In-situ absorption synchrotron techniques to study middle and high entropy materials as catalysts in Li-S pouch cell batteries.

• Grant number: 24/01031-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: October 01, 2024
• End date: March 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Hudson Giovani Zanin
• Grantee: Érick Alves Santos
• Supervisor: Johanna Nelson Weker
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia Elétrica e de Computação (FEEC). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, United States
• Associated to the scholarship: 22/02222-0 - Development of prototype pouch cells of lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries in solid-liquid state with high stability and advanced scale of technological maturity, BP.DR

Abstract

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries stand out as energy storage systems with significant potential, boasting a theoretical specific capacity five times higher than lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion), along with greater energy and volumetric density. The composition of their electrodes includes cost-effective materials with minimal environmental impact, such as carbon allotropes and sulfur. Despite these clear advantages, challenges remain, such as the low electrical conductivity of sulfur (S8) in the electrode and the formation of solid discharge products (Li2S or Li2S2), known as the shuttle effect. In light of these challenges, the scientific community is actively seeking ways to enhance the conductivity of Li-S battery electrodes and address the shuttle effect. Currently, one explored option is the use of high and medium entropy materials as catalysts, owing to their strong absorption of lithium polysulfides in the electrolyte, conversion of solid products, and serving as hosts for lithium ion diffusion. In this context, this project aims to advance the study of catalytic materials for Li-S battery electrodes in pouch cell format, with a focus on in-situ assembly and characterization of high and medium entropy materials (HEM and MEM). Aligned with electrochemical techniques conducted in Brazil, the proposed methodology incorporates advanced in-situ absorption techniques using synchrotron radiation, such as X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), Transmission X-ray Microscopy (TXM), and X-ray Phase-Contrast Computed Tomography (CT). The anticipated outcomes of this project aim to address critical challenges in battery technology, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and fostering innovation in materials science for sustainable energy applications. A primary objective of the BEPE project is to specialize the candidate in in-situ synchrotron absorption techniques applied to batteries, utilizing the renowned National Accelerator Laboratory (SLAC) at Stanford University, under the guidance of the lead researcher, Johanna Nelson Weker.