Gel Polymer Electrolytes with Talc as a Natural Mineral Filler and a Biodegradable Polymer Matrix in Sodium‐Ion Batteries

Abstract

AbstractA gel polymer electrolyte based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) is used in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). The use of biodegradable and water‐soluble polymer potentially reduces the negative environmental impact. The other components include sodium salt (NaPF6), sulfolane (TMS) as a plasticizer and talc. For the first time, natural and abundant talc has been used as an inert filler in a gel polymer electrolyte. The best results were obtained for moderate amounts of filler (1 and 3 wt%). Then, an increase in the conductivity, transference numbers, and thermal stability of the membranes was observed. Moreover, the presence of talc had a positive effect on the cyclability of the hard carbon electrode. The discharge capacity after 50 cycles of HC|1 % T_TMS|Na and HC|3 % T_TMS|Na was 243 and 225 mAh g−1, respectively. The use of talc in gel polymer electrolytes containing sodium ions improves the safety and efficiency of SIBs.