Proton conducting polymer composites for electrochromic devices

This report describes composite proton electrolytes composed of nanosize zirconium phosphate or antimonic acid particles suspended in a poly(vinyl acetate)/glycerin gel matrix. The proton conductivity was 10(-3)-10(-4) S/cm at room temperature, thermal stability prevailed up to at least 110 degrees C, and compatibility was found with oxide electrodes; these properties makes the electrolyte suitable for use in solid state electrochemical devices. The temperature dependence of the conductivity was found to obey the Williams-Landel-Ferry relationship at temperatures over 60 degrees C, thus suggesting that the ion conductivity in the composite electrolyte can be described by mechanisms normally taken to be valid for Liquid ion conductors. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science BN. All rights reserved.