Project Info
Developing optical tools to measure ion transport in battery electrolytes
Jason Porter
jporter@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
This project builds on my groups efforts developing infrared spectroscopic tools to measure electrolyte behavior in batteries. The electrolyte in batteries facilitates ion transport between battery electrodes, while providing electrical isolation (preventing battery shorting). New electrolytes are needed with better transport capabilities and improved stability, but current electrolyte characterization tools are difficult to implement and are not suitable for measurements in operating batteries. This project seeks to develop optical techniques to measure and characterize electrolyte ionic transport. Outcomes include: 1. ion transport modeling, 2. designing, fabricating, and demonstrating novel optical hardware, and 3. measuring properties of selected battery electrolytes.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery.
Primary Contacts:
Jason Porter, jporter@mines.edu
Lydia Meyer, lydiameyer@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
Required: Proficiency in programming ("A" grade in Math307 is ideal), SolidWorks
Desired: interest in optics and/or electrochemistry, interest in machine learning.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
5
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
Experimental design, spectroscopy, machine learning, technical presentation, technical writing.
MENTORING PLAN
I personally meet with the student each week for 30 minutes. A PhD student will schedule time to work with the student in the lab and train them on procedures and equipment.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Sophomore
Junior
Senior