UV-cured polymer electrolyte membranes for Li-cells: Improved mechanical properties by a novel cellulose reinforcement

One of the main drawbacks that restricts the practical application of gel-polymer electrolytes is the inferior mechanical performance compared to other available systems. In this work, we have reinforced UV-cured methacrylic membranes with cellulose. To enhance its compatibility with the polymer matrix, cellulose is modified by UV-grafting poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate on it. Excellent mechanical properties are obtained and good ionic conductivity values are observed, enlightening that this kind of membrane is an interesting candidate for future applications as thin gel-polymer electrolyte in flexible lithium batteries.