Evaluation of a cross-linked polyurethane acrylate as polymer electrolyte for lithium batteries

Abstract A cross-linked polyurethane acrylate (CL-PUA) was synthesized by end capping 2,6-toluene diisocyanate (TDI)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) based prepolymer with hydroxybutyl methacrylate (HBMA). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR) spectroscopy measurements reveal the possible presence of significant interactions between lithium ions and soft/hard segments of the CL-PUA, when CL-PUA was complexed with lithium perchlorate (LiClO 4 ). CL-PUA follows the VTF relationship for the ion transport. Predominant formation of contact ion pairs of LiClO 4 has been observed through AC conductivity and DSC measurements. The lithium stripping–plating process is a reversible and implies better electrochemical stability in the working voltage range. Also, CL-PUA electrolyte shows better compatibility with lithium metal as inferred from impedance measurements and has a good cationic transference number suitable to be used as a solid polymer electrolyte. The addition of HBMA into PU matrix improves tensile strength of the CL-PUA. Swelling measurements of CL-PUA with plasticizer showed better dimensional stability. Also, a cell was constructed using CL-PUA as electrolyte and the performance was assessed.