Post-doctoral Researcher in Material Chemistry

Post-doctoral Researcher in Material Chemistry

Development of a Self-healing Strategy to Revert Particle Disconnection in All-solid-state Batteries

Sorbonne University

Paris, France

The postdoctoral researcher will integrate the LCMCP, laboratory internationally recognized in the field of Material Sciences for the elaboration of functional inorganic and hybrid materials, and the evaluation of their physico-chemical properties at multiple scales. The lab brings together all facets of chemistry of materials with a strong coupling between synthesis methods and processing of materials. These materials target applications with a strong societal impact in the fields of energy, health, and environment.

Project and main Activities

Context of the project:

Among next generation energy storage technologies for portative electronics and electric vehicle applications, all-solid-state batteries (ASSB) attract an intense research effort from researchers and companies. By replacing the liquid electrolyte and carbon negative electrode used in conventional Li-ion batteries by a solid electrolyte and a metallic lithium negative electrode, this technology has the potential to reach energy densities far superior to those of Li-ion batteries. However, several challenges need to be solved to enable this technology.

This post-doctoral researcher position will be part of the ANR-funded project SALT&PPER, focusing on the issues affecting the interface between the positive electrode material (e.g. LiNixMnyCo1-x-yO2) and the solid-state electrolyte. Specifically, volume changes upon cycling of the active material create mechanical constraints and physical disconnection of particles. This eventually leads to increased resistance at the interface and to the failure of the electrochemical cell. So far, continuous pressure application on the cell stack is required for prolonged cycling rendering impractical the development of large format cells.

The project will answer this problem by exploring new interfacial strategies using low temperature methods and materials based on abundant elements. Careful selection of the material’s physical properties and processing will be critical to help reconnect isolated particles without applying pressure. Assembly of all-solid-state batteries with the materials prepared will validate the selected strategy at the device level and improve our comprehension about interfacial reactions during prolonged cycling.

Mission:

The post-doctoral researcher will take part in the development of a self-healing strategy to help preserve the ionic and electronic conductivity in the composite electrode of oxide-based all-solid-state batteries. This includes synthesis and processing of inorganic and hybrid materials, structural and electrochemical characterization. He/she will work in close collaboration with a doctoral researcher specifically involved in the SALT&PPER project, as well as with several doctoral and post-doctoral researchers working on different aspects of solid-state batteries.

The researcher will benefit from the expertise developed by the RMES team on processing of inorganic and hybrid ionic conductors, from the broad scientific expertise of the LCMCP, the multiple characterization platforms within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. She/He will also benefit from strong and dynamic interactions with members of the RS2E network (17 French leading research laboratories in energy storage research).

Excellent communication will be key to create synergy within the project and beyond, and the researcher will be expected to develop strong collaborative interactions.

Main activities:

• Synthesis of inorganic and hybrid materials;
• Material processing;
• Structural and physical properties characterization;
• Electrochemical properties characterization;
• Reporting on scientific results (meetings, communications in congress, scientific publications).

Knowledge and Skills

Education, Qualifications and Training:

• PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science (or very close to completion).

Experience in areas including (but not limited to):

• Inorganic/hybrid material synthesis and processing (molten salt);
• Assembly and electrochemical characterization of materials for energy storage applications (batteries, fuel cells, capacitors...);
• Air-sensitive synthesis and measurement techniques;
• Multiple characterization techniques (PXRD, XPS, XAS, NMR…).

General and interpersonal skills:

• Ability to work as a team member and foster positive relationships;
• Demonstrate proactivity, availability, and reactivity in leading research projects;
• Excellent communication skills;
• Clear reporting and scientific writing.

General knowledge:

• Understanding of the organization of Research and Higher Education French system;
• Understanding of Sorbonne University’s organization;
• Regulations applicable to one’s own professional activity field.

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