Mechanical Properties of Thin Nafion Films via Surface Wrinkling and Cantilever Bending

Our research program has investigated the effect of confinement on the structure and transport properties of Nafion, the most widely used ion exchange membrane material for fuel cell applications. Here, we will present recent results on the mechanical properties of thin Nafion films (h<300 nm) as measured by surface wrinkling and cantilever bending. Key parameters affecting the mechanical properties of thin Nafion are processing conditions, thickness, substrate chemistry, and humidity. We explore the roles of each of these parameters in defining the mechanical response of Nafion thin films, as well as correlate the mechanical response to the diffusion and uptake of water in these membranes.