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Published on: September 29, 2020
Corona-Poled Piezoelectric Polymer Separators for Suppressing Sodium Dendrites
Muhammad Rashad1, Wei Lu1,2
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan48109, United States.
ACS Nano
|May 21, 2026
Summary
This study presents ultrathin polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) separators for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Corona poling enhances PVDF separators to suppress sodium dendrites, improving battery performance and safety.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Energy Storage
Background:
- Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are a sustainable energy storage solution.
- Separator limitations, including dendrite growth, hinder SIB practicality.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop advanced polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) separators for SIBs.
- Enhance separator performance through corona poling for dendrite suppression.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of ultrathin (10 μm) PVDF separators using a casting method.
- Application of corona poling to induce piezoelectric properties.
- Electrochemical testing in symmetric, asymmetric, and full SIB cells.
Main Results:
- PVDF separators showed uniform nanopores, high electrolyte uptake (225%), and low contact angle (5.31°).
- Poled PVDF separators effectively suppressed sodium dendrites, enabling extended cycling stability (2200 cycles).
- Improved rate performance and thermal stability were observed.
Conclusions:
- Advanced PVDF separators offer a promising solution for practical SIB applications.
- Corona poling is an effective strategy for enhancing separator functionality and safety.
- The developed PVDF separators demonstrate potential for large-scale energy storage and electric vehicles.

