Improving electrolyte performance: Nanocomposite solid polymer electrolyte films with cobalt oxide nanoparticles

Abstract

The present work gives an insight into the structural, thermal, and electrical analysis of novel nanocomposite solid polymer electrolyte films prepared using the solution casting technique by incorporating cobalt oxide nanoparticles into methyl cellulose-magnesium acetate polymer electrolyte matrix. The impact of ceramic oxide on the complexation of the salt with the polymer chain is evident from FTIR analysis. The crystallinity of the electrolyte systems decreases upon the incorporation of nanofiller into the matrix. Electrochemical Impedance Analysis of the samples shows enhancement in the conductivity of the electrolytes. Nanocomposite electrolyte systems with 2 wt% (5.93 × 10−4 S/cm) and 3 wt% (5.77 × 10−4 S/cm) of cobalt oxide exhibit maximum room temperature ionic conductivity compared to other electrolyte systems. DSC thermogram reveals the creation of free volume in the matrix with the incorporation of the filler. A primary battery is fabricated using the nanocomposite electrolyte system with 3 wt% of the nanofiller, and its open circuit potential and discharge characteristics have been analyzed. Highlights: Novel nanocomposite SPEs with cobalt oxide were prepared via solution casting. FTIR and XRD studies revealed modification in the microstructure. Cobalt oxide incorporation enhanced ionic conductivity of SPE. A primary battery fabricated using the highest conducting SPE.