Aquivion™ is a low-EW PFSA copolymer produced from TFE and the cononomer C2F3-O-(CF2)2-O2F . The material's characteristic is to have a very short and light side chain - a fact that incurs a number of advantageous factors.
Very high concentration of functional groups for strong proton (or Na+, K+) conductivity
High softening point for high-temperature operation well above 80° C (176° F)
Strong water retention, e.g. for a better low-humidity fuel cell operation
Material stability for stable and extended operation - also above 100° C and below 50% rH
When necessary, Aquivion™ materials do incorporate mitigation features against degradation mechanisms. As a member of the perfluoropolymer family, it already displays best possible robustness against attack of reactive intermediates generated under harsh conditions of challenging applications such as PEFCs.
Applications
Customers such as Membrane-Electrode-Assembly (MEA) producers enjoy benefits from the short side chain when using the various grades available. Both Aquivion™ membranes and dispersions are vital for the manufacturing of:
