Design of a Polymer Electrolyte with High Ionic Conductivity through an In-Situ Polymerization Approach

Solid-state lithium metal batteries have risen as highly promising contenders for the next generation of energy storage systems, primarily because of their inherent safety, stability, and higher energy density. Nevertheless, they have yet to reach practical viability, primarily due to challenges related to solid-state electrolytes. In this study, we introduce a groundbreaking method for generating a polymer electrolyte with superior room-temperature lithium-ion conductivity and excellent interfacial stability. This approach involves the in-situ copolymerization of standard ionic-conducting and single-ion-conducting monomers in the presence of a lithium salt. This polymer significantly enhances the cation transference number and facilitates uniform contact with electrodes, resulting in the suppression of dendrite growth. This is attributed to the even distribution of charge at the electrolyte-electrode interface. This research presents a successful strategy for establishing a stable electrolyte/Li interface, thereby laying the foundation for the accelerated development of long-lasting solid-state lithium metal batteries. This presentation provides an overview of our ongoing endeavors to design a polymer electrolyte with exceptional ionic conductivity, aimed at enhancing the safety and stability of solid Li-Metal batteries.