Synthesis via ROMP of triazole bearing polycyclobutene diblock copolymers as water-free proton conducting membranes for PEM fuel cells

摘要

One of the main challenges facing the extensive use of PEM Fuel cells is the need for better performing ion transporting membranes, especially at high temperature and low relative humidity. In general, efficient ion transport requires high charge carrier density and high charge carrier mobility, achieving both, while maintaining the desirable mechanical and chemical stability of a polymer matrix, remains a daunting challenge. This project focuses on evaluating each factor limiting ion transport separately by systematically modifying the structure of the pendant groups attached to a common backbone motif, polycyclobutenes. Ultimately our goal is to merge the best candidate characteristics (matrix polarity, flexibility, ion content and nano-scale morphology) into a widely applicable set of design parameters resulting in increased conductivity and good mechanical properties. We have developed a new triazole containing monomer than can be polymerized via ROMP to generate low PDI, proton conducting, homopolymers and copolymers. The initial results of these efforts, along with the properties of the resulting polymers will be discussed below.