The application of composite solid
electrolytes (CSEs) in solid-state
lithium-metal batteries is limited by the unsatisfactory ionic conductivity
underpinned by the low concentration of free lithium ions. Herein,
we propose an interface design strategy where an amine silane linker
is employed as a coupling agent to graft the Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) ceramic nanofibers to
the poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene)
(PVDF-HFP) polymer matrix to enhance their interaction. The hydrogen
bonding between amino-functionalized LLZO (NH2@LLZO) and
PVDF-HFP not only effectively induces a uniform incorporation of high-content
nanofibers (50 wt %) into the polymer matrix but also furnishes sufficient
continuous surfaces to weaken the complexation between PVDF-HFP and
Li-ion carriers. Additionally, introduction of the hydrogen bond and
Lewis acid–base interplay strengthens the interfacial interactions
between NH2@LLZO and lithium salts that release more free
lithium ions for efficient interfacial transport. The impact of the
linker’s structure on the dissociation capacity of lithium
salts is systematically studied from the steric effect perspective,
which affords insights into interface design. Conclusively, the composite
solid electrolyte achieves a high ionic conductivity (5.8 × 10–4 S cm–1) by synergy of multiple
transport channels at ceramic, polymer, and their interface, which
effectively regulates the lithium deposition behavior in symmetric
cells. The excellent compatibility of the electrolyte with both LiFePO4 and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathodes also results in a long lifetime and a high rate
capability for full cells.