Characterization and Application of Agave salmiana Cuticle as Bio-membrane in Low-temperature Electrolyzer and Fuel Cells

Applied Sciences

Guadalupe Aguilar-Lira¹  JoseAntonio Rodriguez¹  Irma Perez-Silva¹  Prisciliano Hernandez²  CristhianH. Arredondo²  Gabriela Islas² 

[1] Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Área Académica de Química, Carretera Pachuca-Tulancingo Km. 4.5, Mineral de la Reforma, Hidalgo 42076, Mexico;Universidad Politécnica de Francisco I. Madero, Área Académica de Ingeniería en Energía. Domicilio conocido, Tepatepec, Francisco I. Madero, Hidalgo 42660, Mexico;

关键词: bio-membrane;    agave salmiana;    cuticle;    electrolyzer cell;    fuel cell;    conductivity;   

DOI  :  10.3390/app9204461

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

This work describes the application of the Agave salmiana cuticle as a new protonic exchange biological membrane (0.080 ± 0.001 mm thickness). Different chemical, electrochemical and mechanical treatments were evaluated to stimulate the ionic exchange properties of the cuticle. Thermal treatment was adequate for its application in a two-chamber electrolyzer. Under optimal conditions an ionic conductivity value of 10 ± 3 mS cm⁻¹ was obtained; this value is similar to the value achieved using a Nafion membrane. The thermally-activated bio-membrane was also evaluated in a fuel cell, where the highest potential was obtained using methanol and hydrogen (0.46 ± 0.01 V). This result makes the Agave salmiana cuticle a competitive choice to replace the commercial membrane. Its surface morphology and their functional groups were evaluated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy and impedance spectroscopy. This thermally-treated Agave salmiana cuticle is an ecofriendly alternative to replace Nafion membranes in electrolyzer and fuel cells.

【 授权许可】

Unknown