(4ng) Advancing Sustainable Energy Storage: Innovations in Materials and Technologies for Next-Generation Batteries

Research Interests: My research interests center on advancing energy storage technologies to tackle global sustainability challenges and integrating renewable energy sources. Specifically, my work focuses on the designing, synthesizing, and characterizing advanced materials and electrolytes for next-generation battery systems.

I am particularly interested in:

1. Development of multivalent metal batteries utilizing eutectic electrolytes, which are stable and sustainable under extreme environmental conditions: Multivalent metals are gaining attention for battery fabrication due to their potential advantages over traditional Li-ion batteries, including high energy density, safety, global abundance, low cost and minimal environmental impact. Developing eutectic electrolytes (both non-aqueous and aqueous) with tailored properties can enable high-performance and durable battery operation. Understanding fundamental transport phenomena and interface interactions within eutectic electrolyte-based battery architectures is crucial.
2. Metal-CO₂ batteries and CO₂ conversion for energy storage: My secondary research aligns with previous interest, focusing on the design of novel electrolytes and electrocatalytic cathodes for high-performance metal-CO₂ batteries. Integrating CO₂ conversion technologies with energy storage systems creates synergetic approaches for carbon capture and utilization.

Through interdisciplinary approaches encompassing materials science, electrochemistry, and chemical engineering, my research aims to contribute to the development of sustainable energy storage solutions with reduced environmental impact and enhanced benefits.

Teaching Interests: My teaching interests are rooted in my research background and aim to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of energy storage technologies and electrochemical processes. Specifically, I am passionate about teaching courses in:

1. Electrochemical Engineering: Providing students with a deep understanding of electrochemical principles, including electrode kinetics, mass transport and electrochemical reactor design. Topics may include electrochemical thermodynamics, electrocatalysis, and electrochemical energy conversion and storage.
2. Advanced materials for Energy Applications: Introducing students to the synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced materials in energy storage and conversion devices. This course may cover topics such as nanomaterials synthesis, surface chemistry, and materials characterization techniques relevant to energy storage technologies.
3. Chemical Engineering Laboratory: Supervising laboratory courses focused on experimental techniques in electrochemistry and materials science. Students will gain hands-on experience with electrochemical characterization techniques, materials synthesis, and device fabrication for energy applications.

Through these courses, I aim to instill in students a strong foundation in electrochemical engineering principles, materials design, and sustainable energy systems, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, and research.