PSS (Polystyrene Sulfonate) as Electrode Binder and Electrolyte Additive, 25 g/bottle, CEEEAPSS

In electrochemistry, Polystyrene Sulfonate (PSS)—most commonly used as its sodium salt, Poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate)—is a versatile anionic polyelectrolyte. Its primary function is providing a high density of fixed negative sulfonic acid groups (-SO3^-), which allows it to conduct cations while remaining structurally stable.

PSS is often used as a water-soluble binder for carbon-based electrodes. Unlike traditional PVDF binders, PSS is ionically conductive. This reduces the internal resistance of the electrode by facilitating faster cation (Li+, Na+, or K+) transport through the binder network to the active material. It improves the rate capability (fast charging) of the battery and is more environmentally friendly than solvent-based binders.

PSS is increasingly used to modify the environment around CO2 reduction catalysts. (1) Local pH Management: PSS can be used as an ionomer in catalyst inks to provide a high concentration of fixed negative charges. This helps repel carbonate ions (CO3^{2-}) and manage the local proton concentration. (2) Hydrophilicity: Its highly hydrophilic nature ensures that the catalyst layer is well-wetted in aqueous systems, maintaining a high active surface area for the reaction.

In zinc or copper electroplating, PSS is added to the bath as a "leveling agent." PSS adsorbs onto the high-energy "peaks" of the growing metal surface, creating a local resistive barrier. This forces the metal ions to deposit in the "valleys," resulting in a smooth, mirror-like finish and preventing the growth of dendrites that cause short circuits.

Part Number	CEEEAPSS (C-EEEA-PSS)
CAS	9080-79-9
Chemical Formula	(C8H7NaO3S)n
Appearance	White powder
Molar Mass	Mw ~10600
Package Size	25 g/bottle

Notes: Please try to store the PSS powder in a dry place. 

References: 

1. F. Markoulidis, et al. Electrochemical double-layer capacitors with lithium-ion electrolyte and electrode coatings with PEDOT:PSS binder, J. Appl. Electrochemistry, 2021, 51, 373–385.
2. A. Wang, et al. Polyelectrolyte Additive-Modulated Interfacial Microenvironment Boosting CO2 Electrolysis in Acid, Angew Chem Int Ed, 2025, 64, e202412754.
3. G. Wang, et al., Modulating Interfacial Hydrogen-Bond Environment by Electrolyte Engineering Promotes Acidic CO2 Electrolysis, ACS Catal. 2024, 14, 14, 10529–10537.