Ion-conducting polymers, such as polyelectrolytes and poly(ionic liquids) (PILs), have become an important class of materials for applications related to energy storage and soft robotics. PILs have seen increasing use in these fields because of their chemical stability and flexibility. However, PILs often suffer from low ionic conductivities at room temperature. Although researchers have shown an increase in ion conductivity with the addition of zwitterions to ion-conducting polymers, the exact role of the zwitterions and how tuning the chemical structure affects the conduction mechanism has yet to be elucidated. Here, we will present work on how the addition of zwitterions, with varying chemistries and structures, to poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and other single-ion conducting polymers influences the ion conductivity. We use differential scanning calorimetry and dielectric relaxation spectroscopy to study the crystallization behavior, thermal properties, and electrical properties of the zwitterion/polymer blends. The results of the work presented here help in determining the role zwitterions play in ion-conduction polymers, and will potentially lead to the development of more efficient energy materials.

Understanding the influence of zwitterions on ion conduction in polymer materials

256th National Meeting (2018)

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