Synthesis and Testing of New Ion Sensors to Monitor Battery Degradation

This project involves the synthesis and characterisation of a series of molecules, oligomers and polymers designed to sorb metal ions such as lithium, with a change in optical properties. Motivated by molecules that have already been proposed for Li sensing, we will prepare a series of molecules that are sensitive to changes of Li concentration in the concentration regimes appropriate for batteries. The molecules will then be tested in a series of batteries, as a function of cycling. Work to tether molecules to appropriate polymers will be explored.