Improving the proton conductivity and water uptake of polybenzimidazole-based proton exchange nanocomposite membranes with TiO2 and SiO2 nanoparticles chemically modified surfaces

▶ The prepared nanocomposite membranes showed higher water uptake comparing to PPBI. ▶ The nanocomposite membranes showed higher acid doping level comparing to PPBI. ▶ Addition of modified nanoparticles improved the proton conductivity of the membranes. ▶ Using modified nanoparticles improved the proton conductivity of the membranes. ▶ The modification of nanoparticles surface improved their dispersion in polymer matrix.