Research Interests
Motivation & Goals
Developing Next Generation Batteries
Li-ion batteries (LIBs) have revolutionized human life by enabling the use of mobile electronic devices such as mobile phones and electric vehicles. However, state-of-the-art Li-ion batteries are reaching their theoretical limit in energy density, which has motivated the search for other battery systems based on new chemistry. As potential candidate for next generation battery, Li-metal, All-solid-state, Zn-aqueous, Li-sulfur, and Metal-air batteries have been attracted much attention because they show higher energy density and stability compared to current LIB system. In addition, considering the cost-effectiveness, the development of non-Li based batteries such as Na, K, and Ca may be a good option. We are conducting research to develop these next generation batteries with improved performance and safety.
Nanomaterials & Structural Design
In developing next generation batteries, it is very important to synthesize designed materials suitable for the research purpose. For example, in Li-metal battery part, a hollow core-shell design with an empty space inside the structure is required to efficiently store metallic Li, and in Li-air battery part, a structure including a space where Li2O2 is formed must be designed. As such, we are designing various nanomaterials using diverse synthesis methods and conducting research to improve cell performance and safety.
Related Papers:
▪ ACS Nano, 2022, 16, 11892
▪ Chem. Eng. J., 2022, 431, 133968
▪ Chem. Eng. J., 2021, 422, 130017
▪ J. Mater. Chem. A, 2021, 9, 1822
▪ ACS Nano, 2017, 11, 1736
Interfacial Engineering
Since battery reactions mainly occur at interfaces and interfacial side reactions act as a main cause of deteriorating cell performance, understanding interfacial reactions is very important in developing high performance batteries. So, we are conducting research on improving cell performance by stabilizing the interface through various in-depth interfacial analyses and novel strategies.
Related Papers:
▪ Chem. Eng. J., 2023, 469, 143804
▪ Adv. Sci., 2022, 9, 2103826
▪ Adv. Funct. Mater., 2022, 32, 2108203
▪ J. Power Sources, 2021, 490, 229504
▪ Small, 2019, 15, 1900235
▪ ACS Nano, 2017, 11, 1736
Advanced In-situ Analysis
Ex-situ analysis does not accurately reflect the actual cell test condition because external factors may be involved in the analysis process. On the other hand, in-situ analysis is a non-destructive analysis method that can reflect the actual cell operating condition by analyzing the cell during electrochemical operation. To solve battery’s problems and present new solutions by improving the understanding of reaction mechanism and the accuracy of analysis, we are trying to develop unique in-situ analysis techniques.
Related Papers:
▪ Adv. Funct. Mater., 2022, 32, 2108203
▪ ACS Nano, 2022, 16, 11892
▪ J. Power Sources, 2021, 490, 229504
▪ Small, 2019, 15, 1900235
Reuse & Recycling of Waste Batteries
As the demand for electric vehicles explodes, the problem of reuse and recycling of waste batteries is emerging as a big issue. Since the amount of rare metals such as Li, Ni, and Co in used batteries is limited, they must be recycled in terms of sustainability in the electrification era. Collecting minerals from waste batteries is similar to urban mining. In particular, in our country, where resources are scarce, it is essential to develop eco-friendly recycling technology to obtain these scarce resources. We will contribute to creating a sustainable world by developing cost-effective and high-efficient resource extraction technology from waste batteries.