Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized the portable electronics industry because of their high energy density and efficiency. They may also prove valuable for a variety of other applications, including electrification of the transport system and grid-scale stationary energy storage. However, they still suffer from several significant safety and reliability issues, many of which are related to the use of flammable organic solvents.
Solid-state electrolytes could resolve all of these problems. However, most candidate materials have lower ionic conductivity compared to that of liquid electrolytes and are hard to manufacture at scale thus limiting their practical application. Lithium rich anti-perovskites (Li3AX where A = O2-, S2- and X = Cl-, Br-) are considered a promising class of solid electrolytes thanks to their wide electrochemical window, stability in contact with Li metal, high Li-ion conductivity and low melting point in their hydrated form.
In this project, the student will investigate the synthesis and characterization (physico-chemical, structural and electrochemical) of novel anti-perovskite solid electrolytes.