Abstract
In this study, imidazolium brushes tethered by –NH2-containing ligands were grafted onto the surface of a 2D material, MXene, using precipitation polymerization followed by quaternization. Functionalized MXene was embedded into chitosan matrix to prepare a hybrid alkaline anion exchange membrane. Due to high interfacial compatibility, functionalized MXene was homogeneously dispersed in chitosan matrix, generating continuous ion conduction channels and then greatly enhancing OH− conduction property (up to 172%). The ability and mechanism of OH− conduction in the membrane were elaborated based on systematic tests. The mechanical-thermal stability and swelling resistance of the membrane were evidently augmented. Therefore, it is a promising anion exchange membrane for alkaline fuel cell application.
Highlights
As an efficient, clean, and zero-emission power generation technology, fuel cells can effectively solve energy crises and environmental pollution issues as the focus of global governments
The hybrid membrane became more thermally stable due to a delay of degradation at the second stage (230–320 ◦ C), and the tensile strength of the hybrid membrane was significantly raised to 29.2–41.0 MPa
The functionalized MXene with high specific surface area constructed a continuous ion transport channel inside the membrane, which made the OH− conductivity of the hybrid membrane significantly improved
Summary
Clean, and zero-emission power generation technology, fuel cells can effectively solve energy crises and environmental pollution issues as the focus of global governments. Alkaline anion exchange membranes are one of the essential components of alkaline fuel cells and are capable of blocking fuel and conducting OH−. Alkaline anion exchange membranes are mainly prepared by functionalized polymers, including polyphenyl ether [5], polybenzimidazole [6], and polyetheretherketone [7]. Since traditional polymers have similar functionalized and non-functionalized areas, continuous ion conduction channels cannot form through self-assembly [8,9]. Block polymers have been prepared to significantly increase the OH− conductivity of membranes through self-assembly-generated interconnected ion cluster channels due to entropy-driven microphase separation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic chain segments. The surface of functionalized inorganic the ion conduction performance of membranes. The surface of functionalized inorganic nano-filler nano-filler allows allows formation formation of of continuous continuous ion ion conduction conduction channels.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
