My research
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in smartphones, electric vehicles and medical equipment are crucial in energy, electronics and automotive industries, with the market size expected to triple by 2030. The active materials within these batteries are highly temperature sensitive and failure to maintain an optimal working temperature can lead to issues such as lithium plating or thermal runaway, which might result in fires or explosions. Therefore, an optimal working temperature for batteries is essential for their safety and efficient operation.
Whilst current research focuses predominantly on cost reduction and energy density advancement, it overshadows the critical aspect of managing thermal profiles, which is essential for optimising performance and ensuring operational safety.
To address this gap, along with my team, I am developing smart polymer composites with integrated functionalities including heating, overheating protection, temperature sensing, and passive cooling, aiming to maintain lithium-ion batteries within an optimal temperature range, even at extreme conditions, thereby maximising performance and extending their lifespan.