• Macromolecular Research
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• 제15권2호
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• pp.160-166
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• 2007

Novel multiblock copolymers, based on segmented sulfonated hydrophilic-hydrophobic blocks, were synthesized and investigated for their application as proton exchange membranes. A series of segmented sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone)-b-polyimide multiblock copolymers, with various block lengths, were synthesized via the coupling reaction between the terminal amine moieties on the hydrophilic blocks and naphthalene anhydride functionalized hydrophobic blocks. Successful imidization reactions required a mixed solvent system, comprised of NMP and m-cresol, in the presence of catalysts. Proton conductivity measurements revealed that the proton conductivity improved with increasing hydrophilic and hydrophobic block lengths. The morphological structure of the multiblock copolymers was investigated using tapping mode atomic force microscopy (TM-AFM). The AFM images of the copolymers demonstrated well-defined nanophase separated morphologies, with the changes in the block length having a pronounced effect on the phase separated morphologies of the system. The self diffusion coefficient of water, as measured by $^1H$ NMR, provided a better understanding of the transport process. Thus, the block copolymers showed higher values than Nafion, and comparable proton conductivities in liquid water, as well as under partially hydrated conditions at $80^{\circ}C$. The new materials are strong candidates for use in PEM systems.

• Journal of Electrical Engineering and Technology
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• 제1권2호
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• pp.246-250
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• 2006

Highly ordered gold nanodot arrays have been successfully obtained by vacuum evaporation using an anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) as a shadow mask. An AAO mask with the thickness of 300 um was prepared through an anodization process. The structure of the nanodot arrays was studied by a field- emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). A tapping mode atomic force microscope (AFM) was employed for studies of height and phase feature. The nanodot arrays were precisely reproduced corresponding to the hexagonal structure of the AAO mask in a large area. In the gold nanodot arrays, the average diameter of dots is approximately the same as the AAO pore size in the range from 70 um to 80 nm and 100 nm center-to-center spacing. EDS analysis indicated that the gold dots were almost entirely consisted of gold, a highly demanded material.