Studies on cross-linked polyurethane acrylate-based electrolyte consisting of reactive vinyl/divinyl diluents

A series of cross-linked polyurethane acrylate (PUA) electrolytes have been prepared by using 4,4'-methylene bis(phenyl isocyanate). polyethylene glycol, hydroxyethyl methacrylate and different reactive vinyl/divinyl diluents, such as methyl methacrylate (MMA), ethyl acrylate and acrylonitrile, tripropylene glycol diacrylate (TPGDA). The electrolytes were prepared by UV radiation induced cross-linking of the PUA-diluent mixture followed by swelling in a liquid electrolyte (LP-30). Depending upon the composition of the components, these electrolytes exhibited a wide range of mechanical and electrical properties. The system containing MMA as reactive diluent showed highest conductivity, but poor mechanical properties and stability in the liquid electrolyte. The TPGDA cross-linked system possesses a good combination of ionic conductivity and stability in liquid electrolytes. These systems showed good compatibility with Li-electrodes and sufficient electrochemical stability to allow safe operation in rechargeable Li-batteries. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.