Interfacial ion transport resistance is a challenge for energy conversion and storage devices. This critical issue needs to be addressed through holistic understanding of ionomer behavior under thin film nanoconfinement, and the use of that as a guide to design the next-generation ionomer binders. We have recently explored the hydration- and thickness-dependent changes in proton conductivity, viscoelastic properties, and morphologies of a range of fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon based ionomers within sub-micron thick films and at substrate interfaces. We have also developed an innovative approach to probe an array of zone specific ionomer properties in membranes and thin films using fluorescence confocal microscopy. Combining all these information helped us to identify the most critical parameters influencing the ion conduction behavior under thin film confinement. This exploration eventually guided us to design ionomeric materials with nature-mimicking functionalities to facilitate ion conduction. These new ionomers hold promise to promote proton conduction in ionomer binder layers.

Zone-specific ion conduction behavior of nature-inspired and synthetic ionomers

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.