Product Application Image for 3M Ionomers.
Choose the ionomer with more staying power.

Improve proton conductivity with 3M Ionomers for fuel cell membranes and electrode formulations.

3M™ Ionomers

Unlocking higher potential for PEM fuel cells

  • Today’s evolving power generation technologies are transforming the way we power our vehicles, homes and workplaces. With hot air and water vapor as byproducts, polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells are particularly promising for reducing both CO2 emissions and our reliance on fossil fuels. As manufacturers continue to refine these fuel cells for power and efficiency, they are turning to materials suppliers for state-of-the-art solutions.

    Designed for a balance of durability, dispersibility and high performance, 3M™ Ionomers for fuel cell membranes and electrode formulations are helping manufacturers close in on the goal of zero-emission energy. Plus, 3M ionomers are backed by decades of fluoropolymer expertise and comprehensive application engineering support.


Performance. Power. Processability.

3M ionomers are designed for a balance of both performance and durability, to improve efficiency without compromising ease of processing or membrane stability. View 3M™ Ionomers experimental product information (PDF, 126.25 KB).

  • Icon for 3M Ionomer Power Density.
    Power density

    3M ionomers are designed to deliver increased proton conductivity, with the potential to achieve higher energy output with a smaller fuel cell stack.

    This is made possible in part by their unique chemistry, which enables good mechanical property retention at lower equivalent weights.

  • Icon for 3M ionomer chemical durability
    Chemical durability

    3M ionomers are made of thermally and chemically stable perfluorinated material with low metals content.

    They are chemically designed with a linear side chain and stabilized end groups, for improved chemical durability compared to standard perfluorinated ionomers.

  • Icon for 3M ionomer dispersibility shaped like a chemistry beaker.
    Dispersibility

    3M ionomers are delivered in solid form, for ease of use in custom formulations.

    3M ionomers are easily dispersible in common solvent systems – without the need for high-pressure, high-temperature equipment.


How do PEM fuel cells work?

PEM fuel cells are one of the most promising technologies on the road to a zero-emission future. Take a peek inside to see how they work!

PEM Fuel Cell Video

Applications for 3M™ Ionomers

  • PEM Fuel Cells

    From electric vehicles to stationary alternative energy sources, PEM fuel cells offer an exciting avenue on the road to energy independence and environmental sustainability.

    3M ionomers are helping manufacturers refine these fuel cells for power and efficiency, by improving proton conductivity without sacrificing membrane durability or processability.

  • Other Electrochemical Applications

    3M ionomers offer efficient performance in other alternative power generation technologies, including redox flow batteries and chlor-alkali production.

    They can also be used in another part of the hydrogen economy: the electrolyzers that separate water into its constituent components, to sustainably produce hydrogen for fuel cells.


Contact our customer service representatives

3M has 20 years of experience designing and manufacturing ingredient technologies for fuel cells.

Contact us if you need product, technical or application advice or want to collaborate with a 3M Technical Specialist. Call 1800-425-3030 (Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Central Time )