Synthetic strategies for the preparation of proton-conducting hybrid polymers based on PEEK and PPSU for PEM fuel cells

Synthetic strategies for the preparation of proton-conducting hybrid polymers based on Poly-Ether-Ether-Ketone (PEEK) and Poly-Phenyl-Sulfone (PPSU) are presented. Sulfonation reactions are discussed as a function of sulfonating agents and reaction conditions. Metalation reactions are also described, specifically the introduction of silanol units into the macromolecules. The objective is to improve the proton conductivity of the hybrid polymers by sulfonation, and the mechanical and thermal stabilities by introduction of silicon moieties. Examples of NMR spectra and thermogravimetric curves are shown and discussed in view of the macromolecular structure.