Multi-functional dual-layer polymer electrolytes for lithium metal polymer batteries

Abstract

We prepared a novel multi-functional dual-layer polymer electrolyte by impregnating the interconnected pores with an ethylene carbonate (EC)/dimethyl carbonate (DMC)/lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) solution. The first layer, based on a microporous polyethylene, is incompatible with a liquid electrolyte, and the second layer, based on poly (vinylidenefluoride-co- hexafluoropropylene), is submicroporous and compatible with an electrolyte solution. The maximum ionic conductivity is 7 × 10-3 S/cm at ambient temperature. A unit cell using the optimum polymer electrolyte showed a reversible capacity of 198 mAh/g at the 500th cycle, which was about 87% of the initial value.