Preparation of Energy Materials through Electrochemical Approaches
1. Anodization and Surface Treatments
Anodization is a commonly used surface treatment technology for valve metals such as aluminum, titanium, niobium, vanadium, zinc, and others. Anodization can achieve ornamental, corrosion-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and insulative properties, among other functions. Under specific electrolyte conditions, the oxide film can be grown with various morphological structures to apply to diverse fields of application.
2. Materials & Recycling for Secondary Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used rechargeable batteries in which lithium ions move from the negative electrode to the positive electrode (or vice versa) during discharge (or charging). They are now widely used, from portable electronic devices to transportation applications. Electrodes with high stability, rate capability, and charge capacity are desirable to improve the energy and power densities of Li batteries, making them smaller and more affordable. We are studying the development of new anode and cathode materials that meet these requirements for lithium and beyond lithium-ion batteries.
3. Hydrogen (Oxygen) Evolution Reaction by Water Electrolysis
Hydrogen is a clean and sustainable energy source that only produces water as a result of combustion. Therefore, it is considered a future promising renewable energy resource, aimed at producing hydrogen gas efficiently and inexpensively. Efficient (photo)electrochemical water splitting is considered the next generation of technological breakthroughs that can support the hydrogen economy. In our lab, we are developing efficient catalysts with low overpotential through electrochemical processes for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions.
