Synthesis of Long-Chain-Branched (LCB) Polysulfones for Multifunctional Transport Membranes

Increasing numbers of technologies are based on the idea of harnessing charge transport for useful processes such as energy harvesting, actuation, and sensing. Although much progress exists based on perfluorosulfonated platforms, new and more complicated parameters arise as applications require multifunctionality in engineering materials. For instance, in addition to using lightweight, durable, stable, high-conductivity proton-exchange membranes in a fuel cell, it may be desirable to have the energy source bear load and operate as a structural installment. The most prevalent class of materials potentially capable of such a tradeoff is rubbery “salt-in-polymer” electrolytes that employ polymer segmental motion for transport of free ions from co-dissolved salts.