording, requires good understanding of membrane phenomena, natural and evoked action potential generation, volume conduction, and electrode behavior. Penetrating multimicroelectrodes have been produced as one-, two-, and three-dimensional arrays, mainly in silicon, glass, and metal microtechnology. Cuff electrodes circumvent a nerve; their selectivity aims at fascicles more than at nerve fibers. Other types of electrodes are regenerating sieves and cone-ingrowth electrodes. The latter may play a role in brain-computer interfaces. Planar substrate-embedded electrode arrays with cultured neural cells on top are used to study the activity and plasticity of developing neural networks. They also serve as substrates for future so-called cultured probes.

Longitudinally Controlled Modification of Cylindrical and Conical Track-Etched Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Pores Using an Electrochemically Assisted Click Reaction

DOE PAGES

Coceancigh, Herman; Tran-Ba, Khanh-Hoa; Siepser, Natasha; ...

2017-09-27

Here in this study, the longitudinally controlled modification of the inner surfaces of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) track-etched pores was explored using an electrochemically assisted Cu(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) click reaction. Cylindrical or conical PET track-etched pores were first decorated with ethynyl groups via the amidation of surface -COOH groups, filled with a solution containing Cu(II) and azide-tagged fluorescent dye, and then sandwiched between comb-shaped and planar gold electrodes. Cu(I) was produced at the comb-shaped working electrode by the reduction of Cu(II); it diffused along the pores toward the other electrode and catalyzed CuAAC between an azide-tagged fluorescent dye and amore » pore-tethered ethynyl group. The modification efficiency of cylindrical pores (ca. 1 μm in diameter) was assessed from planar and cross-sectional fluorescence microscope images of modified membranes. Planar images showed that pore modification took place only above the teeth of the comb-shaped electrode with a higher reaction yield for longer Cu(II) reduction times. Cross-sectional images revealed micrometer-scale gradient modification along the pore axis, which reflected a Cu(I) concentration profile within the pores, as supported by finite-element computer simulations. The reported approach was applicable to the asymmetric modification of cylindrical pores with two different fluorescent dyes in the opposite directions and also for the selective visualization of the tip and base openings of conical pores (ca. 3.5 μm in base diameter and ca. 1 μm in tip diameter). Lastly, the method based on electrochemically assisted CuAAC provides a controlled means to fabricate asymmetrically modified nanoporous membranes and, in the future, will be applicable for chemical separations and the development of sequential catalytic reactors.« less

Longitudinally Controlled Modification of Cylindrical and Conical Track-Etched Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Pores Using an Electrochemically Assisted Click Reaction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Coceancigh, Herman; Tran-Ba, Khanh-Hoa; Siepser, Natasha

Here in this study, the longitudinally controlled modification of the inner surfaces of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) track-etched pores was explored using an electrochemically assisted Cu(I)-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) click reaction. Cylindrical or conical PET track-etched pores were first decorated with ethynyl groups via the amidation of surface -COOH groups, filled with a solution containing Cu(II) and azide-tagged fluorescent dye, and then sandwiched between comb-shaped and planar gold electrodes. Cu(I) was produced at the comb-shaped working electrode by the reduction of Cu(II); it diffused along the pores toward the other electrode and catalyzed CuAAC between an azide-tagged fluorescent dye and amore » pore-tethered ethynyl group. The modification efficiency of cylindrical pores (ca. 1 μm in diameter) was assessed from planar and cross-sectional fluorescence microscope images of modified membranes. Planar images showed that pore modification took place only above the teeth of the comb-shaped electrode with a higher reaction yield for longer Cu(II) reduction times. Cross-sectional images revealed micrometer-scale gradient modification along the pore axis, which reflected a Cu(I) concentration profile within the pores, as supported by finite-element computer simulations. The reported approach was applicable to the asymmetric modification of cylindrical pores with two different fluorescent dyes in the opposite directions and also for the selective visualization of the tip and base openings of conical pores (ca. 3.5 μm in base diameter and ca. 1 μm in tip diameter). Lastly, the method based on electrochemically assisted CuAAC provides a controlled means to fabricate asymmetrically modified nanoporous membranes and, in the future, will be applicable for chemical separations and the development of sequential catalytic reactors.« less

Ultrahigh PEMFC performance of a thin-film, dual-electrode assembly with tailored electrode morphology.

PubMed

Jung, Chi-Young; Kim, Tae-Hyun; Yi, Sung-Chul

2014-02-01

A dual-electrode membrane electrode assembly (MEA) for proton exchange membrane fuel cells with enhanced polarization under zero relative humidity (RH) is fabricated by introducing a phase-separated morphology in an agglomerated catalyst layer of Pt/C (platinum on carbon black) and Nafion. In the catalyst layer, a sufficient level of phase separation is achieved by dispersing the Pt catalyst and the Nafion dispersion in a mixed-solvent system (propane-1,2,3-triol/1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone).The high polymer chain mobility results in improved water uptake and regular pore-size distribution with small pore diameters. The electrochemical performance of the dual-film electrode assembly with different levels of phase separation is compared to conventional electrode assemblies. As a result, good performance at 0 % RH is obtained because self-humidification is dramatically improved by attaching this dense and phase-separated catalytic overlayer onto the conventional catalyst layer. A MEA prepared using the thin-film, dual-layered electrode exhibits 39-fold increased RH stability and 28-fold improved start-up recovery time during the on-off operation relative to the conventional device. We demonstrate the successful operation of the dual-layered electrode comprised of discriminatively phase-separated agglomerates with an ultrahigh zero RH fuel-cell performance reaching over 95 % performance of a fully humidified MEA. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Anion exchange composite membrane based on octa quaternary ammonium Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane for alkaline fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elumalai, Vijayakumar; Sangeetha, Dharmalingam

2018-01-01

A series of novel composite anion exchange membranes were prepared via simple solution casting method using synthesized quaternary ammonium functionalized Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (QA-POSS) with Quaternary polysulfone (QPSU). QA-POSS was synthesized from prepared Cl-POSS and well characterized by FT-IR, NMR, SEM and TEM analyses to confirm the chemical modifications and cubic morphologies. The QA-POSS nano particles have dual role in the membrane providing additional ion conducting groups and reinforcing the membrane in molecular level for the overall improvement of composite membrane. Additionally, the composite membranes were characterized by XRD, SEM, Ion exchange capacity (IEC), water uptake and conductivity to ensure the suitability of its use as an electrolyte in alkaline fuel cell. Finally, membrane electrode assembly (MEA) was fabricated using Pt anode (0.25 mg/cm2), Ag cathode (0.375 mg/cm2) and various synthesized composite membranes, and then it was tested in real time fuel cell setup. The membrane with 15% QA-POSS showed the maximum power density of 321 mW/cm2. The results showed that QA-POSS possess the ability to enhance the performance of the anion exchange membrane significantly.

Graphene-on-GaN Hot Electron Transistor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zubair, Ahmad; Nourbakhsh, Amirhasan; Hong, Jin-Yong; Song, Yi; Qi, Meng; Jena, Debdeep; Kong, Jing; Dresselhaus, Mildred S.; Palacios, Tomas

Hot electron transistors (HETs) are promising devices for potential high-frequency operation that currently CMOS cannot provide. In an HET, carrier transport is due to the injection of hot electrons from an emitter to a collector which is modulated by a base electrode. Therefore, ultra-thin base electrodes are needed to facilitate ultra-short transit time and high performance for THz operation range. In this regard, graphene, the thinnest conductive membrane in nature, is considered the best candidate for the base material in HETs. The existing HETs with SiO2/Si as emitter stack suffer from low current gain and output current density. In this work, we use the two-dimensional electron gas (2-DEG) in a GaN-based heterostructure as emitter and monolayer graphene as the base electrode. The transport study of the proof-of-concept device shows high output current density (>50 A/cm2) , current gain (>3) and ballistic injection efficiency of 75%. These results indicate that performance parameters can be further improved by engineering the band offset of the graphene/collector stack and improved interface between graphene and GaN. Army Research Office (ARO) (Grant Nos. W911NF-14-2-0071, 6930265, and 6930861).

Nano-yarn carbon nanotube fiber based enzymatic glucose biosensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Zhigang; Song, Wenhui; Burugapalli, Krishna; Moussy, Francis; Li, Ya-Li; Zhong, Xiao-Hua

2010-04-01

A novel brush-like electrode based on carbon nanotube (CNT) nano-yarn fiber has been designed for electrochemical biosensor applications and its efficacy as an enzymatic glucose biosensor demonstrated. The CNT nano-yarn fiber was spun directly from a chemical-vapor-deposition (CVD) gas flow reaction using a mixture of ethanol and acetone as the carbon source and an iron nano-catalyst. The fiber, 28 µm in diameter, was made of bundles of double walled CNTs (DWNTs) concentrically compacted into multiple layers forming a nano-porous network structure. Cyclic voltammetry study revealed a superior electrocatalytic activity for CNT fiber compared to the traditional Pt-Ir coil electrode. The electrode end tip of the CNT fiber was freeze-fractured to obtain a unique brush-like nano-structure resembling a scale-down electrical 'flex', where glucose oxidase (GOx) enzyme was immobilized using glutaraldehyde crosslinking in the presence of bovine serum albumin (BSA). An outer epoxy-polyurethane (EPU) layer was used as semi-permeable membrane. The sensor function was tested against a standard reference electrode. The sensitivities, linear detection range and linearity for detecting glucose for the miniature CNT fiber electrode were better than that reported for a Pt-Ir coil electrode. Thermal annealing of the CNT fiber at 250 °C for 30 min prior to fabrication of the sensor resulted in a 7.5 fold increase in glucose sensitivity. The as-spun CNT fiber based glucose biosensor was shown to be stable for up to 70 days. In addition, gold coating of the electrode connecting end of the CNT fiber resulted in extending the glucose detection limit to 25 µM. To conclude, superior efficiency of CNT fiber for glucose biosensing was demonstrated compared to a traditional Pt-Ir sensor.

Organic non-aqueous cation-based redox flow batteries

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Lu; Huang, Jinhua; Burrell, Anthony

The present invention provides a non-aqueous redox flow battery comprising a negative electrode immersed in a non-aqueous liquid negative electrolyte, a positive electrode immersed in a non-aqueous liquid positive electrolyte, and a cation-permeable separator (e.g., a porous membrane, film, sheet, or panel) between the negative electrolyte from the positive electrolyte. During charging and discharging, the electrolytes are circulated over their respective electrodes. The electrolytes each comprise an electrolyte salt (e.g., a lithium or sodium salt), a transition-metal free redox reactant, and optionally an electrochemically stable organic solvent. Each redox reactant is selected from an organic compound comprising a conjugated unsaturatedmore » moiety, a boron cluster compound, and a combination thereof. The organic redox reactant of the positive electrolyte comprises a tetrafluorohydroquinone ether compound or a tetrafluorocatechol ether compound.« less

Direct Sensing of Total Acidity by Chronopotentiometric Flash Titrations at Polymer Membrane Ion-Selective Electrodes

PubMed Central

Gemene, Kebede L.; Bakker, Eric

2008-01-01

Polymer membrane ion-selective electrodes containing lipophilic ionophores are traditionally interrogated by zero current potentiometry, which, ideally, gives information on the sample activity of ionic species. It is shown here that a discrete cathodic current pulse across an H+-selective polymeric membrane doped with the ionophore ETH 5294 may be used for the chronopotentiometric detection of pH in well buffered samples. However, a reduction in the buffer capacity leads to large deviations from the expected Nernstian response slope. This is explained by the local depletion of hydrogen ions at the sample-membrane interface as a result of the galvanostatically imposed ion flux in direction of the membrane. This depletion is found to be a function of the total acidity of the sample and can be directly monitored chronopotentiometrically in a flash titration experiment. The subsequent application of a baseline potential pulse reverses the extraction process of the current pulse, allowing one to interrogate the sample with minimal perturbation. In one protocol, total acidity is found to be proportional to the magnitude of applied current at the flash titration endpoint. More conveniently, the square root of the flash titration endpoint time observed at a fixed applied current is a linear function of the total acid concentration. This suggests that it is possible to perform rapid localized pH titrations at ion-selective electrodes without the need for volumetric titrimetry. The technique is explored here for acetic acid, MES and citric acid with promising results. Polymeric membrane electrodes on the basis of poly(vinyl chloride) plasticized with o-nitrophenyloctylether in a 1:2 mass ratio may be used for the detection of acids of up to ca. 1 mM concentration, with flash titration times on the order of a few seconds. Possible limitations of the technique are discussed, including variations of the acid diffusion coefficients and influence of electrical migration. PMID:18370399

Poly(aniline) nanowires in sol-gel coated ITO: A pH-responsive substrate for planar supported lipid bilayers

PubMed Central

Ge, Chenhao; Orosz, Kristina S.; Armstrong, Neal R.; Saavedra, S. Scott

2011-01-01

Facilitated ion transport across an artificial lipid bilayer coupled to a solid substrate is a function common to several types of bioelectronic devices based on supported membranes, including biomimetic fuel cells and ion channel biosensors. Described here is fabrication of a pH-sensitive transducer composed of a porous sol-gel layer derivatized with poly(aniline) (PANI) nanowires grown from an underlying planar indium-tin oxide (ITO) electrode. The upper sol-gel surface is hydrophilic, smooth, and compatible with deposition of a planar supported lipid bilayer (PSLB) formed via vesicle fusion. Conducting tip AFM was used to show that the PANI wires are connected to the ITO, which convert this electrode into a potentiometric pH sensor. The response to changes in the pH of the buffer contacting the PANI nanowire/sol-gel/ITO electrode is blocked by the very low ion permeability of the overlying, fluid PSLB. The feasibility of using this assembly to monitor facilitated proton transport across the PSLB was demonstrated by doping the membrane with lipophilic ionophores that respond to a transmembrane pH gradient, which produced an apparent proton permeability several orders of magnitude greater than values measured for undoped lipid bilayers. PMID:21707069

Electromechanical fatigue in IPMC under dynamic energy harvesting conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krishnaswamy, Arvind; Roy Mahapatra, D.

