Molecular‐Level Energy Dissipation and Micropore Engineering Synergistically Enhance Anion Exchange Membrane Performance

View at publisher
Authors: Cui Yang, Yu Huang, Wanjie Song, Shiyan Xiao, Xiaolin Ge, Tongwen Xu
Cited by: 6
References: 19

Abstract

Abstract Overcoming the intrinsic trade‐off between ionic conductivity and mechanical robustness remains a long‐standing challenge for anion exchange membranes (AEMs). Here, we report a helical tetra‐functional building block derived from tetraphenyl‐ethylene (TPE) that enables the simultaneous construction of interconnected ion‐transport channels and mechanically reinforced polymer networks. The non‐coplanar molecular configuration of TPE generates continuous microporous pathways, which establish efficient pathways for ion transport and enable 22.6% enhancement in H 2 O/OH − species diffusion. Meanwhile, restricted intramolecular rotations of the phenyl rings dissipate mechanical stress and prevent brittle fracture. Concurrently, the tetra‐functional structure yields a cross‐linked network, synergistically endowing the exceptional mechanical robustness of 79% enhancement in transverse tensile strength and 43% improvement in longitudinal hardness. Anion exchange membrane water electrolyzers (AEMWEs) operating under harsh conditions of temperature and high alkalinity were used for application evaluation. The QTPE‐x‐configurated cell delivered an enhanced current density and exceptional operational stability. The molecular‐level design strategy successfully decouples ionic conductivity and mechanical integrity, providing a general framework for the development of high‐performance AEMs in sustainable energy conversion.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Fuel Cells and Related Materials Advanced battery technologies research Advanced Battery Materials and Technologies

Publication details

Journal / source
Angewandte Chemie International Edition
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
65
Issue
9
Pages
e25998–e25998
Publication date
22 January 2026
Language
EN