Disulfonated bisphenol-A based poly (arylene ether sulfone) random copolymers with controlled oligomeric molecular weights were synthesized via nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction. meta-Aminophenol was selected as mono functional end-capper both to control the oligomer molecular weights and to achieve reactive amine endgroups. Subsequently meta-Aminophenol end-capped oligomers were reacted with 2- propenoyl chloride (acryloyl chloride) to obtain novel crosslinkable oligomers with acrylamide functionality. The oligomer structures were identified, and the degree of sulfonation and molecular weights (Mn) were calculated via endgroup analysis using 1H NMR spectroscopy. The acrylamide terminated oligomers were crosslinked under UV radiation in the presence of multifunctional acrylates and UV initiators. Transparent ductile films were obtained with high gel fractions. Thin film composite membranes were prepared via photo-crosslinking of oligomers with high degree of sulfonation from aqueous or methanol-water solutions. Crosslinking of disulfonated poly (arylene ether sulfone) copolymers limited the water uptake and swelling of these hydrophilic materials, which is expected to enhance membrane properties. AFM micrograph showed thin film composites with a smooth membrane surface along with the hydrophilic surface were prepared which is expected to decrease fouling of the membrane. Synthesis of oligomers, membrane fabrication and transport properties will be discussed.

UV-crosslinked telechelic disulfonated poly (arylene ether sulfone) oligomers for reverse osmosis membrane applications

248th National Meeting (2014)

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