Structure-Stability Correlations on Quaternary Ammonium Cations as Model Monomers for Anion-Exchange Membranes and Ionomers.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the alkaline stability of quaternary ammonium (QA) cations tethered to polymer backbones in anion-exchange membranes (AEMs) is crucial to advance the long-term performance of anion-exchange polyelectrolyte-based fuel cells and electrolyzers. A library of model QA cations with N-phenyl and N-benzyl tethers has been synthesized, and comparative alkaline degradation studies revealed that the former are much less stable toward hydroxide attack than their benzylic counterparts. Density functional theory (DFT) studies support the relative stability of the QA cations and demonstrate the critical effect of hydroxide solvation on alkaline stability as well as the degradation pathway. The 3-benzyl-3,6-diazaspiro[5.5]-undecane-6-ium (N-benzyl-ASU, 8) cation w

SUBMITTER: Power SDT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12264860 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature