Aggregated and ionic cross-linked anion exchange membrane with enhanced hydroxide conductivity and stability

In order to achieve a better trade-off among ionic conductivity, mechanical strength and chemical stability, a series of novel aggregated and ionic cross-linked anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are recommended, namely, acS(6)QAPSF, acS(8)QAPSF and acS(10)QAPSF. Cross-linked network shoulders the responsibility to toughen the acS(x)QAPSF. Appropriate micro-morphology is responsible for facilitating the conduction of OH- and improving the alkaline stability of the acS(x)QAPSF. Compared with the original QAPSF, acS(x)QAPSF membranes exhibit much better properties. Specifically, for acS(8)QAPSF, a high OH- conductivity of 90.5 mS cm(-1) is achieved at 80 degrees C, with the swelling degree of 10.0%. The tensile strength and elongation at break of wet acS(8)QAPSF at 25 degrees C are 23.9 Mpa and 21.1%, respectively. After testing in 1 M NaOH at 80 degrees C for 30 days, the weight loss of acS(8)QAPSF is 8.0%, with the losses of tensile strength and elongation at break of 13.8% and 13.3%, respectively. Its IEC and IC retentions are 92.0% and 90.5%, respectively. For acS(8)QAPSF, a fuel cell peak power density of 0.612 W cm(-2) is obtained at 60 degrees C. While for QAPSF, its fuel cell peak power density is only 0.101 W cm(-2), and the film is cracked after the 30 days stability test.