Anisotropic assembly of a side chain liquid crystal polymer containing sulfoalkoxy groups for anhydrous proton conduction

Abstract

A side chain liquid crystal polymer containing pendant sulfonic acid groups has been synthesized by post-polymerization functionalization of a brominated mesogenic precursor. A macroscopic alignment was achieved by mechanical shearing of the liquid crystal polymer in the smectic phase. The uniaxial layered assembly exhibited anisotropic proton conductivities under anhydrous conditions and has potential applications in medium temperature fuel cells.