Anion exchange membrane water electrolysis with poly(biphenyl piperidone co trifluoroacetophenone) random copolymers as membranes

When coupled with renewable energy, Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis (AEMWE) offers a promising and low-cost route to green hydrogen production using platinum group metal-free catalysts. A critical component of AEMWE is the membrane, which must combine high anion conductivity with chemical and mechanical stability. However, many current materials fall short in long-term durability. This study investigates Poly(biphenyl piperidone co trifluoroacetophenone) (PBPF), a random copolymer with a stable aromatic backbone and piperidinium cations. PBPF membranes showed 120 mS cm−1 conductivity at 80 °C, 20% water uptake, and a 14% swelling ratio. Electrochemical testing of these promising membranes against Versogen's PiperION® and using platinum group metal-free catalysts is ongoing. PBPF shows strong potential to advance AEMWE membrane electrode assemblies toward higher technology readiness.