Environmentally friendly synthesis of alkaline anion exchange membrane for fuel cells via a solvent-free strategy

► A alkaline anion exchange membrane was synthesized via a solvent-free strategy. ► The casting solution was prepared by dissolving a functional polymer (BPPO) in a mixture of monomers (DVB, VBC). ► BPPO incorporated into the network of VBC-DVB copolymer during the in situ polymerization. ► Both the functional polymer and networks of copolymer contributed to ion conductivity of the membrane.