Investigating ion transport in polymer electrolytes using X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy

Battery electrolytes provide an ideal opportunity to investigate the relationship between polymer dynamics and ion transport, with polymer electrolytes providing a safer alternative to commercially used liquid electrolytes. Here, we propose heterodyne XPCS measurements to directly probe local dynamics and polymer velocities spatially across concentration gradients, considering the nuances of salt concentration on transport and directly determining cation transport. A deeper understanding of ion transport in polymeric materials for energy storage applications will enable the design of new electrolyte and electrode materials, the simulation of device performance and safety and the accurate prediction of electrolyte responses in any electrochemical cell configuration overall operating conditions.