Rechargeable lithium batteries with solid polymer electrolytes

Scientific and technical problems connected with the realization of a practical lithium battery with a solid polymer electrolyte are reviewed. The viewpoint is that one important aim of basic scientific work should be to provide sufficient experimental data and theoretical understanding to permit computer-aided optimization of battery design, and performance. At present, this aim cannot be reached. The types of data missing and areas where interpretation is lacking are identified. Cathode materials, electrolytes, anode materials, and complete cells are discussed. Some of the problems with anode and cathodes are common to batteries with liquid electrolytes, so, where relevant, conclusions from work on liquid electrolytes are included