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Material design rule interconnecting the challenges at each length scale
The growing demand for high-energy-density, long-life, and safe rechargeable batteries—driven by the expansion of electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and portable electronics—poses pressing challenges in materials innovation. These challenges cannot be resolved by solely focusing on the atomic scale. Instead, they require a comprehensive understanding of how atomistic phenomena (e.g., transition metal redox behavior, oxygen participation, lattice distortions), particle-level features (e.g., strain distribution, grain boundaries, crack formation), and electrode-level behaviors (e.g., collective reaction dynamics of active particles) interact to govern electrochemical function.
In response to these challenges, I am focusing on investigating the material-design rules that govern the chemistry of materials used in rechargeable battery applications. My research aims to uncover how electrochemical performance and degradation mechanisms are controlled by multi-scale interactions—ranging from atomic-level bonding and defect chemistry, to mesoscale particle structures, and ultimately, to the reaction dynamics of active materials within composite electrodes. By elucidating the nature of these multi-scale interactions, my goal is to establish unified design principles that bridge the atomic, particle, and electrode scales to guide the development of next-generation battery materials.
New Material Discovery
Our group explores the frontiers of materials science under the theme of New Material Discovery. We focus on the atomic-scale design of novel cathode materials (Layered, Li-rich, DRX, etc) to overcome the capacity and lifetime limitations of current Li-ion technologies. Furthermore, we are actively investigating solid-state electrolytes (Oxides, Sulfides), addressing critical challenges in ionic conductivity and interfacial stability. Through rigorous synthesis and advanced characterization, we aim to establish new design principles for next generation rechargeable battery systems
Multi-scale analysis for understanding the behavior of battery materials
A central focus of our group’s ongoing research is bridging the critical gap between fundamental atomic-scale insights and practical battery behavior at the particle and electrode levels. We recognize that while atomistic design principles significantly enhance intrinsic material properties, their real-world impact depends heavily on how these characteristics manifest across larger scales. To address this challenge, we are developing advanced multi-scale analysis frameworks that integrate cutting-edge techniques, including In-situ Micro XRD mapping, Scanning Spreading Resistance Microscopy (SSRM), Transmission X-ray Microscopy (TXM), and our custom-built reaction dynamic analysis (RDA) system. These tools allow us to seamlessly connect disparate length scales, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex electrochemical behavior of battery materials.
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