Abstract: The reaction product of a monomer comprising phthalazinone and a phenol group, and at least one sulfonated aromatic compound. The monomer comprising phthalazinone and a phenol group is used in a reaction with the sulfonated aromatic compound to produce ionomers with surprising and highly desirable properties. In one embodiment, the inventive ionomer is a sulfonated poly(phthalazinone ether ketone), hereinafter referred to as sPPEK. In another embodiment, the inventive ionomer is a sulfonated poly(phthalazinone either sulfone), herein after referred to as SPPES. In another embodiment, the inventive ionomer is other sulfonated aromatic polymeric compounds. The invention further includes the formation of these polymers into membranes and their use for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFC), and in particular for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC).

Abstract: An electrode-membrane combination for use in a fuel cell and providing improved power outputs and resistance to poisoning. Multiple embodiments are described which generally involve use of a vapor deposited zone or layer of one or more catalytically active metals. Vapor deposition can be carried out by, for example, sputtering or physical vapor deposition.

Abstract: An electrode-membrane combination for use in a fuel cell and providing improved power outputs and resistance to poisoning. Multiple embodiments are described which generally involve use of a vapor deposited zone or layer of one or more catalytically active metals. Vapor deposition can be carried out by, for example, sputtering or physical vapor deposition.

Abstract: An electrode-membrane combination for use in a fuel cell comprising at least one reactant diffusive, electronically conductive electrode comprising at least one first catalytically active metal and at least one ionically conductive polymer; and at least one ionically conductive membrane contacting the electrode to form an electrode-membrane interfacial region, wherein the interfacial region comprises at least one zone comprising at least one second catalytically active metal and having a zone thickness of about 3 angstroms to about 475 angstroms. Surprisingly improved power output is observed. The zone is preferably deposited by electron beam physical vapor deposition. Substantially spherical nodules are observed for the zone from field-emission SEM analysis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for indoor air purification system to and particularly to a system for removing particulates, biologicals, and gaseous chemical contaminates through the use of low room temperature catalysts, a closed cycle heat exchanger a HEPA filter and polisher for removing NOx and SOx from the air flow.

Abstract: A flow field plate for use in a PEM fuel cell using a gaseous fuel and oxidant, comprising a substantially planar surface and a flow field formed in the substantially planar surface is provided. The plate further includes a network of flow passages for supplying the fuel or oxidant to the flow field and a network of flow passages for receiving the gases discharging from the flow field. The flow field includes a plurality of substantially symmetric flow sectors having separate inlets and outlets communicating with the networks of supply and exhaust flow passages, respectively. Each flow sector includes a plurality of substantially parallel flow channels formed in the substantially planar plate surface, with each sector partitioned so as to subdivide the channels into a plurality of sets of channels disposed in serial flow relationship, with each set including a plurality of the channels disposed in parallel flow relationship.