Cross-Linked PEO Solid Electrolyte for Higher Ionic Conductivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solid electrolytes, particularly those using polyethylene oxide (PEO) as a matrix, face challenges in achieving high ionic conductivity due to the high crystallinity of PEO, which restricts the mobility of lithium ions and limits the optimization of physical properties.
Innovation Solution
The development of a solid electrolyte comprising a polymer network structure formed from a polyethylene oxide-based copolymer with cross-linkable functional groups, a ceramic compound, and a polar compound, where the polar compound is vapor-deposited to improve ionic conductivity and mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a highly crystalline polymer such as polyethylene oxide (PEO) is used as a matrix, then the structural stability and mechanical strength are improved, but the chain mobility is inhibited and ionic conductivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the polymer matrix by introducing cross-linkable functional groups and controlling the cross-linking degree. This transforms the highly crystalline PEO structure into a cross-linked network structure with controlled crystallinity, thereby improving chain mobility and ionic conductivity while maintaining mechanical strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite solid electrolyte by combining cross-linked PEO-based copolymer with inorganic ceramic particles. The ceramic particles fill the spaces between polymer chains and provide additional ion conduction pathways, improving ionic conductivity without compromising mechanical strength
2Reliability
If oxide-based ceramic particles are dispersed in a polymer matrix, then ignition stability and combustion stability are improved, but dispersibility and optimization of physical properties become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by surface-modifying the oxide-based ceramic particles with silane coupling agents or other surface treatments. This creates different surface properties on the ceramic particles that enhance compatibility with the polymer matrix, improving dispersibility while maintaining the inherent combustion stability of the ceramic material
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces surface modification agents as intermediaries between the oxide-based ceramic particles and the polymer matrix. These intermediaries improve the interfacial compatibility and adhesion, enabling better dispersibility and easier manufacturing while preserving the combustion stability provided by the ceramic particles
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the ionic conductivity of the solid electrolyte to 0.95 mS/cm or more at 25°C, while also improving mechanical properties and ensuring uniform distribution of ceramic particles within the electrolyte.
Implementation Method 1
a polar compound, wherein the polar compound is vapor-deposited
Data Source
AI summary
An electrolyte includes: a polymer in the form of a network structure formed of a polyethylene oxide-based copolymer containing cross-linkable functional groups and a cross-linking agent; a ceramic compound; and a polar compound, wherein at least a portion of the cross-linkable functional groups form cross-links with the cross-linking agent, wherein the polar compound is contained in the network structure, and wherein the cross-linking agent is included at a weight ratio of the cross-linking agent to the polyethylene oxide-based copolymer expressed as:fXL =WXL WP,wherein WXL is the weight of the cross-linking agent, WP is the weight of the polyethylene oxide-based copolymer, and fXL is 0.07 to 0.19.