2011-04-01

Ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) are an interesting subset of smart, multi-functional materials that have shown promises in energy conversion technologies. Being electromechanically coupled, IPMCs can function as dynamic actuators and sensors, transducers for energy conversion and harvesting, as well as artificial muscles for medical and industrial applications. Like all natural materials, even IPMCs undergo fatigue under dynamic load conditions. Here, we investigate the electromechanical fatigue induced in the IPMCs due to the application of cyclic mechanical bending deformation under hydrodynamic energy harvesting condition. Considering the viscoelastic nature of the IPMC, we employ an analytical approach to modeling electromechanical fatigue primarily under the cyclic stresses induced in the membrane. The polymer-metal composite undergoes cyclic softening throughout the fatigue life without attaining a saturated state of charge migration. However, it results in (1) degradation of electromechanical performance; (2) nucleation and growth of microscopic cracks in the metal electrodes; (3) delamination of metal electrodes at the polymer-electrode interface. To understand these processes, we employ a phenomenological approach based on experimentally measured relaxation properties of the IPMC membrane. Electromechanical performance improves significantly with self-healing like properties for a certain range of relaxation time. This is due to reorientation of the backbone polymer chains which eventually leads to a regenerative process with increased charge transport.

Simultaneous high-throughput determination of clenbuterol, ambroxol and bromhexine in pharmaceutical formulations by HPLC with potentiometric detection.

PubMed

Bazylak, Grzegorz; Nagels, Luc J

2003-08-08

Potentiometric detection of clenbuterol, ambroxol and bromhexine in marketed pharmaceuticals was described in six isocratic HPLC systems. The podant- and macrocyclic-type neutral ionophores, N,N,N',N'-tetracyclohexyl-oxybis(o-phenyleneoxy)diacetamide (TOPA) and hexakis(2,3,6-tri-O-octyl)-alpha-cyclodextrin (OCD), were applied in poly(vinyl)chloride (PVC)-based liquid membrane electrodes. Both types of neutral ionophores improve the sensitivity for all mentioned drugs when compared with a tetrakis(p-chlorophenyl)borate (BOR)-based electrode as well as with single wavelength UV detection. Detection limits (S/N=3) of 2.6 x 10(-10) mol l(-1) (injected concentration) for the highly hydrophobic bromhexine were achieved with the TOPA-based electrode and a cyano reversed-phase (RP)-HPLC with Uptisphere UP5CN-25QS silica column (250 x 4.6 mm i.d.) eluted with acetonitrile (AcN)-ethanol-perchloric acid (1.66 mM) (60:2:38, v/v/v) (pH* 2.45). Comparable result was obtained with OCD-based electrodes and an XTerra RP18 hybrid silica-polymer column eluted with AcN-phosphoric acid (20 mM) (25:75, v/v) (pH* 2.60). In the mobile phases containing 60-75% v/v AcN or methanol, stable and reproducible response of both types of neutral ionophore-based electrodes was observed for at least 3 days. The results of the validated procedure for reliable simultaneous determination of the drugs in fortified representative samples of pharmaceuticals were also presented.

Environmentally-friendly aqueous Li (or Na)-ion battery with fast electrode kinetics and super-long life

PubMed Central

Dong, Xiaoli; Chen, Long; Liu, Jingyuan; Haller, Servane; Wang, Yonggang; Xia, Yongyao

2016-01-01

Current rechargeable batteries generally display limited cycle life and slow electrode kinetics and contain environmentally unfriendly components. Furthermore, their operation depends on the redox reactions of metal elements. We present an original battery system that depends on the redox of I−/I3− couple in liquid cathode and the reversible enolization in polyimide anode, accompanied by Li+ (or Na+) diffusion between cathode and anode through a Li+/Na+ exchange polymer membrane. There are no metal element–based redox reactions in this battery, and Li+ (or Na+) is only used for charge transfer. Moreover, the components (electrolyte/electrode) of this system are environment-friendly. Both electrodes are demonstrated to have very fast kinetics, which gives the battery a supercapacitor-like high power. It can even be cycled 50,000 times when operated within the electrochemical window of 0 to 1.6 V. Such a system might shed light on the design of high-safety and low-cost batteries for grid-scale energy storage. PMID:26844298

Environmentally-friendly aqueous Li (or Na)-ion battery with fast electrode kinetics and super-long life.

PubMed

Dong, Xiaoli; Chen, Long; Liu, Jingyuan; Haller, Servane; Wang, Yonggang; Xia, Yongyao

2016-01-01

Current rechargeable batteries generally display limited cycle life and slow electrode kinetics and contain environmentally unfriendly components. Furthermore, their operation depends on the redox reactions of metal elements. We present an original battery system that depends on the redox of I(-)/I3 (-) couple in liquid cathode and the reversible enolization in polyimide anode, accompanied by Li(+) (or Na(+)) diffusion between cathode and anode through a Li(+)/Na(+) exchange polymer membrane. There are no metal element-based redox reactions in this battery, and Li(+) (or Na(+)) is only used for charge transfer. Moreover, the components (electrolyte/electrode) of this system are environment-friendly. Both electrodes are demonstrated to have very fast kinetics, which gives the battery a supercapacitor-like high power. It can even be cycled 50,000 times when operated within the electrochemical window of 0 to 1.6 V. Such a system might shed light on the design of high-safety and low-cost batteries for grid-scale energy storage.

Alpha-dispersion in human tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grimnes, Sverre; Martinsen, Ørjan G.

2010-04-01

Beta dispersion is found in living tissue in the kilohertz - megahertz range and is caused by the cellular structure of biological materials with low frequency properties caused by cell membranes. Alpha dispersion is found in the hertz range and the causes are not so well known. Alpha dispersions are the first to disappear when tissue dies. Tissue data have often been based upon excised specimen from animals and are therefore not necessarily representative for human tissue alpha dispersions. Here we present data obtained with non-invasive skin surface electrodes for different segments of the living human body. We found alpha dispersions in all cases; the ankle-wrist results had the smallest. Large alpha dispersions were found where the distance between the electrodes and muscle masses was small, e.g. on the calf. Further studies on electrode technique and reciprocity, electrode positioning, statistical variations, gender, age and bodily constitutions are necessary in order to reveal more about the alpha dispersion, its appearance and disappearance.

All-Solid-State Sodium-Selective Electrode with a Solid Contact of Chitosan/Prussian Blue Nanocomposite

PubMed Central

Ghosh, Tanushree; Rieger, Jana

2017-01-01

Conventional ion-selective electrodes with a liquid junction have the disadvantage of potential drift. All-solid-state ion-selective electrodes with solid contact in between the metal electrode and the ion-selective membrane offer high capacitance or conductance to enhance potential stability. Solution-casted chitosan/Prussian blue nanocomposite (ChPBN) was employed as the solid contact layer for an all-solid-state sodium ion-selective electrode in a potentiometric sodium ion sensor. Morphological and chemical analyses confirmed that the ChPBN is a macroporous network of chitosan that contains abundant Prussian blue nanoparticles. Situated between a screen-printed carbon electrode and a sodium-ionophore-filled polyvinylchloride ion-selective membrane, the ChPBN layer exhibited high redox capacitance and fast charge transfer capability, which significantly enhanced the performance of the sodium ion-selective electrode. A good Nernstian response with a slope of 52.4 mV/decade in the linear range from 10−4–1 M of NaCl was observed. The stability of the electrical potential of the new solid contact was tested by chronopotentiometry, and the capacitance of the electrode was 154 ± 4 µF. The response stability in terms of potential drift was excellent (1.3 µV/h) for 20 h of continuous measurement. The ChPBN proved to be an efficient solid contact to enhance the potential stability of the all-solid-state ion-selective electrode. PMID:29099804

Physicochemically functional ultrathin films by interfacial polymerization

DOEpatents

Lonsdale, Harold K.; Babcock, Walter C.; Friensen, Dwayne T.; Smith, Kelly L.; Johnson, Bruce M.; Wamser, Carl C.

1990-01-01

Interfacially-polymerized ultrathin films containing physicochemically functional groups are disclosed, both with and without supports. Various applications are disclsoed, including membrane electrodes, selective membranes and sorbents, biocompatible materials, targeted drug delivery, and narrow band optical absorbers.

Radiation-Grafted Polymer Electrolyte Membranes for Water Electrolysis Cells: Evaluation of Key Membrane Properties.

PubMed

Albert, Albert; Barnett, Alejandro O; Thomassen, Magnus S; Schmidt, Thomas J; Gubler, Lorenz

2015-10-14

Radiation-grafted membranes can be considered an alternative to perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes, such as Nafion, in a solid polymer electrolyte electrolyzer. Styrene, acrylonitrile, and 1,3-diisopropenylbenzene monomers are cografted into preirradiated 50 μm ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) base film, followed by sulfonation to introduce proton exchange sites to the obtained grafted films. The incorporation of grafts throughout the thickness is demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) analysis of the membrane cross-sections. The membranes are analyzed in terms of grafting kinetics, ion-exchange capacity (IEC), and water uptake. The key properties of radiation-grafted membranes and Nafion, such as gas crossover, area resistance, and mechanical properties, are evaluated and compared. The plot of hydrogen crossover versus area resistance of the membranes results in a property map that indicates the target areas for membrane development for electrolyzer applications. Tensile tests are performed to assess the mechanical properties of the membranes. Finally, these three properties are combined to establish a figure of merit, which indicates that radiation-grafted membranes obtained in the present study are promising candidates with properties superior to those of Nafion membranes. A water electrolysis cell test is performed as proof of principle, including a comparison to a commercial membrane electrode assembly (MEA).

Biosolar energy generation and harvesting from biomolecule-copolymer hybrid systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chu, Bong-Chieh Benjamin

Alternative energy sources have become an increasingly important topic as energy needs outpace supply. Furthermore, as the world moves into the digital age of portable electronics, highly efficient and lightweight energy sources will need to be developed. Current technology, such as lithium ion batteries, provide enough power to run portable electronics for hours or days, but can still allow for improvement in their power density (W/kg). Utilizing energy-transducing membrane proteins, which are by nature highly efficient, it is possible to engineer biological-based energy sources with energy densities far greater than any solid-state systems. Furthermore, solar powered membrane proteins have the added benefit of a virtually unlimited supply of energy. This work has developed protein-polymer hybrid films and nanoscale vesicles for a variety of applications from fuel-cell technology to biological-based photovoltaics. Bacteriorhodopsin (BR), a light-activated proton pump, and Cytochrome C Oxidase (COX), a protein involved in the electron transport chain in mitochondria, were reconstituted into biomimetic triblock copolymer membranes. Block copolymer membranes mimic the amphiphilic nature of a natural lipid bilayer but exhibit greater mechanical stability due to UV-polymerizable endgroups. In BR/COX functionalized nanovesicles, proton gradients generated by the light-activated proton pumping of BR are used to drive COX in reverse to generate electrons, providing a hybrid biologically-active polymer to convert solar energy to chemical energy, and finally to electrical energy. This work has found protein activity in planar membranes through the photoelectric current generation by BR and the proton pumping activity of BR-functionalized polymer membranes deposited onto proton exchange membranes, as well as the coupled functionality of BR and COX through current generation in cyclic voltammetry and direct current measurements. Current switching between light and dark environments of composite BR/COX polymer vesicles show a light-dependent current generation with current changes as high as 10muA. Furthermore, electrode modifications were made using polymer and polymer/carbon nanotube (CNT) coatings as anti-absorbent and conductive anti-absorbent layers for the purpose of a more robust electrode. These findings have shown that biological functionality can be engineered into synthetic polymers to make hybrid devices.

Inert gas rejection device for zinc-halogen battery systems

DOEpatents

Hammond, Michael J.; Arendell, Mark W.

1981-01-01

An electrolytic cell for separating chlorine gas from other (foreign) gases, having an anode, a cathode assembly, an aqueous electrolyte, a housing, and a constant voltage power supply. The cathode assembly is generally comprised of a dense graphite electrode having a winding channel formed in the face opposing the anode, a gas impermeable (but liquid permeable) membrane sealed into the side of the cathode electrode over the channel, and a packing of graphite particles contained in the channel of the cathode electrode. The housing separates and parallelly aligns the anode and cathode assembly, and provides a hermetic seal for the cell. In operation, a stream of chlorine and foreign gases enters the cell at the beginning of the cathode electrode channel. The chlorine gas is dissolved into the electrolyte and electrochemically reduced into chloride ions. The chloride ions disfuse through the gas impermeable membrane, and are electrochemically oxidized at the anode into purified chlorine gas. The foreign gases do not participate in the above electrochemical reactions, and are vented from the cell at the end of the cathode electrode channel.

Fuel cell with ionization membrane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartley, Frank T. (Inventor)

2007-01-01

A fuel cell is disclosed comprising an ionization membrane having at least one area through which gas is passed, and which ionizes the gas passing therethrough, and a cathode for receiving the ions generated by the ionization membrane. The ionization membrane may include one or more openings in the membrane with electrodes that are located closer than a mean free path of molecules within the gas to be ionized. Methods of manufacture are also provided.

Redox storage systems for solar applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagedorn, N. H.; Thaller, L. H.

