Proton conducting properties of nanocomposite membranes of chitosan

Nanocomposite membranes of chitosan prepared in our earlier paper (see Ref. [1]) by incorporating different concentrations of Preyssler type heteropolyacid, H14 [NaP5W30O110] (H14-P5) nanoparticles have been characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry (TGA) and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). Proton conductivity data of these membranes measured at varying temperatures have shown a systematic improvement in proton conductivity over that of the nascent chitosan membrane. Arrhenius activation parameter values obtained have been discussed in terms of the conduction transport mechanisms.

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► Nanocomposite membranes of chitosan have been prepared.
► Preyssler type heteropolyacid, H14 [NaP5W30O110] (H14-P5) nanoparticles into the chitosan matrix.
► Improved thermal and possibly barrier properties compared to nascent chitosan polymer.
► May find applications in fuel cell and barrier membranes for liquid–liquid separation.