20 research outputs found
Molecular origin of enhanced proton conductivity in anhydrous ionic systems
YesIonic systems with enhanced proton conductivity are widely viewed as promising electrolytes in fuel cells and batteries. Nevertheless, a major challenge toward their commercial applications is determination of the factors controlling the fast proton hopping in anhydrous conditions. To address this issue, we have studied novel proton-conducting materials formed via a chemical reaction of lidocaine base with a series of acids characterized by a various number of proton-active sites. From ambient and high pressure experimental data, we have found that there are fundamental differences in the conducting properties of the examined salts. On the other hand, DFT calculations revealed that the internal proton hopping within the cation structure strongly affects the pathways of mobility of the charge carrier. These findings offer a fresh look on the Grotthuss-type mechanism in protic ionic glasses as well as provide new ideas for the design of anhydrous materials with exceptionally high proton conductivity
Enhanced Water Vapor Blocking in Transparent Hybrid Polymer–Nanocrystal Films
Highly transparent and effective
encapsulating materials have become
increasingly important for photovoltaic (PV) modules to prevent water
vapor molecules from permeating PV cells. The composite consists of
block copolymer (PS-<i>b</i>-P2VP), comprised of hydrophobic
and hydrophilic parts, and hygroscopic nanocrystals (Magnesium Oxide,
MgO) incorporated to enhance water vapor blocking by both presenting
obstacles for mass transport and also scavenging water molecules.
The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) values were reduced ∼3000
times, compared to homopolymer (PS), for both polymer and composite
samples. Achieving both high transparency and low WVTR, it is expected
that the composite materials can function as an excellent water vapor
blocking layer for PV modules