Research

New electrolytes will enable the next big leaps in battery technologies. Whether enhanced stability with nickel-rich lithium-ion electrode materials, enabling the elusive lithium metal negative electrode, or other beyond lithium-ion technologies like lithium-oxygen, lithium-sulfur or multivalent chemistries based on magnesium, electrolytes are poised to play a vital role. In our group, we perform deep fundamental science to bridge the knowledge gaps that prevent us from rationally designing these paradigm-shifting electrolytes. For example, through a deeper understanding of how ions de-solvate when transitioning from a liquid electrolyte to a solid electrode, novel electrolytes can be designed that enable enhanced battery performance at low temperatures as well as multi-valent battery chemistries based on ions like magnesium. Moreover, by studying how the electrolyte alters the solubility of inorganic phases and their nucleation and growth kinetics, we can enable the implementation of desired electrode materials such as lithium metal, as well as lithium-oxygen, and lithium-sulfur chemistries.  Finally, through the development of novel electrolyte materials, such as new classes of solid-state ion conductors, next-generation devices with enhanced form factor stability and enhanced safety can be realized.