PhD position - Development of an operando gas analysis setup for all-solid-state batteries and study of the impact of doping on electrolyte stability

OPPORTUNITY DETAILS

Total reward

0 $

State University

CEA Tech

Area

Western Europe

Host Country

France

Deadline

31 Oct 2021

Study level

Doctoral Degree

Opportunity type

PhD

Specialities

Engineering , Physics , Chemistry

Opportunity funding

Not funding

Eligible Countries

This opportunity is destined for all countries

Eligible Region

All Regions

SL-DRT-21-0815

RESEARCH FIELD

Electrochemical energy storage incl. batteries for energy transition

ABSTRACT

Doctoral project will focus on the development of the characterization setup for all-solid-state batteries and conducting operando gas analysis for development of safer solid electrolytes. All-solid-state batteries represent a cutting-edge field of the development of modern batteries for electric transportation of the future. First precommercial batches of solid cells with sulfide electrolyte have been demonstrated by Samsung (cycle life: >1000 cycles). However, there is still a lot of issues to understand and solve for further wide commercialization of this type of batteries. The main obstacle for sulfide-based electrolytes is their instability vs humidity. Another problem is related to the possible gas evolution during cycling. Characterization methods for all-solid-state batteries are in the early stage of their development. There is a high demand for scientific tools and methods for investigation of various effects leading to gas generation inside the batteries and their degradation, which is directly related to their safety. The objectives of the present project are 1) development of the experimental setups for a precise study of reactions of solid electrolytes leading to gas generation in various conditions and 2) obtaining of improved electrolyte for solid batteries based on the deep understanding of its reactivity. There are three principal interconnected parts: construction and improvement of setups, conducting of fine analysis of electrolytes and synthesis of an improved solid electrolyte sample.The project will be done in French Commissary of Atomic and Alternative Energies (CEA) located in Grenoble. It is known for its excellent set of equipment and expertise in the research and development of greener energy, notably in batteries. This center offers an opportunity to join a dynamic team and to conduct a high-level research in a multidisciplinary environment. Grenoble area is a famous hiking and skiing resort. We are looking for a motivated and pro-active candidate for a Ph.D study starting in autumn 2021 for 3 years. There is a health insurance for the foreigners. Good oral and written English as well as capability to make literature reviews and write papers are essential. The experience acquired by the student during the Ph.D study will be undoubtedly of high interest for further employment.