1980-01-01

The NASA Redox energy storage system is described. The system is based on soluble aqueous iron and chromium chloride redox couples. The needed technology advances in the two elements (electrodes and membranes) that are key to its technological feasibility have been achieved and system development has begun. The design, construction, and test of a 1 kilowatt system integrated with a solar photovoltaic array is discussed.

Development of a Stochastically-driven, Forward Predictive Performance Model for PEMFCs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harvey, David Benjamin Paul

A one-dimensional multi-scale coupled, transient, and mechanistic performance model for a PEMFC membrane electrode assembly has been developed. The model explicitly includes each of the 5 layers within a membrane electrode assembly and solves for the transport of charge, heat, mass, species, dissolved water, and liquid water. Key features of the model include the use of a multi-step implementation of the HOR reaction on the anode, agglomerate catalyst sub-models for both the anode and cathode catalyst layers, a unique approach that links the composition of the catalyst layer to key properties within the agglomerate model and the implementation of a stochastic input-based approach for component material properties. The model employs a new methodology for validation using statistically varying input parameters and statistically-based experimental performance data; this model represents the first stochastic input driven unit cell performance model. The stochastic input driven performance model was used to identify optimal ionomer content within the cathode catalyst layer, demonstrate the role of material variation in potential low performing MEA materials, provide explanation for the performance of low-Pt loaded MEAs, and investigate the validity of transient-sweep experimental diagnostic methods.

Faradaically selective membrane for liquid metal displacement batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Huayi; Chung, Brice; Chen, Fei; Ouchi, Takanari; Zhao, Ji; Tanaka, Nobuyuki; Sadoway, Donald R.

2018-02-01

In the realm of stationary energy storage, a plurality of candidate chemistries continues to vie for acceptance, among them the Na-NiCl2 displacement battery, which has eluded widespread adoption owing to the fragility of the β″-Al2O3 membrane. Here we report a porous electronically conductive membrane, which achieves chemical selectivity by preferred faradaic reaction instead of by regulated ionic conduction. Fitted with a porous membrane of TiN, a displacement cell comprising a liquid Pb positive electrode, a liquid Li-Pb negative electrode and a molten-salt electrolyte of PbCl2 dissolved in LiCl-KCl eutectic was cycled at a current density of 150 mA cm-2 at a temperature of 410 °C and exhibited a coulombic efficiency of 92% and a round-trip energy efficiency of 71%. As an indication of industrial scalability, we show comparable performance in a cell fitted with a faradaic membrane fashioned out of porous metal.

Development of a novel configuration for a MEMS transducer for low bias and high resolution imaging applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emadi, Tahereh Arezoo; Buchanan, Douglas A.

2014-03-01

A robust capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer has been developed. In this novel configuration, a stack of two deflectable membranes are suspended over a fixed bottom electrode. Similar to conventional capacitive ultrasonic transducers, a generated electrostatic force between the electrodes causes the membranes to deflect and vibrate. However, in this new configuration the transducer effective cavity height is reduced due to the deflection of two membranes. Therefore, the transducer spring constant is more susceptible to bias voltage, which in return reduces the required bias voltage. The transducers have been produced employing a MEMS sacrificial technique where two different membrane anchoring (curved- and flat- anchors) structures, with similar membrane radii were fabricated. Highly doped polysilicon was used as the membrane material. The resonant frequencies of the two transducers have been investigated. It was found that the transducers with curved membrane anchors exhibits a larger resonant frequency shift compared to the transducers with flat membranes for a given bias voltage. Comparison has been made between the spring constant of the flat membrane transducer and that of a conventional single membrane transducer. It is shown that the multiple moving membrane transducer exhibits a larger reduction in the spring constant compared to the conventional transducer, when driven with the same bias voltage. This results in a transducer with a higher power generation capability and sensitivity.

Coarse Grained Model for Exploring Voltage Dependent Ion Channels

PubMed Central

Dryga, Anatoly; Chakrabarty, Suman; Vicatos, Spyridon; Warshel, Arieh

2011-01-01

The relationship between the membrane voltage and the gating of voltage activated ion channels and other systems have been a problem of great current interest. Unfortunately, reliable molecular simulations of external voltage effects present a major challenge, since meaningful converging microscopic simulations are not yet available and macroscopic treatments involve major uncertainties in terms of the dielectric used and other key features. This work extends our coarse grained (CG) model to simulations of membrane/protein systems under external potential. Special attention has been devoted to a consistent modeling of the effect of external potential due to the electrodes, emphasizing semimacroscopic description of the electrolytes in the solution regions between the membranes and the electrodes, as well as the coupling between the combined potential from the electrodes and electrolytes, and the protein ionization states. We also provide a clear connection to microscopic treatment of the electrolytes and thus can explore possible conceptual problems that are hard to resolve by other current approaches. For example, we obtain a clear description of the charge distribution in the entire electrolyte system, including near the electrodes in membrane/electrodes systems (where continuum models do not seem to provide the relevant results). Furthermore, the present treatment provides an insight on the distribution of the electrolyte charges before and after equilibration across the membrane, and thus on the nature of the gating charge. The different aspects of the model have been carefully validated by considering problems ranging for the simple Debye-Huckel, Gouy-Chapman models to the evaluation of the electrolyte distribution between two electrodes, as well as the effect of extending the simulation system by periodic replicas. Overall the clear connection to microscopic descriptions combined with the power of the CG modeling seems to offer a powerful tool for exploring the balance between the protein conformational energy and the interaction with the external potential in voltage activated channels. With this in mind we present a preliminary study of the gating charge in the voltage activated Kv1.2 channel, using the actual change in the electrolyte charge distribution rather than the conventional macroscopic estimate. We also discuss other special features of the model, which include the ability to capture the effect of changes in the protonation states of the protein residues during the open to close voltage induced transition. PMID:21843502

Hybrid anodes for redox flow batteries

DOEpatents

Wang, Wei; Xiao, Jie; Wei, Xiaoliang; Liu, Jun; Sprenkle, Vincent L.

2015-12-15

RFBs having solid hybrid electrodes can address at least the problems of active material consumption, electrode passivation, and metal electrode dendrite growth that can be characteristic of traditional batteries, especially those operating at high current densities. The RFBs each have a first half cell containing a first redox couple dissolved in a solution or contained in a suspension. The solution or suspension can flow from a reservoir to the first half cell. A second half cell contains the solid hybrid electrode, which has a first electrode connected to a second electrode, thereby resulting in an equipotential between the first and second electrodes. The first and second half cells are separated by a separator or membrane.

Large-scale fabrication of single crystalline tin nanowire arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Bin; Yang, Dachi; Liang, Minghui; Zhi, Linjie

2010-09-01

Large-scale single crystalline tin nanowire arrays with preferred lattice orientation along the [100] direction were fabricated in porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes by the electrodeposition method using copper nanorod as a second electrode.Large-scale single crystalline tin nanowire arrays with preferred lattice orientation along the [100] direction were fabricated in porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes by the electrodeposition method using copper nanorod as a second electrode. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental details and the information for single crystalline copper nanorods. See DOI: 10.1039/c0nr00206b

Integration of lateral porous silicon membranes into planar microfluidics.

PubMed

Leïchlé, Thierry; Bourrier, David

2015-02-07

In this work, we present a novel fabrication process that enables the monolithic integration of lateral porous silicon membranes into single-layer planar microchannels. This fabrication technique relies on the patterning of local electrodes to guide pore formation horizontally within the membrane and on the use of silicon-on-insulator substrates to spatially localize porous silicon within the channel depth. The feasibility of our approach is studied by current flow analysis using the finite element method and supported by creating 10 μm long mesoporous membranes within 20 μm deep microchannels. The fabricated membranes are demonstrated to be potentially useful for dead-end microfiltration by adequately retaining 300 nm diameter beads while macromolecules such as single-stranded DNA and immunoglobulin G permeate the membrane. The experimentally determined fluidic resistance is in accordance with the theoretical value expected from the estimated pore size and porosity. The work presented here is expected to greatly simplify the integration of membranes capable of size exclusion based separation into fluidic devices and opens doors to the use of porous silicon in planar lab on a chip devices.

Interface-designed Membranes with Shape-controlled Patterns for High-performance Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeon, Yukwon; Kim, Dong Jun; Koh, Jong Kwan; Ji, Yunseong; Kim, Jong Hak; Shul, Yong-Gun

2015-11-01

Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell is a promising zero-emission power generator for stationary/automotive applications. However, key issues, such as performance and costs, are still remained for an economical commercialization. Here, we fabricated a high-performance membrane electrode assembly (MEA) using an interfacial design based on well-arrayed micro-patterned membranes including circles, squares and hexagons with different sizes, which are produced by a facile elastomeric mold method. The best MEA performance is achieved using patterned Nafion membrane with a circle 2 μm in size, which exhibited a very high power density of 1906 mW/cm2 at 75 °C and Pt loading of 0.4 mg/cm2 with 73% improvement compared to the commercial membrane. The improved performance are attributed to the decreased MEA resistances and increased surface area for higher Pt utilization of over 80%. From these enhanced properties, it is possible to operate at lower Pt loading of 0.2 mg/cm2 with an outstanding performance of 1555 mW/cm2 and even at air/low humidity operations.

Thermally Regenerative Battery with Intercalatable Electrodes and Selective Heating Means

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharma, Pramod K. (Inventor); Narayanan, Sekharipuram R. (Inventor); Hickey, Gregory S. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

The battery contains at least one electrode such as graphite that intercalates a first species from the electrolyte disposed in a first compartment such as bromine to form a thermally decomposable complex during discharge. The other electrode can also be graphite which supplies another species such as lithium to the electrolyte in a second electrode compartment. The thermally decomposable complex is stable at room temperature but decomposes at elevated temperatures such as 50 C. to 150 C. The electrode compartments are separated by a selective ion permeable membrane that is impermeable to the first species. Charging is effected by selectively heating the first electrode.

Determination of arsenate and organic arsenic via potentiometric titration of its heteropoly anions.

PubMed

Metelka, R; Slavíková, S; Vytras, K

2002-08-16

Determination of arsenate based on its conversion to molybdoarsenate heteropoly anions followed by potentiometric titration is described. The titration is realized on the ion-pairing principle using cetylpyridinium chloride (or an analogous titrant containing a lipophilic cation), and is monitored by a carbon paste electrode, although other liquid-polymeric membrane-based electrodes can also be used. Calibration plots of the titrant end-point consumption versus concentration of arsenic were constructed and used to evaluate the content of arsenic in aqueous samples. The method could be applied in the analyses of samples with quite low arsenic content (amounts approximately 10 mug As in 50 cm(3) could be titrated). Organic arsenic was determined analogously after the Schöniger combustion of the sample and conversion of its arsenic to arsenate.

Physicochemically functional ultrathin films by interfacial polymerization

DOEpatents

Lonsdale, H.K.; Babcock, W.C.; Friensen, D.T.; Smith, K.L.; Johnson, B.M.; Wamser, C.C.

1990-08-14

Interfacially-polymerized ultrathin films containing physicochemically functional groups are disclosed, both with and without supports. Various applications are disclosed, including membrane electrodes, selective membranes and sorbents, biocompatible materials, targeted drug delivery, and narrow band optical absorbers. 3 figs.

PALLADIUM-FACILITATED ELECTROLYTIC DECHLORINATION OF 2-CHLOROBIPHENYL USING A GRANULAR-GRAPHITE ELECTRODE.

EPA Science Inventory

Palladium-assisted electrocatalytic dechlorination of 2-chlorobiphenyl (2-Cl BP) in aqueous solutions was conducted in a membrane-separated electrochemical reactor with granular-graphite packed electrodes. The dechlorination took place at a granular-graphite cathode while Pd was ...

Conductance changes associated with the secretory potential in the cockroach salivary gland.

PubMed

Ginsborg, B L; House, C R; Silinsky, E M

1974-02-01

1. Conductance changes in the acini of the cockroach salivary gland have been examined during nerve stimulation by means of two intracellular electrodes placed in the same acinus, the first electrode being used for recording membrane potential and the second for current injection.2. The transient hyperpolarization (secretory potential) in the acinus evoked by nerve stimuli is accompanied by a rise in membrane conductance. The conductance, however, remains high for a longer period than that of the response.3. Applying the analysis of Trautwein & Dudel (1958) to the secretory potentials recorded in the acinus (assumed to behave electrically like a single cell) gives estimates of the ;transmitter equilibrium potential'. The values indicate that the neurotransmitter increases the membrane potassium conductance.4. The hyperpolarization of the acinus evoked by 10(-6)M dopamine in the bathing fluid is also associated with an increase in membrane potassium conductance.

High Performance Platinum Group Metal Free Membrane Electrode Assemblies through Control of Interfacial Processes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ayers, Katherine; Capuano, Christopher; Atanassov, Plamen

The quantitative goal of this project was to produce a high-performance anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer (AEM-WE) completely free of platinum group metals (PGMs), which could operate for at least 500 hours with less than 50 microV/hour degradation, at 500 mA/cm 2. To achieve this goal, work focused on the optimization of electrocatalyst conductivity, with dispersion and utilization in the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) improved through refinement of deposition techniques. Critical factors were also explored with significant work undertaken by Northeastern University to further understand catalyst-membrane-ionomer interfaces and how they differ from liquid electrolyte. Water management and optimal cell operationalmore » parameters were established through the design, fabrication, and test of a new test station at Proton specific for AEM evaluation. Additionally, AEM material stability and robustness at high potentials and gas evolution conditions were advanced at Penn State.« less

Characterization of MoS2-Graphene Composites for High-Performance Coin Cell Supercapacitors.

