Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Ion Conductivity Durability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing polymer electrolyte membranes in fuel cells and redox flow batteries face challenges with durability and efficiency due to limitations in ion conductivity and chemical stability, particularly under strong acids and radical conditions.

Innovation Solution

A novel compound represented by Chemical Formula 1 is used to create a polymer electrolyte membrane with a monomer structure that enhances reactivity and durability, featuring a sulfonyl or carbonyl group and specific halogen substitutions, which increases ion conductivity and chemical stability by positioning ion transfer functional groups at optimal positions within the polymer chain.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If polymer structure is optimized for ion conductivity, then ion transfer efficiency improves, but durability under challenging conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveion transfer efficiencyVSAvoiddurability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by systematically varying the structural parameters of the polymer (functional group types, their positions represented by R1-R10, and the core structure with A group). By optimizing these parameters, the membrane achieves the desired balance between ion transfer efficiency and durability, allowing high productivity without sacrificing long-term durability under challenging conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The composite material strategy incorporates multiple protective and functional elements within the polymer structure. The combination of sulfonyl/carbonyl groups for structural integrity, halogen groups for stability, and strategically positioned ion transfer groups creates a composite structure that simultaneously enhances both ion transfer efficiency and durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If ion transfer functional groups are positioned for maximum conductivity, then ion conductivity improves, but structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveion conductivityVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating distinct functional zones within the polymer structure. Ion transfer groups are positioned at specific locations (R8-R10) to maximize conductivity, while the core structure (A group and R1-R7 substitutions) maintains structural stability. This localized functional differentiation allows simultaneous optimization of both ion conductivity and structural stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs segmentation by dividing the polymer structure into distinct functional segments: the core structural framework (providing stability), the sulfonyl/carbonyl groups (providing structural integrity), the halogen groups (providing chemical stability), and the ion transfer functional groups (providing conductivity). This segmentation allows each segment to optimize its specific function without compromising the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The polymer electrolyte membrane exhibits improved durability and efficiency in fuel cells and redox flow batteries, with enhanced ion conductivity and mechanical strength, effectively managing ion transfer and maintaining performance under challenging conditions.

Implementation Method 1

a polymer electrolyte membrane including a polymer including a monomer derived from the compound of Chemical Formula 1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIon conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS10727516B2Compound and polymer electrolyte membrane using same
Publication Date: 2020.07.28 LG CHEM LTD
  • US10727516B2 patent drawing
  • US10727516B2 patent drawing
  • US10727516B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present specification relates to a novel compound, a polymer electrolyte membrane including the same, a membrane-electrode assembly including the polymer electrolyte membrane, a fuel cell including the membrane-electrode assembly, and a redox flow battery including the polymer electrolyte membrane.