PhD in Physical Chemistry: Uncovering structure in the next generation of sustainable batteries

We have a vacancy for a PhD student working in the area of physical chemistry.

While lithium dominates current battery technology, there is considerable drive to move away from lithium salts to more abundant or lower cost alternatives. Alternatives such as zinc and sodium have been proposed, which are low cost, abundant and non-toxic. Previously these alternatives were not so strongly pursued due to their poor performance when compared to lithium, but recent work utilising aqueous electrolytes (so-called “water-in-salt electrolytes” or WiSEs) has rejuvenated interest in these alternative materials. WiSEs have performance that can approach that of conventional lithium-ion batteries, raising the possibility of safer, more environmentally friendly batteries that maintain a high energy density. However, the origin of this high performance is hotly disputed. This project will therefore use state-of-the-art neutron scattering methods and atomic force microscopy to understand the structure and behaviour of these new battery electrolyte materials, both under static conditions and under applied potential. This information will be used to help design the next generation of green battery electrolytes.

There will be opportunities to write proposals for instrument time at large scattering facilities (Diamond, ISIS etc.) and to take part in experiments that will contribute directly or indirectly to the PhD project.

Informal enquiries are welcome: please contact Dr James Hallett (j.e.hallett@reading.ac.uk) directly and include a CV.