WFU Physics and Chemistry Colloquium
TITLE: “Solid Electrolytes and Their Interfaces: Bridging Mechanistic Understanding to Their Performance”
SPEAKER: Zachary D. Hood
School of Chemistry and Biochemistry,
Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences,
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN
TIME: Wed. Oct. 18, 2017 at 4:00 PM
PLACE: George P. Williams, Jr. Lecture Hall, (Olin 101)
There will be a reception with refreshments at 3:30 PM in the lounge. All interested persons are cordially invited to attend.
ABSTRACT
Solid electrolytes (SEs) have attracted ever-growing research interest for their potential to offer the safety and energy density necessary for future battery systems. Ideal SEs are defined by high ionic conductivity and low electrical conductivity. Not only being the primary component in all-solid-state batteries, SE materials also play an important role as a protector for Li-metal anodes in novel battery configurations, such as Li-S, Li-air, and redox flow batteries. The impedance at interfaces associated with SEs (i.e. the internal grain and phase boundaries) and their interfacial stability with electrodes are currently two key factors limiting the performance of batteries involving SEs. To pave the way for next-generation high-performance batteries, we need to develop a mechanistic understand of the origins of interfacial resistance and potential instability at interfaces. In this Colloquium, I will start with a brief introduction to the fundamentals of SEs and challenges associated with their interfaces. Next, representative examples from my current work with sulfide-based and oxide-based SEs will be discussed in detail, highlighting some of the recent fundamental insights gained based on advanced characterization techniques and high-throughput theoretical methods. Applicable strategies for improving ion conduction and stability in SEs and interfaces will also be discussed. This Colloquium will conclude by highlighting opportunities and perspectives for future research that will enhance our fundamental understanding of SEs and their performance in electrochemical energy storage systems.