Thin Film Processing, Structures and Architectures for Next-Generation Batteries

Chuan-Fu-Lin

Assistant Professor
School of Engineering
Department of Mechanical Engineering

Wed, March 4, 2020 - 4:00 PM
Karl Herzfeld Auditorium of Hannan Hall - Rm 108

High power and extended cycle life at high energy density are key benefits for energy storage, which can be achieved through synthesis of materials in specific 3-D electrode and battery configurations. Thin film process technologies are primary enablers of this design and fabrication flexibility. Guidelines for effective designs include thin ion storage layers available over large accessible electrode surface area, integrated current collectors, robust structure to withstand volume changes during charge/discharge, and dense packing of such structures. A variety of advanced 3-D structures, from nanowire-based electrodes and a nanopore battery using organic electrolyte, to 3-D solid state batteries employing interdigitated electrode arrangements have been created and evaluated. These results exploit atomic layer deposition (ALD) to achieve challenging geometries of current collector, storage electrode, and solid electrolyte materials. We have also developed ALD processes for solid electrolytes, which deliver value in the forms of (1) thin protection/passivation layers on Li and Na metal anodes and conversion material electrodes, and (2) versatile thin film electrolytes in 3-D-structured battery configurations (e.g., interdigitated anode/cathode assemblies). Finally, we examine how thin film technologies may play important roles in future battery manufacturing, either as single processes (e.g., ALD) inserted into conventional battery fabrication, or as a completely new manufacturing paradigm.

Refreshments served at 3:45 PM

If you have any questions about the Colloquium Series  or would like to make a donation please contact the Physics Department, cua-physics@cua.edu or (202) 319-5315.