Solvation Structures in Solid Polymer Electrolytes for Lithium-Based Batteries

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) have gained widespread attention due to their potential applications in energy storage and conversion devices. The solvation structure, which refers to the interactions between polymers and ions in the electrolyte, plays a crucial role in the electrochemical performance of the electrolyte. This review summarizes the latest research progress in the solvation structures of SPEs, including their impact on ion conductivity, mechanical property, and interfacial stability. First, the characteristics of solvation structures in SPEs are introduced, and they are compared with those in the liquid state. Then, some characterization techniques of solvation structures are listed, such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Subsequently, the influence of solvation structure on the performance of SPEs is analyzed, and the strategies for optimizing solvation structures through molecular design are discussed. Finally, future research directions are proposed aimed at developing high-performance SPEs by gaining a deeper understanding of solvation structures to meet the growing demands.