Solvent Processable Tetraalkylammonium-Functionalized Polyethylene for Use as an Alkaline Anion Exchange Membrane

We report the synthesis of a solvent processable, tetraalkylammonium-functionalized polyethylene for use as an alkaline anion exchange membrane (AAEM). The membranes are insoluble in both pure water and aqueous methanol (50 vol % water) at 50 degrees C but exhibit excellent solubility in a variety of other aqueous alcohols (e.g., 5 wt % AAEM in aqueous n-propanol, 50 vol % water). These solubility characteristics extend the potential utility of this system for use as both an AAEM and ionomer electrode material from a single polymer composition. The AAEMs generated are mechanically strong and exhibit high hydroxide and carbonate conductivities.