Proton Mobilities in Phosphonic Acid-Based Proton Exchange Membranes Probed by 1H and 2H Solid-State NMR Spectroscopy

Two novel phosphonic acid-based "dry" proton exchange membrane materials that may allow for fuel cell operation above 100 degrees C have been prepared and characterized via solid-state 1H and 2H MAS NMR spectroscopy. We obtained information on both the nature of hydrogen bonding and local proton mobilities among phosphonic acid moieties. In particular, 2H MAS NMR line shape analysis yielded apparent activation energies of the underlying motional processes. Using this approach, we have investigated both a model compound and a novel PEM system. It was found that the relation of estimated hydrogen-bond strength and local proton mobility accessible by solid-state NMR and bulk proton conductivity is complex. Improvements through admixture of a second component with protogenic groups are suggested.