The strong dependence of the proton conductivity of most solid polymer electrolytes on their water content limits their application as fuel cell membranes in systems operating at the extremes of temperature and humidity.  In the pursuit of anhydrous, solventless polymeric proton conductors, we have synthesized and investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy polymer-tethered 1H-tetrazoles.  By virtue of their amphoteric character, a dense network of tetrazole moieties should promote structural proton diffusion throughout a film in the absence of water.  Styrenic polymers with tethered 1H-tetrazole units show high resistivity below Tg under anhydrous, solventless conditions, but exhibit surprisingly high conductivity when tested at moderate temperatures and humidities.  We will present the synthesis of these materials and how their hydrated conductivity behavior displays properties that are desired from truly anhydrous conductors.

Styrenic, proton conducting 1H-tetrazole polymers

245th National Meeting (2013)

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