Nanosized TiO₂‐filled sulfonated polyethersulfone proton conducting membranes for direct methanol fuel cells

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents an evaluation of the effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in sulfonated polyethersulfone with sulfonation degree of 70%. A series of inorganic–organic hybrid membranes was prepared with a systematic variation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles content. Their water uptake, methanol permeability, and proton conductivity as a function of temperature were investigated. The results show that the inorganic oxide network decreases the proton conductivity and water swelling. Increase in inorganic oxide content leads to decrease of methanol permeability. In terms of morphology, membranes are homogeneous and exhibit good adhesion between inorganic domains and the polymer matrix. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 1875–1878, 2005