Alkaline fuel cells (AFCs) have attracted attention as low-cost alternatives to proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) because of their ability to produce high power densities without the use of non-precious metal catalysts. However, long-lasting AFCs require highly hydroxide conductive solid-state anion exchange membranes (AEMs) (or separators) and ionomers (for use in the catalyst layer) that are highly chemically stable at high pH. Recent results have shown that polymers with covalently attached saturated N-heterocyclic cations possess high alkaline chemical stability (ex situ), however their performance and durability as AEMs and ionomers in AFCs (in situ or in operando) have yet to be explored. In this study, the AFC performance of a multiblock polymer containing saturated N-heterocyclic cations (methylpyrrolidinium) as both the AEM and ionomer was explored. Both high power density and durability (i.e., constant power density or voltage over time) were demonstrated. AFC performance will be presented as a function of membrane electrode assembly processing conditions (ionomer content, casting solvents, cell assembly pressure) and AFC operating conditions (cell temperature, humidity). These results demonstrate the possibility to produce high power density, long-lasting, low-cost AFCs.
