Quaternized Polysulfone Cross-Linked N,N-Dimethyl Chitosan-Based Anion-Conducting Membranes

Abstract

Anion-conducting membranes were obtained following the cross-linking of 1,4-diazoniabicycle[2.2.2]octane functionalized-polysulfone with N,N-dimethyl chitosan (DMC). The ionic conductivity of the composite membranes was controlled by the amount of DMC. The influence of the amount of DMC on water uptake, swelling ratio, and ionic conductivity of the obtained membrane was studied. The membrane with 2 wt% DMC exhibited an ionic conductivity of 54 mS/cm and 94 mS/cm at 25 °C and 70 °C, respectively. The membrane showed good dimensional stability under hydrated conditions. A urea/O2 fuel cell, built using the composite membrane, exhibited a peak power density of 4.4 mW/cm2 with a current density of 16.22 mA/cm2 at 70 °C.