UV-cured methacrylate based polymer composite electrolyte for metallic lithium batteries

A well-known strategy to achieve higher energy density in lithium-based batteries consists in using metallic lithium as the anode, however, the problematics associated are many and well-known. One solution to enhance battery safety consists in protecting lithium by using a solid electrolyte. Herein the preparation of a new solid polymer composite electrolyte, encompassing room-temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) and ceramic powder is reported. The methacrylate monomer, easily reticulated by UV-curing allows to obtain a highly crosslinked 3D structure matrix, rich in ethoxy groups, fundamental for Li+ conduction. Encompassing of RTIL and ceramic particles allows an enhancement of the ionic conductivity as well as mechanical properties, therefore highly reducing lithium dendrite formation. •The methacrylate monomer, easily reticulated by UV-curing allows to obtain a highly crosslinked 3D structure matrix.•The obtained polymer is rich in ethoxy groups favoring Li+ conduction.•Encompassing of RTIL allows an enhancement of the ionic conductivity, as high as 0,45mS·cm−1 at room-temperature.•Ceramic particles addition improves mechanical properties, therefore highly reducing lithium dendrite formation.