| abstract |
The invention relates to a dimensionally stable, proton-conducting membrane, a process for its production and its use. The proton-conductive, flexible and dimensionally stable electrolyte membrane for a fuel cell, which is impermeable to the reaction components of the fuel cell reaction, comprises a composite which is permeable to matter, flexible, openwork, comprising glass or polymer fibers and has a ceramic coating, as a carrier. This support is permeated with a proton-conductive polymer electrolyte. The membrane according to the invention represents a new class of solid proton-conducting membranes. The basis is a porous and flexible substrate which has glass or polymer fibers, preferably a glass fabric or a polymer fleece, and which is provided with a ceramic coating. The pores of this composite material are infiltrated with polymer electrolytes. The ceramic nature of the composite material prevents the polymer electrolyte from expanding when water is absorbed, thereby changing the shape of the membrane. The electrolyte membrane is nevertheless extremely flexible and can be used as a membrane in a fuel cell without any problems. |