Research

We are interested in properties of materials across multiple length scales. At the molecular scale, the physical properties of materials are largely dependent on the stoichiometry and stable structures that can be formed. In addition, nano-scale topographies and geometries can dramatically influence material performance. We investigate hierarchical approaches to simultaneously design  and characterize materials at the molecular, nanometer, and micrometer length scales. In applications such as lithium-ion battery electrodes, the active materials must be assembled as particles within a composite matrix. We are investigating general strategies to understand transport properties within complex materials and architectures.

Our current areas of focus in our lab are 1) the synthesis of particles of controlled size, shape, and composition for use in structured particle assemblies, 2) flowing electrochemical systems which include solid electroactive materials including flow batteries and battery recycling applications, 3) characterizing and understanding electrode microstructure in particular for thick battery electrodes and electrolytic capacitors, and 4) extraction of lithium and other critical minerals.