Unlocking the full potential of solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) is key to enabling safer and more-energy dense technologies than today's Li-ion batteries. In particular, composite materials comprising a conductive, flexible polymer matrix embedding ceramic filler particles are emerging as a good strategy to provide the combination of conductivity, mechanical and chemical stability demanded from SSEs. Yet, the electrochemical

Solid-state electrolytes are key for the development of high energy density and safe Li-batteries. A very strong research effort has been made for the development of ceramic-polymer composite solid electrolytes...

Developing multifunctional polymeric binders is key to the design of energy storage technologies with value-added features. We report that a multigram-scale synthesis of perylene diimide polymer (PPDI), from a single batch via polymer analogous reaction route, yields high molecular weight polymers with suitable thermal stability and minimized solubility in electrolytes, potentially leading to improved binding affinity toward electrode particles. Further, it develops strategies for designing copolymers with virtually any desired composition via a subsequent grafting, leading to purpose-built binders. PPDI dye as both binder and electroactive additive in lithium half-cells using lithium iron phosphate exhibits good electrochemical performance.

Solid-state batteries are the holy grail for the next generation of automotive batteries. The development of solid-state batteries requires efficient electrolytes to improve the performance of the cells in terms of ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability, interfacial compatibility, and so on. These requirements call for the combined properties of ceramic and polymer electrolytes, making ceramic-rich polymer electrolytes a promising solution to be developed. Aligned with this aim, we have shown a surface modification of Ga substituted Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO), to be an essential strategy for the preparation of ceramic-rich electrolytes. Ceramic-rich polymer membranes with surface-modified LLZO show marked improvements in the performance, in terms of electrolyte physical and electrochemical properties, as well as coulombic efficiency, interfacial compatibility, and cyclability of solid-state cells.