The recent progress of our research on anion-exchange membranes (AEMs) for alkaline fuel cell applications is reviewed. We have designed and synthesized a novel series of poly(arylene ether)-based AEMs with quaternized ammonium groups. The effect of sequence of polymer main chain (random or block) on the AEM properties, especially anion conductivity, is discussed. Fluorenyl groups serve effectively as scaffolds for the ammonium groups. The results imply that the aromatic AEMs are potentially applicable to alkaline fuel cells using hydrogen or hydrazine as a fuel.
- Junpei Miyake
- Masahiro Watanabe
- Kenji Miyatake
