CHAPTER 9: Electrospun Materials for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and Water Electrolysis

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and water electrolysers (PEMWEs) are electrochemical devices for energy conversion and storage at the base of the sustainable and clean hydrogen economy. In order to face the challenges of durability under operation and cost that are slowing down their real implementation, novel micro/nanostructured materials based on electrospun fibers have been developed. Several chemical compositions and morphologies have been employed to prepare nanocomposite membranes and electrodes comprising the core of PEMFCs and PEMWEs. This chapter gives an overview on the recent advances on electrolyte membranes, electrodes, electrocatalysts and their supports based on electrospun polymers and inorganic materials applied in low-temperature fuel cells and electrolysers. Novel challenges to overcome and future trends in the development of these promising materials are also discussed.