Epoxy-crosslinked sulfonated poly (phenylene) copolymer proton exchange membranes

Patent Number:	7,816,482
Issued:	October 19, 2010
Official Filing:	View the Complete Patent at the US Patent & Trademark Office
Technology:	Polymer Membrane Separators for the Next-Generation of Energy-Water Systems Next Generation Automotive
Abstract:	An epoxy-crosslinked sulfonated poly(phenylene) copolymer composition used as proton exchange membranes, methods of making the same, and their use as proton exchange membranes (PEM) in hydrogen fuel cells, direct methanol fuel cell, in electrode casting solutions and electrodes, and in sulfur dioxide electrolyzers. These improved membranes are tougher, have higher temperature capability, and lower SO.sub.2 crossover rates.
Inventors:	Hibbs; Michael (Albuquerque, NM), Fujimoto; Cy H. (Albuquerque, NM), Norman; Kirsten (Albuquerque, NM), Hickner; Michael A. (State College, PA)
Assignee:	Sandia Corporation (Albuquerque, NM)
Application Number:	12/411,451
Filed:	March 26, 2009
Current U.S. Class:	528/98 ; 528/373; 528/86; 528/87;
Current International Class:	C08G 59/00 (20060101); C08G 61/02 (20060101); C08G 75/00 (20060101);
Field of Search:	528/98
Government Interests:	FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH The United States Government has rights in this invention pursuant to Department of Energy Contract No. DE-AC04-94AL85000 with Sandia Corporation.