Cationic Covalent Organic Frameworks as Anion Exchange Membranes for Electrochemical Energy Applications - COFFEE

Project summary

Rationale: Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) remain plagued by either low stability in an alkaline environment or low ionic conductivities. To overcome these challenges, careful consideration of the chemical structure of both the polymer backbone and the cationic head group is required. Objectives: The COFFEE project addresses these challenges by proposing a novel class of AEMs based on covalent organic frameworks (COFs) to promote enhanced membrane stability, conductivity, and selectivity. Potential applications: Key applications for the COF-based AEMs will be AEM water electrolysers and zinc-air batteries. Impact & potential benefits: The development of durable, high-performance AEMs will push these developmental technologies closer to commercial viability. The successful commercialisation of low-cost electrolyser and battery technologies will contribute to the widespread adoption of renewable energy solutions and directly support Europe's greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.