PulseExploreJournal ClubDebatesTrendingResearchersJournals
Instagram
HomeExploreJournal ClubTrending
Synapse
⌘+K
Synapse
February 2, 2026Advanced Energy Materials5 citations

A Molecularly Engineered Crosslinked Polyether Electrolyte with Anion‐Trapping Nano‐Networks for Fast‐Charging and Safe Sodium Metal Batteries

View Full Paper
JZJiawen ZhangSCSuli ChenYSYixing Shen

Key Points

  • This research aims to improve the performance of solid-state sodium metal batteries by developing a new electrolyte.
  • Fabricated an anion-anchoring crosslinked polyether electrolyte through in-situ polymerization.
  • Utilized epoxy-functionalized halloysite nanotubes to regulate ions and enhance electrolyte properties.
  • Evaluated ionic conductivity, thermal stability, and cycling performance in sodium metal batteries.
  • Achieved ionic conductivity of 2.17 mS cm−1 and Na+ transference number of 0.72.
  • Demonstrated ultra-stable cycling over 3600 hours without dendrite penetration.
  • Showed 87.5% capacity retention after 1200 cycles at a high rate of 10 C.

Abstract

ABSTRACT In‐situ polymerized polyether electrolytes are highly promising for solid‐state sodium metal batteries (SMBs) owing to their high ionic conductivity and favorable interfacial contact. However, their practical application is limited by poor thermal stability, low Na + transference number, and unstable Na/electrolyte interface, leading to rapid degradation and safety risks. Herein, we demonstrate a molecularly engineered, anion‐anchoring crosslinked polyether electrolyte (AICPE) fabricated by in‐situ polymerization of 1,3‐dioxolane with epoxy‐functionalized halloysite nanotubes (e‐HNTs). The e‐HNTs function as a dual‐surface ion‐regulator: the inner‐surface Al–OH groups act as Lewis acid sites for anion‐trapping, while the outer siloxane surface weakens Na + ‐polymer interactions through competitive coordination. This synergy between the crosslinked network and bidirectional ion‐regulation endows the AICPE with a high ionic conductivity of 2.17 mS cm − 1 , an elevated Na + transference number of 0.72, significantly improved thermal stability, and superior interfacial compatibility. Consequently, Na/Na symmetric cells achieve ultra‐stable cycling over 3600 h at 0.1 mA cm − 2 without dendrite penetration. Importantly, the solid‐state SMBs exhibit remarkable rate capability and outstanding long‐term durability, with 87.5% capacity retention after 1200 cycles at an ultra‐high rate of 10 C. Practical pouch cells further confirm exceptional thermal safety, highlighting the practical potential of this design for high‐performance, safe, and fast‐charging SMBs.

Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper

Cite This Study

Zhang et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6980ff08c1c9540dea8119dbhttps://doi.org/10.1002/aenm.202506070
Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper