Production of hard carbon for sodium-ion batteries

Overview

The transition to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind necessitates efficient and large-scale energy storage solutions. Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have emerged as a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries for grid-scale storage due to the abundance and low cost of sodium. Hard carbon anodes, derived from biomass, offer a sustainable and effective solution for SIBs, providing a pathway to enhance energy storage capabilities and support renewable energy integration.

Research activities

This project will explore the production of hard carbon anodes from biomass, focusing on their performance in sodium-ion batteries. The investigation will involve collaboration with experts from the School of Chemistry and the School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering. The work is expected to involve:

• biomass treatment
• battery cell assembly
• applying electrochemical testing techniques such as charge/discharge cycling
• data analysis and reporting.

The work will also provide exposure to:

• a range of battery testing equipment
• battery materials synthesis
• battery materials characterisation.

Outcomes

The aim of this project is to determine the performance and suitability of biomass-derived hard carbon as anodes for sodium-ion batteries.

Skills and experience

A background in chemistry, chemical engineering, or physics is highly preferred but all interested applicants are encouraged to send an enquiry email describing their motivation and suitability.

Scholarships

You may be eligible to apply for a research scholarship.

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Keywords

• battery
• biomass
• energy storage
• electrode

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.