Redox-Active Poly(ionic liquid)s As Active Materials in Energy Devices

Abstract

Poly(ionic liquid)s emerged from the incorporation of ionic liquids into polymers and have gained interest due to a wide range of applications in different technological fields such as polymer electrolytes for batteries and supercapacitors. Poly(ionic liquid)s provide enhanced mechanical stability, processability and spatial controllability over ionic liquids in electrolyte applications. Incorporation of redox-active groups into poly(ionic liquid)s brings new possibilities to these materials in the energy field. Here we will present the combination of poly(diallyldimethylammonium) type poly(ionic liquid)s with redox-active counter-anions based on anthraquinone and nitroxide groups. First, we will present the electrochemical properties of the redox active poly(ionic liquid)s. Second, the potential use of these materials in different applications such as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction, cathodes in lithium batteries and redox flow batteries will be presented.