Description:
Reference #: 01429
The University of South Carolina is offering licensing opportunities for New Method to Produce PBI Films without using Organic Solvents
Background:
Polybenzimidazole Film is used in membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cells, flow batteries, and hydrogen pumps. The PBI film is a separator between a nickel mesh and carbon felt. The PBI film separates the anode and the cathode to prevent short-circuiting in the battery. The properties of this membrane will affect the battery’s performance significantly. These films are high strength and used for electrochemical cells where they will be absorbed in sulfuric or phosphoric acids. These films are made for high-temperature operation, and these films are traditionally very expensive and low-cost options are being pursued.
Invention Description:
This invention details a novel process for making PBI films without using an organic solvent. Eliminating the need for an organic solvent offers a new route to producing PBI films that is cheaper, less time-consuming, and produces less chemical waste than previous methods. The new solvent-less process also allows for a wider range of PBI chemistries to be made into a film. This will preserve the performance of batteries while reducing cost, all while being more environmentally friendly.
Potential Applications:
Chemically resistant and thermally stable PBI films are synthesized for the first time without an organic solvent. Previously, the synthesis of PBI films has been an expensive and time-consuming process that involves harsh chemicals. The current invention disclosed is a process that does not require the use of an organic solvent, thereby making it a greener process. By overcoming the need for an organic solvent, the process of making PBI films is cheaper and less time consuming
Advantages and Benefits:
PBI films are produced without an organic solvent which lowers the associated expense of purchasing the solvent and disposal of the hazardous waste produced from using the solvent. The process of obtaining a PBI film is thus simplified and a wider range of PBI chemistries can be used.