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Energy Materials

  • Research
  • Energy Materials

Energy Materials

Rational Design of materials and their applications for electrochemical devices

Various Materials for Batteries

(Cathode, Anodes, Solid Electrolytes, etc)
  • Our group focuses on the development of high-capacity, cobalt-free cathode materials for next-generation lithium-based energy storage systems. Specifically, we investigate a broad range of advanced cathode chemistries, including Co-free layered oxides and high-voltage spinel structures, which offer both high energy density and cost competitiveness. To enhance electrochemical performance and long-term stability, we employ a combination of strategic doping, surface coating, and structural optimization techniques. These material innovations are systematically integrated and evaluated in both conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs), with particular attention to interface stability, cycling durability, and scalability. By bridging fundamental materials science with device-level implementation, our research aims to accelerate the practical deployment of sustainable, cobalt-free cathode technologies across various energy storage platforms.
  • In parallel, we are actively developing silicon-based anodes to further push the energy density limits of LIBs. Given silicon’s high theoretical capacity, our work addresses the critical challenges posed by its severe volume expansion and the resulting mechanical failure and unstable SEI formation. To mitigate these issues, we employ a multi-scale approach involving nanostructured Si composites, adaptive polymeric binders, and interfacial engineering techniques such as electrolyte additive design, surface coatings, and prelithiation treatments. These strategies are tailored to maintain electrode integrity under dynamic cycling and are applicable to both liquid and solid-state systems. By bridging fundamental materials science with advanced cell design, our group aims to contribute to the realization of durable, high-performance batteries.
  • In addition to active materials, our research extends to the design and synthesis of novel inorganic solid electrolytes (SEs) to realize safe and high-performance ASSBs. We actively explore both sulfide-based and halide-based SEs with tailored compositions and crystal structures to enhance ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability, and interface compatibility. Through rational composition design, low-temperature synthesis, and interface engineering, we aim to overcome critical challenges such as interfacial resistance, chemical decomposition, and mechanical failure at the electrode–electrolyte interface. Furthermore, to enable environmentally benign and scalable battery manufacturing, we are developing fluorine-free (F-free) binder systems as alternatives to conventional PVDF. These next-generation polymer binders are designed to provide strong adhesion, mechanical flexibility, and chemical compatibility without relying on persistent fluorinated compounds. Such F-free binders are particularly advantageous for dry electrode fabrication and solid-state architectures, where traditional binders may pose safety and regulatory limitations.