Synthesis of Functional Aromatic Polymers via Versatile Precursor and Structure-Property Relationship Study of Ion-conducting Polymer

Synthesis of polymers with different structures and functionalities (functional polymers) generates materials with new properties and enlarges the scope of applications. In this thesis, two related studies of functional polymers will be discussed: (a) synthesis of functional aromatic polymers via versatile precursor methods and (b) structure-property relationship study of ion-conducting polymers.;Post-polymerization modification is an attractive synthetic strategy as it conveniently transforms a common polymer into functional materials without sacrificing the favorable properties of the pristine polymer and can increase the value. To achieve successful post-polymerization modification, a highly versatile precursor group was installed into polymer structure and then subsequently converted into various functional groups. To demonstrate this synthetic strategy, functionalization of polysulfone and porous polystyrene based on precursor platforms will be presented. This approach will allow to create a diverse range of functional polymers and conduct systematic study for structure-property relationship of the materials. The second part of thesis focuses on the relationship between structure of ionic polymers and ion transport properties. Ionic group functionalized polymers may serve as polymer electrolyte membranes, which are playing a crucial role in electrochemical energy conversion and storage system such as polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells. Comparison studies based on a series of different structures of poly(aryl alkylene)s will be discussed to show how those structural variations can impact ion conductivity and fuel cell membrane property. The lessons from this study will suggest a new design strategy to improve the performance of future generation polymer electrolyte materials.