We study synthetic approaches to prepare functional materials including ion-conductive polymers, 2-dimensional nanomaterials, and carbon nanomaterials. In particular, we extensively study the assembly of those materials into multiscale structures, which are potentially applicable in electronic, wearable, and engineering applications.
Our aim is to prepare high-performance electrodes and electrolytes. Ion-conductive polymers are synthesized for solid-state batteries, and we are extensively studying the interface-engineering to improve cell performance. Various anode materials for LIB and NIB and fiber-based electrodes for supercapacitors are also designed.
We are developing the harvesting of electrical energy, signal transmission systems, and mechanically operatable devices by using the movement behavior of ions.
(1) Blue energy harvesting and water-treatment:
We generate electrical energy by using the evaporation of water as a clean energy source. We are newly synthesizing highly porous membranes for this emerging hydro-voltaic technology. In addition, we are studying a new technology to produce clean water by combing our porous membranes and heat-generating elements.
(2) Artificial nerve system:
Like the nerve system in human body, we are transferring the electrical and chemical signal by using our ionic cables, which are applicable in robotics and electronic devices, and wearable platform.
(3) Actuators:
we are studying ionic actuators, which are operated under specific conditions, such as light, temperatures, and pressures.
We are studying heat-dissipating and heat-generating materials. Our research focuses on the following top priorities in the semiconductor industry:
(1) High-performance thermal interface materials (TIM)
(2) New packing materials for underfill
(3) High heat-spreading/insulating substrates for 2.5D and 3D semiconductor packaging technologies
(4) The development of low-loss materials for 5G and 6G
Additionally, high-efficiency heating is crucial for energy-saving strategies. We are studying highly efficient heating elements for space, military, and automotive purposes. To achieve this, we are (1) developing new materials such as graphene, MXene, and polymers, and (2) designing novel structures that can operate even in extreme environments.