Synthesis and properties of sulfonated poly(arylene ether)s containing azole groups

Random and multiblock sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone)s (SPEs) containing various azole groups such as oxadiazole and triazole were synthesized and characterized for fuel cell application. Successful preparation of SPE membranes depended on the structure of azole groups, which affected solubility of precursors and the resulting SPEs. Although oxadiazole groups were incorporated into hydrophobic component, they were found to be hydrophilic to give higher proton conductivity. Introduction of oxadiazole groups into random SPE gave comparable proton conductivity to that of Nafion NRE at >60% relative humidity at 80 °C. Block copolymer structure further increased the proton diffusion coefficient without increasing ion exchange capacity. Hydrolytic and oxidative stability of the SPE membranes was affected by both hydrophilic and hydrophobic components. Oxadiazole groups gave negative impact on hydrolytic and mechanical stability to the SPE membranes.