Abstract

High-energy density batteries will play a remarkable role in hurdling global climate change. My research focuses on the fundamental understandings of their electrochemical reaction mechanisms and the design of materials, protocols, and characterization tools to enable their safe operations over long-term use. First, I will discuss about the previously overlooked dynamics of detached lithium metal filaments during battery operations. This discovery leads to the recovery of lost capacities in lithium-metal batteries and enables fast charging in lithium-ion batteries. Next, I will introduce a characterization tool for the on-board monitoring of battery health based on pressure evolutions. In addition to capturing the early signs of battery failure, this pressure sensing system offers new insights into the battery degradation process. Overall, the combination of fundamental study and the rational design of materials/protocols/characterization tools opens broad opportunities toward a clean energy future.