New technique
Electrolyte–electrode interfaces are crucial for the efficiency and stability of many electrochemical systems. With this grant, Zhao and his team will develop a new nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique, combined with advanced data analysis, to study these interfaces. This method uses a patent-pending parallel-line probe with high selectivity and the ability to handle high currents. The researchers will demonstrate it by observing the growth of the solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) during lithium metal deposition. This is a process important for both Li-ion batteries and Li-mediated ammonia synthesis. By studying how SEI affects lithium growth rates and shapes, they aim to improve the design of more efficient electrochemical systems.
"I am honored and happy to receive this fellowship. It reflects the recognition of the importance of magnetic resonance in electrochemical research by the ECS community and the industry partner Toyota. With this fellowship, our team hope to push the boundary of operando NMR technique for studying electrochemical interface and interphase, answering key structural questions directly linked to battery and reaction performances", Zhao says.
Magnetic Resonance Research Center
Evan Wenbo Zhao is an Assistant Professor in the Magnetic Resonance Research Center (MRRC). The MRRC is a research facility and is part of the IMM. The facility focuses on the development of novel methods to optimize the sensitivity and information content of NMR spectra and apply these methodologies to gain deeper insight into the structure and dynamics of molecules and materials. Applications are particularly geared at understanding various energy and polymer materials, electrochemical devices, unravelling complex mixtures in the liquid state.
ECS Fellowship
Every year, ECS offers competitive fellowship stipends that enable students and emerging professionals to develop bold new research and connect with experts across and outside the field. ECS offers a variety of grants to help support scientists and foster research.
We warmly congratulate Evan with his grant!