Work

Robust and self-healable polybenzimidazole membranes via Diels–Alder chain extension

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: = 32 kDa), yielding a reversibly crosslinked PBI-DA membrane. Compared to traditional PBI with the same molecular weight, this architecture synergistically integrates exceptional thermal stability (>450 °C onset decomposition), robust mechanical strength (tensile strength >80 MPa), suppressed phosphoric acid swelling (<10%) and elevated ionic conductivity. Crucially, the dynamic network enables cyclic reprocessability and autonomous self-healing, retaining >90% of the initial mechanical properties after three tensile cycles. Compared to static PBI networks, this system reduces irreversible chain entanglement, while maintaining performance parity. By deeply integrating dynamic covalent chemistry with PBI materials, this work not only advances the performance of high-temperature proton-exchange membranes but also establishes a novel framework for the sustainable design of green energy devices, presenting significant scientific merit and engineering application potential.

Source: RSC Advances

DOI: 10.1039/d5ra05834a

Authors: Minjun Yin, Hongting Pu

Institution: Tongji University

Language: English

Topic: Fuel Cells and Related Materials

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,042