TOPIC #6
Elaboration and optimisation of composite positive electrodes for Energy/Power coupling in Na-ion batteries
Research area: Post Li-Ion Technologies
Keywords: Na-ion batteries; layered materials; polyanionic compounds; blended electrodes
Supervising team: M. Rosa PALACIN (ICMAB), Patrick ROZIER (Univ. Toulouse)
Abstract
The PhD project aims at developing positive electrode materials for Na-ion batteries enable to deliver high capacity at high rates. The approach will be based on a dual strategy involving (i) the preparation of layered materials (NaMO2 with M=Mn,Fe) and tuning the microstructure and properties through choice of the synthesis method and the composition/doping with other metals on the M site and (ii) blending the layered compounds with commercial polyanionic compounds, to improve the kinetics.
The prepared materials will be characterized by XRD and SEM/TEM, and used to prepare electrodes either alone or blended with other materials. These electrodes tested against sodium or hard carbon counter electrodes under different conditions and applying a range of electrochemical techniques (PITT, GITT, EIS). Operando characterisation at large scale infrastructures (e.g. ALBA synchrotron) is also foreseen to elucidate reaction mechanisms.
The PhD student will be registered at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, with M.Rosa Palacin (ICMAB-CSIC) and Patrick Rozier (CIRIMAT, Toulouse). Suitable profile would be degree in Chemistry with master in Chemistry, or Materials Science. Additional experience in electrochemistry and/or structural or characterization techniques is not mandatory but would be appreciated.
Interest for the student
Expected mobility: The student will be based at ICMAB-CSIC and a 6 month secondments at CIRIMAT Toulouse is planned during the first year for the synthesis and characterisation of layered materials. Additional short visits for use of specific techniques are foreseen at CIC Energigune (NMR) and ALBA synchrotron (operando experiments). Aside training offered by the host institution, the student will also be offered specific trainings aligned with the PhD topic organised by DESTINY2. Presentation of results at international conferences is foreseen during the second and third year of the PhD (e.g. MRS, ECS or ISE meetings).
Career opportunities: During the PhD the student is expected to acquire a strong background in materials synthesis and structural characterization techniques and electrochemistry protocols and methods. In addition to that, access to large scale infrastructures could provide further assets with respect to career prospects.
The multicultural environment at ICMAB-CSIC coupled to the broad research prospects of the research carried out ensures exposure to application fields complementary to batteries and also training in transversal techniques (communication, project writing, enterpreneurship etc.)
