Project Info

Spectroscopic Investigation of Lithium Transport in Electrolytes for Battery Fast Charging

Batteries capable of fast charging are needed to achieve wider adoption of battery electric vehicles. These batteries would be able to achieve a full charge in less than 10 minutes. There are several technological challenges to fast charging, including the need for battery electrolytes with adequate ion transport and electrochemical stability. In this project, the student researcher will be using newly-developed infrared diagnostics to study electrolyte performance in batteries during fast charge.

For more information:
On the decomposition of carbonate-based lithium-ion battery electrolytes studied using operando infrared spectroscopy
N Saqib, CM Ganim, AE Shelton, JM Porter Journal of The Electrochemical Society 165 (16), A4051

Grand Challenge: Engineer the tools of scientific discovery

Student Preparation

Qualifications

Basic coding in MATLAB, solid understanding of basic chemistry, ability to read and comprehend research articles, technical writing.

Student is required to attend the basic lab safety training offered by Environmental Health and Safety at Mines.

Time Commitment

5-10 hours/week

Skills/Techniques Gained

Battery materials fabrication, battery testing, infrared spectrometer use, attenuated total reflection measurements, wetlab and glovebox skills, MATLAB programing, technical writing.

Mentoring Plan

I hold weekly meetings with each student. Group meetings are held every other week as well. A graduate student mentor will work directly with the undergraduate for all training and initial lab work.