Improving the ionic conductivity of polymer electrolytes for use in high-performance batteries can be achieved through several strategies. These strategies aim to enhance the mobility of ions within the polymer matrix, increase the number of charge carriers, and improve the overall performance of the electrolyte. Here are some approaches to consider:1. Choice of polymer: Selecting a polymer with a high dielectric constant and good mechanical properties can enhance the ionic conductivity. Polymers with a high dielectric constant can dissociate more salt, leading to a higher concentration of mobile ions. Examples of such polymers include poly ethylene oxide PEO , poly vinylidene fluoride PVDF , and poly acrylonitrile PAN .2. Choice of salt: The choice of salt can significantly influence the ionic conductivity of the polymer electrolyte. Salts with large anions and small, highly mobile cations, such as lithium salts e.g., LiPF6, LiTFSI, LiClO4 , are preferred as they can enhance the dissociation of ions and improve the overall ionic conductivity.3. Plasticizers: Adding plasticizers to the polymer electrolyte can increase the amorphous phase of the polymer, leading to enhanced segmental motion and improved ion mobility. Common plasticizers include organic carbonates e.g., ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate , glymes e.g., tetraglyme, poly ethylene glycol , and ionic liquids.4. Nanofillers: Incorporating nanofillers, such as metal oxides e.g., TiO2, Al2O3, SiO2 , carbon-based materials e.g., graphene, carbon nanotubes , or conductive polymers e.g., polyaniline, polypyrrole , can improve the ionic conductivity by providing additional pathways for ion transport and enhancing the amorphous phase of the polymer.5. Copolymers and polymer blends: Designing copolymers or blending different polymers can help to optimize the balance between mechanical properties and ionic conductivity. For example, blending PEO with PVDF can result in a polymer electrolyte with improved mechanical strength and ionic conductivity.6. Crosslinking: Crosslinking the polymer can improve the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of the electrolyte, while also maintaining high ionic conductivity. This can be achieved through chemical crosslinking e.g., using crosslinking agents or physical crosslinking e.g., through crystalline domains or hydrogen bonding .7. Polymerization-induced microphase separation: This approach involves the in-situ formation of a polymer electrolyte with a microphase-separated structure, where one phase is rich in the ion-conducting polymer and the other phase provides mechanical stability. This can lead to improved ionic conductivity and mechanical properties.By employing these strategies, the ionic conductivity of polymer electrolytes can be improved, making them more suitable for use in high-performance batteries. However, it is essential to consider the trade-offs between ionic conductivity, mechanical properties, and other factors, such as thermal stability and electrochemical stability, when optimizing polymer electrolytes for specific applications.