Technologies
This technology is a method for fabricating sulfonated polystyrene ion-exchange membranes (IEMs) designed to maintain high charge selectivity in high salinity environments. Such membranes are suitable for applications in electrodialysis desalination and other electromembrane processes. Controlled synthesis parameters are used optimize the performance of the ion-exchange membranes (IEMs).
The current challenge in the field of IEMs is that their selectivity diminishes in high salinity environments, such as ocean water. This loss of selectivity limits the effectiveness of existing, commercial IEMs in key applications, including electrodialysis desalination, the chloralkali process, and fuel cells. Existing IEMs struggle to maintain high permselectivity when faced with high salt concentrations, leading to inefficiencies in processes crucial for resource management and environmental sustainability. Addressing this shortfall is necessary as it directly impacts the feasibility and efficiency of desalination and other electromembrane processes, particularly in regions reliant on seawater as a primary water source.
This technology introduces sulfonated polystyrene IEMs specifically designed to have optimized performance in high salinity environments. The modular synthesis of the sulfonated polystyrene random copolymer allows for tailored membrane properties through controlled manipulation of synthesis time and reagent concentrations. Specific copolymer compositions and fabrication protocols have been identified that significantly improve the permselectivity and efficiency of IEMs with respect to existing commercial technologies.
Patent Pending
IR CU23131
Licensing Contact: Dovina Qu