Synthesis of Poly (1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) and Preparation of Proton Conducting Membrane for High Temperature Operation

Polymer poly (1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) have been synthesized via free radical polymerization using the monomer 1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole and the initiator azobisisobutyronitrile (MEN) in toluene as solvent. Proton conducting membranes were prepared by adding nitrilotri (methyl triphosphonic acid) as a dopant into a solution of poly (1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) at various molar ratios. The mixture was cast in polished poly (tetrafluoroethylene), PTFE plates and the solvent was evaporated carefully at temperatures of 50 degrees C for 12 hours. Interaction between the polymer and the dopants have been studied through; FTIR spectrum, thermogravimetric analysis (TG), glass transition temperature using DSC and proton conductivity of membranes made using dielectric-impedance analyzer Novocontrol. Proton conductive membranes with molar ratio of 0.25 was obtained proton conductivity of 8.52 x 10(-4) S/cm at 150 degrees C.