Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) integrated separators for Li-ion Batteries

Abstract

To improve the lifespan and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), recent research has focused on mitigating gas formation during operation. Within the EU-funded PHOENIX project, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are being explored for gas absorption and storage in LIB separators. In this study, PVDF-HFP-based polymer separators were functionalized with porous MOFs (such as Zr-MOF and Ni-MOF) to enhance porosity, surface area, electrolyte uptake, and ionic conductivity. The MOFs were synthesized via solvothermal methods and characterized using XRD and SEM/EDX. These MOFs were incorporated into polymer matrices and coated onto commercial separators for performance comparison. Electrochemical testing (GCD, 2.7-4.2 V, C/10, 5 cycles) demonstrated that MOF-functionalized PVDF-HFP separators achieved a promising specific capacity of 80-100 mAh/g, indicating improved electrochemical performance.