BATNMR: Development and Application of New NMR Methods for Studying Interphases and Interfaces in Batteries

Switching from petrol cars to eco-friendly, electrical vehicles is a fundamental strategy to reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses and halt climate change. Nonetheless, this switch requires a significant improvement in the operations of current rechargeable batteries. The BATNMR project proposes a new approach based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to measure the dynamics of the multiple electrode-electrolyte interfaces and interphases in batteries. NMR methodology with new dynamic polarisation techniques will be crucial in an interdisciplinary effort to design chemistry-based solutions for batteries and develop materials’ specifications, interfaces and nanoparticles for efficient technology, enabling the creation of new, efficient, durable, rechargeable batteries.

The project involves NMR method development specifically designed to explore a variety of battery chemistries. Thus, it is interdisciplinary, containing both a strong emphasis on materials characterization, electrochemistry and electronic structures of materials, interfaces and nanoparticles, and on analytical and physical chemistry. Some of the methodology will be applicable to other materials and systems including (for example) other electrochemical technologies such as fuel cells and solar fuels and the study of catalysts (to probe surface structure).