MnO ₂ -Embedded PVDF-HFP/PEG Composite Membrane: A Multifunctional Approach for Electrochemical and Biomedical Systems

The current study focuses on the rational design and comprehensive evaluation of a PVDF-HFP/PEG/MnO 2 (PHP-M) composite membrane engineered to deliver multifunctional performance for electrochemical and biomedical applications. The prepared MnO 2 filler and the PHP-M membrane were systematically characterized to assess their physicochemical properties. Particular emphasis was placed on understanding the synergistic interplay between PEG and MnO 2 within the PVDF-HFP host matrix and its influence on the overall functional performance. FESEM analysis confirmed the uniform dispersion of MnO 2 fillers throughout the polymer blend matrix, which contributed to high thermal and mechanical stability (27.7 MPa), along with remarkable oxidative resistance. Electrochemical investigations (EIS, LSV, and CV) revealed that the ionic conductivity of the membrane is on the order of 1.8 ± 0.4 × 10 –4 S cm –1 with a wide electrochemical window up to 1.8 V. These characteristics substantiate its applicability as a solid polymer electrolyte for proton-based energy storage systems. Oxidative stability studies along with the postreaction structural and electrochemical characterizations further verified the active participation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oxidative environments, reflecting the adaptive redox behavior of the membrane. From a biomedical perspective, the PHP-M membrane possessed superior antioxidant properties, with a radical scavenging efficiency of 58.2%. In parallel, antibacterial studies showed a significant inhibition zone of 25 mm against Escherichia coli and 18 mm against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, confirming its strong antimicrobial performance. In vitro degradation and cytotoxicity analyses established the biocompatibility of PHP-M, reinforcing its potential for biomedical applications. These findings position PHP-M as a promising multifunctional material for integrated electrochemical and biomedical systems.