| Abstract Scope |
Upon exploring various types of materials for application as solid electrolytes in battery technology, ranging from polycrystalline ceramics to polymer matrix composites, we converged upon organic-inorganic hybrid materials as a very versatile materials design platform. In monolithic amorphous materials the activation energy for cation hopping is proportional to the adiabatic elastic modulus. Hence high ionic conductivity and mechanical stiffness cannot simultaneously be achieved, which indicates a composite approach to decouple transport and structural functionality of the material. Our hybrids consist of a nano-porous silica backbone whose pores are infused with organic molecular and polymeric components. The three-dimensional continuous silica network assumes the load bearing role, while ionic transport takes place amid the organic constituents. Fabrication of the materials involves a two-step sol-gel synthesis route, followed by a controlled drying process. To various degrees, the organic components are covalently bonded to the silica backbone, which improves chemical stability and significantly enhances ionic conductivity. |