Regioisomerism and π–π interaction synergistically enable mechanical-ionic decoupling of anion exchange membranes for hydrogen conversion

Abstract

Herein, indolocarbazole-derived anion exchange membranes incorporating a rigid π-conjugated regioisomeric monomer enable mechanical–ionic decoupling. Synergistic regioisomerism and π–π interactions induce localized hydrophobic packing and ionic clustering, affording 144 mS cm⁻¹ conductivity, 50 MPa strength, and high device performance (1.74 W cm⁻² fuel cells; 5.8 A cm⁻² at 2.0 V electrolysis).