New Proton Conducting Materials

Hydrogen fuel cells have potential as a sustainable, environmentally friendly, and highly efficient energy alternative. The proton conduction properties of fuel cells are important in improving existing fuel cells and developing new fuel cell technologies. Imidazole and its derivatives are promising for their proton conducting properties, especially when confined in a porous support framework. In this project, we hope to develop a novel class of proton conducting materials with cellulose nanocrystals and silica as the porous framework. These materials will be developed in collaboration with the Mizuno group at Kanazawa University. The synthesis will be performed at The University of British Columbia, whereas the proton conduction characterization and solid state NMR spectroscopy will be performed at Kanazawa University.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mark MacLachlan

Student:

Partner:

Kanazawa University

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: