Cycloaliphatic Epoxide‐Based Photocured Gelled Electrolytes for Secondary Lithium Battery Applications: Electrochemical Kinetic Studies

Cycloaliphatic epoxide‐based thin gelled films prepared by ultraviolet photocuring were characterized electrochemically. Mixtures of ethylene carbonate and various organic liquids in different volume ratios were used as solvents. General composition of the electrolyte was cycloaliphatic epoxide (being sold under the trade name ENVIBAR by Union Carbide) 10 to 28 weight percent (w/o), polyethylene oxide (200,000 Mw) 4 to 10 w/o, , 6 to 22 w/o, and mixed solvents (of different volume ratios) 80 to 40 w/o. Thin gelled films were formed on lithium (Li) electrodes and subjected to electrochemical studies. Typical values of bulk electrolyte specific conductivity and interfacial resistance obtained from ac impedance and dc measurements at room temperatures are and 3.2 Ω, cm 2 , respectively. Charge/discharge characteristics of the cells of the type were evaluated. Cathode utilization was only 33% of the total capacity.