This presentation outlines a comprehensive investigation into the design and optimisation of solvate ionic liquid (SIL)-based electrolytes for structural energy storage applications, integrating electrochemical performance, mechanical functionality, and emerging sensing capabilities. The underpinning thesis was submitted in March 2026 at the 2.25-year mark of candidature, with this presentation focusing on the experimental advances across all research chapters.
The work begins by establishing structure–property relationships in SILs, with emphasis on glyme–lithium salt coordination environments and their influence on ionic conductivity, viscosity, and electrochemical stability. Comparative studies of [Li(G3)][TFSI], [Li(G4)][TFSI], and [Li(G4)][FSI] highlight how solvation structure governs ion transport and thermal behaviour. These insights inform the development of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs), where bicontinuous architectures are realised through incorporation of SILs into UV-curable and thermosetting resin systems. These materials exhibit tunable trade-offs between mechanical stiffness and ionic conductivity, enabling their integration into load-bearing composite systems.
The presentation further explores the development of recyclable SPEs, addressing end-of-life challenges in structural energy storage. By leveraging the supramolecular nature of SIL coordination, electrolyte components can be recovered and reprocessed with minimal performance degradation, supporting circular materials design.
Advancing toward application, aramid separator-enabled structural capacitors are demonstrated, achieving strong electrochemical performance alongside improved mechanical robustness compared to conventional glass fibre systems. Finally, the presentation introduces intrinsically self-sensing structural energy storage materials, linking SIL-mediated electrochemical and piezoelectric responses to deformation and impact.
Together, these results establish a pathway toward multifunctional composite systems capable of simultaneously storing energy, bearing load, and sensing damage, with broad implications for aerospace, automotive, defence, and assistive technologies.