(3fr) Advancing Multifunctional Electrochemical Energy Systems

My vision is to enable multifunctional electrochemical energy systems that boost system-level energy density by uncovering and applying principles from electrochemistry, continuum mechanics, and techno-econo-environmental modeling. Human-made energy systems, such as batteries, are designed to be monofunctional devices that store and release energy. In contrast, energy systems found in nature, such as animal fatty tissue, are multifunctional systems that provide mechanical padding, thermal insulation, and chemical energy storage. This multifunctional approach allows animals to carry large amounts of energy despite the low energy density of fat. I therefore aim to create batteries, capacitors, and fuel cells capable of performing numerous functions such as absorbing impacts, bearing loads, damping sound, suppressing vibration, harvesting energy, transmitting light, providing insulation, and sensing mechanical and electromagnetic stimuli. Such multifunctional energy systems have applications in robots, wearables, implantables, air/spacecraft, personal electronics, underwater vehicles, and electric vehicles.

Teaching Interests

fluids, interfaces, electrochemistry