Research

Mechanistic studies of battery materials

Our research is focused on elucidating the electrochemical and chemical processes in Li-ion and beyond lithium battery chemistries (Na, K, solid electrolytes, Li metal anodes). We use and develop advanced solid state NMR techniques to gain molecular level insight into how these systems function and why they fail – so that we can improve them. In addition to NMR we use more ‘traditional’ characterization tools such as X-ray diffraction, XPS and electron microscopy.

New methods in NMR and DNP targeting materials research

We’re interested in using DNP for sensitivity enhancement for studying difficult (i.e. low sensitivity) nuclei as well as surface chemistry in functional materials. We are also interested in developing new polarization agents providing selectivity to the NMR measurement.

Ion transport across interfaces and solids

Ion transport across liquid/solid and solid/solid interfaces is central to the function of rechargeable batteries. We develop and utilize new NMR techniques to track the process of ion transport: from desolvation (loss of the ionic solvation shell), through surface binding and exchange across the interface. This allows us to understand at the molecular level how each component at the interface is affecting ion transport.