EMSDL @ UNIST - Research

Bridging battery development and recycling across generations

EMSDL approaches challenges in rechargeable batteries by redefining problems, reinterpreting existing limitations, and viewing the system from a fully integrated perspective. Our research spans (1) both the present and future of battery technologies, encompassing lithium-ion batteries and next-generation systems, as well as (2) the beginning and end of their lifecycle, from high-performance battery development to end-of-life battery recycling.

Through this lifecycle perspective and by leveraging technological connections (BRIDGE) across battery systems, EMSDL aims to fundamentally address a wide range of challenges in the field. Our goal is to identify what truly constitutes the core problem within the complex system of rechargeable batteries, reinterpret its essence, and propose new directions for solutions.

Our research does not begin with ideal data, but rather with unexpected or unsatisfactory results and the questions they raise. We continuously ask: “What is the fundamental problem and governing factor?” and “Why must it be so?” Through these questions, we critically examine the intrinsic limitations of current technologies and systems, and seek to drive paradigm shifts based on this understanding.

At EMSDL, we place the highest value on the power of connection. Addressing complex problems that cannot be fully defined or solved within a single laboratory requires sustained and close collaboration with diverse experts, both domestically and internationally. These collaborations go beyond simple role-sharing; they involve the integration of different perspectives and areas of expertise to redefine problems at their core and refine solution pathways.

In essence, by connecting knowledge and experience, we aim to generate new insights and solutions, and to advance more fundamental and expansive research in the field of rechargeable batteries.

EMSDL conducts research based on the bidirectional connection and reinterpretation of design principles between lithium-ion batteries and various next-generation battery systems. Rather than approaching each battery system in isolation, we aim to identify the core bottlenecks and governing design parameters that are commonly observed across systems, and to generalize them into forms that can be applied across different battery chemistries. In particular, we extend the accumulated knowledge from lithium-ion batteries, including electrode structure design, interface control, and electrolyte engineering, to next-generation systems. At the same time, newly discovered phenomena and mechanisms in next-generation batteries are fed back into lithium-ion systems, enabling a reinterpretation of their limitations and the development of new performance enhancement strategies.

Representative Publications
(1) Based on prior experience in electrolyte development for controlling volume expansion and irreversible reactions in lithium-ion battery anodes, as well as research experience in lithium metal batteries and battery recycling, we developed tailored electrolytes and a dry-process-based prelithiation strategy for thick electrodes. This approach addresses energy density loss arising from PTFE binder decomposition and initial irreversible reactions in dry-processed thick electrodes.
Energy & Environmental Science, 19, 1944–1953 (2026)
EES Batteries, 1, 1267–1278 (2025)
Journal of Energy Storage, 96, 112693 (2024)

(2) Based on extensive experience in developing alkali metal (Li/Na/K) anode systems and in electrolyte design for suppressing dissolution of organic electrode materials, we established electrolyte solvation structure design strategies that control electrode–electrolyte reaction pathways. This work elucidates the suppression of interfacial degradation at metal anodes, as well as the regulation of cation-dependent desolvation energy and co-intercalation mechanisms, leading to the mitigation of electrode dissolution.

ACS Nano, 19, 1371–1382 (2025)
Advanced Energy Materials, 14, 2303033 (2024)
Energy Storage Materials, 70, 103448 (2024)

EMSDL approaches battery development and recycling not as separate processes or independent domains, but as a single integrated problem. Our research is grounded in the perspective that design elements and operational histories, including electrode materials and structures, electrolyte compositions, and operating conditions, simultaneously determine the efficiency of separation, recovery, and regeneration during end-of-life recycling. While conventional recycling research has largely focused on pyrometallurgical fragmentation and leaching processes or thermally driven direct recycling, EMSDL is not confined by such methodological boundaries or conventional assumptions. Instead, we aim to develop tailored enabling technologies based on the intrinsic characteristics of battery systems and processes, ultimately contributing to securing national competitiveness in the future battery recycling market.

Forthcoming Publications (Representative Examples of This Research)
The following publications, which exemplify this research direction, are expected to be published primarily during 2026–2027.

Review on next-generation battery development and recycling, submitted (2026)
Perspective on direct recycling, submitted (2026)
Research articles on tailored materials and processes for lithium-ion battery pretreatment (#2)
Research articles on tailored recycling strategies for next-generation electrodes (#2)
Research articles on recycling methodology for next-generation battery (#2)

Google Sites

Report abuse