Flexible solvent-free polymer electrolytes for solid-state Na batteries

• Published in: Journal of power sources 2023-03, Vol.559, p.232644, Article 232644
• Main Authors: Martinez-Cisneros, Cynthia S, Pandit, Bidhan, Levenfeld, Belén, Varez, Alejandro, Sanchez, Jean-Yves
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Chemical Sciences; Cross-linked polymers; Energy storage; Sodium polymer electrolyte; Solvent-free electrolyte
• ISSN: 0378-7753; 1873-2755
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2023.232644

Post-lithium batteries, based on alkaline and alkaline earth elements, are cheaper technologies with the potential to produce disruptive changes in the transition towards cleaner and sustainable energy sources less dependent on fossil fuels. This contribution deals with the development and characterization of sodium-conducting solvent-free polymer electrolytes towards the attainment of Sodium Polymer Batteries. Obtained via the polycondensation of α, ω-dihydroxy-oligo(oxyethylene) with an unsaturated dihalide, whose further curing leads to amorphous networked electrolyte films. Using NaClO4 and NaCF3SO3 at different O/Na ratios, the best polymer electrolyte reaches a cationic conductivity (σ+) exceeding 1 mS cm−1 at 90 °C whereas maintaining mechanical integrity up to at least 120 °C. •Eco-efficient processing of polymer electrolytes towards sustainable batteries.•Solvent-free cross-linked polymers as sodium salt host in polymer electrolytes.•Development of all-solid-state sodium polymer electrolytes.•Improved mechanical properties and ionic conductivity of prepared electrolytes.