Molecularly Engineered Phosphorus-Based Flame-Retardant Solid Polymer Electrolyte for Solid-State Lithium Batteries

Abstract

Developing solid electrolytes that simultaneously ensure high-safety and electrochemical performance remains a critical challenge for next-generation high-energy-density batteries. Herein, we design a phosphorus-containing ionic liquid (POIL) and fabricate a flame-retardant composite solid electrolyte (PIL-SPEs) via in situ thermal polymerization. The incorporated POIL endows PIL-SPEs with exceptional self-extinguishing properties (< 1 s), and synergizes with the polymer matrix to facilitate Li⁺ transport and salt dissociation. Consequently, PIL-SPEs achieve a high room-temperature ionic conductivity (3.50 × 10⁻⁴ S cm⁻¹) and Li⁺ transference number (0.60). At 60°C, its conductivity rises to 1.28 × 10⁻³ S cm⁻¹, coupled with a wide electrochemical stability window (4.7 V vs. Li⁺/Li). LiFePO₄ ||Li full cells employing PIL-SPEs demonstrate excellent cycling stability at 60°C, retaining 76% capacity (108.6 mAh g⁻¹) after 200 cycles. The rational molecular design of POIL and its synergistic effects within the composite matrix provide a viable material strategy for developing safe, high-performance solid-state lithium batteries.

Keywords

flame retardant / phosphorus-based ionic liquid / solid polymer electrolyte / solid-state lithium metal batteries

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