Interfacial stabilization of Nafion membrane with graphene and PTFE: A path to more durable polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzes

Stability and durability of electrochemical energy conversion systems are significant issues. In this study, two stabilization strategies were investigated: 1) the application of few-layer graphene as a barrier layer on both sides of the Nafion membrane, and 2) the incorporation of polytetrafluoroethylene directly into the catalyst layers. Electrochemical performance was assessed in a two-electrode configuration: potentio- static aging at 2.5 V and hydrogen crossover measurements. The characterization of materials functioning as barrier layers was conducted using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, laser correlation spectroscopy, and differential thermal analysis. It is shown that both components stabilize Nafion through interfacial interactions, resulting in a longer service life and reduced hydrogen crossover. While the reference sample showed increased crossover, the modified samples exhibited reductions of 50% and 33%. These findings underscore the potential of the studied materials in enhancing the stability of polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzers, contributing to the advancement of more durable and efficient systems for hydrogen energy applications.