Multiblock Copolymers with Sulfonated Poly (arylene ethers) and Fluoropolymers for Improved Protective Capabilities and Energy Efficient Devices
Abstract
The work outlined in this proposal pursues the synthesis and characterization of multiblock copolymers, based on robust aromatic backbones with multi-ionic domains, to create exclusive architectures and functionalities. The goal is to provide a fundamental understanding of the unique polymer chemistry, nanostructure, and the resulting structure-property relationship of the materials. Condensation polymerization and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) will be used to create multi-block copolymers using different ionic domains (i.e. sulfones, ketones, sulfonated, ethers, and fluoropolymers), with distinctive block composition, in order to develop unique chemical architectures. The nanostructure of the resulting polymers will be critically evaluated using a combination of chemical (EA, FT-IR), thermal (TGA, DSC), mechanical (DMA, AFM, Nanoindentation), and morphological (SANS, SAXS, GISAXS) characterization techniques. The novel polymer architectures will also incorporate counter-ions in specific ionic domains to create selective polymer metal nanocomposite membranes (PMNM). Although the focus of this proposal is on basic research and advancing the fundamental understanding of nanostructured polymers, these materials have very important applications for the Department of Defense (DoD). In the area of chemical and biological protective clothing (CBPC), sulfonated PMNMs have been used to reduce the permeation of a simulant to Sarin gas (DMMP) by at least one order of magnitude over water. The unique chemical and morphological nanostructure of the proposed PMNM, with selective multi-ionic domains, could exacerbate the difference in transport properties by several orders of magnitude for this and other chemicals and biological toxins, thus enhancing the protection of soldiers. Similarly, in the area of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC), where sulfonated polymers have been found to be more selective (transport of protons over methanol) as compared to the state-of-the-art Nafion, the fundamental understanding between polymer chemistry and morphology could further enhance the transport of protons over methanol. This would, therefore, advance the development of more energy-efficient devices to provide power to soldiers in remote locations. Finally, the proposed polymers have numerous potential applications in other electrochemical/chemical devices, which could provide soldiers with a lightweight energy alternative during their military operations. The scientific merit of this investigation stems from the synthesis of multiblock copolymers through novel polymerization techniques with unique chemical combinations and architecture. The broader impact of this investigation will be the significant number of under-represented Hispanic students that will be exposed to state-of-the-art research while having the opportunity to further advance discovery and understanding of fundamental knowledge relevant to critical issues of national security.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 20, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910093
Entities
People
- David Suleiman
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez