Anion exchange membranes and polymers for use in same
Embodiments of the invention relate generally to anion exchange membranes and, more particularly, to anion exchange membranes comprising a styrene block copolymer and methods for their manufacture. In one embodiment, the invention provides a polymer according to formula IV, wherein x and y are mol %, QA is or each of R 1 and R 2 is, independently, a linear alkyl chain or a cyclic alkyl chain, and Z is selected from a group consisting of: a linear alkyl chain, a cyclic alkyl chain, and an alkylene ether chain.
1. A polymer according to formula XII:
wherein x and y are mol % and n is 1-10.
2. A method of preparing the polymer of claim 1 , the method comprising:
preparing the polymer of formula XI
by:
dissolving a polymer of formula X in a quantity of anhydrous dichloromethane;
adding to the mixture a quantity of triethylsilane and trifluoroacetic acid; and
precipitating the polymer of formula XI in methanol,
immersing the polymer of formula XI in a quantity of trimethylamine;
heating the mixture to approximately 50° C. for approximately 48 hours;
rinsing the polymer with water; and
immersing the polymer in sodium hydroxide,
wherein x and y are mol % and n is 1-10.
3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising: preparing the polymer of formula X by:
mixing a polymer of formula VII with a quantity of 6-bromohexanoyl chloride;
adding to the mixture a quantity of anhydrous dichloromethane;
cooling the mixture; and
adding to the mixture a quantity of aluminum chloride,
wherein x and y are mol %.
4. A fuel cell alkaline exchange membrane, a fuel cell isomer, an electrolysis alkaline exchange membrane, or an actuator comprising at least one polymer according to Formula XII:
wherein x and y are mol % and n is 1-10.