Synthesis and characterization of sulfonated polytriazole-clay proton exchange membrane by in situ polymerization and click reaction for direct methanol fuel cells

► SPTA-clay membranes are prepared by in situ polymerization and click reaction. ► The clay layers are exfoliated and well dispersed within the SPTA matrix. ► SPTA-clay membranes with small amounts of clay possess higher selectivity. ► SPTA-clay membranes have potential as PEMs in DMFCs.