Enabling solid-state Mg-ion batteries with polymer electrolytes

Rechargeable batteries using divalent Mg²⁺ ions rather than monovalent Li⁺ ions could offer double the charge storage capacity; however, they are currently limited by a lack of stable electrolytes. In this project, we will investigate the use of novel polymer electrolytes instead of conventional liquid electrolytes. Polymers lend themselves perfectly to this role in Mg-ion batteries. While they tend to react with very reducing Li and Na anodes, they should be more stable against Mg whose plating potential (-2.3V vs SHE) is higher than Na (-2.7V vs SHE) or Li (-3V vs SHE). Polymers also tend to exhibit higher ionic conductivities than ceramics which should help overcome the challenges of sluggish solid-state diffusion of Mg²⁺. Ultimately, these materials should provide a practical pathway to achieve safe, high energy, all-solid-state Mg-ion batteries.

This project is an IMAT CDT project with CDT funding and enquires should be addressed to the  IMAT CDT Programme Manager. However you can also select this project if applying for a DPhil in Materials.