PubMed

Bissett, Mark A; Kinloch, Ian A; Dryfe, Robert A W

2015-08-12

Two-dimensional materials, such as graphene and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), can greatly increase the performance of electrochemical energy storage devices because of the combination of high surface area and electrical conductivity. Here, we have investigated the performance of solution exfoliated MoS2 thin flexible membranes as supercapacitor electrodes in a symmetrical coin cell arrangement using an aqueous electrolyte (Na2SO4). By adding highly conductive graphene to form nanocomposite membranes, it was possible to increase the specific capacitance by reducing the resistivity of the electrode and altering the morphology of the membrane. With continued charge/discharge cycles the performance of the membranes was found to increase significantly (up to 800%), because of partial re-exfoliation of the layered material with continued ion intercalation, as well as increasing the specific capacitance through intercalation pseudocapacitance. These results demonstrate a simple and scalable application of layered 2D materials toward electrochemical energy storage.

Single-ion polymer electrolyte membranes enable lithium-ion batteries with a broad operating temperature range.

PubMed

Cai, Weiwei; Zhang, Yunfeng; Li, Jing; Sun, Yubao; Cheng, Hansong

2014-04-01

Conductive processes involving lithium ions are analyzed in detail from a mechanistic perspective, and demonstrate that single ion polymeric electrolyte (SIPE) membranes can be used in lithium-ion batteries with a wide operating temperature range (25-80 °C) through systematic optimization of electrodes and electrode/electrolyte interfaces, in sharp contrast to other batteries equipped with SIPE membranes that display appreciable operability only at elevated temperatures (>60 °C). The performance is comparable to that of batteries using liquid electrolyte of inorganic salt, and the batteries exhibit excellent cycle life and rate performance. This significant widening of battery operation temperatures coupled with the inherent flexibility and robustness of the SIPE membranes makes it possible to develop thin and flexible Li-ion batteries for a broad range of applications. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Structures And Fabrication Techniques For Solid State Electrochemical Devices

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2005-12-27

Provided are low-cost, mechanically strong, highly electronically conductive porous substrates and associated structures for solid-state electrochemical devices, techniques for forming these structures, and devices incorporating the structures. The invention provides solid state electrochemical device substrates of novel composition and techniques for forming thin electrode/membrane/electrolyte coatings on the novel or more conventional substrates. In particular, in one embodiment the invention provides techniques for co-firing of device substrate (often an electrode) with an electrolyte or membrane layer to form densified electrolyte/membrane films 5 to 20 microns thick. In another embodiment, densified electrolyte/membrane films 5 to 20 microns thick may be formed on a pre-sintered substrate by a constrained sintering process. In some cases, the substrate may be a porous metal, alloy, or non-nickel cermet incorporating one or more of the transition metals Cr, Fe, Cu and Ag, or alloys thereof.

Structures and fabrication techniques for solid state electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Visco, Steven J.; Jacobson, Craig P.; DeJonghe, Lutgard C.

2003-08-12

Provided are low-cost, mechanically strong, highly electronically conductive porous substrates and associated structures for solid-state electrochemical devices, techniques for forming these structures, and devices incorporating the structures. The invention provides solid state electrochemical device substrates of novel composition and techniques for forming thin electrode/membrane/electrolyte coatings on the novel or more conventional substrates. In particular, in one embodiment the invention provides techniques for co-firing of device substrate (often an electrode) with an electrolyte or membrane layer to form densified electrolyte/membrane films 5 to 20 microns thick. In another embodiment, densified electrolyte/membrane films 5 to 20 microns thick may be formed on a pre-sintered substrate by a constrained sintering process. In some cases, the substrate may be a porous metal, alloy, or non-nickel cermet incorporating one or more of the transition metals Cr, Fe, Cu and Ag, or alloys thereof.

Fixed charge in the cell membrane

PubMed Central

Elul, R.

1967-01-01

1. Focal electric field was generated by passing a current of 5 × 10-7 to 1 × 10-5 A from a micropipette into the culture medium. Movement of cells at a distance of 5-50 μ from the electrode tip was observed. In case of cells embedded in the culture only local deformation of the membrane was observed. 2. The cell species explored included neurones, glia, muscle fibres, connective cells, malignant cells and erythrocytes. All cells responded in a similar manner to the electric field, and the current required was in the same range. 3. Cells were attracted to a positive micropipette and repelled from a negative one: the only exception was observed in certain malignant cells which moved in the opposite direction. 4. Movement and membrane deformation could be obtained with electrodes filled with various concentrated and isotonic solutions. The composition of the culture medium also had no qualitative influence on these effects. 5. Metabolic poisons or rupture of the cell membrane had no effect on the movement. Isolated membrane fragments showed movement similar to that of intact cells. 6. The possibility of artifacts due to proximity of the focal electrode is considered. It is shown that electro-osmosis cannot account for the present observations. Some other artifacts are also excluded. 7. It is proposed that the most satisfactory way to account for the present observations is by a membrane carrying negative fixed charge of the order of 2·5 × 103 e.s.u./cm2. Some physiological consequences of presence of negative charge in the membrane are briefly discussed. ImagesFig. 1Fig. 2Fig. 3 PMID:6040152

Separator for alkaline batteries and method of making same

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoyt, H. E.; Pfluger, H. L. (Inventor)

1970-01-01

The preparation of membranes suitable for use as separators in concentrated alkaline battery cells by selective solvolysis of copolymers of methacrylate esters with acrylate esters followed by addition of a base and to the resultant products is described. The method of making copolymers by first copolymerizing a methacrylate ester (or esters) with a more readily hydrolyzable ester, followed by a selective saponification whereby the methacrylate ester moieties remain essentially intact and the readily hydrolyzable ester moiety is suponified and to the partial or complete neutralization of the relatively brittle copolymer acid with a base to make membranes which are sufficiently flexible in the dry state so that they may be wrapped around electrodes without damage by handling is described.

A superhigh-frequency optoelectromechanical system based on a slotted photonic crystal cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Xiankai; Zhang, Xufeng; Poot, Menno; Xiong, Chi; Tang, Hong X.

2012-11-01

We develop an all-integrated optoelectromechanical system that operates in the superhigh frequency band. This system is based on an ultrahigh-Q slotted photonic crystal (PhC) nanocavity formed by two PhC membranes, one of which is patterned with electrode and capacitively driven. The strong simultaneous electromechanical and optomechanical interactions yield efficient electrical excitation and sensitive optical transduction of the bulk acoustic modes of the PhC membrane. These modes are identified up to a frequency of 4.20 GHz, with their mechanical Q factors ranging from 240 to 1730. Directly linking signals in microwave and optical domains, such optoelectromechanical systems will find applications in microwave photonics in addition to those that utilize the electromechanical and optomechanical interactions separately.

Improvement and analysis of the hydrogen-cerium redox flow cell

DOE PAGES

Tucker, Michael C.; Weiss, Alexandra; Weber, Adam Z.

2016-08-03

In this paper, the H 2-Ce redox flow cell is optimized using commercially-available cell materials. Cell performance is found to be sensitive to the upper charge cutoff voltage, membrane boiling pretreatment, methanesulfonic-acid concentration, (+) electrode surface area and flow pattern, and operating temperature. Performance is relatively insensitive to membrane thickness, Cerium concentration, and all features of the (-) electrode including hydrogen flow. Cell performance appears to be limited by mass transport and kinetics in the cerium (+) electrode. Maximum discharge power of 895 mW cm -2 was observed at 60 °C; an energy efficiency of 90% was achieved at 50more » °C. Finally, the H 2-Ce cell is promising for energy storage assuming one can optimize Ce reaction kinetics and electrolyte.« less

Versatile Miniature Tunable Liquid Lenses Using Transparent Graphene Electrodes.

PubMed

Shahini, Ali; Xia, Jinjun; Zhou, Zhixian; Zhao, Yang; Cheng, Mark Ming-Cheng

2016-02-16

This paper presents, for the first time, versatile and low-cost miniature liquid lenses with graphene as electrodes. Tunable focal length is achieved by changing the droplet curvature using electrowetting on dielectric (EWOD). Ionic liquid and KCl solution are utilized as lens liquid on the top of a flexible Teflon-coated PDMS/parylene membrane. Transparent and flexible, graphene allows transmission of visible light as well as large deformation of the polymer membrane to achieve requirements for different lens designs and to increase the field of view without damaging of electrodes. The tunable range for the focal length is between 3 and 7 mm for a droplet with a volume of 3 μL. The visualization of bone marrow dendritic cells is demonstrated by the liquid lens system with a high resolution (456 lp/mm).

Application of polymer-coated glassy carbon electrodes to the direct determination of trace metals in body fluids by anodic tripping voltametry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hoyer, B.; Florence, T.M.

This paper describes the use of a polymer-coated thin mercury film electrode for the direct determination of trace metals in body fluids by anodic stripping voltametry. The antifouling properties of the membrane coating greatly improve the analytical signal in comparison with the conventional thin mercury film electrode. Lead in whole blood, urine, and sweat and copper in sweat can be determined accurately with sample acidification as the only pretreatment step, while the determination of copper in serum requires sample deproteination prior to analysis. Owing to an improved procedure for the preparation of the perfluorosulfonated membrane, the lifetime of the electrodemore » is at least one working day when used continuously in acidified body fluids.« less

Abstract - Cooperative Research and Development Agreement between Penn State University and National Energy Technology Laboratory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hickner, Michael A.; Matranga, Christopher S.

This project will use bipolar membranes to produce efficient vapor-phase electrolysis cells for splitting CO 2 to CO and oxygen. CO is a valuable chemical feedstock that can be combined catalytically with hydrogen in the Fischer-Tropsch process to make liquid fuels. CO is arguably the best target for CO 2 reduction since, as a gaseous product, it is easily collected and is relatively immune to membrane crossover losses. The keys to success in this project are to design and synthesize hydrophilic, low resistance bipolar membranes and to create optimized electrode/catalyst/ electrolyte architectures based on these new membranes and advanced catalystsmore » in order to achieve high current density at low overpotentials for CO 2 conversion. High current density is key to achieving industrially-relevant throughput for the process and low overpotentials maintain high overall efficiency for the process.« less

Fabrication of Mediatorless/Membraneless Glucose/Oxygen Based Biofuel Cell using Biocatalysts Including Glucose Oxidase and Laccase Enzymes.

PubMed

Christwardana, Marcelinus; Kim, Ki Jae; Kwon, Yongchai

2016-07-18

Mediatorless and membraneless enzymatic biofuel cells (EBCs) employing new catalytic structure are fabricated. Regarding anodic catalyst, structure consisting of glucose oxidase (GOx), poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) and carbon nanotube (CNT) is considered, while three cathodic catalysts consist of glutaraldehyde (GA), laccase (Lac), PEI and CNT that are stacked together in different ways. Catalytic activities of the catalysts for glucose oxidation and oxygen reduction reactions (GOR and ORR) are evaluated. As a result, it is confirmed that the catalysts work well for promotion of GOR and ORR. In EBC tests, performances of EBCs including 150 μm-thick membrane are measured as references, while those of membraneless EBCs are measured depending on parameters like glucose flow rate, glucose concentration, distance between two electrodes and electrolyte pH. With the measurements, how the parameters affect EBC performance and their optimal conditions are determined. Based on that, best maximum power density (MPD) of membraneless EBC is 102 ± 5.1 μW · cm(-2) with values of 0.5 cc · min(-1) (glucose flow rate), 40 mM (glucose concentration), 1 mm (distance between electrodes) and pH 3. When membrane and membraneless EBCs are compared, MPD of the membraneless EBC that is run at the similar operating condition to EBC including membrane is speculated as about 134 μW · cm(-2).

Fabrication of Mediatorless/Membraneless Glucose/Oxygen Based Biofuel Cell using Biocatalysts Including Glucose Oxidase and Laccase Enzymes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christwardana, Marcelinus; Kim, Ki Jae; Kwon, Yongchai

2016-07-01

Mediatorless and membraneless enzymatic biofuel cells (EBCs) employing new catalytic structure are fabricated. Regarding anodic catalyst, structure consisting of glucose oxidase (GOx), poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) and carbon nanotube (CNT) is considered, while three cathodic catalysts consist of glutaraldehyde (GA), laccase (Lac), PEI and CNT that are stacked together in different ways. Catalytic activities of the catalysts for glucose oxidation and oxygen reduction reactions (GOR and ORR) are evaluated. As a result, it is confirmed that the catalysts work well for promotion of GOR and ORR. In EBC tests, performances of EBCs including 150 μm-thick membrane are measured as references, while those of membraneless EBCs are measured depending on parameters like glucose flow rate, glucose concentration, distance between two electrodes and electrolyte pH. With the measurements, how the parameters affect EBC performance and their optimal conditions are determined. Based on that, best maximum power density (MPD) of membraneless EBC is 102 ± 5.1 μW · cm-2 with values of 0.5 cc · min-1 (glucose flow rate), 40 mM (glucose concentration), 1 mm (distance between electrodes) and pH 3. When membrane and membraneless EBCs are compared, MPD of the membraneless EBC that is run at the similar operating condition to EBC including membrane is speculated as about 134 μW · cm-2.

