The Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology is pleased to present a Seminar Series talk by Professor Mike Fleischauer, an Associate Research at the NRC-Nanotechnology Research Centre (NRC-NANO, Edmonton), an adjunct professor of Physics at the University of Alberta, and on the City of Edmonton’s Energy Transition Advisory Committee.
In-situ Characterization of Lithium-rich Battery Electrode Materials
Abstract
Lithium-ion batteries need to be stored and operated in ‘Goldilocks’ conditions – not too hot, and not too cold. Non-ideal conditions lead to rapid deterioration of either cell performance (at low temperatures) or cell components (at high temperatures, high pressures, or both). In particular, electrolyte breakdown can mask or prevent nano to microscale phase transitions. I will describe how we use our in-situ and in-operando thermal / electrochemical / structural or mechanical characterization platform to decouple measured electrode capacity and electrode composition, and determine electrode stability and performance limits. Specific examples from the lithium, lithium-silicon, and lithium-aluminum systems will be provided.
Biography
Mike’s research and development efforts span a wide range of energy conversion and storage technologies including nanostructured thin films for organic photovoltaics, fuel cell catalysts, and rechargeable and primary batteries, with a focus on new, automated, and high throughput methods. His current work is focused on developing and using in-situ and in-operando techniques to improve the understanding, safety, and performance of energy storage materials in harsh (e.g. high temperature) environments.