Electrospun polyetherimide nanofiber mat-reinforced, permselective polyvinyl alcohol composite separator membranes: A membrane-driven step closer toward rechargeable zinc–air batteries

MCM-41/PVA Composite as a Separator for Zinc–Air Batteries

“…Such observations of the critical threshold of filler loadings are commonly reported for many composite materials [ 26 , 36 ]. Nevertheless, in this work, the electrolyte uptake and ionic conductivity of all prepared membranes are relatively high compared to those reported in the literature based on the similar polymer [ 20 , 22 , 23 ].…”

“…One essential property for the membrane separator is to hold up high electrolytes (electrolyte uptake) to perform the electrochemical reaction with a zinc electrode. Typically, the strategies to enhance the membrane electrolyte uptake involve controlling the structure and microporosity of the membrane [ 22 , 23 ] or the use of highly hydrophilic polymers that can swell aqueous electrolytes well [ 14 , 20 ]. However, the main disadvantage of using porous membranes is the migration of other ions besides the electrolytes and the evaporation of liquid electrolytes from the pores that result in unstable battery performance and short rechargeable cycle.…”

“…In addition, MCM-41 shows adjustable hydrophobicity, an ability to modify surface functionality, and has very good thermal stability. Saputra et al [ 33 ] used MCM-41 directly as an inorganic separator for ZABs and achieved a stable discharge voltage at 1.2 V. However, the discharge capacity of the battery was found to be very low when compared to other PGE membranes [ 22 ]. This might be because MCM-41 cannot adsorb and hold up as much alkaline electrolyte as a polymer.…”

Production and characterization of polyetherimide mats by an electrospinning process

“…Given the industrial and scientific importance of this polymer, studies have been reported, to our knowledge, for at least 13 years, especially concerning the use of PEI to produce fibers and mats by electrospinning [6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14]. For instance, Han et al [6] evaluated the thermal stability of electrospun mats formed by poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/PEI blends.…”

“…The treated mats, in comparison to the un-treated mats, exhibited an improvement in the mechanical strength from between 400 to 500%. Lee et al [8] produced a new class of electrospun nanofiber mat-reinforced permselective composite membranes (ERC membrane) impregnating polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) into electrospun polyetherimide (PEI) nanofiber mat. The PEI nanofiber mat acted as a compliant framework to endow dimensional stability and mechanical strength.…”