Nanocluster-Based Liquid Crystal Electrolytes for Deformation-Responsive Proton Conductors

Abstract

Electrolyte materials with responsive conductive properties are highly desired in electronic and sensing technologies, which rely on the construction of ion transport channels that combine orderliness with dynamic adjustability. However, achieving such structures remains a significant challenge. In this study, we fabricate a lamellar liquid crystal electrolyte enabling deformation-responsive proton conduction. Polyoxometalate nanoclusters (POMs) and zwitterionic molecules are utilized to construct the electrolytes through a supramolecular eutectic strategy. By balancing electrostatic and hydrogen-bonding interactions, zwitterionic molecules direct lamellar POM assembly while softening the system via hydrogen-bond-induced eutectic effect. This approach ultimately results in a POM-based room-temperature liquid crystal with a unique lamellar superlattice structure. Notably, the integration of proton-conductive POMs with dynamically responsive liquid crystal channels enables a highly sensitive change in proton conductivity under deformation. These findings expand the potential applications of liquid crystal systems and provide valuable insights for the development of responsive electrolyte materials.

Publication
Nano Letters
朱有亮
朱有亮
研究员

研究方向包括高分子/超分子的大尺度分子动力学模拟方法和软件、高分子材料力学性能的分子机理、共价有机框架的生长动力学等。