Ion-Exchanged UPG-1 as Potential Electrolyte for Fuel Cells

Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells are an attractive green technology for energy production. However, one of their major drawbacks is instability the electrolytes under working conditions (i.e., temperature and humidity). Some metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have recently emerged as promising alternative electrolyte materials because higher stability (compared with organic polymers currently used electrolytes), proton conductivity, outstanding porosity versatility. Here, we present ionic exchange in a microporous zirconium phosphonate, UPG-1, efficient strategy to enhance its conductivity cyclability. Thus, labile protons hybrid structure were successfully replaced by different alkali cations (Li+, Na+, K+), leading 2 orders magnitude than pristine UPG-1 (up 2.3 × 10–2 S·cm–1, which comparable those commercial electrolytes). Further, was strongly influenced MOF hydrophilicity polarization strength cation, suggested molecular simulation. Finally, mixed-matrix containing best-performing material (the potassium-exchanged one) prepared, showing moderate 8.51 10–3 S·cm–1).