Partially oxidized polyacrylonitrile nanofibrous membrane as a thermally stable separator for lithium ion batteries

• Published in: Polymer (Guilford) Vol. 68; pp. 335 - 343
• Main Authors: Lee, Jong Hwa, Manuel, James, Choi, Hyunji, Park, Won Ho, Ahn, Jou-Hyeon
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 26.06.2015
• Subjects: Electrolytes; Electrospinning; Lithium-ion batteries; Membranes; Nanostructure; Partial oxidation; Polyacrylonitrile; Polyacrylonitriles; Separators; Thermal stability; Electrospinning; Partial oxidation; Polyacrylonitrile
• ISSN: 0032-3861; 1873-2291
• DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2015.04.055

Nanofibrous membranes of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) prepared by electrospinning technique were converted to partially oxidized PAN (oxy-PAN) at 230 °C and at different time periods. The physical properties and electrochemical characteristics of oxy-PAN membranes were investigated for use as separator membrane in lithium ion battery (LIB). The optimized oxy-PAN membrane showed high tensile strength and thermal stability along with high electrolyte uptake and high ionic conductivity at room temperature. Impedance spectroscopic studies of oxy-PAN membranes revealed good stability and compatibility with lithium electrode and liquid electrolyte which are favorable attributes for long-term storage of lithium ion batteries. The Li/oxy-PAN/LiFePO4 cell delivered stable and excellent cycle performance. [Display omitted] •Electrospun nanofibrous membrane of PAN was prepared.•Partial oxidation was carried out to enhance mechanical stability.•Oxy-PAN membranes show high tensile strength and good electrochemical performance.