The properties of single cones isolated from the tiger salamander retina

PubMed Central

Attwell, David; Werblin, Frank S.; Wilson, Martin

1982-01-01

1. The properties of isolated single cones were studied using the voltage-clamp technique, with two micro-electrodes inserted under visual control. 2. Single cones had input resistances, when impaled with two electrodes, of up to 270 MΩ. This is probably lower than the true membrane resistance, because of damage by the impaling electrodes. The cone capacitance was about 85 pF. 3. The cone membrane contains a time-dependent current, IB, controlled by voltage, and a separate photosensitive current. 4. The gated current, IB, is an inward current with a reversal potential around -25 mV. It is activated by hyperpolarization over the range -30 to -80 mV, and at constant voltage obeys first order (exponential) kinetics. The gating time constant is typically 50 ms at the resting potential of -45 mV, rises to 170 ms at -70 mV, and decreases for further hyperpolarization. 5. The spectral sensitivity curve of the cone light response peaks at 620 nm wave-length, and is narrower than the nomogram for vitamin A2-based pigments. The light responses of isolated cones are spectrally univariant. 6. Voltage-clamped photocurrents were recorded at various membrane potentials, for light steps of various intensities. The photocurrent reversed at around -8 mV. The time course of the photocurrent, for a given intensity, was approximately independent of voltage (although its magnitude was voltage-dependent). The shape of the peak current—voltage relation of the light-sensitive current was independent of light intensity (although its magnitude was intensity-dependent). 7. These results can be explained if: (a) light simply changes the number of photosensitive channels open, without altering the properties of an open channel; (b) the reactions controlling the production of internal transmitter, the binding of internal transmitter to the photosensitive channels, and the closing and opening of the channels are unaffected by the electric field in the cone membrane, even though at least some of these reactions take place in the membrane. 8. IB plays only a small role in shaping the cone voltage response to light. ImagesPlate 1 PMID:7131315

Method of making chalcogen catalysts for polymer electrolyte fuel cells

DOEpatents

Choi, Jong-Ho; Zelenay, Piotr; Wieckowski, Andrzej; Cao, Dianxue

2010-12-14

A method of making an electrode catalyst material using aqueous solutions. The electrode catalyst material includes a support comprising at least one transition metal and at least one chalcogen disposed on a surface of the transition metal. The method includes reducing a metal powder, mixing the metal powder with an aqueous solution containing at least one inorganic compound of the chalcogen to form a mixture, and providing a reducing agent to the mixture to form nanoparticles of the electrode catalyst. The electrode catalyst may be used in a membrane electrode assembly for a fuel cell.

Biologically inspired highly efficient buoyancy engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akle, Barbar; Habchi, Wassim; Abdelnour, Rita; Blottman, John, III; Leo, Donald

2012-04-01

Undersea distributed networked sensor systems require a miniaturization of platforms and a means of both spatial and temporal persistence. One aspect of this system is the necessity to modulate sensor depth for optimal positioning and station-keeping. Current approaches involve pneumatic bladders or electrolysis; both require mechanical subsystems and consume significant power. These are not suitable for the miniaturization of sensor platforms. Presented in this study is a novel biologically inspired method that relies on ionic motion and osmotic pressures to displace a volume of water from the ocean into and out of the proposed buoyancy engine. At a constant device volume, the displaced water will alter buoyancy leading to either sinking or floating. The engine is composed of an enclosure sided on the ocean's end by a Nafion ionomer and by a flexible membrane separating the water from a gas enclosure. Two electrodes are placed one inside the enclosure and the other attached to the engine on the outside. The semi-permeable membrane Nafion allows water motion in and out of the enclosure while blocking anions from being transferred. The two electrodes generate local concentration changes of ions upon the application of an electrical field; these changes lead to osmotic pressures and hence the transfer of water through the semi-permeable membrane. Some aquatic organisms such as pelagic crustacean perform this buoyancy control using an exchange of ions through their tissue to modulate its density relative to the ambient sea water. In this paper, the authors provide an experimental proof of concept of this buoyancy engine. The efficiency of changing the engine's buoyancy is calculated and optimized as a function of electrode surface area. For example electrodes made of a 3mm diameter Ag/AgCl proved to transfer approximately 4mm3 of water consuming 4 Joules of electrical energy. The speed of displacement is optimized as a function of the surface area of the Nafion membrane and its thickness. The 4mm3 displaced volume obtained with the Ag/AgCl electrodes required approximately 380 seconds. The thickness of the Nafion membrane is 180μm and it has an area of 133mm3.

Chlorobenzene Poisoning and Recovery of Platinum-Based Cathodes in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

PubMed Central

Zhai, Yunfeng; Baturina, Olga; Ramaker, David; Farquhar, Erik; St-Pierre, Jean; Swider-Lyons, Karen

2015-01-01

The platinum electrocatalysts found in proton exchange membrane fuel cells are poisoned both reversibly and irreversibly by air pollutants and residual manufacturing contaminants. In this work, the poisoning of a Pt/C PEMFC cathode was probed by a trace of chlorobenzene in the air feed. Chlorobenzene inhibits the oxygen reduction reaction and causes significant cell performance loss. The performance loss is largely restored by neat air operation and potential cycling between 0.08 V and 1.2 V under H2/N2 (anode/cathode). The analysis of emissions, in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy and electrochemical impedance spectra show the chlorobenzene adsorption/reaction and molecular orientation on Pt surface depend on the electrode potential. At low potentials, chlorobenzene deposits either on top of adsorbed H atoms or on the Pt surface via the benzene ring and is converted to benzene (ca. 0.1 V) or cyclohexane (ca. 0 V) upon Cl removal. At potentials higher than 0.2 V, chlorobenzene binds to Pt via the Cl atom and can be converted to benzene (less than 0.3 V) or desorbed. Cl− is created and remains in the membrane electrode assembly. Cl− binds to the Pt surface much stronger than chlorobenzene, but can slowly be flushed out by liquid water. PMID:26388963

ELECTROCHEMICALLY DEPOSITED POLYMER-COATED GOLD ELECTRODES SELECTIVE FOR 2,4-DICHLOROPHENOXYACETIC ACID

EPA Science Inventory

Electropolymerized membranes on gold electrodes doped with 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) were prepared from a solution containing resorcinol, o-phenylenediamine and 2,4-D. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to evaluate the incorporation and interact...

Mediated electrochemical oxidation of organic wastes without electrode separators

DOEpatents

Farmer, Joseph C.; Wang, Francis T.; Hickman, Robert G.; Lewis, Patricia R.

1996-01-01

An electrochemical cell/electrolyte/mediator combination for the efficient destruction of organic contaminants using metal salt mediators in a sulfuric acid electrolyte, wherein the electrodes and mediator are chosen such that hydrogen gas is produced at the cathode and no cell membrane is required.

Cell structure for electrochemical devices and method of making same

DOEpatents

Kaun, Thomas D.

1993-01-01

An electrochemical device comprises a plurality of cells, each cell including a laminate cell membrane, made up of a separator/electrolyte means interposed between alternating positive and negative electrodes, each type of electrode being respectively in common contact to a single current collector.

Fuel Cell Performance Implications of Membrane Electrode Assembly Fabrication with Platinum-Nickel Nanowire Catalysts

DOE PAGES

Mauger, Scott A.; Neyerlin, K. C.; Alia, Shaun M.; ...

2018-03-13

Platinum-nickel nanowire (PtNiNW) catalysts have shown exceptionally high oxygen reduction mass activity in rotating disk electrode measurements. However, the ability to successfully incorporate PtNiNWs into high performance membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) has been challenging due to their size, shape, density, dispersion characteristics, and corrosion-susceptible nickel core. We have investigated the impact of specific processing steps and electrode composition on observed fuel cell performance and electrochemical properties in order to optimize performance. We have found that nickel ion contamination is a major concern for PtNiNWs that can be addressed through ion exchange in fabricated/tested MEAs or by acid leaching of catalystmore » materials prior to MEA incorporation, with the latter being the more successful method. Additionally, decreased ionomer incorporation has led to the highest performance demonstrating 238 mA/mg Pt (0.9 V IR-free) for PtNiNWs (pre-leached to 80 wt% Pt) with 9 wt% ionomer incorporation.« less

Self-Assembly of Mesoporous Nanotubes Assembled from Interwoven Ultrathin Birnessite-type MnO2 Nanosheets for Asymmetric Supercapacitors

PubMed Central

Huang, Ming; Zhang, Yuxin; Li, Fei; Zhang, Lili; Ruoff, Rodney S.; Wen, Zhiyu; Liu, Qing

2014-01-01

Porous nanotubes comprised of MnO2 nanosheets were fabricated with a one-pot hydrothermal method using polycarbonate membrane as the template. The diameter and thickness of nanotubes can be controlled by choice of the membrane pore size and the chemistry. The porous MnO2 nanotubes were used as a supercapacitor electrode. The specific capacitance in a three-electrode system was 365 F g−1 at a current density of 0.25 A g−1 with capacitance retention of 90.4% after 3000 cycles. An asymmetric supercapacitor with porous MnO2 nanotubes as the positive electrode and activated graphene as the negative electrode yielded an energy density of 22.5 Wh kg−1 and a maximum power density of 146.2 kW kg−1; these values exceeded those reported for other MnO2 nanostructures. The supercapacitor performance was correlated with the hierarchical structure of the porous MnO2 nanotubes. PMID:24464344

Numerical analysis for electrokinetic soil processing enhanced by chemical conditioning of the electrode reservoirs.

PubMed

Park, Jin-Soo; Kim, Soon-Oh; Kim, Kyoung-Woong; Kim, Byung Ro; Moon, Seung-Hyeon

2003-04-04

A numerical analysis was undertaken for enhanced electrokinetic soil processing. To perform chemical conditioning of the electrode reservoirs, the electrokinetic soil process employed a membrane as a barrier between the electrode reservoirs and the contaminated soil. An alkaline solution was purged in the anode reservoir that was bounded by the membrane. A mathematical model was used for demonstration of pH change and phenol removal from a kaolinite soil bed, the prediction of pH variations in both electrode reservoirs, and the determination of an optimized injection time of the anode-purging solution. The time-dependent dispersion coefficient was employed in consideration of the averaging effect of the velocity profile on a one-dimensional transport. The estimation of pH and phenol profiles in the soil bed reasonably agreed with the experimental data. The simulation revealed that the removal efficiency of phenol from the kaolinite soil could be improved by maintaining pH of the anode solution.

Fuel Cell Performance Implications of Membrane Electrode Assembly Fabrication with Platinum-Nickel Nanowire Catalysts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mauger, Scott A.; Neyerlin, K. C.; Alia, Shaun M.

Platinum-nickel nanowire (PtNiNW) catalysts have shown exceptionally high oxygen reduction mass activity in rotating disk electrode measurements. However, the ability to successfully incorporate PtNiNWs into high performance membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) has been challenging due to their size, shape, density, dispersion characteristics, and corrosion-susceptible nickel core. We have investigated the impact of specific processing steps and electrode composition on observed fuel cell performance and electrochemical properties in order to optimize performance. We have found that nickel ion contamination is a major concern for PtNiNWs that can be addressed through ion exchange in fabricated/tested MEAs or by acid leaching of catalystmore » materials prior to MEA incorporation, with the latter being the more successful method. Additionally, decreased ionomer incorporation has led to the highest performance demonstrating 238 mA/mg Pt (0.9 V IR-free) for PtNiNWs (pre-leached to 80 wt% Pt) with 9 wt% ionomer incorporation.« less

Characterization of mechanical properties of battery electrode films from acoustic resonance measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dallon, Kathryn L.; Yao, Jing; Wheeler, Dean R.; Mazzeo, Brian A.

2018-04-01

Measurements of the mechanical properties of lithium-ion battery electrode films can be used to quantify and improve manufacturing processes and to predict the mechanical and electrochemical performance of the battery. This paper demonstrates the use of acoustic resonances to distinguish among commercial-grade battery films with different active electrode materials, thicknesses, and densities. Resonances are excited in a clamped circular area of the film using a pulsed infrared laser, and responses are measured using an electret condenser microphone. A numerical model is used to quantify the sensitivity of resonances to changes in mechanical properties. When the numerical model is compared to simple analytical models for thin plates and membranes, the battery films measured here trend more similarly to the membrane model. Resonance measurements are also used to monitor the drying process. Results from a scanning laser Doppler vibrometer verify the modes excited in the films, and a combination of experimental and simulated results is used to estimate the Young's modulus of the battery electrode coating layer.

Enhanced Monitoring of Nanosecond Electric Pulse-Evoked Membrane Conductance Changes in Whole-Cell Patch Clamp Experiments.

PubMed

Yoon, Jihwan; Leblanc, Normand; Zaklit, Josette; Vernier, P Thomas; Chatterjee, Indira; Craviso, Gale L

2016-10-01

Patch clamp electrophysiology serves as a powerful method for studying changes in plasma membrane ion conductance induced by externally applied high-intensity nanosecond electric pulses (NEPs). This paper describes an enhanced monitoring technique that minimizes the length of time between pulse exposure and data recording in a patch-clamped excitable cell. Whole-cell membrane currents were continuously recorded up to 11 ms before and resumed 8 ms after delivery of a 5-ns, 6 MV/m pulse by a pair of tungsten rod electrodes to a patched adrenal chromaffin cell maintained at a holding potential of -70 mV. This timing was achieved by two sets of relay switches. One set was used to disconnect the patch pipette electrode from the pre-amplifier and connect it to a battery to maintain membrane potential at -70 mV, and also to disconnect the reference electrode from the amplifier. The other set was used to disconnect the electrodes from the pulse generator until the time of NEP/sham exposure. The sequence and timing of both sets of relays were computer-controlled. Using this procedure, we observed that a 5-ns pulse induced an instantaneous inward current that decayed exponentially over the course of several minutes, that a second pulse induced a similar response, and that the current was carried, at least in part, by Na + . This approach for characterizing ion conductance changes in an excitable cell in response to NEPs will yield information essential for assessing the potential use of NEP stimulation for therapeutic applications.

Graphene-based biomimetic materials targeting urine metabolite as potential cancer biomarker: application over different conductive materials for potentiometric transduction.

