Simple scalable processing method for a polymer/inorganic hybridized electrolyte

The development of polymer/inorganic composite membrane hybrid electrolytes for use in lithium-ion batteries has significantly advanced the innovation of energy storage devices. These membranes consist of monolayered Li-ion-conducting particles that are firmly embedded in an insulating polymer matrix and can improve conductivity and mechanical characteristics. However, the scalability of producing one-particle-thick membranes remains a challenge. Here, we evaluate three different simple processes that may be used to produce composite membranes by examining scanning electron microscope images and measuring conductivity. The conductivity of the membrane produced by the optimal method was 0.49 mS/cm at 20 °C, which is approximately 5.5 times higher than that of a commercially produced LATP-sintered disk. The optimal process described here could be used in industrial applications of both all-solid batteries in electric vehicles and flexible all-solid-state batteries in wearable devices.