Ionic liquid (1-ethyl-3-methyltricynomethanide) doped polymer electrolyte (polyvinyl alcohol) for sustainable energy devices

Abstract

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer mixed with different weight ratios of 1-ethyl-3methyltricynomethanide (EMIm-TCM) ranging from 0 to 30 wt% were used to develop solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs). The structural, electrical, and electrochemical properties of the SPEs films were extensively studied. Introducing ionic liquid (IL) into PVA's structure improved its mechanical properties, flexibility, and conductivity, increasing application potential in energy devices. The maximal ionic conductivity of 3.85 x 10-4 Scm �1 was achieved by adding 30 wt% IL. Structural and morphology analysis was performed. Obtained materials exhibited enhanced amorphous nature, and the FT-IR spectrum showed perfect complexation, supported by our XRD pattern. The ionic transference number measurement (tion) confirms that ionic liquid doped polymer electrolyte (ILDPE) is predominantly ionic. Several devices were tested. ILDPE film sandwiched Electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) and DyeSensitized Solar Cell (DSSC) showed a favorable response.