Grant: Collaborative Science, Technology and Innovation Program - Collaborative R&D Initiatives

The Project's primary goal is to explore and demonstrate fluorine-free ionic polymers as replacements for perfluorinated sulfonic acid polymer (PFSA) in catalyst coated membranes (CCMs) of electrochemical energy conversion devices, leveraging accelerated materials discovery methods. This initiative is crucial in light of the impending prohibition of PFSA as a 'forever chemical', harmful to the environment. A longer-term aim is to develop a materials discovery method for CCMs that are not only fluorinefree but also free of precious metal-based electrocatalysts. Key outputs include feasibility studies and workplans for developing platforms to optimize fabrication conditions of fluorine-free electrocatalyst layers and handling systems for preparing and characterizing CCMs. Outcomes involve establishing a community of practice through workshops, laying groundwork for MAP modules integration into existing MAP ecosystems, and fostering industry interactions. This will significantly facilitate the commercialization of fluorine-free polymers and membranes for electrochemical energy conversion devices.