The preparation and characterization of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)-LiBF4-dibutyl phthalate (DBP) polymer electrolytes for different concentrations of ZrO2 have been investigated. FTIR studies indicate complex formation between the polymer, salt and plasticizer. The electrical conductivity values measured by a.c. impedance spectroscopy are found to depend upon the ZrO2 concentration. The temperature dependence of the conductivity of the polymer films obeys the VTF relation. The conductivity values are presented and the results are discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.