Work

Self-healable solid electrolytes based on thiourea H-bonded supramolecular polymers

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Polymeric systems that enable lithium transport are promising candidates for next-generation lithium metal batteries . Aiming to develop robust solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) with high conductivity and mechanical strength , recent approaches have incorporated self-healing polymers into these systems. Here, we present a family of thiourea H-bonded self-healing SPEs, synthesized via a straightforward polycondensation reaction. These SPEs demonstrate excellent thermal stability up to 280 °C, electrochemical stability to 4.2 V, and effective self-healing capabilities. By adjusting the length of the lithium-conducting ethylene oxide spacer, both mechanical strength and conductivity can be finely tuned. Additionally, we observe a distinctive thiourea-anion complex interaction within these SPEs which enhances lithium salt solubility in the poly(thiourea-ether) matrix, significantly boosting ion conductivity. This work provides valuable insights for designing H-bonded self-healing polymer electrolytes with tailored properties for future applications in Li-metal batteries.

Source: Journal of Energy Storage

DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2025.115931

Authors: Yongsheng Zhang, Lieke M.H. Germain, Xiaolong He, Daniele Parisi, Giuseppe Portale

Institutions: University of Groningen, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Battery Materials and Technologies

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,560