Executive Summary : | This project focuses on optimizing the kinetic stability of Li-ion batteries (LIBs) to improve their power density and lifetime in zero-emission electric vehicles (EVs). The project aims to understand the reactive electrode-electrolyte interface, which is essential for improving the overall performance of next-generation batteries like solid-state and Li-air batteries. The main bottlenecks for the development of next-gen LIBs include the adhesion of electrolytes with different rheological properties, electrode-electrolyte interface instability, and passivation layer formation governed by interfacial charge-transfer reactions. Research in this domain has been important for several years, but real-life implementation strategies and fundamental understanding of electrohydrodynamic reactive solid-liquid interfaces are still limited or ambiguous. Model-driven design and fabrication of laboratory prototypes are essential to elucidate these complex interfacial characteristics. The project aims to perform electrochemical characterisations and continuum scale modeling to diagnose chemical degradation of electrolytes, fabricate model prototypes to uncover the underlying physics of the electrohydrodynamic reactive interface, exploit the fabricated prototype to analyze different behavior, and provide guidelines for developing and manufacturing novel electrolytes for specific battery chemistries.
The proposed research work is expected to reveal intriguing aspects that can be useful for advancing material science, nanotechnology, and applied mathematics. Novel electrolyte development pathways can lead to next-generation battery manufacturing start-ups and boost the 'Make in India' campaign. |