Effect of Oxide Nanoparticles on Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Electrospun Separators for Lithium‐Ion Batteries

This study reports the fabrication and characterization of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and poly(vinylidenefluoride‐co‐chlorotrifluoroethylene) (PVDF‐CTFE) nanofibrous separators for lithium‐ion batteries loaded with different amounts of fumed‐silica and tin oxide nanoparticles. Membrane morphological characterization (SEM, TEM) showed the presence of good‐quality nanofibres containing nanoparticles. Thermal degradation and membrane mechanical properties were also investigated, and a remarkable effect of nanoparticle addition on membrane mechanical properties was found. In particular, PEO membranes were strengthened by the addition of metal oxide, whereas PVDF‐CTFE membranes acquired ductility.