Synthesis and characterization of a new hyperbranched organic–inorganic solid polymer electrolyte with cyanuric chloride as a core element

A new hyperbranched organic–inorganic hybrid electrolyte based on the use of 2,4,6-trichloro-1,3,5-triazine (cyanuric chloride, CC) as the coupling core to couple with oligo(oxyalkylene)-amines, followed by condensation with (3-glycidoxypropyl)-trimethoxysilane (GLYMO) and complexed with LiClO4, has been prepared and characterized. The Vogel–Tamman–Fulcher (VTF) like conductivity behavior is observed in the present organic–inorganic hybrid electrolytes with a maximum ionic conductivity value of 4.4 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 30 °C. Multinuclear NMR techniques are used to provide a microscopic view for the specific interaction between the polymer chains and Li+ cations and their dynamic behaviors. The results of 2D 1H–13C wide-line separation (WISE) and 7Li static line NMR width measurements divulge that the mobility of the 7Li cations is strongly related to a dynamic environment created by the polymer motion in the amorphous phase. The combined results of conductivity and 7Li pulse-gradient spin-echo (PGSE) NMR self-diffusion coefficient measurements reveal that the conductivity enhancement at low salt concentrations is mainly caused by the high mobility of the lithium cations.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The electrolyte exhibits an ionic conductivity value of 4.4 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 30 °C. ► Solid-state NMR confirms the hybrid structure of hybrid electrolytes. ► Li line width reveals that the mobility of Li ion is coupled with the polymer motion. ► PGSE NMR indicates that polymer segmental mobility affects Li diffusion.