The
preparation of polyelectrolytes with excellent stability in
high alkaline conditions still faces several challenges. In this study,
we report a novel imidazolium-ionized monomer PhIM [PF6], modified by the propylbenzene group on the position of N1/N3,
which can be copolymerized with 1,1,1-trifluoroacetone under superacid-catalyzed
conditions. The main-chain poly(arylene–imidazolium) polymers
with a controllable degree of functionalization, high molecular weight,
and good solubility are successfully prepared without further postfunctionalization.
Two copolymers (block-like and random) can also be prepared by introducing
biphenyl as a comonomer and adjusting the feed order. Due to their
different microstructures, the two copolymers exhibit different ion
conduction behaviors, water absorption capacities, and mechanical
properties. The obtained polymer membranes exhibit high hydroxide
conductivities and high chemical stability even after treatment in
a 10 M NaOH solution at 80 °C. In summary, we highlight a simple,
effective, and low-cost strategy to prepare highly alkaline stable
poly(arylene–imidazolium) polymers.
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