Ultrahigh Proton Conduction via Extended Hydrogen-Bonding Network in a Preyssler-Type Polyoxometalate-Based Framework Functionalized with a Lanthanide Ion

The exploration of composition-structure-function relationship in proton-conducting solids remains a challenge in materials chemistry. Polyoxometalate-based compounds have been long considered as candidates for proton conductors; however, their low structural stability and a large decrease in conductivity under reduced relative humidity (RH) have limited their applications. To overcome such limitations, the hybridization of polyoxometalates with proton-conducting polymers has emerged as a promising method. Besides, 4f lanthanide ions possess a high coordination number, which can be utilized to attract water molecules and to build robust frameworks. Herein, a Preyssler-type polyoxometalate functionalized with a 9-coordinate Eu3+ (Eu-[P5W30O110K](11-)) is newly synthesized and combined with poly(allylamine) with amine moieties as protonation sites. The resulting robust crystalline composite exhibits an ultrahigh proton conductivity >10(-2) S cm(-1) at 368 K and 90% RH, which is still >10(-3) S cm(-1) at 50% RH, due to the strengthened and extended hydrogen-bonding network.

Automated summary

A novel hybrid material composed of a Preyssler-type polyoxometalate functionalized with a 9-coordinate Eu3+ and poly(allylamine) has been synthesized, exhibiting ultrahigh proton conductivity and robust crystalline structure. The approach of strengthening and extending hydrogen-bonding network enables the material to maintain high conductivity even under lower humidity conditions.