Sulfonated Ti3C2Tx to construct proton transfer pathways in polymer electrolyte membrane for enhanced conduction

摘要: Here, Ti3C2Tx sheets, a representative of MXenes, with lamellar structure and hydrophilic surface are prepared, then functionalized sulfonated polyelectrolyte brushes (Ti3C2Tx-SO3H) through facile surface-initiated precipitation-polymerization. The Ti3C2Tx-SO3H is utilized as new nanofiller to fabricate hybrid proton exchange membrane, where both acidic poly (ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) basic chitosan (CS) employed polymer matrixes. resultant membranes systematically characterized measured including their microstructures, water uptake conduction properties. results demonstrate that using the brushes, sheets construct efficient transfer pathways connect inherent channels/paths in phase. This significantly enhances membrane SPEEK CS under hydrated condition anhydrous condition. Particularly, incorporation 10 wt.% readily offers 144% 66% increase conductivity, respectively, Furthermore, achieve improved thermal mechanical stabilities. These herald further advances preparing MXenes relevant materials enhanced performances.