Azide-assisted terminal crosslinking of ionomeric blocks: Effects on morphology and proton conductivity

A novel terminally crosslinked block SPES-b membrane was prepared using an azide-assisted thermal curing of sulfonated multiblock poly(arylene ether sulfone). The membrane morphologies and conductivities were investigated as a function of temperature. The crosslinked block SPES-b membrane showed higher proton conductivities than Nafion® both at 20 °C (0.09 S/cm) and 100 °C (0.77 S/cm). High temperatures induced significant conduction enhancements and morphological changes for SPES-b.

► Terminally crosslinked block copolymer membrane was prepared.
► Morphologies and conductivities are investigated as a function of temperature.
► Higher proton conductivities were obtained than Nafion® at 20 °C and 100 °C.
► Morphological changes induced by high temperature.