Ionic Conductivity Enhancement in LiClO₄-Doped JSS-PVA Biopolymer Electrolytes for Sustainable Energy Storage

Abstract

Biopolymer electrolytes are gaining attention due to their eco-friendly, biodegradable nature, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional, fossil fuel-derived polymer electrolytes. Traditional polymer electrolytes often rely on non-biodegradable materials and use liquid components prone to leakage, reducing device reliability. Although solid polymer electrolytes eliminate leakage issues, their low ionic conductivity remains a major limitation for practical applications. This study aims to develop an environmentally friendly solid polymer electrolyte by blending jackfruit seed starch (JSS) with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), incorporating varying concentrations of lithium perchlorate (LiClO₄) from 10 to 50 wt.% using the solution casting technique. The goal is to optimize the blend for maximum ionic conductivity suitable for electrochemical devices. Impedance spectroscopy revealed that the highest ionic conductivity of 0.0025 S/cm occurred at 40 wt.% LiClO₄. Dielectric permittivity (ɛ′) peaked at low frequencies due to electrode polarization, also at 40 wt.%. Electric modulus (M′) analysis indicated enhanced charge carrier mobility, while transference number measurements showed that ionic contribution accounted for 87% of conductivity. Linear sweep voltammetry confirmed good electrochemical stability between 3.0 and 4.5 V. These findings demonstrate the potential of LiClO₄-doped JSS-PVA blends as sustainable, high-performance solid electrolytes for next-generation energy storage systems.