Imide-Based Polymers as a Platform for Developing Highly Safe Solid Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium Metal Batteries

• Applicant: Dr. Timofey Kolesnikov, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Polymer Materials ; Physical Chemistry of Solids and Surfaces, Material Characterisation
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 562331271

The increasing demand for high-performance energy storage systems, driven by the rise of portable electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, has highlighted the limitations of conventional lithium-ion batteries. The next generation of batteries, lithium metal batteries, promises to significantly increase energy density through the use of lithium metal anodes. However, their widespread adoption is hindered by the instability and safety issues associated with liquid electrolytes, including dendrite formation, cell polarization, and low lithium-ion transference numbers. Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are a promising alternative, offering improved safety, mechanical stability, and electrochemical performance. This project aims to address the limitations of existing polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based SPEs by developing novel polyimide (PI)-based SPEs with tailored structural and electrochemical properties. Polyimides offer unique advantages, such as high thermal and chemical stability, strong mechanical properties, and structural versatility, making them an ideal platform for advanced SPE design. Building on my previous work, which demonstrated the potential of PI-based SPEs, this project will tackle critical challenges such as modifying PEO block length, exploring alternative solvating blocks, and investigating single-ion conducting systems. This interdisciplinary project combines advanced polymer chemistry with cutting-edge electrochemical methods to develop SPEs that overcome the limitations of current systems. The findings will provide fundamental insights into the structure-property relationships governing ion conduction and mechanical stability in SPEs, paving the way for safer and more efficient lithium metal battery. The outcomes of this project will contribute in the development of next generation energy storage technologies.

• DFG Programme: WBP Position