Non-flammable batteries

Overview

The demand for energy storage has exponentially increased due to the technological advancements and ongoing transformation of the energy sector.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) currently outperform other competing technologies. However, various factors impend their further development in large-scale applications, including:

• limited and unevenly distributed lithium resources
• high price
• flammability.

Therefore, exploring next-generation energy-storage systems beyond lithium technology is critical.

While potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) are a promising alternative to LIBs, they suffer from safety issues and structural stability during charge/discharge.

This project aims to develop novel electrode and electrolyte materials for safe, high-energy/power-dense potassium-ion batteries.

Research activities

As part of the research project, you will:

• synthesise various electrode materials
• develop liquid and solid electrolytes
• characterise materials
• assemble complete KIB cells
• assess the cells' performance.

Our research group is well-equipped with all the necessary facilities to complete these activities.

Outcomes

Upon concluding this research, we expect to uncover:

• high-quality results that are published in international journals/conferences
• direct industrial applications.

Skills and experience

As the ideal candidate, a strong background in chemistry, material science and physics is preferred. Research experience in energy storage is highly desirable.

Scholarships

You may be able to apply for a research scholarship in our annual scholarship round.

Annual scholarship round

Keywords

• Potassium-ion battery
• Non-flammable materials
• Low-cost electrode materials

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.