Advanced sulfonated polyimide membrane technology: From synthesis to properties

In recent years, Sulfonated polyimide membrane technology has witnessed significant advancements, driven by the demand for efficient and sustainable membrane applications including desalination, fuel cell and wastewater treatment. This review presents a comprehensive overview of major developments in sulfonated polyimide (SPI) synthesis methodologies, including its necessary conditions and parameters. Additionally, it explores the incorporation of functional groups into substituent groups, emphasizing their effects on membrane performance, such as ion conductivity, mechanical strength, and thermal stability. Furthermore, the review includes an analysis of SPI membranes, covering characterization techniques like FTIR and NMR, as well as examining membrane morphology through SEM. These advancements provide researchers with a deeper understanding of the synthesis methods of SPI and its properties. © 2025 The Authors