PubMed

Truta, Liliana A A N A; Ferreira, Nádia S; Sales, M Goreti F

2014-12-20

This works presents a novel surface Smart Polymer Antibody Material (SPAM) for Carnitine (CRT, a potential biomarker of ovarian cancer), tested for the first time as ionophore in potentiometric electrodes of unconventional configuration. The SPAM material consisted of a 3D polymeric network created by surface imprinting on graphene layers. The polymer was obtained by radical polymerization of (vinylbenzyl)trimethylammonium chloride and 4-styrenesulfonic acid (signaling the binding sites), and vinyl pivalate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (surroundings). Non-imprinted material (NIM) was prepared as control, by excluding the template from the procedure. These materials were then used to produce several plasticized PVC membranes, testing the relevance of including the SPAM as ionophore, and the need for a charged lipophilic additive. The membranes were casted over solid conductive supports of graphite or ITO/FTO. The effect of pH upon the potentiometric response was evaluated for different pHs (2-9) with different buffer compositions. Overall, the best performance was achieved for membranes with SPAM ionophore, having a cationic lipophilic additive and tested in HEPES (4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid) buffer, pH 5.1. Better slopes were achieved when the membrane was casted on conductive glass (-57.4mV/decade), while the best detection limits were obtained for graphite-based conductive supports (3.6×10 -5 mol/L). Good selectivity was observed against BSA, ascorbic acid, glucose, creatinine and urea, tested for concentrations up to their normal physiologic levels in urine. The application of the devices to the analysis of spiked samples showed recoveries ranging from 91% (± 6.8%) to 118% (± 11.2%). Overall, the combination of the SPAM sensory material with a suitable selective membrane composition and electrode design has lead to a promising tool for point-of-care applications.

Graphene-based biomimetic materials targeting urine metabolite as potential cancer biomarker: application over different conductive materials for potentiometric transduction

PubMed Central

Truta, Liliana A.A.N.A.; Ferreira, Nádia S.; Sales, M. Goreti F.

2015-01-01

This works presents a novel surface Smart Polymer Antibody Material (SPAM) for Carnitine (CRT, a potential biomarker of ovarian cancer), tested for the first time as ionophore in potentiometric electrodes of unconventional configuration. The SPAM material consisted of a 3D polymeric network created by surface imprinting on graphene layers. The polymer was obtained by radical polymerization of (vinylbenzyl)trimethylammonium chloride and 4-styrenesulfonic acid (signaling the binding sites), and vinyl pivalate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (surroundings). Non-imprinted material (NIM) was prepared as control, by excluding the template from the procedure. These materials were then used to produce several plasticized PVC membranes, testing the relevance of including the SPAM as ionophore, and the need for a charged lipophilic additive. The membranes were casted over solid conductive supports of graphite or ITO/FTO. The effect of pH upon the potentiometric response was evaluated for different pHs (2-9) with different buffer compositions. Overall, the best performance was achieved for membranes with SPAM ionophore, having a cationic lipophilic additive and tested in HEPES (4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid) buffer, pH 5.1. Better slopes were achieved when the membrane was casted on conductive glass (−57.4mV/decade), while the best detection limits were obtained for graphite-based conductive supports (3.6×10−5mol/L). Good selectivity was observed against BSA, ascorbic acid, glucose, creatinine and urea, tested for concentrations up to their normal physiologic levels in urine. The application of the devices to the analysis of spiked samples showed recoveries ranging from 91% (± 6.8%) to 118% (± 11.2%). Overall, the combination of the SPAM sensory material with a suitable selective membrane composition and electrode design has lead to a promising tool for point-of-care applications. PMID:26456975

Performance and durability of carbon black-supported Pd catalyst covered with silica layers in membrane-electrode assemblies of proton exchange membrane fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujii, Keitaro; Ito, Mizuki; Sato, Yasushi; Takenaka, Sakae; Kishida, Masahiro

2015-04-01

Pd metal particles supported on a high surface area carbon black (Pd/CB) were covered with silica layers to improve the durability under severe cathode condition of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The performance and the durability of the silica-coated Pd/CB (SiO2/Pd/CB) were investigated by rotating disk electrode (RDE) in aqueous HClO4 and single cell test of the membrane-electrode assemblies (MEAs). SiO2/Pd/CB showed excellent durability exceeding Pt/CB during potential cycle in single cell test as well as in RDE measurement while Pd/CB significantly degraded. Furthermore, the MEA using SiO2/Pd/CB as the cathode catalyst showed higher performance than that using Pd/CB even in the initial state. The catalytic activity of SiO2/Pd/CB was higher than that of Pd/CB, and the drop of the cell performances due to the inhibition of electron conduction, proton conduction, and oxygen diffusion by the silica layer was not significant. It has been shown that the silica-coating is a very practical technique that can stabilize metal species originally unstable in the cathode condition of PEMFCs without a decrease in the cell performance.

Abundance of the multiheme c-type cytochrome OmcB increases in outer biofilm layers of electrode-grown Geobacter sulfurreducens.

PubMed

Stephen, Camille S; LaBelle, Edward V; Brantley, Susan L; Bond, Daniel R

2014-01-01

When Geobacter sulfurreducens utilizes an electrode as its electron acceptor, cells embed themselves in a conductive biofilm tens of microns thick. While environmental conditions such as pH or redox potential have been shown to change close to the electrode, less is known about the response of G. sulfurreducens to growth in this biofilm environment. To investigate whether respiratory protein abundance varies with distance from the electrode, antibodies against an outer membrane multiheme cytochrome (OmcB) and cytoplasmic acetate kinase (AckA) were used to determine protein localization in slices spanning ∼25 µm-thick G. sulfurreducens biofilms growing on polished electrodes poised at +0.24 V (vs. Standard Hydrogen Electrode). Slices were immunogold labeled post-fixing, imaged via transmission electron microscopy, and digitally reassembled to create continuous images allowing subcellular location and abundance per cell to be quantified across an entire biofilm. OmcB was predominantly localized on cell membranes, and 3.6-fold more OmcB was detected on cells 10-20 µm distant from the electrode surface compared to inner layers (0-10 µm). In contrast, acetate kinase remained constant throughout the biofilm, and was always associated with the cell interior. This method for detecting proteins in intact conductive biofilms supports a model where the utilization of redox proteins changes with depth.

A highly sensitive and selective sensor based on a graphene-coated carbon paste electrode modified with a computationally designed boron-embedded duplex molecularly imprinted hybrid membrane for the sensing of lamotrigine.

PubMed

Wang, Hongjuan; Qian, Duo; Xiao, Xilin; Gao, Shuqin; Cheng, Jianlin; He, Bo; Liao, Lifu; Deng, Jian

2017-08-15

An innovative electrochemical sensor, based on a carbon paste electrode (CPE) modified with graphene (GR) and a boron-embedded duplex molecularly imprinted hybrid membrane (B-DMIHM), was fabricated for the highly sensitive and selective determination of lamotrigine (LMT). Density functional theory (DFT) was employed to study the interactions between the template and monomers to screen appropriate functional monomers for rational design of the B-DMIHM. The distinct synergic effect of GR and B-DMIHM was evidenced by the positive shift of the reduction peak potential of LMT at B-DMIHM/GR modified CPE (B-DMIHM/GR/CPE) by about 300mV, and the 13-fold amplification of the peak current, compared to a bare carbon paste electrode (CPE). The electrochemical reduction mechanism of lamotrigine was investigated by different voltammetric techniques. It was illustrated that square wave voltammetry (SWV) was more sensitive than different pulse voltammetry (DPV) for the quantitative analysis of LMT. Thereafter, a highly sensitive electroanalytical method for LMT was established by SWV at B-DMIHM/GR/CPE with a good linear relationship from 5.0×10 -8 to 5.0×10 -5 and 5.0×10 -5 to 3.0×10 -4 molL -1 with a lower detection limit (1.52×10 -9 molL -1 ) based on the lower linear range(S/N=3). The practical application of the sensor was demonstrated by determining the concentration of LMT in pharmaceutical and biological samples with good precision (RSD 1.04-4.41%) and acceptable recoveries (92.40-107.0%). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dense ceramic membranes for converting methane to syngas

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Balachandran, U.; Dusek, J.T.; Picciolo, J.J.

1995-07-01

Dense mixed-oxide ceramics capable of conducting both electrons and oxygen ions are promising materials for partial oxygenation of methane to syngas. We are particularly interested in an oxide based on the Sr-Fe-Co-O system. Dense ceramic membrane tubes have been fabricated by a plastic extrusion technique. The sintered tubes were then used to selectively transport oxygen from air through the membrane to make syngas without the use of external electrodes. The sintered tubes have operated for >1000 h, and methane conversion efficiencies of >98% have been observed. Mechanical properties, structural integrity of the tubes during reactor operation, results of methane conversion,more » selectivity of methane conversion products, oxygen permeation, and fabrication of multichannel configurations for large-scale production of syngas will be presented.« less

Preliminary design notes on a low F-number EMR

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mihora, D. J.

1982-01-01

Conceptual design studies were completed on a new Electrostatic Membrane Reflector, EMR. This new model incorporates both a preformed, curved membrane reflector and membrane control surface. This improved model is the second step toward a high precision large space antenna that could eventually exhibit a performance in terms of aperture diameter to surface quality exceeding 1,000,000. Design trades indicate that the goal of a low ratio of focal length to aperture diameter (f sub n) can be achieved while operating in a humid sea-level environment. A nominal surface quality of 1.0 mm (RMS) is possible using available off-the-shelf commercial membranes. Both the membrane reflector and control electrode surface are fabricated from 12 gore segments and attached to the available 12 sided, 4.88 m diameter rim. The preferred conceptual design has a f sub n = 1.0. The 4.88 m aperture is performed with a centerline displacement of 0.306 m. The nominal spacing between the membrane reflector and the electrode control surface is 50.8 mm. The centerline membrane displacement from its performed to its tensioned, smooth shape is about 3 mm. The membrane tensioning is achieved by application of an electrostatic pressure of 2.6 N/sq cm and a voltage of about 38 kV.

A Novel Ion - selective Polymeric Membrane Sensor for Determining Thallium(I) With High Selectivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kassim, Anuar; Rezayi, Majid; Ahmadzadeh, Saeid; Rounaghi, Gholamhossein; Mohajeri, Masoomeh; Azah Yusof, Noor; Tee, Tan Wee; Yook Heng, Lee; Halim Abdullah, Abd

2011-02-01

Thallium is a toxic metal that introduced into the environment mainly as a waste from the production of zinc, cadmium, and lead and by combustion of coal. Thallium causes gastrointestinal irritation and nerve damage when people are exposed to it for relatively short period of time. For long term, thallium has the potential to cause the following effects: change in blood chemistry, damage to liver, kidney, intestinal and testicular tissue, and hair loss. In this work a membrane was prepared by use of 4'-nitrobenzo -18-crown-6 (4'NB18C6) as an ion carrier, polyvinylchloride (PVC) as a matrix, and diocthylphetalate (DOP) as a plasticizer for making an ion selective electrode for measurement of Tl+ cation in solutions. The amount of 4'-nitrobenzo-18C6 and polyvinylchloride were optimized in the preparation of the membrane. The response of the electrode was Nernstian within the concentration range 1.0 × 10-8 to 1.0 × 10-1M. This sensor displays a drift in Nernstian response for this cation with increasing the amount of ionophore and decreasing the amount of polyvinylchloride.The results of potentiometric measurements showed that, this electrode also responses to Cu2+ Ni2+ and Pb2+ cations, but the electrode has a wider dynamic range and a lower detection limit to Tl+ cation. The effects of various parameters such as pH, different cations interferences, effect of the amount of ionophore and polyvinylchloride and time on response of the coated ion selective electrode were investigated. Finally the constructed electrode was used in complexometric and precipitation titrations of Tl+ cation with EDTA and KBr, respectively. The response of the fabricated electrode at concentration range from 1.0 × 10-8 to 1.0 × 10-1M is linear with a Nernstian slope of 57.27 mV.

Capacitive Neutralization Dialysis for Direct Energy Generation.

PubMed

Liu, Yue; Zhang, Yi; Ou-Yang, Wei; Bastos Sales, Bruno; Sun, Zhuo; Liu, Fei; Zhao, Ran

2017-08-15

Capacitive neutralization dialysis energy (CNDE) is proposed as a novel energy-harvesting technique that is able to utilize waste acid and alkaline solutions to produce electrical energy. CNDE is a modification based on neutralization dialysis. It was found that a higher NaCl concentration led to a higher open-circuit potential when the concentrations of acid and alkaline solutions were fixed. Upon closing of the circuit, the membrane potential was used as a driving force to move counter ions into the electrical double layers at the electrode-liquid interface, thereby creating an ionic current. Correspondingly, in the external circuit, electrons flow through an external resistor from one electrode to the other, thereby generating electrical energy directly. The influence of external resistances was studied to achieve greater energy extraction, with the maximum output of 110 mW/m 2 obtained by employing an external resistance of 5 Ω together with the AC-coated electrode.

Freestanding three-dimensional graphene/MnO2 composite networks as ultralight and flexible supercapacitor electrodes.

