Enhancing ionic conductivity in MC:NaCl polymer electrolytes through glycerol optimization: structural and electrochemical perspectives
摘要
Polymer electrolytes are crucial for advancing energy storage technologies but face challenges like low ionic conductivity and high crystallinity. This study explores methylcellulose (MC) electrolyte with 13% NaCl and glycerol to enhance ionic conductivity and modify crystallinity. Characterization using XRD, FTIR, and EIS reveals structural, chemical, and electrical changes, offering insights into the improved properties of MC-based polymer electrolytes. The addition of glycerol significantly enhances the ionic conductivity, dielectric properties, and relaxation dynamics of MC:NaCl polymer electrolytes. FTIR analysis shows intensified O–H stretching at 3385 cm⁻1, indicating stronger hydrogen bonding and increased amorphousness. Ionic conductivity rises from 1.61 to 3.92 μS/cm with 27% glycerol. Dielectric constant increases by approximately 1400 times at low frequencies compared to the pure sample, while relaxation dynamics improve, with the dielectric loss peak shifting to lower frequencies and intensifying as glycerol concentration rises. These results highlight glycerol's role as a plasticizer, improving ion transport and electrochemical performance for energy applications. Incorporating glycerol as a plasticizer into MC:13%NaCl polymer electrolytes enhances their ionic conductivity, dielectric properties, and ion mobility, making them promising candidates for advanced electrochemical applications.