Gel Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium Batteries: Advantages, Challenges, and Perspectives

The increasing demand for high-energy-density and safe lithium batteries has driven significant advancements in electrolyte technology. Among the various options, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) have emerged as a promising solution, combining the high ionic conductivity of liquid electrolytes with the structural integrity of solid-state (polymer) electrolytes. GPEs possess a hybrid structure composed of a polymer matrix, lithium salts, one or more solvents or plasticizers, and often functional additives, offering exceptional flexibility, adaptability, and performance for advanced energy storage systems. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of GPE technology for lithium batteries, covering fabrication methods, advantages, and challenges, while emphasizing potential application scenarios and the underlying mechanisms. Finally, future research directions are outlined to provide valuable insights and guidelines for advancing GPE technology.