Synthesis and characterization of proton exchange polymeric membranes

In this study, development of a new polymeric proton exchange membrane can be used in fuel cells has been targeted.To begin with, telechelic polysulfone oligomers have been synthesized by using different monomers. Properties of polysulfone oligomers have halide and hydroxyl functional end groups as a result of using stoichiometric inbalance approach have been determined. Then it was used obtained telechelic polysulfone oligomers and commercial grade telechelic polydimethylsiloxane oligomers in polycondensation reactions. Properties of multiblock copolymers that synthesized via polycondensation reactions and optimum conditions of sythesis have been established. Finally obtained multiblock copolymers were sulfonated with trimethylsilyl chlorosulfonate. Sulfonated multiblock copolymer samples have been formed to membranes via solution casting then properties of membranes have been determined. Also membrane blends and composite membranes were prepared with sulfonated multiblock copolymer samples, poly(4-vinyl sulfonic acid) and tungstophosphoric acid respectively.Keywords: polysulfone, polydimethylsiloxane, proton exchange membrane, multiblock copolymer, fuel cell.