Li/Na/Mg-Metal Batteries

Li-metal batteries are promising next-generation energy storage systems with maximized energy density. Na and Mg-metal batteries are typical beyond-Li battery technologies with lower production costs. Our research focuses on formulating functional electrolytes for highly reversible Li/Na/Mg-metal batteries, including those operating at extremely high/low temperatures, high working voltages, and in (quasi) solid-state electrolytes.  

Metal-Sulfur Batteries

Elemental sulfur is characterized by its significant capacity in both gravimetric and volumetric terms. When integrated with alkali metal anodes, the development of rechargeable metal-sulfur batteries stands out as one of the most important next-generation battery technologies. Our research focuses on advanced electrode materials design, electrolyte formulation, and separator engineering to improve the reversible capacity, energy efficiency, and cycling stability of metal-sulfur batteries.

Solid-State Electrolytes

Solid-state Li/Na batteries are considered as next-generation devices for energy storage due to their advantages in safety and potentially high energy density. As the key component in ASSLBs, Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) with non-flammability and good adaptability to metal anodes are regarded as the key component in solid-state batteries. Our research focuses on the design of multi-component nanoscale interfaces, the minimization of surface coating thicknesses, and the understanding of Li-ion transport in the bulk and the interface of solid-state electrolytes through advanced characterization techniques.  

Spent Battery Recycling

Spent Li/Na batteries containing heavy metals and toxic hazardous are becoming a severe threat to the environment and human health which must be addressed properly. Recycling is an option for end-of-life Li/Na batteries, which not only prevents the pollution of toxic components but also saves natural sources. Our research focuses on developing new processes for materials recovery from spent batteries with high leaching efficiency.  

Battery Health Monitoring

Although rechargeable Li/Na batteries are found in a wide array of applications, from mobile phones to commercial airliners, the continued expansion of these batteries is hindered by safety, durability and reliability concerns. Our research focuses on detecting battery failures earlier and faster.