Development of Liquid-Crystalline Electrolytes through Self-Assembly of a Carbonate-Based Mesogen

Abstract

Ion-conductive liquid crystals have attracted attention as new electrolytes for energy devices because of the formation of ion-conductive pathways which transport ions efficiently in a desired direction. In this study, we focus on carbonate-based ion-conductive liquid crystals. A carbonate-based mesogen has been designed and synthesized. The molecule are complexed with a lithium salt. The mixtures show smectic phases and form 2D ion-conductive pathways. The properties of the mixtures as electrolytes have been examined by electrochemical measurements.