Investigation of morphology and transport properties of Na+ ion conducting PMMA:PEO hybrid polymer electrolyte

Abstract The aim of this research work is to examine the modification of structure, morphology and conductivity properties of PMMA: PEO blend hybrid polymer electrolyte system complexed with NaClO4 salt. Solution-cast procedure was adopted in preparation of these films. These films were characterized with XRD, SEM, DSC, and DC conductivity for the evaluation of modified properties. Peaks have disappeared and broadened in the XRD pattern of PMMA for higher concentration of PEO polymer and salt presented films, which indicated that attaining of higher amorphous phase in these polymer electrolyte films. Almost smooth surface morphology with fewer pores was observed in 20 wt. % of PEO and NaClO4 salt present PMMA films of SEM image. This establishes a dominant presence of amorphous content in these NaClO4 complexed PMMA:PEO hybrid electrolyte films when compared to pure PMMA and PEO. Disappearance of melting temperature was observed in all concentrations of NaClO4 salt and PEO polymer added PMMA polymer films, which suggests a decrease of crystalline and an increase of amorphous nature. Enhancing of DC conductivity with temperature was observed in all the films but higher conductivity was exhibited at higher concentration of NaClO4 salt present films.