Microfibrillated cellulose as reinforcement for Li-ion battery polymer electrolytes with excellent mechanical stability

Methacrylic-based thermo-set gel-polymer electrolyte membranes obtained by a very easy, fast and reliable free radical photo-polymerisation process and reinforced with microfibrillated cellulose particles are here presented. The morphology of the composite electrolytes is investigated by scanning electron microscopy and their thermal behaviour (characteristic temperatures, degradation temperature) are investigated by thermo-gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The composite membranes prepared exhibit excellent mechanical properties, with a Young's modulus as high as about 80 MPa at ambient temperature. High ionic conductivity (approaching 10−3 S cm−1 at 25 °C) and good overall electrochemical performances are maintained, enlightening that such specific approach would make these hybrid organic, cellulose-based composite polymer electrolyte systems a strong contender in the field of thin and flexible lithium based power sources.

► UV-cured methacrylic-based composite gel-polymer electrolyte membranes for Li-batteries. ► Excellent mechanical stability by reinforcement with microfibrillated cellulose. ► Fast and environmentally friendly preparation process, green and low cost cellulose filler. ► High ionic conductivity and wide electrochemical stability window. ► Good cyclability and stable performances in real battery configuration.