BaTiO3/PVDF-g-PSSA composite proton exchange membranes for vanadium redox flow battery

Abstract Poly(vinylidene fluoride) membranes with BaTiO 3 powders were grafted with styrene monomer and then sulfonated in concentrated sulfuric acid. The composite proton exchange membranes were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer and X-ray diffraction. The results showed chemical absorption formed between poly(vinylidene fluoride) and BaTiO 3 . The proton conductivity and vanadium ion permeability of the membranes were determined by two-electrode AC impedance and UV–visible spectrophotometry, respectively. The experimental results showed that the addition of BaTiO 3 decreased the permeability of V(IV) ions significantly. Proton conductivity reached 1.11 S/cm when the BaTiO 3 content of composite proton exchange membranes was at 5%. Upon the introduction of 15% BaTiO 3 , tensile strength increased from 30.20 MPa to 37.35 MPa and Young’s modulus increased from 324.62 MPa to 385.9 MPa.