Main‐chain poly(1,2,3‐triazolium hydroxide)s obtained through AA+BB click polyaddition as anion exchange membranes

A series of aromatic poly(1,2,3‐triazolium iodide)s were synthesized by step growth polymerization of dipropargyl bisphenol A with aliphatic and aromatic diazides followed by quantitative or partial N‐alkylation of the main‐chain 1,2,3‐triazole groups using iodomethane. After characterization by 1H NMR spectroscopy, SEC and DSC the corresponding self‐standing membranes were obtained by hot pressing. Poly(1,2,3‐triazolium iodide) membranes were converted to the corresponding hydroxide‐containing membranes by anion exchange. Structure–property correlations are discussed based on the evolution of water uptake and ionic conductivity with respect to the ionic exchange capacities of the different materials having distinct chemical structure, quaternization degree and counter‐anion structure. Poly(1,2,3‐triazolium hydroxide) anion exchange membranes exhibit water uptakes below 150% and ionic conductivity in the hydrated state up to 4 mS cm−1 for ionic exchange capacities up to 3.2 meq g−1. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry The structure–property correlations of high Tg aromatic poly(1,2,3‐triazolium hydroxide) anion exchange membranes are discussed based on the evolution of water uptake and ionic conductivity with respect to ionic exchange capacities.