Battery Materials Research

Fundamental studies of Li-ion storage in electrode materials are critical for the further development of high-performance, next-generation Li-ion batteries. The complex composition and rough morphology of typical electrodes makes it challenging to gain scientific insights.

Our research focuses on developing model electrodes with well-controlled chemical composition and morphology in thin-film form for solid electrolyte interface studies. These model systems facilitate advanced characterization methods and allow us to achieve mechanistic understanding of Li-ion storage in electrode materials such as Li metal or Si anodes.

For more information, see:

The Role of Oxygen in Lithiation and Solid Electrolyte Interphase Formation Processes in Silicon-Based Anodes, Journal of The Electrochemical Society (2022) 

Improving Interface Stability of Si Anodes by Mg Coating in Li-Ion Batteries, ACS Applied Energy Materials (2020)

Chemistry of Electrolyte Reduction on Lithium Silicide, The Journal of Physical Chemistry C (2019).

Surface Engineering Coatings for Solid Electrolytes

The properties of solid electrolytes surface play an important role in determining the performance of Li-metal batteries. In this regard, we apply different methods, especially physical vapor deposition, to modify the surface properties of Li-electrode and solid electrolyte materials. We have evaluated the properties of the modified electrode materials through both chemical and electrochemical characterization.

Current research efforts focus on Li-anode coating materials for Li-metal batteries, nitride coatings for sulfide solid electrolytes, and other unconventional battery chemistries.

For more information, see:

Lithium Nitride Coatings Deposited by Magnetron Sputtering on Sulfide Electrolytes for Solid-State Batteries, MRS Communications (2022)

A Review on Lithium Phosphorus Oxynitride, Journal of Physical Chemistry C (2021)

Investigating the Effects of Lithium Phosphorous Oxynitride Coating on Blended Solid Polymer Electrolytes, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2020).

Projects

NREL's work on Si electrode materials for Li-ion batteries was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Vehicle Technologies Office. The work on interfacial coatings was funded by NREL's Laboratory Directed Research Development program.

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