PhD Research Studentships
Understanding and controlling electrochemical interfaces in sodium-ion batteries
| Supervisor: | Maria CRESPO-RIBADENEYRA |
| Apply by: | 29 January 2025 |
| Start in: | September (Semester 1) |
Description
About the project
If we are to transition to a net-zero energy infrastructure we need to develop energy storage systems both economically and sustainably. Batteries, the most common device to store energy, come in various shapes, sizes and chemistries, depending upon the application. They enable storage and release electrical energy through a chemical reaction. In an ideal world, all these batteries should be cheap, safe, recyclable, light with respect to the amount of energy they can store (high energy density) and have the ability to charge rapidly (high power density) without degrading (long cycle life) over time. Currently, the predominant technology is the lithium-ion battery (LIB) and the improvement of these properties is largely being driven by the electric vehicle (EV) market. In the best-case scenario (at a high-power charging station), a modern EV can be charged for 80-150 miles in around 30 minutes. This is disadvantageous when compared to a standard combustion engine vehicle with average ranges between 300 and 400 miles for a tank of fuel that can be filled in less than 3 minutes. However, pushing the charging times even further comes with a variety of challenges, as faster charging rates enhance the electrochemical degradation of the battery.
In this PhD project, we will be focusing on understanding the electrochemical interfacial properties of sodium-ion batteries (NIBs), a faster charging, safer and greener (containing materials that can be produced locally and from sustainable feedstocks) battery type that is yet to be fully commercialised. We will try to understand and control those side reactions that hinder faster charging rates.
You will focus on developing fast charging and high energy density NIBs . Some of the objectives of your project will be to:
- Develop interfacial treatments to improve the cyclability of NIBs at high charging rates.
- Formulate polymer electrolytes/binders with a range of mechanical properties to understand the interfacial properties at the electrode/electrolyte interface.
- Understand the effect of different interfacial treatments in ionic conduction and mechanical stability.
- Link the generated understanding with the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation mechanism.
Please don't hesistate to contact me if you would like to discuss the project in further detail. This project is highly interdisciplinary – you will gain expertise in materials chemistry, composite engineering and electrochemistry. This opportunity offers a unique platform to contribute to cutting-edge research in battery materials development and manufacturing technologies and make a significant impact on the future of sustainable energy storage.
Our research group
Our research group values diversity in all forms. We are committed to spread respect and dignity across the society, starting from our lab, regardless race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, disability, age or nationality. Diversity for us is a synonym for innovation and we stand by those who are willing to take action where there is discrimination. We prioritise a healthy research culture, collaboration, and flexible work hours as needed. I will provide personalised mentorship, including working towards different career choices following the PhD. I am an active member of the EDI Steering Group at the School of Engineering and Materials Science and encourage applications from under-represented groups; I am also happy to discuss potential applications informally.
Applicants
These studentships are open to applicants with Home and International fee status, however, the number of international students who can be recruited is capped according to the EPSRC terms and conditions. We anticipate strong competition for international applicants.
Funding
Funded by: EPSRCThis EPSRC DTP studentship is fully funded and includes a 3.5 years stipend (currently set at the 2024/25 stipend rate of £21,237 pa) and 3 years fees at the home level.
Eligibility
- The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
- If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of minimum score of 6.0 in each of Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking).
- Candidates are expected to start in September (Semester 1).
Contact
For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Maria CRESPO-RIBADENEYRA.
Apply
Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD Materials Science full-time programme (Semester 1 / September start):
Please be sure to quote the reference "SEMS-PHD-650" to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.
| SEMS Research Centre: | ||
| Keywords: | Analytical Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, Chemistry - Other, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Nanotechnology, Materials Science - Other, Polymers |