Metal-gas batteries such as lithium-oxygen batteries and lithium-carbon dioxide batteries are highly promising energy storage systems due to their high theoretical energy densities. However, sluggish gas conversion reaction, electrolyte dissociation and un-wanted side products formation require the development of efficient cathode catalysts and porous structures. Our team plans to focus on developing advanced metal-oxygen and carbon dioxide batteries.
Li-ion battery cathode suffers from metal dissolution, phase transformation, and crack formation during charge/discharge. Thus, designing the interface of lithium-ion batteries is crucial for reducing unwanted side reactions and improving the charge-discharge cycle life. Our team will concentrate on optimizing the cathode and anode interface to enhance the cyclic stability of LIBs.
Computational methods such as DFT and machine learning are valuable tools for predicting mechanisms and advancing the development of materials for electrochemical systems. Our team will use computational chemistry to discover new catalysts and understand their reactions.