Influence of inert components on the formation of conducting channels in ion-exchange membranes

In this work, the results of investigation of the influence of inert binder and reinforcing fabric on structural organization and mechanism of current transfer in homogeneous and heterogeneous ion-exchange membranes are presented by theoretical analysis of parameters of the extended three-wire conductivity model. It was established that analogy in reorganization of the current paths takes place in the course of inclusion of the reinforcing fabric in perfluorinated membranes and addition of polyethylene and nylon 6 to ion-exchange resins during preparation of heterogeneous membranes. In comparison with perfluorinated membranes, the essential difference in conducting properties of heterogeneous membranes is the opportunity for the current transfer via the channel filled with equilibrium solution. The size of this channel decreases with increase in the volume fraction of the inert component inside the membrane.