Structural features of radiation-grafted membranes for required properties in fuel cells: A novel approach using neutron scattering and simulation techniques

by Prof. Yasunari Maekawa (Takasaki Institute for Advanced Quantum Science (TIAQ), National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST))

Monday 23 Oct 2023, 14:30 → 15:30 Europe/Berlin

PH HS 3 (Physics Department)

The hierarchical structure of a polymer electrolyte membrane for energy conversion and storage devices such as fuel cells and water electrolysis, prepared by radiation-induced graft polymerization, was investigated in a range of sub- to several hundred-nanometer using the combination of a small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) contrast variation / partial scattering functions (PSF) method, atomic force microscopy, and simulations. Toward applying to Materials Informatics (MI), the structural models are constructed from the analyzed structures to reveal several phase-separated structures, relating to ion conductivity and mechanical properties, which are the required characteristics for practical fuel cells. In addition, I will briefly introduce recent outcomes, relating to quantum technology, medical and agricultural applications in TIAQ, QST.