Designing novel electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries using operando techniques and smart synthetic control

This fully funded PhD studentship will study conversion anode and novel hybrid anode systems for lithium-ion batteries. The project will involve learning to apply our emergent and flexible synthesis methods, which enable rapid and controllable formation of novel nanoscale crystal shapes in oxide materials. This gives a powerful new route to optimising the electrochemical performance of a material via control of particle morphology. We will use a wide range of techniques (e.g. X-ray and neutron diffraction, total scattering methods, electron microscopy, battery fabrication and testing) to fully understand the fundamental processes involved in both synthesis and functional properties. We will make good use of our brand-new world-class operando diffraction and MicroCT facilities to study the changes that occur inside batteries during operation.

The ultimate aim of this project is to develop new conversion anode and/or conversion/alloy hybrid materials capable of storing significantly more charge than currently used commercial alternatives. The methods used and approaches taken will be of huge relevance to the wider study of other energy storage and functional materials.