Interfacial Engineering Using Covalent Organic Frameworks In Polymer Composites For High-Temperature Electrostatic Engergy Storage

Authors

Zongliang Xie, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Khoi Le, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
He Li, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Xi Pang, State Key Laboratory of Electrical Insulation and Power Equipment
Tianlei Xu, State Key Laboratory of Electrical Insulation and Power Equipment
Virginia Altoé, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Liana M. Klivansky, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Yunfei Wang, University of Southern MississippiFollow
Zhiyuan Huang, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Steve W. Shelton, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Xiaodan Gu, University of Southern MississippiFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-17-2024

School

Polymer Science and Engineering

Abstract

The use of inorganic nanofillers has been an effective method to improve high-temperature capacitive performance of dielectric polymers, though there are unmet challenges such as undesirable organic–inorganic compatibility, and low efficiencies and energy densities. Herein, a surface functionalization strategy using covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is employed to address such challenges in realizing high-performing polymer composites. Specifically, core–shell structured nanoparticles, where ZrO₂ nanoparticles act as the core and a COF material forms the shell, are constructed and composited with the polyetherimide (PEI) matrix. The design leverages the high electron affinity (E_A) of the outer COF shell to create energy traps, thereby capturing free charges and limiting electrical conduction. Concurrently, the low E_A and wide bandgap of the ZrO₂ core introduce energy barriers to impede charge injection and migration. This orchestrated “energy level cascade” results in a marked reduction of leakage current and energy loss. The resulting polymer composite showcases an impressive discharged energy density of 6.21 J cm⁻³ at an efficiency above 90%, with a maximum discharged energy density reaching 7.43 J cm⁻³ at 150 °C. These performance metrics position the PEI/ZrO₂@COF polymer composite to surpass or be on par with state-of-the-art high-temperature PEI composites and other advanced polymer dielectrics.

Publication Title

Advanced Functional Materials

Recommended Citation

Xie, Z., Le, K., Li, H., Pang, X., Xu, T., Altoé, V., Klivansky, L. M., Wang, Y., Huang, Z., Shelton, S. W., Gu, X. (2024). Interfacial Engineering Using Covalent Organic Frameworks In Polymer Composites For High-Temperature Electrostatic Engergy Storage. Advanced Functional Materials.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/21605