Electrical conductivity and thermal studies on [EMIM]BF4, Li+ and Cu2+ confined silica gel composites

Abstract

Ionic liquid ([EMIM]BF4), Li+ and Cu2+ confined silica gel of composition 33.3LiNO3-xCuCl2-1IL-(65.7- x)SiO2 have been prepared via sol gel route. Structural, thermal and electrical conductivity investigations have been carried out on these composites which reveal interesting results. X-ray diffraction patterns of the samples confirm their amorphous nature. TGA shows continuous water elimination from the as prepared composite. EPR spectrum shows existence of Cu2+ ions in the solid matrix at room temperature. Electrical conductivity of the composites increases with increase in the amount of CuCl2 in the composite as well as due to the increase in temperature. As these composites exhibit good ion conducting properties, they seem to have good potential as solid electrolytes in Li+ ion battery applications.