Advancing sustainable energy: Structurally organized proton and hydroxide ion-conductive polymers

This concise review paper specifically describes advancements in proton and hydroxide ion-conductive polymers, emphasizing their structural organization and molecular orientation by various intrinsic molecular interactions and external environmental conditions. The discussion explores how these properties enhance ion conduction in various electrochemical devices, notably fuel cells. The paper highlights significant developments in polymer microstructures and their effects on ion conduction, underscoring the salient role of molecular orientation and hierarchical structure in improving polymer performance. The review also presents discussion of broader implications for sustainable energy technologies, providing a concise overview of the state-of-the-art in this field during the past three years.