Surface Defects Reinforced Polymer-Ceramic Interfacial Anchoring for High-Rate Flexible Solid-State Batteries

Abstract

High Li+ conductivity, good interfacial compatibility and high mechanical strength are desirable for practical utilization of all-solid-state electrolytes. In this study, by introducing Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) with surface defects into poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), a composite solid electrolyte (OV-LLZTO/PEO) is prepared. The surface defects serve as anchoring points for oxygen atoms of PEO chains, forming a firmly bonded polymer-ceramic interface. This bonding effect effectively prevents the agglomeration of LLZTO particles and crystallization of PEO domains, forming a homogeneous electrolyte membrane exhibiting high mechanical strength, reduced interfacial resistance with electrodes as well as improved Li+ conductivity. Owing to these favorable properties, OV-LLZTO/PEO can be operated under a high current density (0.7 mA cm−2) in a Li–Li symmetric cell without short circuit. Above all, solid-state full-cells employing OV-LLZTO/PEO deliver state-of-the-art rate capability (8 C), power density and capacity retention. As a final proof of concept study, flexible pouch cells are assembled and tested, exhibiting high cycle stability under 5 C and excellent safety feature under abusive working conditions. Through manipulating the interfacial interactions between polymer and inorganic electrolytes, this study points out a new direction to optimizing the performance of all-solid-state batteries.