Welcome! Research in the Advanced Energy Materials Laboratory is aimed at studying the unique structure and distinct properties of nanomaterials used for electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices including batteries, fuel cells, and water electrolyzers. Our research involves Materials, Spectroscopy, and Electrochemistry. Click on the picture below to watch a video overview of the group’s research on nanomaterials and batteries.
Nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, nanotubes, and nanosheets possess atomic and electronic structures which are influenced by their composition, surface structure, internal structure, particle size, interparticle interactions, and adsorbed solution-phase species. Surfaces are significantly amplified for nanomaterials, and the surface structure can markedly differ from that of the bulk structure. As a result of their unique structures, nanomaterials possess distinct electrochemical, electrical, optical, and catalytic properties that can be markedly differ from that of bulk materials. Some of the research themes we investigate are:
- Studying unique structures that are stabilized in nanomaterials
- Demonstrating distinct properties of nanomaterials (electrical, electrochemical, etc.)
- Controlling surface and interfacial structure and reactivity
- Understanding charge storage and charge transport
- Characterizing and controlling structure in disordered systems
- Developing structure-property correlations
- Creating three-dimensional (3D) nanoarchitectures
- Developing electrochemical energy conversion and storage materials with improved performance for fuel cells, water electrolyzers and batteries
Please click on the categories above to learn more about our research and find out about opportunities to get involved!