These innovative Thin-Film Materials Could Enhance Battery Safety and Efficiency.
Researchers at the University of Missouri are making significant strides in solid-state battery development, using advanced thin-film materials to create protective coatings. These coatings prevent chemical reactions between the solid electrolyte and cathode materials, a key challenge in improving battery performance and longevity.
Solid-state batteries offer a promising alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries, which rely on liquid electrolytes that can pose fire hazards if damaged or overheated. Assistant Professor Matthias Young and his team are exploring the use of solid electrolytes to make batteries safer and more energy-efficient.
“When the solid electrolyte touches the cathode, it reacts and forms an interphase layer that’s about 100 nanometres thick — 1,000 times smaller than the width of a single human hair. This layer blocks the lithium ions and electrons from moving easily, increasing resistance and hurting battery performance,” has stated Matthias Young.
By employing four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D STEM), the researchers have achieved a groundbreaking ability to examine a battery’s atomic structure without disassembly. This technique enabled them to identify the interphase layer as a critical factor affecting battery performance. Young’s lab specialises in oxidative molecular layer deposition (oMLD), a vapor-phase process that creates ultra-thin films. Their next step is to test whether these films can serve as protective barriers, preventing unwanted reactions between battery components.
“The coatings need to be thin enough to prevent reactions but not so thick that they block lithium-ion flow. We aim to maintain the high-performance characteristics of the solid electrolyte and cathode materials. Our goal is to use these materials together without sacrificing their performance for the sake of compatibility,” has added Matthias Young.
Center for Energy Innovation: Driving Sustainable Solutions
The University of Missouri is strengthening its commitment to energy advancements through the newly established Center for Energy Innovation. This interdisciplinary facility will unite experts from engineering, agronomy, physics, chemistry, and public policy to address pressing energy challenges, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence-driven optimization.
The center will focus on key areas such as nuclear energy, hydrogen and renewables, energy storage, and grid security. By fostering collaboration, it aims to develop sustainable energy solutions, reinforce domestic energy supply, and enhance resilience against future challenges. This initiative aligns with Mizzou’s tradition of interdisciplinary innovation, much like the NextGen Precision Health initiative, bringing together expertise from the College of Engineering, the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, and the College of Arts and Science.