Abstract: A method of detecting defects in membranes such as ion exchange membranes of electrochemical cells. The electrochemical cell includes an assembly having an anode side and a cathode side with the ion exchange membrane in between. In a configuration step a chemochromic sensor is placed above the cathode and flow isolation hardware lateral to the ion exchange membrane which prevents a flow of hydrogen (H2) between the cathode and anode side. The anode side is exposed to a first reactant fluid including hydrogen. The chemochromic sensor is examined after the exposing for a color change. A color change evidences the ion exchange membrane has at least one defect that permits H2 transmission therethrough.

Abstract: A coated polymer membrane includes a polymer composite including a polymer material, a rare earth or transition metal compound modifier within at least a portion of a thickness of the polymer material. A median particles size of the compound modifier is between 20 nm and 150 nm. A precious metal group (PMG) metal or PMG metal alloy is coating both sides of the polymer composite.

Abstract: A method of detecting defects in membranes such as ion exchange membranes of electrochemical cells. The electrochemical cell includes an assembly having an anode side and a cathode side with the ion exchange membrane in between. In a configuration step a chemochromic sensor is placed above the cathode and flow isolation hardware lateral to the ion exchange membrane which prevents a flow of hydrogen (H2) between the cathode and anode side. The anode side is exposed to a first reactant fluid including hydrogen. The chemochromic sensor is examined after the exposing for a color change. A color change evidences the ion exchange membrane has at least one defect that permits H2 transmission therethrough.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides for improved electrochemical devices (e.g., fuel cells, metal air batteries, ultra capacitors, etc.) and components therefore. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for improved systems and methods for producing materials, membranes, electrode assemblies (e.g., membrane electrode assemblies) and electrochemical devices employing the membranes and/or electrode assemblies. The present disclosure provides for improved systems and methods for producing high activity materials, membranes and/or electrode assemblies (e.g., MEAs) for use in electrochemical devices, wherein the high activity membranes and/or electrode assemblies include at least one inorganic acid. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for improved systems and methods for producing high activity membranes and/or electrode assemblies (e.g.