Evaluation of radiation stability of electron beam irradiated Nafion® and sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) membranes

Proton exchange membranes (PEM), which have been commonly used in fuel cells raised interest for the application harsh environments involving ionizing radiation. Therefore, radiation stability and ability to sustain their functionality under environment are of great interest. Within this study, electron beam irradiation dose range from 50 500kGy was evaluate effects on physico-chemical mechanical properties two types PEM: commercial Nafion®117 sulfonated poly(ether-ether-ketone) (SPEEK) with high degree sulfonation (DS = 0.75±0.5). SPEEK membrane presented higher thermal compared that Nafion® at doses up 250 kGy, evidenced by infrared paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, analysis, ion chromatography methods. Tensile tests room temperature dynamical analysis irradiated revealed improved strength, storage modulus elevated temperatures (80°C) as pristine PEM. For comparison exhibited notable deterioration including elongation break due predominant oxidation chain scission already exceeding kGy. The study indicated could be perspective replacement traditional PEM exposed ionising