Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2026

Ion-Exchange Membranes for the Fabrication of Reverse Electrodialysis Device
Published on: July 20, 2021
Stabilizing the imidazolium cation in hydroxide-exchange membranes for fuel cells
Junhua Wang1, Shuang Gu, Robert B Kaspar
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 (USA).
Abstract:
Stable and able: The hydroxide-conducting cationic functional group used in the hydroxide-exchange membranes of fuel cells is key to controlling chemical stability and solubility. A new imidazolium cation, 1,4,5-trimethyl-2-(2,4,6-trimethoxyphenyl)imidazolium, is designed to take advantage of both strong electron-donation properties and steric hindrance. Synergy between these two effects leads to an efficient hydroxide-exchange membrane, with increased alkaline stability and improved OH(-) conductivity.
Related Concept Videos
Ion Exchange
Potentiometry: Membrane Electrodes
Batteries and Fuel Cells
Ion-Exchange Chromatography

