Side-chain Functionalized Polynorbornenes as Ionomers and as Membrane Materials for Alkaline Electrolysis of Water, and Fuel Cell

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent discloses novel side-chain functionalized polynorbornene-based copolymers for use as highly stable, water-insoluble, alkaline anion exchange membranes (AEMs). These membranes are designed to efficiently transport hydroxide ions under harsh alkaline conditions while maintaining exceptional mechanical, chemical, and thermal stability. The unique structure leverages flexible side-chain engineering to balance ionic conductivity with membrane robustness, enabling superior performance in electrochemical systems such as alkaline water electrolyzers and fuel cells.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production
• Anion exchange membrane (AEM) fuel cells for clean energy
• (Redox-)flow batteries for large-scale energy storage
• Electrodialysis, Donnan-dialysis, and diffusive dialysis for industrial separations and water treatment
• Electrolytes and ionomers in advanced electrodes or catalyst layers for electrochemical reactors
• Membranes for brackish and seawater electrolysis applications
• High-temperature ion-exchange membrane fuel cells (up to 240°C) when doped with phosphoric or phosphonic acid

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enhanced chemical, thermal, and mechanical stability under harsh alkaline and high temperature conditions—resisting the degradation mechanisms that affect state-of-the-art membranes
• High anion (hydroxide and chloride) conductivity, enabling higher efficiency and power density in electrochemical devices
• Tailorable membrane properties via block- or copolymer synthesis and side-chain design to tune ionic conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and water uptake
• Low water uptake compared to alternatives, preserving mechanical integrity while maintaining high ionic conductivity
• Ability to blend with various matrix polymers (e.g., polybenzimidazoles, isatin polymers) or reinforce with crosslinkers for further optimization of membrane properties
• Competitive or superior performance compared to commercial benchmarks like AEMION™ (e.g., higher stability, better voltage profiles)
• Potential to reduce the use of critical or expensive raw materials, e.g., via lower blending ratios of matrix polymers
• Broad process compatibility, enabling films, coatings, or composite structures

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to water-insoluble polymer membranes (AEM) on the basis of new side-chain functionalized copolymers and their use as alkaline anion exchange membrane materials, for example in alkaline water electrolyzers, fuel cells or flow batteries.