End group cross-linked 2-(dimethylamino) ethylmethacrylate based anion exchange membrane for electrodialysis

Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) emerged as an important material for alkaline fuel cells, and electrochemical applications. Herein, we are reporting synthesis of poly (vinyltrimethoxysilane-co-2-(dimethylamino) ethylmethacrylate) copolymer (VTMS-co-DMAEMA) by eco-friendly method for the preparation of AEM. Obtained membranes were cross-linked via formal reaction and quaternized by methyl iodide. Developed AEM showed good stabilities (oxidative, chlorine, dimensional, mechanical and thermal) and electrochemical properties.These membranes were designed to possess all the required properties of highly anion conductive membrane such as reasonable water uptake, good ion-exchange capacity (2.92 mequiv g−1), high permselectivity (0.90), along with reasonableconductivity (6.45×10−2 S cm−1). The excellent electro-transport property of AEM-0.08 for practical anion separation was concluded from i–v studies. Electrodialytic performance of the AEM-0.08 membrane revealed its suitability for applications in electromembrane processes.

Graphical abstractEco-friendly method for preparation of poly(vinyltrimethoxysilane- co-2-dimethylamino ethylmethacrylate) copolymer and hybrid alkaline membranes with good stabilities and properties for electrochemical applications.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (111 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► High performance anion exchange membranes for electrodialysis. ► Oxidative and chlorine tolerant membranes. ► Poly (vinyltrimethoxysilane- co-2-dimethylamino ethylmethacrylate) copolymer. ► Hybrid anion-exchange membranes for electro-membrane applications.