PubMed

He, Yongmin; Chen, Wanjun; Li, Xiaodong; Zhang, Zhenxing; Fu, Jiecai; Zhao, Changhui; Xie, Erqing

2013-01-22

A lightweight, flexible, and highly efficient energy management strategy is needed for flexible energy-storage devices to meet a rapidly growing demand. Graphene-based flexible supercapacitors are one of the most promising candidates because of their intriguing features. In this report, we describe the use of freestanding, lightweight (0.75 mg/cm(2)), ultrathin (<200 μm), highly conductive (55 S/cm), and flexible three-dimensional (3D) graphene networks, loaded with MnO(2) by electrodeposition, as the electrodes of a flexible supercapacitor. It was found that the 3D graphene networks showed an ideal supporter for active materials and permitted a large MnO(2) mass loading of 9.8 mg/cm(2) (~92.9% of the mass of the entire electrode), leading to a high area capacitance of 1.42 F/cm(2) at a scan rate of 2 mV/s. With a view to practical applications, we have further optimized the MnO(2) content with respect to the entire electrode and achieved a maximum specific capacitance of 130 F/g. In addition, we have also explored the excellent electrochemical performance of a symmetrical supercapacitor (of weight less than 10 mg and thickness ~0.8 mm) consisting of a sandwich structure of two pieces of 3D graphene/MnO(2) composite network separated by a membrane and encapsulated in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) membranes. This research might provide a method for flexible, lightweight, high-performance, low-cost, and environmentally friendly materials used in energy conversion and storage systems for the effective use of renewable energy.

New Signal Readout Principle for Solid-Contact Ion-Selective Electrodes.

PubMed

Vanamo, Ulriika; Hupa, Elisa; Yrjänä, Ville; Bobacka, Johan

2016-04-19

A novel approach to signal transduction concerning solid-contact ion-selective electrodes (SC-ISE) with a conducting polymer (CP) as the solid contact is investigated. The method presented here is based on constant potential coulometry, where the potential of the SC-ISE vs the reference electrode is kept constant using a potentiostat. The change in the potential at the interface between the ion-selective membrane (ISM) and the sample solution, due to the change in the activity of the primary ion, is compensated with a corresponding but opposite change in the potential of the CP solid contact. This enforced change in the potential of the solid contact results in a transient reducing/oxidizing current flow through the SC-ISE. By measuring and integrating the current needed to transfer the CP to a new state of equilibrium, the total cumulated charge that is linearly proportional to the change of the logarithm of the primary ion activity is obtained. In this work, different thicknesses of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped with poly(styrenesulfonate) (PSS) were used as solid contact. Also, coated wire electrodes (CWEs) were included in the study to show the general validity of the new approach. The ISM employed was selective for K(+) ions, and the selectivity of the membrane under implementation of the presented transduction mechanism was confirmed by measurements performed with a constant background concentration of Na(+) ions. A unique feature of this signal readout principle is that it allows amplification of the analytical signal by increasing the capacitance (film thickness) of the solid contact of the SC-ISE.

Graphene based nanocomposite hybrid electrodes for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aphale, Ashish N.

There is an unmet need to develop high performance energy storage systems (ESS), capable of storing energy from both renewable and non-renewable sources to meet the current energy crisis and depletion of non-renewable sources. Amongst many available ESS, supercapacitors (ECs) are the most promising because they exhibit a high charge/discharge rate and power density, along with a long cycle life. The possibility of exploring the use of atomically thin carbon allotropes like graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and electrically conducting polymers (ECPs) such as polypyrrole (PPy) has been studied as a high performance conducting electrodes in supercapacitor application. A novel templated sustainable nanocomposite electrode has been fabricated using cellulose extracted from Cladophora c. aegagropila algae as component of the assembled supercapacitor device which later has been transitioned to a unique template-less freestanding nanocomposite supercapacitor electrode. The specific capacitance of polypyrrole-graphene-cellulose nanocomposite as calculated from cyclic voltammetry curve is 91.5 F g -1 at the scan rate 50 m Vs-1 in the presence of 1M NaCl electrolyte. The open circuit voltage of the device with polypyrrole -graphene-cellulose electrode was found to be around 225 m V and that of the polypyrrole -cellulose device is only 53 m V without the presence of graphene in the nanocomposite electrode. Understanding the fundamentals by fabricating template nanocomposite electrode, it led to fabricate a unique nanocomposite template-less freestanding film which comprises of polypyrrole-graphene-CNT hybrid. Various experiments have been performed using different electrolytes such ascorbic acid, sodium sulfate and sulfuric acid in different scan rates. The specific capacitance of polypyrrole-graphene-CNT nanocomposite with 0.1 wt% of graphene-CNT, as calculated from cyclic voltammetry curve is 450 F g-1 at the scan rate 5 m V s-1. For the first time a nanofibrous membrane has been developed as a separator which acts as an electrolyte reservoir and ionic diffusion membrane. The performance of the fabricated supercapacitor device has been analyzed using a multimeter and compared with a conventional alkaline (1.5 V) battery. Lighting up of 2.2 V light emitting diode has been demonstrated using the fabricated supercapacitor.

Apparatus and process for microbial detection and enumeration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilkins, J. R.; Grana, D. (Inventor)

1982-01-01

An apparatus and process for detecting and enumerating specific microorganisms from large volume samples containing small numbers of the microorganisms is presented. The large volume samples are filtered through a membrane filter to concentrate the microorganisms. The filter is positioned between two absorbent pads and previously moistened with a growth medium for the microorganisms. A pair of electrodes are disposed against the filter and the pad electrode filter assembly is retained within a petri dish by retainer ring. The cover is positioned on base of petri dish and sealed at the edges by a parafilm seal prior to being electrically connected via connectors to a strip chart recorder for detecting and enumerating the microorganisms collected on filter.

Fabrication of polymeric nano-batteries array using anodic aluminum oxide templates.

PubMed

Zhao, Qiang; Cui, Xiaoli; Chen, Ling; Liu, Ling; Sun, Zhenkun; Jiang, Zhiyu

2009-02-01

Rechargeable nano-batteries were fabricated in the array pores of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template, combining template method and electrochemical method. The battery consisted of electropolymerized PPy electrode, porous TiO2 separator, and chemically polymerized PAn electrode was fabricated in the array pores of two-step anodizing aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane, based on three-step assembling method. It performs typical electrochemical battery behavior with good charge-discharge ability, and presents a capacity of 25 nAs. AFM results show the hexagonal array of nano-batteries' top side. The nano-battery may be a promising device for the development of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), and Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (NEMS).

Electroactive polymer actuator based on a reduced graphene electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Im, Ki Hong; Choi, Hyonkwang

2014-03-01

We report an electroactive polymer (EAP) actuator using a reduced graphene electrode for a ionic polymer-metal composite actuator. Aqueous-reduced graphene is deposited to both sides of the ionic polymer membranes by using a simple inkjet printing process. The electrical and the optical properties of the reduced graphene were evaluated by using a four-point probe system, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared attenuated total reflection spectroscopy. The actuator properties were evaluated from the curvatures of the ionic polymer graphene composite (IPGC) for various input voltages. From the results, we propose a new and simple isosceles trapezoidal element model for analyzing the relations among the input voltage, thickness, and curvature of IPGC.

Critical advancements in achieving high power and stable nonprecious metal catalyst–based MEAs for real-world proton exchange membrane fuel cell applications

PubMed Central

Zhou, Yingjie; Bai, Kyoung

2018-01-01

Despite great progress in the development of nonprecious metal catalysts (NPMCs) over the past several decades, the performance and stability of these promising catalysts have not yet achieved commercial readiness for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Through rational design of the cathode catalyst layer (CCL), we demonstrate the highest reported performance for an NPMC-based membrane electrode assembly (MEA), achieving a peak power of 570 mW/cm2 under air. This record performance is achieved using a precommercial catalyst for which nearly all pores are <3 nm in diameter, challenging previous beliefs regarding the need for larger catalyst pores to achieve high current densities. This advance is achieved at industrially relevant scales (50 cm2 MEA) using a precommercial NPMC. In situ electrochemical analysis of the CCLs is also used to help gain insight into the degradation mechanism observed during galvanostatic testing. Overall, the performance of this NPMC-based MEA has achieved commercial readiness and will be introduced into an NPMC-based product for portable power applications. PMID:29582018

Novel thin/tunable gas diffusion electrodes with ultra-low catalyst loading for hydrogen evolution reactions in proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kang, Zhenye; Yang, Gaoqiang; Mo, Jingke

2018-05-01

Proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells (PEMECs) have received great attention for hydrogen/oxygen production due to their high efficiencies even at low-temperature operation. Because of the high cost of noble platinum-group metal (PGM) catalysts (Ir, Ru, Pt, etc.) that are widely used in water splitting, a PEMEC with low catalyst loadings and high catalyst utilizations is strongly desired for its wide commercialization. In this study, the ultrafast and multiscale hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) phenomena in an operating PEMEC is in-situ observed for the first time. The visualization results reveal that the HER and hydrogen bubble nucleation mainly occur on catalyst layersmore » at the rim of the pores of the thin/tunable liquid/gas diffusion layers (TT-LGDLs). This indicates that the catalyst material of the conventional catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) that is located in the middle area of the LGDL pore is underutilized/inactive. Based on this discovery, a novel thin and tunable gas diffusion electrode (GDE) with a Pt catalyst thickness of 15 nm and a total thickness of about 25 um has been proposed and developed by taking advantage of advanced micro/nano manufacturing. The novel thin GDEs are comprehensively characterized both ex-situ and in-situ, and exhibit excellent PEMEC performance. More importantly, they achieve catalyst mass activity of up to 58 times higher than conventional CCM at 1.6 V under the operating conditions of 80 degrees C and 1 atm. This study demonstrates a promising concept for PEMEC electrode development, and provides a direction of future catalyst designs and fabrications for electrochemical devices.« less

Integration of solid-state nanopores in a 0.5 μm cmos foundry process

PubMed Central

Uddin, A; Yemenicioglu, S; Chen, C-H; Corigliano, E; Milaninia, K; Theogarajan, L

2013-01-01

High-bandwidth and low-noise nanopore sensor and detection electronics are crucial in achieving single-DNA base resolution. A potential way to accomplish this goal is to integrate solid-state nanopores within a CMOS platform, in close proximity to the biasing electrodes and custom-designed amplifier electronics. Here we report the integration of solid-state nanopore devices in a commercial complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) potentiostat chip implemented in On-Semiconductor’s 0.5 μm technology. Nanopore membranes incorporating electrodes are fabricated by post-CMOS micromachining utilizing the N+ polysilicon/SiO2/N+ polysilicon capacitor structure available in the aforementioned process. Nanopores are created in the CMOS process by drilling in a transmission electron microscope and shrinking by atomic layer deposition. We also describe a batch fabrication method to process a large of number of electrode-embedded nanopores with sub-10 nm diameter across CMOS-compatible wafers by electron beam lithography and atomic layer deposition. The CMOS-compatibility of our fabrication process is verified by testing the electrical functionality of on-chip circuitry. We observe high current leakage with the CMOS nanopore devices due to the ionic diffusion through the SiO2 membrane. To prevent this leakage, we coat the membrane with Al2O3 which acts as an efficient diffusion barrier against alkali ions. The resulting nanopore devices also exhibit higher robustness and lower 1/f noise as compared to SiO2 and SiNx. Furthermore, we propose a theoretical model for our low-capacitance CMOS nanopore devices, showing good agreement with the experimental value. In addition, experiments and theoretical models of translocation studies are presented using 48.5 kbp λ-DNA in order to prove the functionality of on-chip pores coated with Al2O3. PMID:23519330

Novel thin/tunable gas diffusion electrodes with ultra-low catalyst loading for hydrogen evolution reactions in proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells

DOE PAGES

Kang, Zhenye; Yang, Gaoqiang; Mo, Jingke; ...

2018-03-09

Proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells (PEMECs) have received great attention for hydrogen/oxygen production due to their high efficiencies even at low-temperature operation. Because of the high cost of noble platinum-group metal (PGM) catalysts (Ir, Ru, Pt, etc.) that are widely used in water splitting, a PEMEC with low catalyst loadings and high catalyst utilizations is strongly desired for its wide commercialization. In this study, the ultrafast and multiscale hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) phenomena in an operating PEMEC is in-situ observed for the first time. The visualization results reveal that the HER and hydrogen bubble nucleation mainly occur on catalyst layersmore » at the rim of the pores of the thin/tunable liquid/gas diffusion layers (TT-LGDLs). This indicates that the catalyst material of the conventional catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) that is located in the middle area of the LGDL pore is underutilized/inactive. Based on this discovery, a novel thin and tunable gas diffusion electrode (GDE) with a Pt catalyst thickness of 15 nm and a total thickness of about 25 um has been proposed and developed by taking advantage of advanced micro/nano manufacturing. The novel thin GDEs are comprehensively characterized both ex-situ and in-situ, and exhibit excellent PEMEC performance. More importantly, they achieve catalyst mass activity of up to 58 times higher than conventional CCM at 1.6 V under the operating conditions of 80 degrees C and 1 atm. This study demonstrates a promising concept for PEMEC electrode development, and provides a direction of future catalyst designs and fabrications for electrochemical devices.« less

Novel thin/tunable gas diffusion electrodes with ultra-low catalyst loading for hydrogen evolution reactions in proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kang, Zhenye; Yang, Gaoqiang; Mo, Jingke

Proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells (PEMECs) have received great attention for hydrogen/oxygen production due to their high efficiencies even at low-temperature operation. Because of the high cost of noble platinum-group metal (PGM) catalysts (Ir, Ru, Pt, etc.) that are widely used in water splitting, a PEMEC with low catalyst loadings and high catalyst utilizations is strongly desired for its wide commercialization. In this study, the ultrafast and multiscale hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) phenomena in an operating PEMEC is in-situ observed for the first time. The visualization results reveal that the HER and hydrogen bubble nucleation mainly occur on catalyst layersmore » at the rim of the pores of the thin/tunable liquid/gas diffusion layers (TT-LGDLs). This indicates that the catalyst material of the conventional catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) that is located in the middle area of the LGDL pore is underutilized/inactive. Based on this discovery, a novel thin and tunable gas diffusion electrode (GDE) with a Pt catalyst thickness of 15 nm and a total thickness of about 25 um has been proposed and developed by taking advantage of advanced micro/nano manufacturing. The novel thin GDEs are comprehensively characterized both ex-situ and in-situ, and exhibit excellent PEMEC performance. More importantly, they achieve catalyst mass activity of up to 58 times higher than conventional CCM at 1.6 V under the operating conditions of 80 degrees C and 1 atm. This study demonstrates a promising concept for PEMEC electrode development, and provides a direction of future catalyst designs and fabrications for electrochemical devices.« less

Membrane Tension Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Su, Ji (Inventor); Harrison, Joycelyn S. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

An electrostrictive polymer actuator comprises an electrostrictive polymer with a tailorable Poisson's ratio. The electrostrictive polymer is electroded on its upper and lower surfaces and bonded to an upper material layer. The assembly is rolled tightly and capped at its ends. In a membrane structure having a membrane, a supporting frame and a plurality of threads connecting the membrane to the frame, an actuator can be integrated into one or more of the plurality of threads. The electrostrictive polymer actuator displaces along its longitudinal axis, thereby affecting movement of the membrane surface.

