Controlling Fuel Crossover in Open Electrochemical Cells by Tuning the Water Nanochannel for Power Generation

High-performance electrochemical devices require a specific size of nanochannel in ion-exchange membranes for producing stable cell performance. We have tuned the size of the water nanochannel by varying the ion-exchange capacity of the membrane. It influences the current density of electrochemical devices. Here, we have demonstrated large-area dual-purpose membranes, implemented in reverse electrodialysis and fuel cell systems for generating power. The selectivity, compatibility, and flexibility of the membrane with the electrode are outstanding and have been explained in great detail. In this article, we have illustrated a novel combination of sPEEK/FAA-3 membranes for reverse electrodialysis applications as a cation and an anion. The membrane can freely withstand structural stability and durability at high temperatures under hydrated conditions and offers excellent results in the fuel cell. We achieve superior performance for both fuel cells and reverse electrodialysis cells without altering the device architecture. Membranes with varying ion-exchange capacity (IEC) values and their electrochemical applications at one platform contribute to paving the path for enhancing the device performance.