Block Copolymer, Method for Producing a Block Copolymer, Membrane and Use of a Membrane

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

This invention discloses a new type of block copolymer composed of at least one ion-conducting polymer block and one mechanically flexible polymer block. The resulting material combines high ion conductivity with enhanced mechanical flexibility and chemical stability. Such copolymers can be structured into membranes suitable for electrochemical applications like fuel cells, electrolyzers, and batteries, maintaining high performance even under challenging conditions such as elevated temperatures or low humidity.

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

• Proton exchange membranes in fuel cells (e.g., hydrogen fuel cells, direct alcohol fuel cells)
• Membranes in electrolyzers for water splitting or hydrogen production
• Ion-exchange membranes in redox flow batteries
• Electrochemical sensor membranes
• Separation membranes in chemical processing where ion selectivity and mechanical durability are required

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Combines high ion conductivity with superior mechanical flexibility and toughness, reducing risk of brittle failure.
• Can be tailored for specific operational temperatures and environmental conditions, including high temperatures and dry environments.
• Allows for thinner membranes with improved performance (higher conductivity, lower fuel crossover) compared to traditional materials like Nafion.
• Improved chemical and hydrolytic stability, including resistance to alcohols and extreme pH, enhancing operational lifetime.
• Precise control over mechanical and conductive properties by adjusting block ratios and composition.
• Potential for isotropic and nanostructured morphologies, enhancing uniform ion transport and stability.
• Eliminates the need for blending with other polymers, minimizing conductivity loss due to incompatibilities or crosslinking side reactions.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a block copolymer having at least two different polymer blocks, wherein one polymer block is at least predominantly composed of a first, ion-conducting polymer, the ion-conducting polymer having ion-conductive functional groups, and one polymer block is at least predominantly composed of a second, mechanically flexible polymer, the mechanically flexible polymer having a lower glass transition temperature than the ion-conducting polymer. The present invention also relates to a method for producing a block copolymer, to a membrane and to the use of a membrane.