This three-year, $464,665 project grant from the National Science Foundation's Engineering Directorate (CFDA 47.041) will fund research at the University of Illinois to develop multifunctional zwitterionic solid polymer electrolytes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. The grant supports molecular-level design of a series of lithium ion-conducting zwitterionic polyurethane electrolytes with excellent electrochemical and mechanical stability. Researchers will investigate the effect of anionic group type, spacer length between cationic and anionic groups, and polymer backbone structure to advance understanding and design of next-generation solid-state polymer electrolyte materials. Theoretical atomistic molecular modeling will examine lithium salt dissolution and ion transport mechanisms. A suite of electrochemical characterization methods and molecular simulations will evaluate ion conductivity, interfacial stability, and battery performance during charging/discharging. Results will inform design of solid-state batteries with maximum electrochemical performance. The project also supports graduate and undergraduate students.
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