T. Rihayat, I. Mawardi, Usman, A. Safitri, D. Moentamaria, A.R. Hidayana, U.Q.P. Swya, F. Sakinah
This study investigates the modification of lithium-ion battery (LIB) separators using polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU), and nano chitosan through a casting method, focusing on the effects of composition ratio and immersion duration on separator thickness and thermal stability. Nine sample variations with PP: PU: Nano Chitosan ratios of 4:2:4, 4:3:3, and 4:4:2 were prepared and immersed for 1–3 days. The separators were characterized using thickness measurements, thermal shrinkage analysis, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The 4:3:3 composition demonstrated the most optimal performance, producing separator thicknesses of 23–25 μm with the lowest thermal shrinkage (0.5–2.1%), meeting commercial LIB separator standards. TGA results showed that the PCS5 sample (4:3:3, 2-day immersion) exhibited superior thermal resistance, with a degradation onset of 370.10 °C and peak decomposition at 429.73 °C. FTIR confirmed the successful incorporation of urethane and hydroxyl/amine functional groups, indicating chemical modification of the polymer matrix. SEM observations revealed a dense and uniform morphology with well-distributed pores, supporting enhanced ionic transport. Overall, the 4:3:3 formulation with a 2-day immersion significantly improves the physical, thermal, and structural properties of the separator, demonstrating strong potential for high-performance LIB applications and contributing to ongoing advancements in battery safety and efficiency. © 2026, Rasayan Journal of Chemistry, c/o Dr. Pratima Sharma. All rights reserved.
Department of Chemical Engineering, Lhokseumawe State Polytechnic, Lhokseumawe, 24301, Indonesia; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Lhokseumawe State Polytechnic, Lhokseumawe, 24301, Indonesia; Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Gajah Mada, Jl. Grafika No.2, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
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