Recent progress in the design and application of polymer based ionogels as proton conducting membranes for fuel cells

Strategies for increasing the proton conductivity of polymer membranes for fuel cells are in demand for the most efficient transition to hydrogen energy based devices and transport. The use of ionic liquids (ILs) as a functional component of the membrane in a concentration in which a continuous ion bond is formed by ILs, rather than a drip distribution, makes it possible to create so-called ionogels. Due to the non-volatility and structural features of ionogels, they can be used at higher temperatures and have a longer service life compared to polymer membranes. This review describes the features of the utilization of polymer based ionogels for hydrogen-air fuel cells including aspects of proton conductivity and interactions on the interface between the catalyst and the membrane. Also, this review examines the current challenges required for the development of the field and recommends areas of research that need further study.