Preparation and characterization of nanocomposite ionic liquid-based gel polymer electrolyte for safe applications in solid-state lithium battery

Abstract Gel electrolyte is one of the most direct and appropriate ways to solve the safety problem of battery before the most challenging technological hurdles to all solid-state batteries have not yet been overcame. A major challenge towards gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) is making an electrolyte that is effectively combine with electrochemical performance, thermal safety and the stability to lithium. Here, PVDF-HFP-LiTFSI/SiO2/EMITFSI polymer electrolyte composite membrane (ILGPE) is prepared via solution casting method, in which nano-silica and ionic liquid positively effect on the performance of polymer electrolytes, such as ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability and thermal safety stability. It remarkably enhances the interface compatibility between ILGPEs and lithium metal. Significantly, we characteristically elucidate the possible transmission mechanism and interaction within the materials of ILGPE. Furthermore, Li/LiFePO4 battery based on such ILGPEs can exhibit fascinating interfacial stability and cycling performance. Herein, cells based on ILGPEs can overcome the drawbacks of solid electrolytes and volatile organic liquid electrolytes, which suggest a promising method for highly secure lithium batteries with appreciably enhanced performance.