In this study, imidazolium brushes tethered by ⁻NH₂-containing ligands were grafted onto the surface of a 2D material, MXene, using precipitation polymerization followed by quaternization. Functionalized MXene was embedded into chitosan matrix to prepare a hybrid alkaline anion exchange membrane. Due to high interfacial compatibility, functionalized MXene was homogeneously dispersed in chitosan matrix, generating continuous ion conduction channels and then greatly enhancing OH- conduction property (up to 172%). The ability and mechanism of OH- conduction in the membrane were elaborated based on systematic tests. The mechanical-thermal stability and swelling resistance of the membrane were evidently augmented. Therefore, it is a promising anion exchange membrane for alkaline fuel cell application.
Keywords: alkaline fuel cell; anion exchange membrane; chitosan; functionalized MXene; hydroxide conductivity.