Abstract: The present invention is directed to proton exchange membranes such as for use in fuel cells. In one embodiment, a polyetherquinoxaline is obtained by reaction between a haloquinoxaline and at least one diol, which forms a repeating unit including an ether linkage. The polyetherquinoxaline is suitable for use in a proton exchange membrane, which can be used in a fuel cell.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of detecting a chemical species with an oscillating cantilevered probe. A cantilevered beam is driven into oscillation with a drive mechanism coupled to the cantilevered beam. A free end of the oscillating cantilevered beam is tapped against a mechanical stop coupled to a base end of the cantilevered beam. An amplitude of the oscillating cantilevered beam is measured with a sense mechanism coupled to the cantilevered beam. A treated portion of the cantilevered beam is exposed to the chemical species, wherein the cantilevered beam bends when exposed to the chemical species. A second amplitude of the oscillating cantilevered beam is measured, and the chemical species is determined based on the measured amplitudes.

Abstract: A process for the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to hydrocarbons is provided. The biomass is subjected to aqueous phase partial oxidation (APPO) in the presence of a heterogeneous oxidation catalyst to selectively provide one or more carboxylic acids in good yields. The carboxylic acids are further upgraded to hydrocarbons in the presence of one or more catalysts, which are capable of catalyzing a ketonization reaction, an aldol condensation reaction, a hydrodeoxygenation reaction, or combinations thereof, and then separating out the hydrocarbons from the one or more catalysts.