Phenolphthalein-based Poly(arylene ether sulfone nitrile)s Multiblock Copolymers As Anion Exchange Membranes for Alkaline Fuel Cells.

A series of phenolphthalein-based poly(arylene ether sulfone nitrile)s (PESN) multiblock copolymers containing 1-methylimidazole groups (ImPESN) were synthesized to prepare anion exchange membranes (AEMs) for alkaline fuel cells. The ion groups were introduced selectively and densely on the unit of phenolphthalein as the hydrophilic segments, allowing for the formation of ion clusters. Strong polar nitrile groups were introduced into the hydrophobic segments with the intention of improving the dimensional stability of the AEMs.