| Abstract | Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of liquids in polymer electrolyte membranes (PEMs) provides information that can be used to better understand the properties of PEMs and their role in applications including hydrogen or alcohol fuel cells and mechanical actuators (MAs). In this overview, practical considerations and technical challenges for obtaining magnetic resonance images of PEMs will be addressed. The methods for imaging both the in-plane and through-plane distribution of liquids in a PEM are discussed, and experimental requirements and considerations for obtaining images with high spatial resolution are highlighted. The capabilities of MRI for studying PEMs, including MR relaxation and diffusion measurements, and quantitative water content mapping are presented. The use of hydrogen-deuterium exchange to introduce contrast and provide information regarding the dynamic distribution of water in operating fuel cells is also covered. The important role that MRI of PEMs has established in providing qualitative and quantitative data for the parameterization and validation of theoretical models of water transport in PEMs is noted. Lastly, advantages, limitations, and the future of MRI for studying PEMs are discussed. |
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