Proton transport is an essential part of many physiological processes. For this reason, devices that deliver a controlled flow of protons to living organisms show promise for medicinal/therapeutic treatments. These bioprotonic devices depend on conductive, biocompatible polymer membranes to facilitate proton movement. Herein we quantify the dynamics of proton diffusion in acid-functionalized chitosan membranes using <i>ab initio </i>molecular dynamics simulations. Our results show how the level of membrane hydration and the degree of polymer acid functionalization influence proton diffusion. By quantifying the relationship between acid functionalization, hydration level, and proton diffusion, these results offer new insight that could aid in designing membranes for bioprotonic devices.

Quantifying the dynamics of proton diffusion in acid-functionalized biopolymer membranes

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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