(361f) Decoupling the Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Polymer Electrolytes

We describe the properties of nanostructured block copolymers wherein one of the blocks is compatible with ionic moieties. Percolating ion-conducting channels of poly(ethylene oxide) dispersed in an insulating polystyrene matrix were obtained by self-assembly. This structure enables independent control over mechanical and electrical properties of the block copolymer. The possibility of using these composite systems in high power batteries is currently being examined.