A bulk micromachined lead zinconate titanate cantilever energy harvester with inter-digital IrO(x) electrodes.

PubMed

Park, Jongcheol; Park, Jae Yeong

2013-10-01

A piezoelectric vibration energy harvester with inter-digital IrO(x) electrode was developed by using silicon bulk micromachining technology. Most PZT cantilever based energy harvesters have utilized platinum electrode material. However, the PZT fatigue characteristics and adhesion/delamination problems caused by the platinum electrode might be serious problem in reliability of energy harvester. To address these problems, the iridium oxide was newly applied. The proposed energy harvester was comprised of bulk micromachined silicon cantilever with 800 x 1000 x 20 microm3, which having a silicon supporting membrane, sol-gel-spin coated Pb(Zr52, Ti48)O3 thin film, and sputtered inter-digitally shaped IrO(x) electrodes, and silicon inertial mass with 1000 x 1000 x 500 microm3 to adjust its resonant frequency. The fabricated energy harvester generated 1 microW of electrical power to 470 komega of load resistance and 1.4 V(peak-to-peak) from a vibration of 0.4 g at 1.475 kHz. The corresponding power density was 6.25 mW x cm(-3) x g(-2). As expected, its electrical failure was significantly improved.

Improved performance of single-chamber microbial fuel cells through control of membrane deformation.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaoyuan; Cheng, Shaoan; Huang, Xia; Logan, Bruce E

2010-03-15

Cation (CEMs) and anion exchange membrane (AEMs) are commonly used in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) to enhance Coulombic efficiencies (CEs) by reducing the flux of oxygen through the cathode to bacteria on the anode. AEMs typically work better than CEMs, but in initial experiments we observed the opposite using a membrane electrode assembly MFC. The reason was identified to be membrane deformation, which resulted in water and gas trapped between the membrane and cathode. To correct this, stainless steel mesh was used to press the membrane flat against the cathode. With the steel mesh, AEM performance increased to 46+/-4 W/m(3) in a single cathode MFC, and 98+/-14 W/m(3) in a double-cathode MFC. These power densities were higher than those using a CEM of 32+/-2 W/m(3) (single cathode) and 63+/-6 W/m(3) (double cathode). Higher pH gradients across the membrane and salt precipitation on the cathode were responsible for the reduced performance of the CEM compared to the AEM. CEs reached over 90% for both membranes at >2A/m(2). These results demonstrate the importance of avoiding water accumulation in thin films between membranes and electrodes, and explain additional reasons for poorer performance of CEMs compared to AEMs. (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Materials and characterization techniques for high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells.

PubMed

Zeis, Roswitha

2015-01-01

The performance of high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFC) is critically dependent on the selection of materials and optimization of individual components. A conventional high-temperature membrane electrode assembly (HT-MEA) primarily consists of a polybenzimidazole (PBI)-type membrane containing phosphoric acid and two gas diffusion electrodes (GDE), the anode and the cathode, attached to the two surfaces of the membrane. This review article provides a survey on the materials implemented in state-of-the-art HT-MEAs. These materials must meet extremely demanding requirements because of the severe operating conditions of HT-PEMFCs. They need to be electrochemically and thermally stable in highly acidic environment. The polymer membranes should exhibit high proton conductivity in low-hydration and even anhydrous states. Of special concern for phosphoric-acid-doped PBI-type membranes is the acid loss and management during operation. The slow oxygen reduction reaction in HT-PEMFCs remains a challenge. Phosphoric acid tends to adsorb onto the surface of the platinum catalyst and therefore hampers the reaction kinetics. Additionally, the binder material plays a key role in regulating the hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity of the catalyst layer. Subsequently, the binder controls the electrode-membrane interface that establishes the triple phase boundary between proton conductive electrolyte, electron conductive catalyst, and reactant gases. Moreover, the elevated operating temperatures promote carbon corrosion and therefore degrade the integrity of the catalyst support. These are only some examples how materials properties affect the stability and performance of HT-PEMFCs. For this reason, materials characterization techniques for HT-PEMFCs, either in situ or ex situ, are highly beneficial. Significant progress has recently been made in this field, which enables us to gain a better understanding of underlying processes occurring during fuel cell operation. Various novel tools for characterizing and diagnosing HT-PEMFCs and key components are presented in this review, including FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, confocal Raman microscopy, synchrotron X-ray imaging, X-ray microtomography, and atomic force microscopy.

High power density proton exchange membrane fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murphy, Oliver J.; Hitchens, G. Duncan; Manko, David J.

1993-01-01

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells use a perfluorosulfonic acid solid polymer film as an electrolyte which simplifies water and electrolyte management. Their thin electrolyte layers give efficient systems of low weight, and their materials of construction show extremely long laboratory lifetimes. Their high reliability and their suitability for use in a microgravity environment makes them particularly attractive as a substitute for batteries in satellites utilizing high-power, high energy-density electrochemical energy storage systems. In this investigation, the Dow experimental PEM (XUS-13204.10) and unsupported high platinum loading electrodes yielded very high power densities, of the order of 2.5 W cm(exp -2). A platinum black loading of 5 mg per cm(exp 2) was found to be optimum. On extending the three-dimensional reaction zone of fuel cell electrodes by impregnating solid polymer electrolyte into the electrode structures, Nafion was found to give better performance than the Dow experimental PEM. The depth of penetration of the solid polymer electrolyte into electrode structures was 50-70 percent of the thickness of the platinum-catalyzed active layer. However, the degree of platinum utilization was only 16.6 percent and the roughness factor of a typical electrode was 274.

Embedded silver PDMS electrodes for single cell electrical impedance spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Yuan; Xu, Zhensong; Cachia, Mark A.; Nguyen, John; Zheng, Yi; Wang, Chen; Sun, Yu

2016-09-01

This paper presents a microfluidic device with wide channels and embedded AgPDMS electrodes for measuring the electrical properties of single cells. The work demonstrates the feasibility of using a large channel design and embedded electrodes for impedance spectroscopy to circumvent issues such as channel clogging and limited device re-usability. AgPDMS electrodes were formed on channel sidewalls for impedance detection and cell electrical properties measurement. Equivalent circuit models were used to interpret multi-frequency impedance data to quantify each cell’s cytoplasm conductivity and specific membrane capacitance. T24 cells were tested to validate the microfluidic system and modeling results. Comparisons were then made by measuring two leukemia cell lines (AML-2 and HL-60) which were found to have different cytoplasm conductivity values (0.29  ±  0.15 S m-1 versus 0.47  ±  0.20 S m-1) and specific membrane capacitance values (41  ±  25 mF m-2 versus 55  ±  26 mF m-2) when the cells were flown through the wide channel and measured by the AgPDMS electrodes.

High energy efficiency and high power density proton exchange membrane fuel cells: Electrode kinetics and mass transport

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Srinivasan, Supramaniam; Velev, Omourtag A.; Parthasathy, Arvind; Manko, David J.; Appleby, A. John

1991-01-01

The development of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell power plants with high energy efficiencies and high power densities is gaining momentum because of the vital need of such high levels of performance for extraterrestrial (space, underwater) and terrestrial (power source for electric vehicles) applications. Since 1987, considerable progress has been made in achieving energy efficiencies of about 60 percent at a current density of 200 mA/sq cm and high power densities (greater than 1 W/sq cm) in PEM fuel cells with high (4 mg/sq cm) or low (0.4 mg/sq cm) platinum loadings in electrodes. The following areas are discussed: (1) methods to obtain these high levels of performance with low Pt loading electrodes - by proton conductor impregnation into electrodes, localization of Pt near front surface; (2) a novel microelectrode technique which yields electrode kinetic parameters for oxygen reduction and mass transport parameters; (3) demonstration of lack of water transport from anode to cathode; (4) modeling analysis of PEM fuel cell for comparison with experimental results and predicting further improvements in performance; and (5) recommendations of needed research and development for achieving the above goals.

Simple and fast method for fabrication of endoscopic implantable sensor arrays.

PubMed

Tahirbegi, I Bogachan; Alvira, Margarita; Mir, Mònica; Samitier, Josep

2014-06-26

Here we have developed a simple method for the fabrication of disposable implantable all-solid-state ion-selective electrodes (ISE) in an array format without using complex fabrication equipment or clean room facilities. The electrodes were designed in a needle shape instead of planar electrodes for a full contact with the tissue. The needle-shape platform comprises 12 metallic pins which were functionalized with conductive inks and ISE membranes. The modified microelectrodes were characterized with cyclic voltammetry, scanning electron microscope (SEM), and optical interferometry. The surface area and roughness factor of each microelectrode were determined and reproducible values were obtained for all the microelectrodes on the array. In this work, the microelectrodes were modified with membranes for the detection of pH and nitrate ions to prove the reliability of the fabricated sensor array platform adapted to an endoscope.

Supported liquid membrane electrochemical separators

DOEpatents

Pemsler, J. Paul; Dempsey, Michael D.

1986-01-01

Supported liquid membrane separators improve the flexibility, efficiency and service life of electrochemical cells for a variety of applications. In the field of electrochemical storage, an alkaline secondary battery with improved service life is described in which a supported liquid membrane is interposed between the positive and negative electrodes. The supported liquid membranes of this invention can be used in energy production and storage systems, electrosynthesis systems, and in systems for the electrowinning and electrorefining of metals.

Production of permeable cellulose triacetate membranes

DOEpatents

Johnson, B.M.

1986-12-23

A phase inversion process for the preparation of cellulose triacetate (CTA) and regenerated cellulose membranes is disclosed. Such membranes are useful as supports for liquid membranes in facilitated transport processes, as microfiltration membranes, as dialysis or ultrafiltration membranes, and for the preparation of ion-selective electrodes. The process comprises the steps of preparing a casting solution of CTA in a solvent comprising a mixture of cyclohexanone and methylene chloride, casting a film from the casting solution, and immersing the cast film in a methanol bath. The resulting CTA membrane may then be hydrolyzed to regenerated cellulose using conventional techniques.

Production of permeable cellulose triacetate membranes

DOEpatents

Johnson, Bruce M.

1986-01-01

A phase inversion process for the preparation of cellulose triacetate (CTA) and regenerated cellulose membranes is disclosed. Such membranes are useful as supports for liquid membranes in facilitated transport processes, as microfiltration membranes, as dialysis or ultrafiltration membranes, and for the preparation of ion-selective electrodes. The process comprises the steps of preparing a casting solution of CTA in a solvent comprising a mixture of cyclohexanone and methylene chloride, casting a film from the casting solution, and immersing the cast film in a methanol bath. The resulting CTA membrane may then be hydrolyzed to regenerated cellulose using conventional techniques.

Mediated electrochemical oxidation of organic wastes without electrode separators

DOEpatents

Farmer, J.C.; Wang, F.T.; Hickman, R.G.; Lewis, P.R.

1996-05-14

An electrochemical cell/electrolyte/mediator combination is described for the efficient destruction of organic contaminants using metal salt mediators in a sulfuric acid electrolyte, wherein the electrodes and mediator are chosen such that hydrogen gas is produced at the cathode and no cell membrane is required. 3 figs.

Tuning the Solid Electrolyte Interphase for Selective Li- and Na-Ion Storage in Hard Carbon

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Soto, Fernando A.; Yan, Pengfei; Engelhard, Mark H.

Solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) films with controllable properties are highly desirable for improving battery performance. In this paper, a combined experimental and theoretical approach is used to study SEI films formed on hard carbon in Li- and Na-ion batteries. It is shown that a stable SEI layer can be designed by precycling an electrode in a desired Li- or Na-based electrolyte, and that ionic transport can be kinetically controlled. Selective Li- and Na-based SEI membranes are produced using Li- or Na-based electrolytes, respectively. The Na-based SEI allows easy transport of Li ions, while the Li-based SEI shuts off Na-ion transport. Na-ionmore » storage can be manipulated by tuning the SEI layer with film-forming electrolyte additives, or by preforming an SEI layer on the electrode surface. The Na specific capacity can be controlled to < 25 mAh g(-1); approximate to 1/10 of the normal capacity (250 mAh g(-1)). Unusual selective/ preferential transport of Li ions is demonstrated by preforming an SEI layer on the electrode surface and corroborated with a mixed electrolyte. This work may provide new guidance for preparing good ion-selective conductors using electrochemical approaches.« less