Proton exchange membrane material and methods of making the same
US11621433B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 2017 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/50
- WIPO fieldMacromolecular chemistry, polymers
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Hydrocarbon proton exchange membranes are disclosed that are composed of a material including a hydrophobic main chain, and acidic side chains. The main chain includes a polyaryl structure that is substantially free of ether linkages and also includes a fluoromethyl substituted carbon. The acidic side chains include a hydrocarbon tether terminated by a strongly acidic group, such as a fluoroalkyl sulfonate group. Chemical stability of the material is increased by removing the ether linkages from the main chain. The hydrophobic main chain and substantially hydrophilic side chains create a phase-separated morphology that affords enhanced transport of protons and water across the membrane even at low relative humidity levels. These materials are advantageous as membranes for use in fuel cells, redox flow batteries, water hydrolysis systems, sensors, electrochemical hydrogen compressors, actuators, water purifiers, gas separators, etc.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.