Effect of plasticizer on conductivity and cell parameters of (PMMA+NaClO4) polymer electrolyte system

Abstract

The effect of a plasticizer dimethyl formamide (DMF) on the properties of a sodium ion conducting electrolyte based on poly(methyl-methacrylate) (PMMA) complexed with sodium perchlorate (NaClO4) prepared using solution cast technique was investigated. The features of complexation of the electrolytes were studied by X-ray diffraction. Film morphology was examined by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Various experimental techniques, such as electrical conductivity (temperature dependence) and transference number measurements were used to characterize these polymer electrolyte films. Transference number data show that the charge transference in this polymer electrolyte system is predominantly due to ions. Electrochemical cells of configuration Na/PMMA+NaClO4/(I2+C+electrolyte)andNa/PMMA+NaClO4+plasticizer /(I2+C+electrolyte) were fabricated. The discharge characteristics of the cells were studied under a constant load of 100 k. The open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current and discharge time for the plateau region were measured. The PMMA+NaClO4 polymer electrolyte system with added plasticizer showed an increased discharge time with respect to pure PMMA+NaClO4 electrolyte system.