We are striving to improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries through basic science and applied diagnostic methods. Our approach involves in-situ experimental techniques to observe passivation layer chemistry and identify the chemical and materials processes contributing to instability in lithium-ion batteries. We use this basic understanding to develop robust electrochemical impedance-based diagnostics to detect chemical degradation within lithium-ion batteries. We are also studying the effect of nanoscale coatings on the performance, safety, and durability of a host of oxide and silicon-based electrode materials as well as in-situ optical microscopy to determine the nucleation, formation, and growth of lithium plating and dendrites.

 

References

Love CT, et al: Journal of Power Sources 266: 512-519, 2014

Love CT, et al: Journal of the Electrochemical Society 160: A3153-A3161, 2013

 

key words

Battery; Safety; Energy; Lithium-ion; Electrochemistry; Impedance spectroscopy; Diagnostics; Energy storage; Nanomaterials;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants