PhD project: Advanced Batteries with Carbon-Nitrogen Anodes

Project description

In an era defined by the escalating demand for portable electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy sources, the quest for novel battery materials is more critical than ever. Traditional batteries often fall short in terms of energy density, lifespan, and environmental impact. The development of advanced battery technologies is paramount to overcoming these limitations, ensuring longer-lasting, more efficient energy storage solutions.

Carbon-nitrogen anode materials emerge as a promising avenue in this pursuit. Their inherent properties offer a unique combination of high conductivity, structural stability, and environmental friendliness. By subjecting the carbon, nitrogen, and light alkali metal (i.e. lithium and sodium) ternary systems to high-pressure conditions using diamond anvil cells, we aim to engineer a robust porous framework that enhances the flow of ions, addressing the energy density and lifespan concerns associated with traditional batteries. This innovative approach holds the potential to revolutionize battery technology, providing a sustainable solution to meet the growing global demand for efficient and eco-friendly energy storage.

This exciting multidisciplinary PhD project will involve the compression of matter to extremely high pressures and temperatures using laser-heated diamond anvil cells. Experiments will be carried out at the Centre for Science at Extreme Conditions (CSEC) and at particle accelerators worldwide (APS, USA; ESRF, France; PETRA III, Germany; DIAMOND, UK). The PhD student will work in an international research team alongside collaborators in France, Germany and Sweden.

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