Comb-Chain Crosslinker Based Network Solid Polymer Electrolytes

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs), with a unique combination of electrochemical and mechanical characteristics, are promising for a wide range of energy storage and harvesting applications. The molecular architecture and structure of SPEs provide a versatile platform for tailoring materials' properties to suit specific application needs. This presentation will focus on the network structure and crosslinking chemistry effects on ion transport, electrodeposition, and the formation of metal dendrites. Network SPEs based on branched polyethylenimine have been synthesized. By tuning SPE's molecular structure and chemistry, we can adjust the electrochemical and mechanical properties for improved battery performance while elucidating how these affect the underlying transport mechanism and electrodeposition behavior. We further demonstrate that the tortuosity resulting from the SPE morphology and two-dimensional nanoplate coating can be employed to fine-tune ion transport and guide the growth of metal dendrites.