Unique Conducting Polymer-Coated, Metallized Microporous Membranes with High Electro-Osmotic Function for Chem-Bio Protection

In prior and ongoing, unrelated work in electrochromics, this firm developed unique, thin, flexible, double-sided, metallized (Au, Pt), microporous membranes, incorporating Conducting Polymer (CPs). Expected to have very high electro-osmotic flow capacities, they are useful for active water vapor transport through CBD-protective membranes for military uses such as hardened military facilities, shelters/construction, tent materials, clothing and HVAC support. In Phase I work, excellent, active transport of water vapor across membranes of typical configuration [CP~!@Au~!@~!@microporous-membrane-~!@Au] was observed. Typical changes in Relative Humidity ( Delta-RH), across just 12 cm^2, were 28% in 240 s and 40% at 600 s, for unoptimized membranes at ((-)3V), > 8 times the value at 0 V: The first demonstration of active water vapor electro-osmotic transport, to the best of published knowledge. CW-agent protection was also demonstrated. Comparative liquid transport studies showed electro-osmotic capacities two orders of magnitude larger than published studies. In Phase II, water vapor transport rates will first be maximized. Effective CBD-protection and physical/environmental durability will be incorporated and tested thoroughly. Membranes will be tailored, e.g. with different backings, for each application. Power requirements will be evaluated and minimized and control algorithms optimized. Production, hardware, manufacturing and commercialization issues will be evaluated.