Topic 1 : Elucidating the Electrochemical and Structural Mechanisms Governing Energy Materials 

 A fundamental understanding of electrochemical intercalation chemistry—including intercalation mechanisms, diffusion kinetics, migration barriers, and structural evolution during charge/discharge—is crucial for the development of high-performance battery materials. A core strength of our group lies in the application of advanced powder X-ray crystallographic techniques to investigate these processes in depth. Our approach incorporates 3D electron density mapping, bond valence sum analysis, and ab initio structure determination. These structural insights are complemented by comprehensive electrochemical analyses, which allow us to elucidate interfacial reactions, intercalation behavior, migration barriers, and the intrinsic resistances of inorganic materials.

 Our research is dedicated to uncovering the fundamental reaction mechanisms of inorganic and ceramic systems, providing new scientific insights that inform the rational design of next-generation electrode materials for advanced energy storage technologies.

Topic 2 : Mono/Multivalent-Ion Electrode Materials for Next-Generation Battery Systems 

 Although lithium-ion batteries have long dominated the energy storage landscape thanks to their high energy and power densities, growing concerns persist regarding their safety, limited energy density, high cost, and environmental impact. As potential post-LIB alternatives, multivalent-ion batteries—based on Mg²⁺, Ca²⁺, Zn²⁺, and Al³⁺—are particularly attractive due to the high volumetric energy densities of their metal anodes and their natural abundance. Likewise, Na⁺ and K⁺-ion batteries offer promising prospects as cost-effective, earth-abundant, and durable options, especially for large-scale energy storage applications.

 Our research is focused on discovering and developing novel inorganic electrode materials that can outperform conventional LIBs in capacity, cost-efficiency, or scalability. By integrating advanced electrochemical techniques with state-of-the-art crystallographic analysis, we aim to gain a deep understanding of the fundamental reaction mechanisms that govern the behavior of these next-generation materials.

Topic 3 : Layered & Olivine Cathodes for Li/Na-Ion Batteries 

 Layered cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries have attracted considerable attention due to their high energy density. Our lab conducts in-depth studies using crystallographic analysis to explore the effects of elemental substitution and doping aimed at enhancing the performance of these materials. In parallel, there is increasing interest in cost-effective alternatives such as lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP). Despite their advantages in safety and affordability, improving their electrochemical performance remains a key challenge. To address this, our research focuses on structural characterization, reaction mechanism studies in olivine-type materials, surface modification, elemental doping and substitution, as well as thermal stability analysis.

 The overarching goal of this work is to develop high-performance cathode materials for next-generation LIBs that offer both enhanced energy density and improved safety compared to existing technologies.

Topic 4 : Structural Engineering and Characterization of Li⁺/Na⁺ Conductors for All-Solid-State Batteries 

 Conventional lithium-ion batteries utilize flammable liquid electrolytes, which are susceptible to performance degradation and pose significant safety risks, including fire and explosion under extreme or abnormal conditions. All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) have emerged as a promising next-generation alternative, offering improved safety, higher theoretical energy densities, and the potential to reduce both material usage and manufacturing costs by eliminating separators and liquid components. However, the widespread commercialization of ASSBs is currently limited by the low ionic conductivity of solid electrolytes. To overcome this bottleneck, our research focuses on the structural design and engineering of inorganic solid electrolyte materials to enhance their ionic transport properties.

 The central objective of this work is to discover and develop novel, high-performance inorganic solid electrolytes that enable ASSBs with superior energy density, safety, and scalability compared to current LIB technologies.