Temperature-dependent on/off PVP@TiO2 separator for safe Li-storage

Temperature-dependent on/off PVP@TiO2 separator for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) has been fabricated by using a modified electrospinning method. The PVP@TiO2 separators show excellent wettability towards liquid electrolytes and high ionic conductivity due to its high porosity and outstanding capillarity. The battery with PVP@TiO2 separator will be suspended as the operation temperature reaches 60 °C, then revives after being brought back to room temperature. The PVP@TiO2 separator is thermally stable up to 180 °C without significant dimensional shrinkage. The structural integrity of the hybrid separator can be maintained even after being heat-treated at 500 °C. The use of this hybrid separator is one approach to improve the reliability and safety of the LIBs.