Polymer electrolyte (PE) is attractive for the next generation of high energy density lithium batteries

with the advantages of no liquid leakage

good interface compatibility

thermal and chemical stability

and simple preparation process. Unfortunately

PE could not meet the requirements of both mechanical and electrochemical properties at the same time for lithium batteries. In order to improve the comprehensive properties of PE

PE matrix has been modified

via

blending

crosslinking and so on. It is known that the composition and structure of PE matrix obtained by traditional free radical polymerization are not easy to control

which hinders the application of PE. As a new polymerization technology

atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) can regulate the molecular weight and conduct structure design of polymers by maintaining the low concentration of free radicals through the reversible balance between active and dormant species. It provides an effective way for the preparation of PE with both high mechanical and electrochemical properties. Additionally

ATRP has outstanding features in the modification of inorganic filler and the optimization of interface performance

due to the designability of ATRP initiator group. This is of great significance for the improvement of the comprehensive performance of lithium battery with PE membrane based on polymer matrix nanocomposites. This review summarizes the application of ATRP technology in the preparation of PE matrix

filler modification as well as interface optimization. The future development directions of ATRP used in PE are also prospected.