The Multi-Functional Separator Membrane Baring an Impurity Receptor for LIBs

摘要

We introduce a new class of polystyrene-block-poly(4-vinylpyridine) blockcopolymer-based porous membrane featuring hierarchical multiscale hyperporous structure, which is fabricated via tunable dual-phase separation. Introduction of surface-energy-modifying agents and control of major phase separation parameters (such as nonsolvent polarity and solvent-drying time) enable such unique porous structure and chemical functionality far beyond those accessible with conventional approaches. Application of this block copolymer membrane to a lithium-ion battery separator leads to exceptional improvement in electrochemical performances due to its impurity recepting capability. The dual phase separation-driven macro-anopore architecturing, owing to its versatility and scalability, is expected to be readily applicable to a rich variety of membrane fields including molecular separation, water purification and energy-related devices, which will eventually bring unprecedented opportunities for sustainable progress of membranes.